T.J McManamon Cup

Date: Sunday, 7th May 2006
Time: 11:00
Venue: Melvin Community Park, Melvin
Opponents: Melvin Celtic

As soon as luck comes your way it disappears just as quick. After last forthnights victory over Enniscrone we were in high spirits truly believing we could beat any team and get to the final of this cup. The belief that was never in this team had finally engulfed each player. We knew, however, that we had a tough obstacle in our way to the semi-final, in the form of Melvin Celtic. They had beaten us twice this season, 4-0, and 6-1 at home in Ballymote. The omens weren't good. But Ballymote didn't believe in themselves like they did now.

After constant begging, James Mullen was given a game outfield, starting alongside the lively Colm McCann up front. Mullen was a handful all day, his strength and sheer physical presence terrorising the home defence at every turn. Melvin started the strongest and had a good 5 minute spell dominating the midfield. However, the next twenty were dominated by a determined Ballymote side. There were not a huge amount of chances even though Celtic dominated posession. They got two corners but failed to make anything from them. They were made to pay when 5 minutes away from the end of an excellent half Melvin quickly countered. Darragh Tonry was outpaced by the Melvin winger who crossed into the box. Sean Kilcoyne could do little about the goal that lobbed over his head.

It was unthinkable that Ballymote were losing. Having out-played Melvin for the majority of the game that one decisive goal alluded them. Usually after going a goal down Ballymote would just give up. But this team is not the same one it used to be and losing only meant they worked harder. Jack Gethins was flying in with tackles and Mullen was looking dangerous up front. With 15 minutes gone in the first half Eamon Tighe threaded a through ball into the feet of Mullen who shot home past the on-rushing goalkeeper. 1-1. It was well deserved and especially for Mullen who looked like scoring at every opportunity. 5 minutes later it should have been 2-1 to Ballymote but the ball fell to Mullen's weaker left foot and he shot tamely straight at the keeper. Colm McCann's snap shot could have been 3-1 but Celtic rued their missed chances. In fact they were lucky to be still drawing when a Melvin striker somehow hit the post when it looked easier to score.

Belief was strong and going into extra time we were sure we could win the game. However, it was not to be. Melvin's right midfielder did the damage as his shot was parried by keeper Sean Kilcoyne into the path of the other winger who scored to make it 2-1. Soon it was 3-1 and heart-breaking stuff. The right midfielder again crossed the ball in and it fell over Gary Dwyer's head to the oncoming winger who easily shot home.

The match was over and the whole team were gutted. It was cruel and we realised how hard a game of football can be. The last few minutes of the game were greeted by disgraceful scenes, including James Mullen's shameful verbal assault on the refereee and Conor Ward's shocking leg-breaking tackle. Both sides lost their professionalism and god knows how no fights broke out. But nothing could take away from Ballymote how well they played. Melvin's coaches agreed how far we had come, and maybe in two years time we will go back up to Kinlough and beat them.

Team: S Kilcoyne, G Dwyer (E Brennan), C Ward, C Meehan, D Tonry, J Gethins, S Booth, E Tighe, S Healy(c),  C McCann (G Devlin), J Mullen
Final Score: 1-3 A.E.T

Date: Saturday, 22th April 2006
Time: 2:00
Venue: Michael McGown Park, Enniscrone
Opponents: Kilglass-Enniscrone United

At the start of the season we could never have predicted how badly we would have done in the league. Things never improved all season and when we had to concede our last league game against Arrow Harps due to only 8 showing up the year was ending on a bad note. We managed to pick ourselves up and get a team for our cup match against Innisfree but because our expectations were so low we didn't expect a win. It was a spectacular performance and result, one which re-ignited our season which had been a disaster. For the match against Enniscrone, the 11 who turned up were told to hang onto that feeling of winning and compare it with the 7-0 dished out at the hands of the Strand Celtic.

The increased work rate was expected but however, the quality of play was not. From the first whistle to the last Ballymote played the best football they have done all year. The rain poured down and the wind blew but the only people looking forward to half time were coaches Michael Flannery and Alan Farry. Eamon Tighe was given a spot in centre midfield and Conor Meehan played in centre back. Both played their parts in an excellent performance.

There were not a huge amount of chances to note in the first half. The game was very even and Kilglass-Enniscrone contributed strongly to the high tempo and good football being played. In a nice flowing move Sean Kilcoyne sent the ball over from the right and Eamon Tighe found himself in great space but his shot was unfortunately straight at the goalkeeper and lacked power. Colm McCann had another effort but his volley was again straight at the goalkeeper.

It was difficult to see where the goals would come from as the two teams played most of their football in the centre of the park. Full backs Conor Ward and Gary Dwyer were thwarting the Enniscrone attack at every opportunity and Conor Meehan was holding the defence strong. Celtic were however very fortunate to be level when one of the home side's midfielders tried a lob from 40 yards. Steven Booth was off his line and the shot went very narrowily wide. So into extra time. Players were informed of the 10 minutes a half and played with the same pace as if they hadn't already played a gruelling 60 minutes.

Soon Celtic were ahead. Jack Gethins surged down the left and seeing little options in the box he went himself and struck an unsaveable rocket which went in the top left hand corner. The celebrations didn't last long as Enniscrone countered from a corner and as Conor Meehan was caught out of position Darragh Tonry was out paced and the home side's striker struck home for 1-1. Penalties was next but just before Conor Meehan was put in goals for Steven Booth who was nursing an injury. The 5 penalty takers were decided, Kilcoyne, Gethins, Healy, Tighe, Meehan. Enniscrone scored their first as did Sean Kilcoyne. They were forunate for their 2nd as a nasty bobble prevented what looked a simple save. Jack Gethins unluckily missed his and Enniscrone were 2-1 up. However they missed their next two either side of Stephen Healys excellent strike. It was 4-3 Celtic and down to the two goalkeepers. The home side's goalkeeper scored his but the decider was down to Conor Meehan. He had saved one penalty already and it was to be his day as his effort resulted in a win for Ballymote.

It was a great game to watch and Celtic's heart and determination from start to finish must be admired. A team ridiculed and embarrassed they have begun to show their true colours. When we exited the pitch we received a great applause from the Enniscrone supporters which was also a great display of their sportsmanship. Bring on the next round!

Team: S Booth, G Dwyer, C Ward, C Meehan, D Tonry, J Gethins, E Tighe, 
S Healy(c), S Kilcoyne, C McCann, D Dolphin
Final Score: 1-1 A.E.T (4-3 Penalties)

Date: Saturday, 15th April 2006
Time: 2:00
Venue: Brother Walfrid Park, Ballymote
Opponents: Innisfree Celtic

It was a bit of a shock to everyone seeing that we were down as playing another match this season despite the lads being told that the season was over. It had been a dismal failure, picking up only one point, scoring 5 goals in 10 matches, conceding countless amounts and being the only team in the u12 league not to record a win. To make it worse, training attendances had plummetted and we had to concede two league games due to not having 11. Trying to regenerate energy for this cup match should have been impossible. However, 13 lads turned up and got an earful from managers Alan Farry and Michael Flannery but it seemed to spur them on to a remarkable performance and result.

Innisfree seemed to have similar problems to ourselves, having only 10 men for the first half but we ignored this and looked to concentrate on our own game. When the first whistle went Ballymote were first out of the blocks and looked hungry for a victory that had evaded them all season. Jack Gethins was getting a lot of room down the left hand side and Stephen Healy was indistinguishable from Xabi Alonso in the centre of the park spreading the ball out wide at every opportunity.

It would be a lie however, even after dominating early play, to suggest we expected an early goal. It did come after about ten minutes; the tiresome and energetic Jack Gethins skipped past defenders and shot a low ball across the box and it fell to Sean Kilcoyne who bundled it home. Celtic were 1-0. It was a similar scenario for the second goal as Conor Meehan fed Kilcoyne who ran onto the ball; his shot hit off the keeper and as the ball bounced around for what seemed an eternity he managed his 2nd of the afternoon by poking home. He should have had his hat trick inside 15 minutes when he connected well with another sublime cross from Gethins but just saw his effort fly over the crossbar.

Innisfree showed great character in getting back into the game but it was a mistake by midfielder Conor Meehan who handed them a gift.  After taking too much out of the ball in his own half he was disposessed by the innisfree striker who ran through but had his legs clipped by Meehan. Penalty, and Mullen had no chance. 2-1 and that's how the 1st half ended. Innisfree got their 11th man for the start of the second half and this showed early as they got a goal within the first 3 minutes of the restart. A through ball sliced Ballymote's centre of defence and the chasing attacker lifted the ball over the on-rushing Mullen and into the net for an excellent equaliser.

It looked like a similar story for Ballymote as Innisfree took what could be considered an undeserved lead as the home side's defence again looked vulnerable. A ball came in from the right and although goalkeeper Mullen nearly intercepted the ball he caught the man for what would be a penalty only for another Innisfree player put the ball in the back of the net. 3-2 to Innisfree. Heads should have went down but some players rose to the challenge, namely Darragh Tonry, Eamon Tighe and Conor Meehan. Meehan individually took the game by the scruff of the neck and inspired Ballymote to an unlikely comeback, making up for his earlier mistake.

The ball broke to Meehan just off the centre circle and he began to run with it. He had soon beaten 4 men and had exploited a gap in the Innisfree defence, all that needed was the finish. He didn't fail to deliver and his explosive shot stung the back of the net for 3-3. It was a fine individual goal but it wasn't over yet for Meehan and Ballymote. The hard-working Eamon Tighe won a corner and Matthew Davey ran up to take. He floated a corner in and Meehan met it low on the volley. From the sideline it seemed like it hit the side netting but the referees whistle said otherwise and Ballymote were in the lead. It was an amazing turn around and Eamon Tighe could have settled the game later. His mazy run just lacked the finish that he deserved.

It was a nervy final 7 minutes and a bit harsh on Innisfree but Ballymote had that little bit of luck that they haven't had all season. It was a testimont to the players characters to put in such a hearty performance after several disheartening defeats. It was also nice to have a good support down with a good few parents turning out for the first time this season. Overall, a great day for the Celts who have never gave up fighting all year.

Team: J Mullen, Mart Davey, C Ward, Matt Davey, D Tonry, J Gethins, C Meehan, S Healy(c), S Kilcoyne, C McCann, E Tighe
Final Score: 4-3

League

Date: Saturday, 25th March 2006
Time: 11:00
Venue: Brother Walfrid Park, Ballymote
Opponents: Boyle Celtic

It was a sad spectacle to see Ballymote struggling for 11 players in an under 12 age group. We couldn't but be jealous of Boyle who could name 17 subsitutes and have a 'b' team. What we would give for that luxury. It has been typical of our season so far our inability to put our strongest team and although we can't say we would have done any better we would still have given teams a better shot. 5 of our first 11 were missing so in all honest the 11 out on the pitch didn't do too badly.

Boyle started and remained the stronger side throughout the game. Although Ballymote did hold them for about 5 minutes the goals weren't long going in. Conor Ward was caught out of position in left back for the first goal as the visiting side's right midfielder struck a vicious shot which swerved and deceived goalkeeper Sean Kilcoyne. The second could be more put down to Boyle's excellent play as their centre midfielder placed a sublime through ball into the feet of their striker and he made it 2-0. Ballymote's heads were down and before half time it was 3 as Kilcoyne was lobbed from about 20 yards.

All that could be asked of the brave 11 was that they up their work rate and have a bit of pride in their jersey. The second half started pretty much as the first finished with Boyle dominated in every area. Jack Gethins and Stephen Healy worked extremely hard in the centre of the park but unfortunately didn't have the options available to turn this into goalscoring opportunities. A much too frequent sight was that of the opposing goalkeeper standing talking to others behind the goals as he had a quiet day.

The fourth was quick in coming as Ballymote failed to clear a corner and it found its way into the back of the net. The fifth and sixth goals were routine stuff that the home side have failed to prevent all during the season. One moment of brilliance from Stephen Healy was the highlight of the day for us as his surging run down the right ended in a goal. As he charged down the flank he crossed the ball in, despite having only one man in the box and this hit off the head of a Boyle player and chipped the goalkeeper.

It was a testimont to Healy and Ballymote's character that they still kept at it despite being 6-0 down and that there is some heart and pride in the colours that they wear. We have to play Boyle again away and hopefully we will be able to give them a better game of it.

Team: S Kilcoyne, C Ward, E Brennan, D Tonry, C Meehan, C McCann, P Kielty, J Gethins, S Healy(c), D Dolphin, G Dwyer 
Final Score: 1-6

Date: Saturday, 11th March 2006
Time: 11:00
Venue: Brother Walfrid Park, Ballymote
Opponents: Melvin Celtic

A big deal was made of this match and we were touting it as the most important game of the season, one that we could possibly have one. However, Melvin proved to be much better than we had anticipated and we were a lot worse than anyone could have predicted.

There was a lot of changes in the team fielded against Melvin than the last day in Strand. Conor Ward's absence at left back meant a whole shake up of the team, Colm McCann filling in that position, while Conor Meehan replaced McCann up front and Martin Davey slotting into centre midfield. Matthew Davey moved across to right back and Darragh Tonry took his place in the heart of the defence. There was optimism in the camp but as soon as the whistle went this was soon dashed.

Two quick goals in succession stunned the home side and after 5 minutes we found ourselves with a mountain to climb. James Mullen did his best in goals and produced a string of fine saves all day, but could do nothing about either of these two. The pace of the Melvin front men plagued Darragh Tonry for the first while a corner not cleared found a player unmarked and he shot home to give the away side a two goal cushion. Melvin's right sided midfielder gave Colm McCann, a makeshift left back, a torrid time as he orchestrated most of the attacks.

Although Celtic tried to remain upbeat their spirit had taken a bad beating and when the third went in before half time it seemed like game over. In the second half hopes were raised when Eamon Tighe grabbed a well deserved goal. Tighe, who had played most of the season up front, but who had switched to right midfield for this half latched onto a ball from Conor Meehan and shot home past the Melvin keeper. This was just rewards for Tighe who could be one of the only men to hold his head up high in this match and all through the season worked hard but had an unfortunate goal drought.

Any hope of a comeback was quickly scuppered as the away side grabbed their fourth goal, a well taken shot from the edge of the area to Mullen's near post. The game now became a farce and players roamed where they wanted and all the subs were used. The last two goals highlighted how poor the defence and team were all game.

This was probably the most demoralising defeat of the whole campaign. It was hyped up as a match we could get a result from so perhaps there was too great of an expectation on Ballymote. However, there are so many negatives to take from the match they're not worth mentioning. All we can hope is that in two years time things will have improved.

Team: J Mullen, C McCann, Matt Davey, S Booth, D Tonry (E Brennan), J Gethins, S Kilcoyne (P Clarke), Mart Davey (P Kielty), C Meehan (G Devlin), S Healy(c) (D Dolphin), E Tighe
Final Score: 1-6

Date: Saturday, 11th February 2006
Time: 2:00
Venue: Brother Walfrid Park, Ballymote
Opponents: Carrick Town

Building on last weeks performance against Strand we were looking to keep the same effort and work rate while upping the quality in attack. However we never really threatened the Carrick goalmouth and the poor finishing from both sides told the story.

There were no surprises with team selection, Alan Farry putting Martin Davey, who again had a great game into right back and Sean Kilcoyne reclaimed his spot in right midfield. It was a more balanced team then the one that lined out against Strand and looked it through out the game.

There are very few chances to talk about in the whole game not to mention just the first half. Jack Gethins did a lot of running down the left flank but didn't get the final ball in and the forwards were anonymous. The highlight of the half from a spectators point of view was a long range shot from Carrick's midfield; it looked to be going in over the head of goalkeeper James Mullen but he reacted well to palm it over the bar.

In the second half Sean Kilcoyne became more creative down the right but he too failed to cross the ball in and it proved to be a frustrating evening for the Ballymote forward line. Celtic could count themselves lucky to be at nil all when a shot from Carrick's left midfielder trickled across the penalty box and skimmed the far post. Sean Kilcoyne nearly got on the end of Stephen Healy's pass only for it to be collected by the goalkeeper. That was as good as it got for Ballymote.

The point gained must be viewed with optimism. It is hard to believe like last week, that this was fixture turned up a 6-1 hammering early on in the season. Although the finishing is desperately poor and an area for concern the clean sheet is a great boost. Next in this line of improvement is a win.

Team: J Mullen, C Ward, Mart Davey, S Booth, Matt Davey,  J Gethins, S Kilcoyne, C Meehan, S Healy(c), E Tighe, C McCann (G Dwyer)
Final Score: 0-0

Date: Saturday, 4th February 2006
Time: 2:00
Venue: Brother Walfrid Park, Ballymote
Opponents: Strand Celtic

Although we did record another loss it was probably the best performance by Ballymote so far this year against probably the best side in the league. We picked up 3 yellow cards which might suggest we were a bit dirty but it reflects the massive increase in effort and hence the performance.

As you can see from the photo we played in an old Coolaney Utd yellow strip because of the colour clash. We had a full squad available for this match which I think is the first match all season. Matthew Davey returned to central defence pushing Darragh Tonry out right and Gary Dwyer also regained his space on right midfield so it was a completely new right flank.

Ballymote started brightly and began playing some good passing football. However, they failed to really create any chances and in the first half they did not manage a single shot on target.  At the other end they were also having problems. Conor Meehan was a regular fixture in his own 18 yard box despite playing in centre midfield. He could do nothing about the first goal though. A long ball, which wreaked havoc on the Ballymote defence all day, was played through to the Strand striker. Last man Steven Booth looked to have the beating of his opponent but was pushed off the ball and goalkeeper James Mullen could do nothing about the first goal.

The second goal soon followed. Strand exploited the vulnerable right hand side of Ballymote and played another ball up the wing. Darragh Tonry was beaten for pace and the Strand left midfielder fired home. It looked like another sound beating for Celtic.

After half time Ballymote upped their game 100%. Battling Eamon Tighe, who once again worked his socks off, was inspiring as he fought for every ball. He got himself booked for a bad tackle but also put in an excellent last ditch tackle which denied Strand a definite goal. Stephen Healy in centre midfield also began to take the game by the scruff of the neck and put in some vital challenges. Coaches Alan Farry and Michael Flannery recognised the right hand side problem and changed it completely, Martin Davey coming in at right back and Sean Kilcoyne replaced Gary Dwyer on the flank. Davey made a strong claim for a regular starting place with an excellent performance.

There were no more goals in the second half despite Strand having a few close efforts. Ballymote only had a tame shot from Conor Meehan to trouble the visiting side. Despite another loss, Ballymote seem to have come a long way from the side who were annihilated 7-0 in strandhill. There's hope yet.

Team: J Mullen, C Ward, D Tonry (Mart Davey), S Booth, Matt Davey,  J Gethins, G Dwyer (S Kilcoyne), C Meehan (D Dolphin), S Healy(c), E Tighe, C McCann
Final Score: 2-0

Date: Saturday, 21st January 2006
Time: 11:00
Venue: Merville Community Park(switched to Kevinsfort)
Opponents: Merville United

Ballymote's Merville United jinx didn't end today as initial optimism was quickly dashed. Merville once again knocked six goals past us as they breezed to victory in Kevinsfort.

After good performances in the last few matches and an excellent result against Gurteen last saturday Ballymote could be forgiven for believing that they would give Merville a better game of it than previously. From the very first few minutes of the game Celtic seemed up for it. Some player absences forced a tactical change - Alan Farry and Michael Flannery opting for a 4-3-3 formation. Perhaps it was Merville's initial inability to deal with the hardworking front three that gave Celtic hope.

Jack Gethins, playing on the left of a midfield three was instrumental in all attacks and it was through him that the goal was scored. He ran down the line and despite looking like he had taken too much out of the ball turned inside and crossed low into the box. This was met by Colm McCann who slotted home. Merville were stunned. Celtic had been playing some excellent football till now. Conor Ward and Stephen Booth were stopping all Merville attacks dead. This was, shockingly, the first time Ballymote had taken the lead in a competitive match this year.

However, any hope of a result was soon dashed. Only five minutes after Celtic's goal Merville equalised. Ballymote's constant failure to deal with corners proved their downfall. It wasn't long before Merville took the lead. A well taken twenty yard shot and an audacious lob after a poor kick-out gave Merville a 3-1 advantage going into the break. Ballymote had shot themselves in the foot and it all went down hill from there.

The injured Conor Meehan went in goals and his dynamism was missed out field. He however could do nothing about the next three goals as Ballymote's defence who had been so miserly in the first half went asleep. Many players were completely anonymous in the second half and it seems that the season is over already. 0 points from 6 games tells its own story. 3 scored and 30 conceded adds evidence to that story.

Team: S Kilcoyne, Mart Davey, C Ward, D Tonry, S Booth, J Gethins,  C Meehan, S Healy(c), E Tighe, D Dolphin (G Dwyer) C McCann
Final Score: 6-1

Mid- Season Friendly

Date: Saturday, 14th January
Time: 2:00
Venue: Brother Walfrid Park, Ballymote
Opponents: Gurteen Celtic

After a good six weeks without a match Ballymote proved they weren't out of touch and collected a well deserved 2-2 draw against Gurteen. Either side could have a grabbed a winner in what was a close but thrilling encounter.

Ballymote's constant training throughout the christmas showed as they were the first team out of the blocks. The game had hardly started before the hard working Eamon Tighe, who was probably the home sides best player, fed the ball to Daniel Dolphin who prodded home from ten yards. It was a great start for the home side who had their tails up. Captain Stephen Healy was as industrious as ever winning every tackle in the centre of the park but it was to be a comedic error that allowed Gurteen back into it. A swift gurteen attack climaxed as their right midfielder fired across the ball across the box and it somehow squirmed through goalkeeper James Mullens hands. The ball didn't escape Evan Brennan though as he accidentally caught the ball on the line giving away a penalty.

The gurteen player had no trouble in converting the spot kick and it was all square again. There was to prove little more drama in the first half despite Mullen been called into action on a few occasions. Sean Kilcoynes excellent cross from the right flew straight through the Gurteen defence and had their being someone coming in at the back post the scoreline may have been different. At half time things were shook up a bit. The quick and dynamic Jack Gethins was brought on and he instantly made a difference. Conor Meehan was put back into centre midfield where was more at home and the changes made a difference.

Stephen Healy looked determined to score as earlier his shot was well saved by the keeper but he was extremely close to snatching a goal in the second half. His shot looked to be going in but striker Sean Kilcoyne intercepted it and headed it onto the crossbar. Jack Gethins soon went one better and as the ball was fed through to him down the left flank he found himself one-on-one with the goalkeepr and slotted home at the near post from a tight angle. It looked like the home side would take the victory but a few mistakes from Ballymote gifted their opponents a goal. The midfield took too much out of the ball and lost it and with the defence flat footed Gurteen grabbed their second past a helpless Mullen.

Although that was the last of the goals the excitement wasn't over. When the gurteen player seemed to have evaded the Ballymote defence he was cynically taken down by Conor Ward. From the resulting free kick the visitors hit the bar and when the final whistle Ballymote were the more relieved. A good performance by Celtic but to truly start picking up points they have to stop giving away stupid goals.

Team: J Mullen, E Brennan (P Clarke), Matt Davey (Mart Davey), C Ward, D Tonry ( J Gethins), C Meehan, S Kilcoyne, S Booth, S Healy(c), E Tighe, D Dolphin (G Dwyer)
Final Score: 2-2

League

Date: Saturday, 26th November
Time: 2:00
Venue: Melvin Community Park
Opponents: Melvin Celtic

The scoreline seems to suggest that once again Ballymote were hammered but this would not be true. It was an excellent performance but their inability to take their chances proved Celtic's downfall.

The opening ten minutes of the match was very tight with chances few and far in between. Ballymote defended resolutely and stubbornly giving little away. However, every corner looked dangerous and stand-in goalkeeper Jack Gethins was called upon numerous times. However one too many corners given away produced the opening goal. As the ball swung across the box it was not cleared properly and it broke to Melvin's outstanding number 9. His shot was unluckily fumbled by Gethins and it was 1-0 to the home side. This was so un-deserved as Ballymote were playing very well and matching Melvin in every area of the pitch.

But the character of Ballymote showed and they came close to scoring in the next five minutes. A great through ball by Conor Meehan fell to Daniel Dolphin whose first touch took him past the on-rushing defender. One on one with the keeper Dolphin was unlucky to see his effort well saved. There was little between the sides going into half time.

In the second half Ballymote pushed for an equaliser. For the next ten minutes Celtic laid siege on Melvin's goal and were clearly the better side. However, this inevitably left them short at the back and the second goal was a killer blow. The home side's number 9, who ran the show all day, took the ball on the right hand side of midfield, beat three defenders and his shot rocketed in the far corner. This effectively ended the match as a contest as Ballymote heads went down having performed so well in the previous twenty minutes.

The two goals that followed were silly mistakes. Twice Celtic tried to clear corners and hit their own team mates. This gifted Melvin two goals and they won a game that was so close at times. It was an excellent performance by Ballymote from which they can take encouragement for future games. However it was a game that was so frustrating in many ways, as having played so well, the score-line still says they were hammered. Some things have to be experienced to be learned.

Team: J Gethins, E Brennan, C Ward, D Tonry, S Booth, G Dwyer, C McCann, C Meehan, S Healy(c), E Tighe, D Dolphin (S Kilcoyne)
Final Score: 4-0

Date: Saturday, 29th October
Time: 2:00
Venue: Riverstown Folk Park
Opponents: Arrow Harps

The conditions conspired against Ballymote and playing against the wind in the first half against a clinical Arrow Harps side did the damage. Celtic could never find their feet in the second half and struggled for large periods.

In an attempt to change things around, a few positional changes were introduced. Jack Gethins started up front, Conor Meehan left midfield, Eamon Tighe on the right flank and Steven Booth was hoped to provide the engine in midfield. For ten minutes the game remained goalless but when the goals started to go in there was nothing goalkeeper Sean Kilcoyne could do. The first was a long high ball that sailed over his head. Next, from a Harps corner the ball bounced around for what seemed an eternity until it broke on the edge of the box and the midfielder slotted home.

It looked like the same old story for the u12s until Conor Meehan began to get on the ball. He weaved between defenders out on the left wing and although he looked to have taken too much out of the ball he was taken down by the harps defender. The referee had no hesitation pointing to the spot and Gary Dwyer stepped up. The keeper had no chance as Dwyer scored Celtic's only second goal of the season. There was hope.

However, there was to be no comeback for Celtic. Up at the other end the ball was crossed in from the left and the ball went through the unfortunate Conor Wards legs. The Arrow harps winger was left with a clear shot on goal and made no mistake in getting the third. Things looked worse as Darragh Tonry was penalised for a 50-50 in the box and Harps had a penalty. However, a fantastic save from Sean Kilcoyne kept them at bay. He could do nothing about the fourth as a ball spilt through the defence and although coming out he could only manage a hand to the shot which hit the back of the net. 4-1. 

In the second half the weather got worse and the game seemed to disintegrate with it. Eamon Tighe when clear on goal shot straight at the keeper while Conor Meehan saw a good effort saved by the keeper. Arrow Harps proved more clinical and when a cross from the right was floated over Gary Dwyers head the striker finished easily. The sixth goal proved the end and the final whistle blew soon after. 6-1 it finished. A lot of work to do.

Team: S Kilcoyne, G Dwyer, C Ward, Matt Davey, D Tonry, E Tighe, S Booth, C Meehan, S Healy (c), J Gethins, D Dolphin
Final Score: 1-6

Date: Saturday, 1st October
Time: 2:00
Venue: Carrick-on-Shannon
Opponents: Carrick Town

I was again absent today so will not be in a position to provide an accurate match report. We suffered another heavy defeat at the hands of Carrick Town. However we were well in the game in the first few minutes but chances not taken by Jack Gethins and Stephen Booth proved disastrous and the goals flew in down the wrong end.

Team: J Mullen,  H Perry, Matt Davey, C Ward, S Booth, C Meehan, Martin Davey, S Healy (c), S Kilcoyne, G Dwyer, J Gethins
Final Score: 0-6

Date: Saturday, 24th September
Time: 11:00
Venue: The Village, Strandhill
Opponents: Strand Celtic

It was to prove a difficult day at the office for Ballymote as they recorded a heavy 7-0 defeat by Strand Celtic. The absence of the Davey twins and James Mullen were felt as was Conor Meehan's sidelining due to injury.

It couldn't have started any worse for Ballymote. There were no clocks running but if there was the first goal would have been read at 30 seconds. The Strand right midfielder escaped Colm McCann's challenge which left a huge gap onto which he capitalised and fired home. You could nearly hear the silent 'Here we go again' from the crowd. Within 5 minutes it was two. Simple stuff again and Ballymote's history of slow starts came true again. Meehan's injury and various other stoppages ensured that injury time lasted forever and 3 was inevitable.

It was perhaps hard on Ballymote to have conceded the third. Although creating nothing up front. the solid back trio of Colm McCann, Steven Booth and Conor Ward were finally gelling and surviving the onslaught well. The visitors came out the second half hoping to get back into the game. As they pushed forward Strand broke with lightning speed and a through ball ended in a strong finish. The hosts began to completely dominate and would have registered far more if it wasn't for the heroics of stand-in goalkeeper Sean Kilcoyne. He, however could do nothing about the fifth goal which flew into the top corner despite getting a hand to it.

The heads went down and the sixth was the end for Celtic. Worryingly, was the fact that they never recorded a shot at the Strand rearguard. It would be wrong to say that they threatened the home side goal mouth. But, as the quality of our opponents increased, so too did the Ballymote performance. As mentioned earlier while the scoreline may have been a fair reflection there can be no claims of lack of effort. Many factors contributed to Celtic's downfall and hopefully luck will be on their side next time.

Team: S Kilcoyne, H Perry, C McCann, C Ward, S Booth, G Dwyer (G Devlin), J Gethins, C Meehan (C McCarthy), S Healy (c), E Tighe, D Dolphin (E Brennan) 
Final Score: 0-7

Date: Tuesday, 13th September
Time: 6:30
Venue: Brother Walfrid Park, Ballymote
Opponents: Merville United 'Lawnview'

Apologies for the lack of a match report, I was personally absent due to being away on holidays and am not in a position to write an accurate first-hand report. Conor Meehan bundled home our only goal in a 5-1 defeat against a league-chasing Merville United side.

Team: J Mullen, C Ward (H Perry), C McCann (C McCarthy), S Booth, Matt Davey, S Kilcoyne (D Dolphin), J Gethins, Mart Davey, S Healy (c), E Tighe (D Tonry), C Meehan 
Final Score:1-5

PRE-SEASON

Date: Wednesday, 31st August
Time: 7:00
Venue: Merville Community Park, Maugheraboy
Opponents: Merville United

Although Merville United proved to be an excellent side the scoreline slightly flattered them as two late goals crunched a great performance from Ballymote.

Signs were good for Celtic from early on as Merville had plenty of posession but the centre back partnership of Darragh Tonry and Matthew Davey proved equal to the challenge. However a quick attack down the right proved fruitful for the home side as the ball broke on the edge of the box and the left winger fired home. Soon they were two up. After Celtic's own corner a swift counter attack followed and the Ballymote defence was outnumbered. Mullen was helpless. 2-0. When it seemed like there was no way back Conor Meehan offered some hope. He latched onto Martin Davey's free kick and his sublime shot chipped the keeper. Things were looking up for Celtic. Eamon Tighe now got in on the action. He chased down a through ball from Sean Kilcoyne and as it rebounded off him he got a shot in which was straight at the keeper. Unlucky but still 2-1 down going into the break.

Ballymote went into the second half with a new belief and that paid off early on. Great work again from Conor Meehan who, despite his initial shot being blocked managed to get his head to the ball and nodded home. It was now level and Celtic began to believe they could win the game. However, Merville began to show their dominance. Poor defending from the visitors allowed a ball to break in the box and Ballymote found themselves once again trailing. Buoyed by this United's corner was allowed to bounce around in the penalty area and it was now 4-2. Celtic lost their concentration as the match ended and conceded another towards the end. An aimless shot by Merville was foolishly stopped from going out and the clearance hit off a Ballymote defender and the fortunate Merville striker was gifted a goal.

It was perhaps harsh on Ballymote who played gallantly and worked very hard. James Mullen was superb in goals and Stephen Healy was as usual excellent. Celtic acquited themselves excellently, they didn't retaliate to niggly tackles and kept the head at all times.  More performances like this and things are looking good.

Team: J Mullen, H Perry (S Kilcoyne), D Tonry, C Ward, Matt Davey, G Dwyer (K Tighe) C McCann (D Dolphin), Mart Davey (G Devlin), S Healy (c), E Tighe ,C Meehan 
Final Score:5-2

Date: Saturday, 20th August
Time: 7:00
Venue: Brother Walfrid Park, Ballymote
Opponents: Coolaney United

An excellent second half performance and a tactical move switching Stephen Healy and Sean Kilcoyne swung what looked like a losing battle in favour of Ballymote.

It was clear after the disastrous display last week that an improved performance was needed. From the first whistle Ballymote looked like providing that improvement. They fought for every ball and had a lot of posession. However, things didn't go to plan. As with the match against Ballisodare a gap was discovered between the two centre backs. Through this the Coolaney midfield supplied a sublime through ball which their quick centre forward ran onto. Conor Ward got a tackle in but it was not enough to stop the ball ending in the back of the net. The home team were shocked. Jack Gethins fabulous run and shot that went just wide was the highlight of a poor half.

Something needed to be changed. Stephen Healy, not a natural winger, was put in his rightful place in the centre while swapping with Sean Kilcoyne. It would be wrong to say that the change provided instant dividends. It took a near miss from Coolaney's excellent striker Jake Morris to waken them up. They were let off the hook. Directly after this goalkeeper James Mullens long ball fell to Sean Kilcoyne and after a mazy run he got a great cross in from the right. It fell to Daniel Dolphin who on the second attempt bundled it home. Next it was Conor Meehan's turn to excel. Often guilty of over-carrying this time his perfectly timed through ball found Kilcoyne and his calm finish was inch perfect. 

Now leading Celtic began to get complacent. Soon after Coolaneys pacey hitman did the damage again. His speed broke him free of the two centre backs and his shot hit the back of the net. A draw looked likely until the brilliant Kilcoyne whipped in another ball which broke in the centre and fell to Stephen Healy. The captain made no mistake in making it 3-2. 

A very exciting and entertaining match to watch, it was probably unfair on Coolaney. They were by no means outclassed but some excellent individual performances from Sean Kilcoyne, Jack Gethins and Conor Ward proved the difference.

Team: J Mullen, H Perry,D Tonry, C Ward, C McCarthy, S Kilcoyne, C Meehan, J Gethins, S Healy (c), E Tighe (K Tighe), D Dolphin
Sub not used: Ryan Kilcoyne
Final Score:3-2

Date: Saturday, 13th August
Time: 2:00
Venue: Brother Walfrid Park, Ballymote
Opponents: Ballisodare United

Despite a spirited and encouraging finish it was without a doubt a poor performance from Ballymote Celtic U-12's who were outclassed by a Ballisodare United outfit who dominated from kick off. 

The hopes were high for a good pre-season after the squad been training for a month but from early on the signs were bad for Ballymote. Poor passing and slack marking spelt trouble and a simple through ball caught the home side's defence asleep and the ball slid past James Mullen for a quick 1-0. Two minutes later, a carbon copy of the last goal. Celtic were down 2 in 5 minutes. Although they upped the tempo in the next few minutes the defensive fraility was evident again when the defence was split apart and a ball from the right ended in the net. The match seemed over when a fourth destroyed Ballymote's spirit.

No doubt it was deserved. The defending was shocking and Ballisodare walked all over the home side. Harsh words at half time were needed and Celtic came out in the second half fired up. It seemed to pay off as Sean Kilcoyne grabbed one back when he latched onto a ball from the right hand side despite looking offside. Any hopes of a comeback were dashed when the visiting team's left midfielder bagged a wonder goal, a lob from what seemed an impossible angle. The injured Conor Meehan was put in goals and produced some brilliant saves to deny Ballisodare further while at the far end Kilcoyne had a goal disallowed for offside. Also, the best move of the game involving Gary Dwyer, Jack Gethins, Eamon Tighe and Stephen Healy resulted in Tighe hitting the side netting. Healy went one better and bundled one in to make it two while Gary Dwyer also oponed his scoring account with a penalty as Kieran Tighe was fouled.

In the end, Ballisodare were happier when the final whistle blew but in truth the scoreline flattered Ballymote. The midfield lacked drive, the forwards were anonymous and the defence was naiive. But as being their first match together improvement is inevitable.

Team: J Mullen, D Dolphin (C Meehan), K Tighe (H Perry), C Ward, S Booth, G Dwyer, C McCann, J Gethins, S Healy (c), E Tighe, S Kilcoyne 
Final Score:5-3