Cork GFC NY are the champions!
Sunday evening past, around 5:30pm, at Gaelic Park, was a happy place to be if you hailed from the Cork NY Gaelic Football Club. For it was then that Liam Hanley lifted aloft the John Joe Cassidy Seven-a-Side Tournament Title, after his team fought hard right to the final whistle, to hold off determined opposition in the form of the Four Provinces.
Seven teams entered the competition with Cork, Four Provinces, and Tyrone in group one and Cavan, Kerry, Down and Donegal in group two. They got off to a dream start producing a solid performance against the Four Provinces. Tyrone on the other hand lost both games and as a result the Four Provinces secured their place as semi-finalists.
Meanwhile in group two the competition was fierce. The defending champions Cavan got off to a great start with victories over Donegal and Kerry. Kerry fought a great battle against Down but unfortunately they were beaten in a penalty shoot out. Down then proceeded to show great determination with a win against Cavan. Down were unlucky once more as Donegal emerged triumphant with a one-point victory. Kerry excited the crowd as they showed their determination against Donegal. Unfortunately they were left defeated by the Donegal menwho went on to secure their spot in the semi-final.
All three teams emerged with two victories and one defeat a piece. In a lucky turn of events Cavan recieved a bye to secure their place in the semi-final leaving Down and Donegal to fight for the last remaining semi-final spot. At this crucial stage both teams put up a braver fight with the scores remaining tied at full-time. Again Down faced a penalty shootout and earned a well deserved victory with the help of Robbie Moran in goals.
The Semi-Finals
Cavan faced the four provinces in the first semi-final. In a close encounter the four provinces took the lead at half-time with a lead of 1-4 to 5 points, Mike Higgins personally tallying 1-3. Both goalkeepers were kept busy throughout the match as both sides had numerous goal attempts. It was the Cavan outfit who opened the scoring in the second half with a goal by Declan Fitzpatrick. Unfortunatley the celebrations were short lived as Higgins fought back with another goal. Cavan made many attempts to regain the lead which were prevented by Kevin McGenney. Cavan battled hard to infiltrate a sound Philly defence. The four provinces managed to score another goal and a point leaving the full-time score at 3-9 to 2-8.
In the second semi-final Cork faced Down in a tight battle. Francie Cleary, Evan Byrne and Steve Gomez hit crucial points in the first half. The Down boys increased their lead after the interim, but not for long. A magnificent goal by Derek Courtney ensured the team remained strong. Both teams continued to show a determined streak with goals from Seamus Kelly and Keith McMahon. The scores remained level entering into the final quarter with time fading away. Cleary scored a excellent point to edge Cork ahead one last time. Cork secured their spot in the final with a one point lead. Final score Cork 2-9. Down 1-11.
The Final
Cork now faced the boys from 'Philly in the final having beaten them in them in the qualifying rounds. Throughout the match Cork appeared the stronger team with great scores from Francie Cleary. Corks determination to succeed remained evident throughout the game. Francie Cleary sealed Corks lead with two goals back-to-back leaving the Philly defense broken. Higgins replied with a point leaving the halftime score at Cork 2-4, Four Provinces 0-4.
The second half began with a few attempts at goal by the boys from the four provinces. Evan Byrne passed the test however as the goals were avoided at all costs. A goal from Keith McMahon and a point from Francie Cleary secured the deserved win for Cork.
Final Score
Cork 3-6
Four Provinces 0-6
Cavan football club President Rosie O'Reilly & MVP award winner Derek Courtney
Cork Captain Liam Hanley accepted the Seven a side trophy from Cavan football club President Rosie O'Reilly
