Merry Christmas & Happy new year to all

As the AGM has been wrapped up, another year has drawn to conclusion on the GAA front for St. Josephs Miltown Malbay.
The club would like to take this opportunity to thank everyone who contributed in any way during 2009 and look forward to everyone's continued support throughout 2010.
Merry Christmas to all club members and supporters and best wishes for 2010.

AGM - Sunday 20th @ 6pm

St. Josephs Miltown Malbay GAA club will hold it's AGM this Sunday 20th December 6pm at the clubhouse. Everyone is encouraged to attend (current members & non-members) to hear a review of the status at the end of 2009 and discuss plans and future direction of the club for 2010.

Support Miltown GAA for free - Vodafone offer

As part of a Vodafone GAA initiative, all Vodafone customers now have an opportunity to donate 5% of all top-ups (pre-pay) or 5% of your monthly bill (billpay) to Miltown Malbay GAA without any financial impact on you. Additional payements are available for switching to Vodafone or for new customers. Please spread the word to as many friends, work colleagues, fellow students etc.
People can sign up by selecting Clare as the county and St. Josephs Miltown Malbay as your club at the following website http://www.supportyourgaaclub.ie/SignUp.aspx
Alternatively, send your name & number to miltownmalbaygaa@gmail.com and we will sign you up or just give your name & number to any committee member.

Promoting the round ball in NZ!

Miltown Malbay native David Rynne may be far from his hometown with the past few years but has clearly not forgotten his GAA background that was developed within the Miltown Malbay club. He is currently serving as Vice President of Wellington GAA club and is one of the primary drivers of Gaelic football within the New Zealand club. David played in goal at all levels for Miltown up to and including senior. Always a popular figure, rumour has it he is recruiting a Wellington XV selection to come to Hennessy Memorial Park for a game and is certainly trying to recruit a physical well built full forward targetman judging by the evidence below:

Memories from the past

The great white hopes!

Niall shows some of the fancy footwork that attracted the RTE all-stars producers

Memories from the past

Martin, Joe & Aidan looking rather pleased!

Hynes contemplates the big money move to Celtic before leaving for Scotland




Conor walks away proudly having taking care of Bernard Dunne!

Boys of '59 honoured

Last weekend proved to be one to remember for all associated with the legendary 1959 county winning side. On the Saturday night, a function was held in Cogan's Bar & restaurant where a meal was had followed by many the match at the bar counter. Extra time was played in a number of the games judging by the time on the clock when Tony Cogan called full-time on the night. Sunday being county final day saw the team being honoured before the senior final with Miltown man John Reidy giving a fantastic commentary on the public address as each player was presented. The team as lined out in the 1959 final are below along with a report from the Clare Champion of the day:

THE CLARE CHAMPION JULY 2ND 1960

MILTOWN 1-11 COORACLARE -07



Well its over at last and Miltown have won the 1959 Clare Senior Football championship. At Kilrush gaelic grounds on Sunday before a record crowd of 5,000 eager spectators, they defeated Cooraclare in the long awaited replay of the final by 1-11 to -07 after the scores were level on 6 occasions. The game was played in glorious sunshine and the field arrangements left little to be desired. Miltown though hard pressed for periods in the second half played with a better understanding and combination than their opponents and in the late stages of this enjoyable game they showed their true power and must be classed as deserving winners.

In an all round workmanlike Miltown team which showed no lack of confidence in their task throughout the hour, Cyril Jones gave a superb display of goalkeeping which one would associate with top class county teams and the fact that the heat of the fray failed to rattle him must mark this goalie out as the best yet seen in recent times in Clare Football. B. Treacy at full back and M. Lynch at right full back and C. Dixon right half back were also defenders who did their job well and made few slips. In fact Dixon must be praised for his efforts around the centre of the field to put Miltown on its road to victory. Soon after the start Dixon was moved to midfield. P Lynch also did well in this sector, while all the forwards did their best with Malone, Twomey and O’ Neill playing to top form. Not much could be said against this Miltown team who obviously showed the good effects of training and were deserving winners of this belated and eagerly looked forward to final.



FINAL QUARTER ‘THE GOAL THAT RAISED THE BIGGEST CHEER’.

‘One minute later the Miltown men were ahead by 0-11 to 0-7 when Mc Glennon raised a white flag with a superb shot from a full 45 yards out. After Cooraclare got another scoring chance play returned to the other end of the field.’ -…Then in the last minute the greatest ‘cheer of the day’….. was heard when Albert Twomey got his foot to the ball 25yards from the Cooraclare goal and sent a terrific drive into the net. The blues goalkeeper dived full length for this unstoppable shot but his effort was just not good enough. Miltown deservedly win the day…………..

Newsletter available via e-mail

St.Josephs Miltown have recently published the September edition of the club newsletter. This fantastic six page production gives a detailed review of the season's football at all level's within the club along with an update on the stand and other activities that are currently underway. For anyone living away from the area and wishing to keep up to date, please see a mail to miltownmalbaygaa@gmail.com and you will receive a copy via mail along with all future editions of the newsletter.

Where are they now????? 25 year special

Under 16 League and Championship Winners - 1984

Back Row: Pakie O' Loughlin, Ronan Quinn, Cathal O'Loughlin, Patrick Shannon, Davoge Rynne, David Hillery, Andrew O'Driscoll, David Twomey.

Middle Row: Martin Malone, Dermot Crowe, Francis Lynch, Frank Downes, John Jones, Anthony Kerin, Michael Neylon, Paddy Killeen.

Front Row: Ger Crowley, Tony Keavey, Jamsie Kerin, Colm Mullaney, Nigel Kerin, Ml. Twomey.

Highlights of 2009 - Club Sports Day

The GAA headquarters designated Sunday May 10th as the day for clubs to celebrate 125years of the GAA. On this day the club had a full calendar of events starting with mass and proceeding to the field where a full schedule of events for all ages was organised.

The day was fun filled for all ages with the Pete Cleary league and John Marrinan league being played after an absence of a number of years. These catered for U10’s through to U16’s. The ‘older’ age groups played a seven a side completion that was well contested with 6 teams competing and was ultimately won be the team representing Martin Flynn’s Bar.

A great day was had by all and it would be a great addition to the club if this could be make an annual event.

Highlights of 2009 - u12's in Croke Park

It was with great excitement that we received the news that our Under 12 team had been chosen to represent Clare in Croke Park on July 6th as part of the celebrations for 125 years of the GAA. 25 members of the under 12 panel plus their parents travelled to Dublin for this memorable occasion. Miltown played teams from Limerick, Kerry & Cork winning 2 out of 3 of their matches. They were then taken on an excellent tour of the grounds and the museum in Croke Park. Great credit has to be given to team mentors, John O’Sullivan, Tommy Byrne and Martin Hehir for their hard work in ensuring that this day was an enjoyable and memorable occasion for everybody.

Minors exit championship

St Josephs Miltown minor side made a disappointing exit in the B quarter final on Sunday when they went down to Cooraclare on a 3-10 to 3-6 scoreline. This effectively completes the season for Miltown sides for 2009.

Miltown sign off for championship '09

Miltown played Kilrush in the quarter final of the senior championship under hot sun in Cooraclare on Saturday. Both teams started nervously with a number of failed attempts before Eoin Curtin opened the score for Miltown with a well won free. This was answered almost immediately by a goal from Kilrush after the Kilrush forwards responded quickest to a loose ball in the square to tap it into the net. This goal spurred Miltown on and they answered with two points from frees. The teams traded points for most of the half but Kilrush’s dominance around the middle of the field became more pronounced towards the end of the half resulting in 3 unanswered points from Kilrush before the break. Miltown started well in the second half and some good play resulted in Joe Curtin scoring a lovely point. This point was the first and only score Miltown had from play and proved to be the last score for Miltown. With 10 to go there was still just two points between the teams and despite some valiant play from the likes of Enda Malone and the Kelly brothers Miltown were unable to make any inroads into a Kilrush team who were growing in confidence as the game progressed. Ultimately Kilrush’s dominance around the middle of the field offered them an attacking platform that was too much for Miltown, Kilrush now progress to meet Kilkee in the semi-final. The final score was Kilrush 1-8 Miltown 0-6.

Despite the result Miltown have a lot of positives to take from the year with the emergence of number of young players who with out exception have performed very well this year. These players will benefit from there experience this year and will provide new life to the team for next year. The team should take this together with the players to return from the injury list for next year as a great foundation on which to build on there best result for 3 years. A greater strength to the panel is key in order to move forward for 2010 as a crippling long term injury list left the squad very threadbare throughout the 2009 championship. The team lined out as follows versus Kilrush:

C O’ Loughlin, E O’ Gorman, G Kelly, E Malone, B Curtin, G Kelly, M Hehir, C Lafferty, M Neylon, E Curtin, S O’ Connell, D Talty, D Molohan, K Burke, S Malone,

Subs: M Barry for M Neylon, J Curtin for D Talty, M Neylon for S O’ Connell

Miltown St Josephs football club would like to thank the players, management and mentors for the effort and work they put in this year.

Minors complete league section with victory

St Josephs Miltown minor football side completed their league campaign last night with a victory over Parteen. In what was arguably the longest possible away trip a Miltown side has taken in recent years, Miltown recorded a 1-11 to 2-4 victory. This combined with earlier victories over Newmarket and the Kildysart-Coolmen amalgamation means that Miltown will now likely comnpete in the Minor 'B' quarter final in the coming weeks as the A,B & C gradings are based on final league positions. Management will be hoping that the coming weeks will enable a host of injuries to heal up and be in a position to field their strongest side for the quarter final game.
On the senior front, the senior championship quarter final tie against Kilrush will take place this Saturday @ 4pm in Cooraclare. Michael Talty from Kilmurry Ibrickane will officiate. Hopes are high that the team can continue their improved form in recent times and pull of an upset to claim a county semi-final spot. Best of luck to all involved!

Destination: Quarter Final!

Miltown St. Josephs senior team have qualified for the Senior 'A' championship quarter final for the first time since 2006 when recording a 1-7 to 1-4 playoff victory over Lissycasey. Miltown elected to play with the aid of the breeze in the first half and Joe Hayes in the Lissycasey goal pulled off a fine save from Seanie Malone in the opening minutes. Dessie Molohan opened the scoring with the resultant 45. Lissycasey were playing a short hand passing game which lead to a free ridden first half. Kevin Burke collected a long high ball to goal six minutes from half time to give Miltown a 1-2 to 0-1 half time lead. On the resumption, Seanie Malone added a point to extend the lead to five. Next up Lissycasey goaled from a hotly debated penalty and followed up with three points to lead on a 1-4 to 1-3 scoreline. Lissycasey's Alan Nagle had been dismissed ten minutes into the second half following a wild kick at Brian Curtin. In the last fifteen minutes, Miltown played a patient build up game and four points from play in a row followed to seal the win. The points arrived from Joe Curtin, Sean O'Connell, Dessie Molohan and Michael Hehir. Miltown will now enter the quarter final as firm underdogs against a resurgent Kilrush side who have defeated Cooraclare and Eire Og in their last two games. The immediate priority for Miltown in the coming week is to try and reduce the injury list which currently has six players who didn't tog on Saturday. The team lined out as follows: Conor O'Loughlin, Enda O'Gorman, Graham Kelly, Enda Malone, Brian Curtin, Gordon Kelly, Michael Hehir (0-1), Michael Neylon, Cathal Lafferty, Eoin Curtin, Sean O'Connell (0-1) , David Talty, Dessie Molohan (0-3, 1 '45, 1f), Kevin Burke (1-0), Seanie Malone(0-1). Subs used: Joe Curtin(0-1), Michael Barry

Seniors win 1st leg of playoff

St Josephs Miltown senior side recorded a 0-10 to 0-7 victory over St. Josephs Doora-Barefield in the championship play-off on Tuesday evening. Miltown played with the aid of fresh breeze to lead on a 0-6 to 0-2 scoreline at half time. A four point lead did not look a particularly strong advantage given the conditions and the fact that Miltown had also missed a first half penalty. However some superb defensive displays from Enda Malone and the Kelly brothers in particular during the second half along with a real return to form from Eoin Curtin in the forwards ensured that Miltown advanced to a meeting with Lissycasey this Saturday to determine who advances to meet Kilrush in the championship quarter final. While, all the advantages seem to lie with Lissycasey following a comprehensive victory in the group stages allied to the fact that Miltown have less than 92 hours of a turnaround in comparison to a two week preparation time for Lissycasey. It has to be said that if Miltown can reduce the queue for the treatment table and get some key performers back on the pitch, that a great opportunity presents to make the business end of the championship. The game takes place in Kilmihil on Saturday at 2:30.The team lined out as follows versus Doora Barefield: Conor O'Loughlin, Enda O'Gorman, Graham Kelly, Enda Malone, Brian Curtin, Gordon Kelly, Michael Hehir, Michael Neylon, John Meade, Eoin Curtin, Cathal Lafferty, David Talty, Dessie Molohan, Kevin Burke, Seanie Malone. Subs used: Sean O'Connell, Gearoid Curtin, Joe Curtin, David Cleary

Miltown Draw Barefield in Senior Playoff

Miltown will play St. Joseph's Doora Barefield in the first phase of the group playoff. This tie is to be played this weekend, date and venue to be finalised over the coming days. The winners will play Lissycasey, the following weekend, to determine who advances to the quarter final of the Senior Championship.

The losers of both ties will then play to decide the Senior B and relegation positions.

Senior hopes still alive

Pride restored certainly after this battling performance from St. Josephs Miltown senior side. Unfortunately a goal two minutes from the end of normal time gave Kilkee a late lead to take victory on a 1-14 to 1-12 scoreline. However, Doora Barefield's victory over Lissycasey creates a three way playoff for the final quarter final spot. Miltown turned in a powerful first half performance to lead on a 1-9 to 0-4 scoreline at the break. Dessie Molohan fired 1-6 in the first half along with points from Cathal Lafferty, David Talty and Gordon Kelly. With the aid of the breeze in the second half, Kilkee knocked over a succession of points to bring the lead back to one goal with ten minutes left. The loss of full back Graham Kelly with injury at this stage was to prove crucial in the closing minutes. Two minutes from the end of normal time, Conor O'Loughlin produced a superb double save but Kilkee stuck a goal at the third attempt. Miltown now trailed by a point but forced two 45's in a bid to snatch a draw which would have sealed a quarter final spot. Kilkee scored an insurance point on the counterattack to seal the win. Miltown now await the draw during the week to determine who the opponents will be in the play-off. The team lined out as follows: Conor O'Loughlin, Enda O'Gorman, Graham Kelly, Enda Malone, Brian Curtin, Gordon Kelly(0-1), Michael Hehir, Michael Neylon, John Meade, Eoin Curtin (0-1), Cathal Lafferty (0-1), David Talty (0-1), Dessie Molohan (1-7), Kevin Burke, Seanie Malone (0-1). Subs used: Shane Curtin, Sean O'Connell, Joe Curtin

Deciding weekend for adult teams in championships!

This upcoming weekend is a season defining one for both the Senior and Junior 'A' teams in championship action. Both teams are well aware that they failed to play to potential in their last games.
The senior side face an undefeated St.Senan's Kilkee side in Kilmihil this Saturday.
While Miltown will enter the game as rank outsiders in the view of all pundits, the potential is in the Miltown side to produce an upset if players can pull a big performance out of the bag. Unless Doora-Barefield shock Lissycasey in the other group game, a victory is essential for Miltown to remain in contention for the Senior championship.
The Junior 'A' side are also in a must win situation when they face a very experienced Doonbeg side with a host of players with senior championship medals in their backpocket. Unfortunately, last years side who made the semi final stage has been virtually decimated through a combination of young players moving to senior level, injuries and emigration. All involved will be hoping for a massive performance and to pull off an upset to remain in the competition.
Best of luck to both teams!

Successive victories for minor footballers

St. Josephs Miltown minor footballers have recorded two successive victories in their last two games to bounce back into contention after a difficult start to the championship. They defeated the Coolmeen-Kildysart amalgamation on a 1-15 to 2-5 scoreline and followed up with a 0-7 to 0-1 victory over Newmarket. The two remaining games are against Kilmihil and Parteen. The three groups of eight teams will then be split into an 'A', 'B' & 'C' knock-out competition dependent upon final league placings.

Senior hopes on the brink

A truly abject display from St.Josephs Miltown senior side resulted in a 0-13 to 1-3 defeat against Lissycasey. After the winning start against Doora Barefield, hopes were high of emerging from the group but this result leaves Miltown needing a victory against unbeaten St.Senans Kilkee in their final game.
Despite being wiped out in the central eight positions in the first half, Miltown only trailed by three points on a 0-7 to 1-1 scoreline at the break. Bizarelly, Miltown could have been level as Eoin Curtin blasted wide when played in at an angle by Dessie Molohan. Dessie had raised hopes with a superb individual goal before halftime. For the second half, Miltown had introduced Micheal Malone and Graham Kelly who were surprisingly in the view of many supporters left on the bench. Management appeared to have got the balance right for the second half as Miltown proceeded to dominate the opening fifteen minutes of the second half. However, some terrible shooting only generated a single point in this period as a hatful of goal and point chances went abegging. Unfortunately, Graham Kelly picked up a double yellow which lead to his dismissal ten minutes from the end. Miltown again lost their shape as a result. Lissycasey found their shooting boots near the end and rattled over a succession of points. Only Enda Malone at the back and Dessie Molohan upfront played to their potential on the evening. Commitment levels of the players will need to be upped massively and a lot of soul searching from all involved is required if Miltown are to shock Kilkee and keep their season alive. The team lined out as follows: Conor O'Loughlin, Gordon Kelly, Kevin Burke, Enda Malone, Brian Curtin, Michael Neylon, Michael Hehir, Cathal Lafferty, Gary Egan, John Meade, Gearoid Curtin, Kevin Keavey, David Talty, Dessie Molohan (1-3), Eoin Curtin Subs used: Micheal Malone, Graham Kelly, Sean O'Connell, Seanie Malone, Joe Curtin

Disappointing start for Junior A's

St.Josephs Miltown suffered a narrow two point defeat to Ennistymon in the opening game of the Junior A championship Saturday evening on a 1-10 to 0-11 scoreline. Despite the very slippery underfoot conditions, Miltown opened brightly to lead by 0-4 to 0-1 after ten minutes. The remainder of the half was dominated by Ennistymon who lead 1-6 to 0-5 at the break. The goal was a fortuituous effort when a shot for a pointed dipped under the crossbar. Miltown came much more into the game in the second half with Michael Talty and Seanie Malone providing the leadership upfront. Ennistymon were very dangerous on the counter attack and sealed victory with the last point in injury time when Miltown had reduced the lead to one point. Miltown now require victories in their remaining group games against Meelick and Doonbeg if a quarter final place is to be assured. The team lined out as follows: Robbie Healy, Jason Clancy, James Galvin, David Murrihy, Eoin O'Brien, John O'Malley, Barry Kelly, Michael Neylon, John O'Sullivan, Enda Fox, Colm Haugh, Noel Sexton, Seanie Malone, Michael Talty, Tomas Meade Subs used: Gearoid Hynes, Gerard Malone, Eoin McDonagh, David Talty, Ian Sexton

League runs ended for 2009

The league campaigns for both St.Josephs Miltown senior and Junior A sides ended for 2009 on Sunday. The senior side succumbed to hot favourites Kilmurry ibrickane on a 0-14 to 0-5 scoreline in the Cusack Cup Div1 semi final. Miltown battled bravely but Kilmurry appear to be a few steps ahead of all other teams in Clare at this time with an unbeaten record across all three domestic competitions that now stretches back to September 2007. Miltown trailed by 0-9 to 0-3 at the break but never gave up at any stage. Dessie Molohan and Eoin Curtin got a brace of points while Kevin Keavey chipped in with the other score. Miltown will be satisfied with their performances throughout the league and hope to maintain progress in the championship.
Meanwhile, an understrength Junior A side were defeated by Naomh Eoin in a semi final playoff in Div 4. Miltown led by 1-3 to 0-5 at the break despite a missed penalty. A three goal quick fire blast midway through the second half by Naomh Eoin killed the game as a contest. Seanie Malone and Eoin McDonagh grabbed the goals in a 3-10 to 2-4 defeat.
Both teams will now take the week to enjoy the Willie Clancy festival before returning to training to focus heavily on upcoming championship games.

Opening Round Defeat for Minors

Kilrush 2-9 Miltown 0-6 @ Kilrush

Miltown's minor campaign started poorly with a loss to Kilrush, Miltown were without intercounty minor Micheal Malone, who was out with a damaged heel.

St.Joseph's began well and had 2 goal chances early on, but Tommy Flynn and Sean O'Malley both fired wide when goals seemed definite. Kilrush rose to the challenge and mistakes in the Miltown defence allowed Kilrush to get their 2 goals which were the difference between the sides.

To make matters worse Miltown suffered two serious injuries during the match, Martin Rynne has a suspected collarbone fracture and Ciaran O'Malley has a recurrence of a knee problem.

Miltown Team: L.O'Brien, A.Flanagan, E.O'Brien, M.Rynne, D.McDonagh, D.Lafferty, T.O'Friel, E.Corbett, C.O'Malley, J.Gray, S.Malone, S.O'Malley, E.Fox, F.Gray, T.Flynn. Subs: C.Talty for C.O'Malley, M.Murrihy for M.Rynne, T.Howard for F.Gray, D.Meade for J.Gray, D.O'Brien for A.Flanagan.

16's lose semi final.

Wolfe Tones 0-12 Miltown 0-5

Wolfe Tones progress to meet Kilmurray Ibrickane in the under 16 final after Miltown lost out in the Banner grounds on Wednesday the 24th last.

Miltown got the opening point through Cathal Hogan. But five unanswered points for the Shannon side left Miltown in trouble. Darragh McDonagh closed the gap for Miltown and centre forward Conor Cleary narrowed it further. However Wolfe Tones pulled away and finished the half 8 points to 3 ahead.

The second half was no better for Miltown only managing 2 points in the half. Numerous good scoring opportunities were missed with some bad shooting producing at least 8 wides. Wolfe Tones also had wides but managed to tag on crucial scores to stroll home by 7 points.

Miltown Team: C. Flanagan, A. O'Brien, D.Keane, J.Organ, C.Kenneally, M.Rynne, D.O'Brien, D.McDonagh (C), C.O'Malley, L.O'Connell, C.Cleary, C.Talty, L.Reidy, C.Hogan, E.Cleary. Subs: S.Mahoney for J.Organ, D.Pender for L.Reidy, P.Flynn for A.O'Brien, K.Downes for L.O'Connell.

U21 B Championship - 1st Round

Corofin 3-3 Miltown 1-6

Same fixture from last years first round, different result. The amazing part of this game was how Miltown managed to lose. The injuries to Peter Cleary, Shane Curtin and Micheal Malone disturbed Miltown preparations for the match. St.Joseph's dominated the second half, wind assisted, but only managed to add 4 points to their tally. Corofin for their part only had about 5 attacks and centre forward Jason Tierney scored 3 goals.

First goal came from the penalty spot, a long ball forward was deflected goal ward by the Corofin wing forward, Sean O'Brien scrambled to his left and made a good save. The ball dribbled across the open goal, full back David Cleary attempted to clear but managed to foul the ball giving Corofin the penalty. Tierney duly slotted it home. The second goal came from a good move down the Corofin right and finished with Tierney lashing the ball home from a tight angle, a superb finish from the Corofin man. Miltown were reeling now and things were compounded when Tierney put them 4 points in front. A Corofin free on the right following a foul by Brian Sexton was floated into the box. Confusion between Brian Sexton and Sean O'Brien allowed Tierney to steal in and fist to the net.

It was a real pity in the end. Things had started well for Miltown. 1-2 to 3 points up after half time, Tommy Flynn neatly taking the goal just before the break, left Miltown thinking the second round was in the bag but a poor second half display cost Miltown.

Miltown Team: S. O'Brien, E. O'Brien, D.Cleary, B. Sexton, E. O'Gorman, J. Sexton (C), C. McGuane, G.Curtin, G. Malone, T. Flynn, D. Talty, E.Fox, S. Malone, J.Curtin, D. O'Malley. Subs: S.O'Malley for B.Sexton

Disappointing results at underage level

The past few weeks have seen a number of disappointing results at underage level for the St. Josephs Miltown teams in action. The under-21 side bowed out at the first hurdle in the defense of the u-21 'B' title won in 2008. A 3-3 to 1-6 defeat was the result against Corofin where the concession of three second half goals was to prove a hammer blow which the team failed to recover from. The under-16 side battled bravely in the Division 1 semi-final but went under to Wolftones on a 0-12 to 0-5 scoreline. Overall, the team performed well to reach a semi final and the aim will be to build on this at minor level. The under-14 championship has proven to be most difficult for all involved as the team has failed to build on a decent showing in the Feile competition earlier this year. Three defeats have been the result from the first three games of the Division 1-2 competition.

Winning start in Senior championship

Miltown St. Josephs senior team opened their 2009 campaign with a 0-9 to 0-5 over St. Josephs Doora Barefield in Kilmihil this evening. In a solid if unspectacular performance, Miltown knocked over four unanswered points in the last ten minutes to seal the victory. In the first half, whilst playing into the breeze, Miltown started very well to race into a 0-4 to 0-1 lead. However, the performance level dropped alarmingly at this stage as Miltown went nearly 30 minutes without recording a score. The scores were level 0-4 each at the interval. Gary Egan and Dessie Molohan knocked over fine points in this half. The second half was a dour affair as Barefield failed to build on a lot to possession. With ten minutes, remaining debut corner back Enda O'Gorman was unluckily dismissed on a second yellow card. The sending off and the introduction of Micheal Malone seemed to drive on Miltown at this stage. Dessie Molohan and the Kellys, Gordon & Graham knocked over fine scores in the final minutes. While there is plenty room for improvement, the management team and players will be delighted to have got the campaign off to a winning start. They face Lissycasey in the second round which is scheduled for early August. The team lined out as follows:
Conor O'Loughlin, Enda O'Gorman, Kevin Burke, David Cleary, Brian Curtin, Gordon Kelly, Enda Malone, John Meade, Cathal Lafferty, Gearoid Curtin, Gary Egan, Graham Kelly, Kevin Keavey, Dessie Molohan, Eoin Curtin. Subs used: Micheal Malone, Joe Curtin
Well done to all involved!

Junior A's record victory in playoff

Miltown St.Joseph's Junior A team avenged an earlier league defeat to record a 0-13 to 1-9 victory in the Division 4 playoff against O'Callaghans Mills on Sunday. In a very closely fought contest, which was level at half time, a solid all round performance was topped off by some fine point taking by Seanie Malone in the second half. This allied to some fine defensive play by Kieran Shannon and Eoin 'Tayto' O'Brien were crucial factors in the win. Miltown now advance to meet Naomh Eoin in the next stage of the play off.
The senior side continue their preparations for this Friday's championship opener against St.Josephs Doora Barefield. Barefield on the back of last year's u-21 'A' victory will enter the game as slight favourites, but manager James Healy and the management team will be very hopeful of victory if a number of injury concerns clear up in advance.
On the underage front, the u-12's were very unlucky to lose out by one point in the quarter final, while the u-14's are in the early stages of their championship. Miltown have been drawn against Corofin in the opening round of the u-21 'B' championship

Representing the county with pride

Sunday 7th June saw a total of five players from the St. Josephs Miltown club represent Clare in Munster championship action. Graham and Gordon Kelly were the respective wing backs on the Clare senior team that were narrowly defeated by Limerick in the Munster semi final. Both produced stirring displays that unfortunately were not replicated throughout the entire team. Conor O'Loughlin, Brian Curtin and Dessie Molohan all played leading roles in Clare's 0-13 to 1-6 victory over Limerick in the Junior semi final. Clare now advance to play Cork in the Munster final. This along with the representation of Seanie Malone + Micheal Malone at minor level gives a total of seven players who have represented the club at the highest level in 2009. Well done to all involved!

Semi-final playoff for Junior A's

Following a disappointing second half performance against Doonbeg, Miltown Junior A's now face a three way playoff with Naomh Eoin & O'Callaghan's Mills to see who grabs the last semi final spot on offer in the Division 4 league. Fielding without a host of regulars, Miltown led 0-5 to 0-1 at half time. However, in the second half, Doonbeg grabbed control to run out winners on a 2-6 to 0-8 scoreline. Unfortunately, due to a lack of urgency on the county boards part, it now appears the playoffs may not take place in the short-term which will put Miltown at a severe disadvantage due to the loss of players to the senior team in the interim.
The senior side continue preparations for the county championship opener in three weeks with an ever increasing injury list to contend with. Manager James Healy will be hoping to get all players back on board and for an upturn in recent form in the coming weeks.

League campaigns continue

Miltown St Joseph's senior team completed their league section of the Cusack Cup with a one point defeat to Cooraclare on a 2-9 to 2-8 scoreline. While Miltown's last few results have been disappointing, they have secured a Cusack Cup semi final spot against Kilmurry ibrickane. John Meade and Dessie Molohan were the goalscorer's against Cooraclare. All attention is now focused on the opening championship tie with Doora Barefield on June 20th which is a season defining game. Two O'Gorman cup games on the coming weekends will aid with preparations.
The Junior A side remain locked in a huge battle for semi final places after a 1-7 to 0-3 victory over Lissycasey on Sunday. A strong defensive effort led by Barry Kelly and David Talty were the key to this victory. The forward unit failed to play to potential with the exception of Seanie Malone who grabbed a second half total of 1-3 on his debut at this level. The remaining league game takes place this Saturday away to Doonbeg. A victory will guarantee a semi final spot where a draw or loss leads to any amount of permutations due to only two points separating six teams at the top of the group.
On the underage front, the under-16's have qualified for the 'A' semi finals to take place in late June. The under-12's continue to introduce players and are proving competitive in all games whilst recording some encouraging victories.

The Three Irish Tenors concert

Sunday May 31st of the June bank holiday weekend sees the club running a major fundraiser for the year with the hosting of the Three Irish Tenors at the Armada Hotel from 8:30pm. Tickets are €25 and are available from any club member. Attendance is highly recommended for a great nights entertainment and for further information on the Irish tenors, please visit http://www.thethreeirishtenors.com/

La na gClub 125 year celebrations

Miltown St. Josephs GAA club participated actively in the 125 year La na gClub celebrations that were held countrywide on Sunday May 10th. The day kicked off with a GAA themed mass at 11:30 with celebrants Fr. Murphy and Canon Mullin. Club members participated throughout the mass.
The celebrations continued with a fun day blitz at the GAA field from 1:30 - 5:30. All age groups from under 8's through to adult participated in mixed games which also saw the return of the Pete Cleary and John Marrinan tournaments after a lapse of a number of years.
Many thanks to all who prepared in advance, helped on the day and above all took part in the event.

Seniors qualify for Cusack Cup semi final

Miltown's senior team qualified for the Cusack Cup Div 1 league semi final despite a 1.15 to 0.8 defeat to Kilmurry Ibrickane on Sunday. Indiscipline cost Miltown very dearly in this game with both county players Graham and Gordon Kelly dismissed around the quarter hour mark in a few minutes of madness. Graham was dismissed after an unsavoury 20 man brawl that erupted with the scores tied at 0-3 apiece. Bizarelly, the referee determined that no Kilmurry player was even worthy of a caution despite the outbreak of violence. The 13 men of Miltown battled bravely to only trail by 0-12 to 0-8 with 10 minutes remaining. However, Kilmurry finished strongly to claim the victory. Victory over Cooraclare in the remaining league game will give Miltown a semi versus Doonbeg where defeat will setup a Kilmurry semi.
The Junior A side remain firmly in contention for a semi final spot after a 2.6 to 0.8 victory over Naomh Eoin. Miltown had done the hard work whilst playing into the breeze in the first half and led 2.2 to 0.4 at the break. Michael Talty and Tomas Meade grabbed the goals.

Results roundup & weekend preview

The Senior team unfortunately lost their unbeaten run to Eire Og last Saturday on a 3-10 to 1-9. On a day when regular forward Gary Egan was pressed into emergency action as goalkeeper due to an injury crisis, Miltown started very brightly a goal from John Meade established an early lead. Things went downhill from here and two Eire Og goals before half time meant the teams went in level on a 2-3 to 1-6 half time score. Eire Og dominated the second half to run out winners.
The Junior A side went down on a 2-5 to 1-6 score to Coolmeen on Sunday in Miltown. A Colm Haugh goal before half time gave Miltown a slender lead. A goal for Coolmeen midway through the second half proved crucial as Miltown were left to rue some wasteful shooting.
The under 16's are firmly on course for a semi final place after a 2.5 to 0.5 victory over Wolftones.
On this coming weekend, the senior team face the massive challenge of a Kilmurry Ibrickane side who are unbeaten in Clare football since mid 2007. Miltown suffered a demoralising defeat in the corresponding fixture last year but would dearly love to end their neighbours unbeaten run on this occasion.
Due to poor fixture planning, the Junior A side are also in action on Sunday against Naomh Eoin. There is a number of players involved in both and the fixture scheduling places the management in a disappointing position.
The under 16's can book a semi final spot on Monday evening with victory over Cooraclare.
Best of luck to all teams in action.

Successful week at underage level

Both underage teams in action in the past week have recorded victories.
The under-12 sides recorded an impressive 2-3 to 0-7 victory over the St.Breckans-Ballyvaughan amalgamation who had been compreshensive victors in the previous round.
The under-16 side recorded a crucial 1-9 to 1-6 victory over Doora-Barefield. In what is proving a very competitive under-16 competition, it is likely that two victories from the remaining three games will be required to guarantee a semi final spot.

Senior team remain unbeaten in Cusack Cup

St Josephs Miltown senior team remain unbeaten in the 2009 Cusack Cup after recording a 1-3 to 0-6 draw against last years beaten league finalists Doonbeg on bank holiday Monday. The game was switched to Miltown at late notice due to heavy overnight rain on Sunday night.
Miltown played against the breeze in the first half but Michael Hehir struck a decisive blow with a goal after five minutes. The half time score was 0-4 to 1-0 in favour of Doonbeg. Three Kevin Keavey points in the second half earned Miltown a draw in a game where each team clocked up eleven wides over the hour.
One more victory from the remaining three games will guarantee a semi final spot. The team lined out as follows:
Conor O'Loughlin, Kevin Burke, Graham Kelly, Enda O'Gorman, David Cleary, Gordon Kelly, David Talty, John Meade, Cathal Lafferty, Gearoid Curtin, Gary Egan, Enda Malone, Joe Curtin, Kevin Keavey(0-3), Michael Hehir(1-0) Subs used: Michael Neylon & Ian Sexton.

The Junior A team suffered their first defeat of the league season when they lost out in a scoring blitz to O'Callaghans Mills in Kilkishen on Sunday on a 4-11 to 3-10 scoreline. Miltown played with the breeze in the first half but were only level at 2-4 each at half time. Tomas Meade and Enda O'Gorman struck for goals but the Mills were very dangerous up front every time they attacked. Miltown started the second half with a quickfire 1-2 to open a five point lead. Two Enda Fox frees and a Michael Talty goal being the scorers. The Mills crucially replied immediately with a goal which was a blow. The points continued to be traded and the teams were level at 3-10 apiece as the game entered injury time. The referee even got confused with the coreline with such a rate the scores were flying in. The Mills struck for 1-1 in a prolonged injury time to claim victory.

The under-16 side bounced backed into contention with a most impressive 3-11 to 1-9 victory over a fancied Kilmurry Ibrickane team on Monday evening. The management will be hoping for a repeat performance against Doora Barefield in their next league game.

Adult teams remain unbeaten

It was another early season successful weekend for both the Senior and Junior A football teams. The senior side remain joint top of the Division 1 table after a 2-11 to 1-08 victory away to Shannon Gaels. A dominant first half performance saw Miltown lead 1-9 to 0-2 at half time. A Kevin Keavey goal and six Dessie Molohan points being the highlights. Shannon Gaels came more into the game on the resumption but an Enda Malone goal midway through the second half mentioned that Miltown were always in control. The team lined out as follows:
Conor O'Loughlin, Enda O'Gorman, Kevin Burke, Gordon Kelly, David Cleary, Shane Curtin, David Talty (0-1), Cathal Lafferty, John Meade, Enda Malone(1-0), Gary Egan(0-2, 1f), Gearoid Curtin, Dessie Molohan(0-7, 5f), Kevin Keavey(1-1), Michael Hehir. Sub used: Michael Neylon

The Junior A team are also joint top of Division 4 after a 0-13 to 1-4 victory away to St Breckans. Miltown were rocked back when Breckans raced into a 1-1 to 0-0 lead but Miltown settled to trail by 1-3 to 0-5 at the break. A second half scoring blitz from Enda Fox and Gerry Malone sealed a comfortable win.

On the underagre front, the under-14 team missed on a Feile semi final spot when despite beating Doonbeg, they missed out on victory against Doora Barefield. The under-16 team went down disappointingly to Kilmihil in their opening group game and now face Kilmurry Ibrickane in a crucial encounter.

Solid Miltown overcome Liscannor

Cusack Cup

Miltown 1-8 Liscannor 0-8 @ Miltown

A Kevin Keavey goal early in the first half proved to be the decisive score for Miltown in what was a solid display against Liscannor. Gearoid Curtin & Gary Egan points had Miltown in front before Keavey scored from what seemed an impossible angle to give the home side an early boost in this physical encounter. Gordon Kelly added a further point from full back to leave St.Joseph's 2 up at the break 1-3 to 0-4.

Miltown added five points in the second half, the first coming from the boot of Michael Hehir. Keavey got a point to take his total to 1-1, before frees from Dessie Molohan & Gary Egan maintained St.Joseph's advantage. Liscannor were hanging on at this stage and disappointingly Miltown should have been more in front. Wing forward Enda Malone completed Miltown's scoring with a nice point minutes from the end.

Miltown Team: C.O'Loughlin, E.O'Gorman, Gordon Kelly, D.Cleary, D. Talty, Graham Kelly, S.Curtin, J.Meade (C), C.Lafferty, E.Malone, G.Egan, G.Curtin, D.Molohan, K.Keavey, M.Hehir.

Scorers: K.Keavey 1-1, G.Egan 0-2, Malone, G.Curtin, Molohan and Hehir 0-1 each.

Championship draw 2009 details

The draws for this years county football championships took place at last nights county board meeting.
The senior team have been placed in a most challenging group with last years semi finalists Kilkee, 2007 county champions Lissycasey and 2008 under-21 county champions St Josephs Doora Barefield.
The first round of games will be played on the weekend of June 20th with the top two teams in the group to advance to the quarter finals.
The Junior team have been drawn in the Junior A championship with Ennistymon, Doonbeg and Meelick. The top two teams in the group will advance to the quarter finals.

New season kicks off in style

The first weekend of multiple teams being in action for the 2009 season proved to be most successful for all Miltown Malbay teams in action.
The under-14 team were first in to action in the Feile football team competition.
They suffered a narrow defeat to Ennistymon in their first game to setup a winner takes all battle against neighbours Kilmurry Ibrickane to see who advanced to the next stage.
With a much improved performance, Miltown advanced to the playoff stages with a comfortable victory. The now face a three way blitz against Doonbeg and Doora Barefield next weekend to see who claims the 4th and final semi final place. Many thanks to the management team who accepted their roles at very short notice prior to this competition.
The Junior A team also kicked off their Division 4 league campaign with a 2.5 to 0.8 victory over Clooney-Quin. The management introduced a number of youngsters to the team and one of these Enda Fox produced the goods in style with a brace of goals.
The Senior team sit jointly on top of the Division 1 table with neighbours Kilmurry Ibrickane after two games of the campaign. A first half Kevin Keavey goal proved the crucial score against last years county finalists Liscannor. The final score was 1.8 to 0.8

New sponsor for senior football team

St.Josephs Miltown Malbay has received a most welcome financial boost with the announcement that Cogans Bar and Restaurant, Main Street, Miltown have agreed to become the senior football team sponsor for the next three years. The club are most grateful to Tony and the Cogan family for the support and here's hoping it will be a successful three years for all involved.

Confusion reigns in O'Gorman Cup

O'Gorman Cup

Kilmurray Ibrickane recieved a walkover from Miltown in last weeks scheduled O'Gorman Cup game after Miltown believed that Kilmurray had requested a time change to facilitate players on both sides involved in soccer.
The game was fixed for 1200hrs in Miltown but on Friday evening a request was conveyed to Miltown management that the game be moved to 1430hrs. Miltown agreed but in what appears to have been a communications breakdown, Kilmurray obviously never got the message.
What resulted was that Kilmurray Ibrickane arrived at 1200hrs, as did the referee and with no sign of Miltown they got a walkover. Miltown arrived at what they believed to be the changed time but everyone else had left.

Gaels blow Miltown away

O'Gorman Cup

Shannon Gaels 1-11 Miltown 0-7 @ Miltown (15/03/09)

Shannon Gaels handed Miltown their first defeat of the season in this second round game. The Gaels had the aid of a wind in the first half and led 6 points to 3 at half time. The main feature of the half had to be the wayward shooting from both sides. Miltown attacked well and points from Gary Egan, Joe Curtin and a fine score from midfielder John Meade account for their scores.
St.Joseph's started the second half brightly and managed close the gap to 3 points, 10 to 7, with about 10 minutes to go. David Talty and Enda Malone caused Shannon Gaels huge problems, while Heff and John Meade grafted well around the middle of the field. Gary Egan again getting on the scoresheet and three points from the rejuvenated Kevin Keavey. Unfortunately for Miltown that was to be the end of the scores. Shannon Gaels were fitter and sharper throughout and made their physical advantage pay in the latter stages. Noel Kennedy's goal late on sealed Miltown's fate.

Miltown Team: C O'Loughlin, K.Shannon, K.Burke, G.Curtin, S.Curtin, D.Talty, J.Meade, M.Hehir, E.Malone, G.Egan, D.Cleary, J.Curtin, K.Keavey. Subs: E.O'Gorman for K.Burke, C.Lafferty for D.Cleary.
Scorers: K.Keavey 0-3, G.Egan 0-2, J.Curtin & John Meade 0-1 each.

Winning start in O'Gorman cup

Despite fielding with just six players who featured in the senior championship in 2008, Miltown recorded a two point victory over a determined and battling O'Currys side in Doonaha Saturday afternoon. A brace of goals from Joe Curtin and a six point haul from Dessie Molohan were the key factors in this win.

The team lined out as follows: Conor O'Loughlin, Ian Sexton, David Cleary, Jason Clancy, Gearoid Curtin, Enda O'Gorman, John Meade, Michael Hehir, Enda Malone, Dessie Molohan, David Talty, Ger Malone, Joe Curtin. Subs: Kieran Shannon for Ian Sexton

Cusack Cup 1st Round win

Miltown 1-8 Kilrush 0-9

A Dessie Molohan goal 13 minutes from time gave Miltown the points in the opening round of the Cusack Cup. The game had to be switched to Kilrush due resurfacing work at Pairc MacAonghusa, but this didn't phase St.Joseph's who despite playing in to the wind were level at half time 4 points a piece.

The second half was still close, however following Molohan's goal Miltown led by 4. Kilrush rallied by some wasteful shooting allowed the visitors to secure the victory.

Miltown Team: C.O'Loughlin, D.Cleary, K.Burke, E. O'Gorman, S.Curtin, I.Sexton, E.Malone, J.Meade, M.Malone, Gordon Kelly, Gary Egan, David Talty, D.Molohan, K.Keavey, J.Curtin. Subs: C.McKenna for S.Curtin, Graham Kelly for I.Sexton N.Quinn for Burke.

Scorers: D.Molohan (1-5 4f), Egan, JCurtin & Keavey all (1).

Wanted: your photos and contributions!

Anyone who has photos of past or present teams or players in connection to Miltown Malbay GAA can send an e-mail to miltownmalbaygaa@gmail.com
All contributions would be much appreciated.

O'Gorman Cup Details

The details for the 2009 John O'Gorman cup have been released and Miltown have been drawn in Group 1 with the following teams:
Kilmurry Ibrickane
Shannon Gaels
O'Currys
St Senans Kilkee
Michael Cusacks
Kilrush Shamrocks.

The top two teams in the group will qualify for the semi finals and Miltown's fixtures are as follows:
March 7th v O'Currys (a)
March 14th v Shannon Gaels (h)
March 21st v Kilmurry Ibrickane (h)
May 16th v Kilrush (a)
May 30th v Michael Cusacks (h)
June 6th v Kilkee (a)

THE SEASON STARTS HERE!!!

Ennistymon 1-9 Miltown 1-8 @ Lahinch

New manager, James Healy's, first game in charge results in a marginal loss to Ennistymon. In what can only be described as an experimental lineup, Miltown had the better of the exchanges and were unfortunate to come out on the losing side.
Dessie Molohan got the first score of the season with a fine point from about thirty meters, about 10 minutes in. 10 minutes later he squared a good ball to Gary Egan to score the opening goal of the season. Miltown lead 1-5 to 1 point at half time, wind assisted albeit, with points from Molohan (2), Egan, Gordon Kelly and Kevin Burke.
Miltown started well again in the second half and played with composure and pace. Enda Malone did well at wing back setting up numerous attacks down the right. Miltown led 1-8 to 0-3 with about 12 minutes to go but Ennistymon were awarded a dubious penalty which was converted. Ennistymon tagged on six points to win by 1.
While the result was disappointing the performance was not. Ennistymon had plenty of subs and the changes they made exposed the tired Miltown legs. Overall very positive, David Cleary was excellent at right full back, as was Enda O'Gorman in the other corner. Gordon Kelly and Enda Malone had good games as usual. John Meade played well around the middle ably assisted by Burke, who given a few games there could do a job effectively. Up front Dessie looked sharp, Garry Egan got 1-3 and David Talty grew in confidence in the sweeper role as the game went on. A decent start to the season, more to come hopefully.

Miltown Team: C. O'Loughlin, D.Cleary, S. Curtin, E.O'Gorman, E. Malone, I.Sexton, Gordon Kelly, K.Burke, J.Meade, B.Curtin, G.Egan, D.Talty, C.McKenna, D.Molohan, J.Curtin.
Subs: M.Malone for J.Curtin, N.Quinn for C.McKenna.
Scorers: G.Egan 1-3, Molohan 0-2, G.Kelly 0-2, Burke 0-1.

Healy takes up Miltown post.

Clarecaslte native, James Healy, is to be Miltown Senior manager for the 2009 season. Healy comes with a good track record to the club following his successful stint as Lissycasey trainer in 2007 and 2006. During his tenure they captured the Cusack Cup and Senior Championship.

Healy's tough disciplined style should reap dividends for Miltown as they have underperformed over recent years in the championship. Last seasons Cusack Cup semi final loss was the highlight of 2008.

The capture of Healy is a serious coup for the new committee this early into the season and if their ambition in securing the Clarecaslte man is matched by the players, 2009 could be a red letter year for St. Joseph's

We're back !!!!

Following a brief break for the last few months of last year we're back for 2009 !!

The AGM:
The AGM was reconviened on the 21st of January and a new committee was put in place. Chairperson: Carragh Vaughan, Secretary: Shane O'Connell, Treasurer: Tommy Byrne. The other committee members are Breda Keane, Noel Walsh, Francis Cahill, Joe Talty, Michael O'Loughlin, Aoife Coyne, John Meade and Willie Healy.

The stand committee have collected €43,000 in 2008 and hope to build in 2009.