STEELSTOWN RESERVES GUNNING FOR NEAL CARLIN GLORY

Neal Carlin Cup Final Steelstown Reserves v Wednesday, Owenbeg, 7.15pm

Steelstown Brian Óg’s are aiming for another piece of silverware on Wednesday night when the senior reserves take for Owenbeg to contest the Neal Carlin Cup final. Having stormed by Faughanvale and en route to the north showpiece, the Óg’s will line out in the competition’s decider for the first time since 1999 when Steelstown lost to 15 years ago. The city men take on Division Three side Glack’s senior outfit in what will be the first competitive game at the new 4G pitch in Owenbeg. After the minor ladies brought home the championship in May, the men’s reserves are hoping to keep the silverware coming with victory in the Neal Carlin. Get out and support the Óg’s! BLAST FROM THE PAST!

Thursday 21 October 1999 Mid Ulster Observer Limavady 0-16 Steelstown 0-11

Steelstown team: Peter Crabtree; James Wray, Raymond Boyle, Willie O’Donnell; Lee Casey, Eddie Friel, Gavin Cooper; Kieran McBrien, Davy Flanagan; Cahal Bonnar, Paudie Gallagher, Stephen Friel; James Jackson, Alan Walker, Aidan Cleary Subs used: Michael Donaghy, Cathal Harkin It will come down to work rate: Moore

Last summer, Christopher Moore was watching the U16 championship. His brother Andy was Steelstown captain, Christy rarely missed a game. On Wednesday night though, the eldest Moore brother will lead Brian Óg’s out at Owenbeg and he could well be lifting the club’s first piece of men’s silverware since 2008. In under a year, he has gone from spectator to skipper. And Moore admits that the journey has been unprecedented. “No chance did I think I’d be leading a team out in a final,” Christy said. “I had aims to establish a place in the team, to nail down a position, that was about it. There are still goals I want to achieve but I'm getting there. I couldn't believe I was named captain and to lead my mates out on Wednesday is something I'm looking forward to. “It'll be tough though. We've made it hard for ourselves of late with our performances. At no costs will we underestimate our opposition and Glack will be motivated for this. However we're confident in our ability and all it'll come down to is work rate. I know how good our players are and I know this is something we really want.” Indeed, it was only at the end of last year that Christy decided to turn his hand to the game and dive into the club like so many have done in recent times. It was only at the end of last year that he was tasting his first experience with Gaelic Football as he joined the U21 squad for their brief campaign. But Moore hasn’t looked back and is glad of the decision to get involved. “My younger brother Andrew was already a member and playing and my wee sister Emma was down at the club on Saturday mornings so I watched their matches regularly. I already knew a couple of lads that played senior and U21. It wasn't until I was watching a minor match one day that Ruairi McKeever asked me down. He said ‘you're watching enough you may as well play too.’ “So I decided to take up the sport because I wanted a new challenge. I loved the intensity and skill required to play the game so I gave it a go. “Adjusting to Gaelic was tough. Coming from a soccer background there was a lot to learn, and I'm still learning but I'd like to think I've come a long way since last year. The team aspect was quite easy. They're all top lads and it wasn't long until I was dishing out grief and getting stick myself. Given that they're all dead on it was quite easy.” Whilst Wednesday is all the reserves are thinking about now, whilst silverware is all the club are hoping for, Moore wants potential Neal Carlin success to act as a springboard for the rest of the season. Individually, he’s looking for improvements of himself. As a team, he has no plans at all about packing up after this final in Owenbeg. “For myself, greater consistency is something I'll be working on for the rest of the year,” he said. “There's no point having a good game one week and being poor the next. As a team, we'll take it one step at a time. By Wednesday, we aim to be the Neal Carlin Cup champions. “After that, a strong league finish. This sport is all about peaking at the right time, so any momentum is welcome. It's all about championship for us. Some people may be happy with a good championship run, win a few matches, quarter final etc. but when we play like we know we can no one can get near us. We're going out to win it.”

Eoghan Heraghty will be keeping goals for the reserves on Wednesday. The Steelstown stopper was a crucial part of Hugh McGrath’s minor side in 2006, a panel that infests the current senior squad and Heraghty has been a key player for both Brian Óg’s seniors and reserves ever since.

McGURK HONOURED WITH PLACE ON

INTERCOUNTY TEAM OF THE LEAGUE

Life hasn't been too bad to Ciara McGurk of late. Two weeks ago, she was honoured at the Ulster Sports Academy Colours Awards with the Fresher of the Year accolade for the University of Ulster. Then last Tuesday night, she travelled to Croke Park for the small matter of the Ladies National Football Team of the League Presentations. McGurk, a member of Steelstown Brian Óg's, was the only Derry player to be named on the Division Four 15 as the city girl scooped a corner back slot in an entire backline full of southerners. She could be forgiven if the announcement caught her somewhat by surprise. After all, the league campaign wasn't too fruitful for the Oak Leafers but, despite failing to win for the county so far this year, Ciara McGurk's outstanding performances in defence fully merited her inclusion on the Team of the League. "To be honest, I wasn't too sure what the award was for," McGurk laughed. "I got a message to say congratulations from a girl that I play with but when I heard it was a team of the league award, my first instinct was that it was for soccer. And I replied asking, 'Are you sure? I'm not even good at soccer!' "Then I found out it was for playing with the county but even then I thought someone was taking the hand out of me." But they weren't. Ciara was whipped off to Dublin for a flashy banquet at GAA headquarters, presented with her award and kitted out in unique honourary rigs to mark the occasion. In fairness, it's probably no more than she deserves. McGurk's commitment to the sport, not just with her club, but to her county, it never wavers. She treks up and down rural roads travelling from pillar to post just to train. She even went to Australia and Italy with the Irish team in the last few years to contest in the compromise rules. Away from that, she's engrossed with City of Derry Rugby Club, and trying her hand with Foyle Belles on the soccer scene as well. Basically, she out every night of the week competing in some form of organised sports but it's not difficult, it's not a drag. It's just a way of life for McGurk. "It's big commitment but it's not a strain," she explained. "If I didn't have sport, I don't know what I'd do. It keeps me sane. To be honest, I love playing with all my teams - club, county, university, whatever it is. My coaches and team mates all support one another and me and I couldn't ask for anything else. "I wouldn't have gotten to Australia if it wasn't for Steelstown, for James McGurk and all the girls there. The support they gave me, not just in training but in fundraising and that, that got me to where I wanted to be. My mum and dad have always been brilliant as well, they help me so much and especially with my daughter when I'm running out to training, it's them who makes it all possible." And, whilst Ciara's young one, Eilidh, might only be one and a half, the mammy is already setting a fine legacy for a wee girl to follow. Her and a number of girls are doing just that. Along with her sister Eilish, Sarah Doherty, Ruagin Doherty and Katy Holly, the Brian Óg's five represent the county with distinction and they couldn't recommend it more. "I think girls should be out doing things like that," Ciara stated. "There are loads to be doing, you don't need to just be out smoking and drinking. Plus it's fun. And, I mean, look at me, I got to travel around the world playing Gaelic. There are more and more opportunities in girls sport and, okay, you might not get the same recognition as men get but I think that's starting to change a wee bit." Ciara has been impressed by the Steelstown minor girls who tore up the championship and stormed to success just three weeks ago and she knows that they will push the club on. “A lot of them play in the senior team already but hopefully we can get more of them through. I can’t wait to play with some of the girls, they’re so strong and skillful and they’re going to take us onto another level.” Now, McGurk is looking to intercounty championship time in August though. She's looking to a semi final crack at New York and potential All-Ireland final to look towards. "That's the dream. Especially now with my sister Eilish in the team, I'd love to play in an All-Ireland final with her and I've never played at Croke Park. After Tuesday night, I want to get back there." Meanwhile, James McGurk, an influential coach of Ciara's and Steelstown member has paid homage on behalf of the club to McGurk's accomplishment. "Ciara ticks every box," he said. "She's at the forefront of everything in ladies football and she leads by example. She's a very strong and powerful player, she's strong on the ball and off the ball and, I'll tell you, if you run into Ciara you'll know all about. She inspires and motivates the rest of the team but she also looks out for their interests and, with her as a central figure, we're expecting big things of the senior side this year. This is a super accolade for any club player to have and we're thrilled and proud that Ciara has been recognised." Tesco Homegrown Division Four Team of the League: 1. Carol Manning (Roscommon) 2. Ciara McGurk (Derry) 3. Michelle McMahon (Louth) 4. Gillian Dufficy (Roscommon) 5. Aoife Meaney (Limerick) 6. Grace Lynch (Louth) 7. Joanne Cregg (Roscommon) 8. Áine Tubridy (Antrim) 9. Sinéad Kenny (Roscommon) 10. Laura Fleming (Roscommon) 11. Jenny Higgins (Roscommon) 12. Claire Timoney (Antrim) 13. Lucy Mulhall (Wicklow) 14. Mairéad Cooper (Antrim) 15. Marie Curtin (Limerick) SLICK STEELSTOWN STORM TO SUCCESS

Ladies Minor Championship Final Steelstown 4-13 Claudy 2-1 Sunday 11 May 2014

Claudy have caught Steelstown off guard. Cara Doherty has rattled the net within seconds of the start of the ladies minor championship final at Kevin Lynch Park. The league champions are rocked. Megan Devine takes matters into her own hand. The powerful Brian Óg’s number 11 wins possession on her own 45’ and she drives right through the centre of the field, swatting away challenges like they’re just obstacles in front of her. She bursts by the half way line, glides over the 65’ and exchanges passes with the sharp Clodagh Laverty. Aoife McKeever joins in on the act, Claudy are cut open. Devine splits the posts. Steelstown still trail, 0-1 to 1-0. But the tone is set. A marker is laid down and from that blistering first attack of the city girls, the Óg’s don’t look back. They never do. Not even a minute has passed and they’re in front anyway. Orla Flanagan controls the tempo of another attack, hanging onto possession as the blue Mitchell’s jerseys flock back in panic. The midfielder works it left to the outstanding Ella-Rose Sainsbury and, with one sliced pass straight into the chest of Emma Donnelly, the Steelstown goal machine makes no mistake. At 1-1 to 1-0, Thomas Cusack’s side have a lead they wouldn’t even have dreamed of letting up and the rest takes care of itself. The ruthless streak running through this current crop of Steelstown minor ladies is what sets them apart. It’s what leaves nothing up to chance and it is what made the difference yesterday in as the Brian Óg’s girls recorded an historic club double of league and championship feats. Even with Cara Doherty and all her lightning prowess, the Claudy girls were no match for the Steelstown machine when it got churning. The attacking six were menacing. Either one of them could’ve put a serious dent in the Claudy backline and when you have so many options in the forward line, so many girls ready to run at you and look to create something, it is damn hard to put a stop to. That’s why Ella-Rose Sainsbury wriggled free and drilled over an effort straight after setting up the first goal. And when the forwards weren’t firing, well then Derbhla Wilson just joined in from half back, Orla Flanagan pushed forward, or Una Casey pierced another hole in the opposition defence like she did to raise the next white flag for the Ballyarnett club. Aoife Laverty then got in on the act for the slick Steelstown outfit’s fifth different scorer with just their fifth score of the game, the wing forward curling over a beauty from the right hand side to stretch their lead to 1-4 to 1-0 and it was Laverty again on the scoresheet with a touch of fortune when her next free kick dropped into the top left corner and rippled the net. Then Derbhla Wilson hammered home her side’s seventh consecutive score and that’s how it was. Whenever the ball was moved forward, there were three or four different blue and gold jerseys chasing after in a slick-moving Steelstown attack that worked from back to forward like clockwork. But Cara Doherty struck again as the Óg’s failed to clear their lines and, after drilling into the bottom right hand corner with her first goal, the jinky Claudy full forward found the top left this time around to give the north Derry outfit some hope. With this one though, the Steelstown girls weren’t rocked and they just went about reasserting their authority on the decider. Fionnuala Flanagan, in truth, was almost the brains of the operation. The Óg’s wing back dropped deep time and again and read the game like it was elementary, cutting out Claudy attacks ruthlessly and launching the platform for that deadly Steelstown forward line to go to town on. Flanagan was the main reason that supply line was always open to her attackers as she continued to overturn the Mitchell’s and keep the momentum pumping in Steelstown’s direction. It helped that Rachel Roberts got to grips with Doherty thereafter and that captain Aoife McGough started to power out from the backline whenever a half chance presented itself. And so, Devine rattled over another before the break but not before young Clodagh Laverty came darting in from the right hand side and worked a pocket of space to lob over off that famous left of her’s. At half time, the teams went in with seven separating them at 2-7 to 2-0 but, straight from the throw-in, the Óg’s cut loose again. Una Casey got up and won it. She broke out of the tackle and found Clodagh Laverty on the move who slipped in her older sister Aoife one on one with Niamh Doherty only for the Claudy stopper to produce an outstanding save off the crossbar.

It didn’t matter though, it never does when Emma Donnelly is lurking about and the potent Steelstown full forward gobbled up the break and hammered home for her second goal of the game and send out a message of intent that the city girls were powering to this championship title. A series of coolly taken free kicks – four in total, two each for the Laverty sisters – stretched Steelstown’s lead to 12 before Emma McCloskey floated over a dead ball at the other end for the Azzuri blues. However, even though Megan Devine was being tightly watched in the second period, always one or two girls keeping tabs on the Steelstown danger woman, the centre forward soon exploded to life finding either side of the cross bar in the space of one breathtaking minute. The goal came right after the point when Devine finally burrowed a way through the tackles and drilled low and hard and straight into the bottom right hand corner before Clodagh Laverty simply put the icing on the cake with another point as she and young Fionnuala Flanagan battled it out for player of the match. As it was, it was the whole team dynamic that set the Óg’s apart. Their running was relentless, the score-taking was merciless, and the girls head off as champions of the county having stormed through every opposition this season. If this is a sign of things to come, the future’s not looking too bad. Because this was emphatic. This was brilliant.

THE TEAMS Steelstown: Emma McCallion; Jasmin Boyle, Aoife McGough, Rachel Roberts; Aoife McShane, Derbhla Wilson (0-1), Fionnuala Flanagan; Orla Flanagan, Una Casey (0-1); Clodagh Laverty (0-4, 0- 2f), Megan Devine (1-3), Aoife Laverty (1-3, 1-2f); Aoife McKeever, Emma Donnelly (2-0), Ella-Rose Sainsbury (0-1) Laura McLean, Lucy Williamson, Darrina Hunter, Emma McFarland, Caitlin Wade, Toni Cregan, Leah Casey, Beth Heaney, Eimear McCauley, Niamh Cusack, Ciara Foley

Claudy: Niamh Doherty; Sarah Hargan, Sarah McKeever, Beth McKinney; Erin O’Kane, Kady Brunker, Emily Bracken; Dáire White, Katie Hargan; Danielle Hargan, Cora McCloskey, Dearbhla Harkin; Ciara Boyle, Cara Doherty (2-0), Sarah Hargan Cailiosa Hone, Emma McCloskey (0-1f)

CARNHILL AND CLADY TRIUMPH AT BRIAN ÓG’S NINES

A highly impressive St. Mary's Clady third year side reigned supreme at Steelstown GAA as the club hosted its annual Brian Óg's Nines competition. Held in memory of young Brian Óg McKeever, a man whose life continues to inspire the entire GAA community across the province, it was only fitting that schools flocked from all over the county to contest the much sought-after title. And it was Clady side St. Mary's - who brought two teams to take part in the tournament - who took the honours as they marched to the final undefeated and beat last year's champions St. Columb's College in the decider to dethrone the Derry school. There was also glory for St. Brigid's Carnhill, where Brian Óg McKeever also studied as well as the College, as the Glengalliagh Road men took the B title after a string of superb performances at the right time. Damon Gallagher, captain of St. Mary's, was awarded player of the tournament - presented by Máire and Brian McKeever - whilst St. Brigid's College's Conor Wells was given player of the tournament for the B group. The following schools took part in a memorable day at Steelstown: St. Mary's, Clady; St. Columb's College, Derry; St. Joseph's Boys School, Derry; St. Joseph's ; Dominican College, ; Sperrin Integrated College; Oakgrove Integrated College, Derry; St. Patrick's & St. Brigid's College, Claudy; St. Paul's, ; St. Brigid's College, Derry.

U14 BOYS IMPRESSING IN ‘A’ LEAGUE

The Steelstown U14 Boys stormed to the top of the U14 A League with four wins from their first four games. It wasn’t just Ben McCarron who turned heads with length of the field solo run for Lumen Christi which went viral online, it was the entire team who impressed as they beat all before them in the past month. were ousted at Páirc Bríd in the opening fixture before a successful trip to Dungiven was followed up with another home win against Ballinascreen. Last week, the Óg’s went to Glen and cruised to another fine victory.

U14s Steelstown 5-9 Bellaghy 5-5

The Steelstown U14s got their league season off to a thrilling start on Tuesday night when they twice came from behind to beat Bellaghy at Páirc Bríd. Ben McCarron might recently have made a name for himself on YouTube with Lumen Christi but the Brian Óg’s was back to his level best at home as he struck four incredible second half goals to guide the city men to a superb opening day victory. Despite falling seven points behind at one stage and heading in at the break adrift of the Wolfe Tones, the Óg’s rallied and produced a stunning turnaround. Switching McCarron into full forward was a masterstroke as the big number nine won everything that came in his direction and wreaked havoc across the Bellaghy backline despite the attentions of two close man markers. Mark Grant got to grips with the visitors’ danger man after the break as well and the strong full back began winning possession and driving out, continuing to keep Steelstown on the front foot. Jason McAleer was prominent throughout, bursting forward, kicking a wonderful score, and feeding the forward line like clockwork whilst the move of James Lynch into the forward line also proved vital, the half back getting on the ball and driving at the opposition at will. David McGurk’s influence in the middle of the park never waned the midfielder won possession and kept his forward line busy and, when it was required, Ciaran Concannon drifted out the field and began picking up breaks as the mature Óg’s kept possession and coolly ran the clock down. U14 Boys Dungiven 1-9 Steelstown 3-10

Brian Ogs U14s made it 2 wins from 2 in the A league on Tuesday evening with a good win away to a strong Dungiven side. The boys were quick out of the blocks and a strong first 20 minutes saw them go in with a 3:07 to 1:04 lead at the break. The forward line were supplied with some great passes and good finishing by Ben Mc Carron, Cormac Mooney and James Lynch give the boys a good half time lead. Dungiven came back strong in the second half and some heroic defending saw the boys hold on to notch up a 3:10 to 1:09 win. The full back line of Tiarnan Kennedy, Mark Grant and James Lynch was superb throughout and the half back line with the tenacious Jude Mullan and strong running of Jason McAleer and Eoghan Cusack provided a solid defence with a good attacking option. Odhran Gill was solid again in goals and pulled off two first class saves. Cillian Hughes, David McGurk and Ruairi Begley covered every blade of grass on behalf of the team, intercepting passes and moving the ball quickly into the forward line. The lively half forward line of Eoin McCay and Ciaran Concannon worked hard throughout and the boys who came on in the second half Jack McLaughlin and Morgan Murray showed great potential. Steelstown: Odhran Gill, Tiarnan Kennedy, Mark Grant, Michael Lynch, Jason McAleer, Jude Mullin, Eoghan Cusack, David McGurk (0:01), Ruairi Begley, Cormac Mooney (1:02), Ciaran Concannon, Eoin McCay, Cillian Hughes, Ben McCarron (1:06), James Lynch (1:0), Jack McLaughlin, Morgan Murray (0:01), Christopher O'Donnell, Thomas Martin, Patrick McDaid, James Friel

U14 A League Glen 0-5 Steelstown 7-7

The U14 boys made it four wins from four with an impressive win away to Glen in the U14 A league on a scoreline of 7-7 to 5 points. The boys got off to a great start and kept Glen scoreless in the first half. The second half saw Glen start well but Brian Og’s finished strongly to keep the winning run going. There were superb performances throughout the team but great credit must go to the goalkeeper, full back and half back line who tackled and harried and kept chances to a minimum. The midfield worked tirelessly and once again the forward line was a threat every time they got possession. The great support that travelled was much appreciated by the boys. The next match is this Tuesday at home to . Team: Odhran Gill, Tiarnan Kennedy, Mark Grant, Jude Mullin, Jason McAleer(1:0), Jack McLaughlin, Eoghan Cusack, Ruiari Begley, David McGurk(0:1), Morgan Murray, Ciaran Concannon, Cormac Mooney(2:01), Cillian Hughes, Ben McCarron(1:03), James Lynch(3:0), Christopher O’Donnell, PJ Casey, Patrick McDaid, Caoibhan Doherty, Joseph Kelpie, Blaise Acton, Thomas Martin, Eoin McCay U16s BACK ON TRACK WITH TWO LEAGUE WINS

U16s Steelstown 5-11 Craigbane 4-13

The Steelstown U16 boys recorded their first league victory of the season with a fantastically hard-fought victory against Craigbane. And the tone was set early on when, after both sides traded scores, Luke McCarron sped through to rattle the net. The Brian Óg’s captain took possession on the 45’, teed up his man, sidestepped cleverly and burst straight down the central channel before slicing a cool effort into the bottom right hand corner. And although the Lilywhites fought back and worked their way back into the lead, the hosts were playing some of their best football of the year and always looked a threat going forward. When Steelstown opened the game up, when they kicked early long balls forward, there was very little dealing with them and, with Odhran McKane and Eoghan Bradley in superb form in the full forward line, the pair were winning everything that was kicked in their direction and leaving the white jerseys for dead time and time again. Eoghan Bradley, having the performance of the season, contributed one score throughout a blistering first half but the lively number 13 was directly responsible for three of the Óg’s goals in the first period as he twice laid in the deadly McKane before turning provider for Liam Doherty who buried another well-worked green flag from close range. Heading in with the lead at the break – a rather unconventional lead at 4-2 to 2-7 - it was clear the devastation that the Steelstown attackers were causing in the opposing backline. That scoreline began to take a more traditional look after the restart as the city boys went to work on the other side of the cross bar with four unanswered points, the first two of which carved out brilliantly by Bradley shaking off his marking and curling over from the right. Joe McCartie’s influence in the middle of the park grew bigger and bigger as the St. Columb’s College student fought with a finger injury and continued to make his impact felt both under the kickouts and in spreading balls forward. With Cathal Roarty working like a demon alongside him and spreading early ball to his forward line, the middle two gave the Óg’s a solid platform through which McKane was given ample ball to float some outrageous scores over at the other end. And, even when Craigbane hit a bit of a purple patch and burrowed their way back into the game from seven down after two goals were gifted to them by the men in blue, Conor McGuire continued to control the tempo from the back as the Steelstown man picked up countless loose ball and immediately picked out runners with long, accurate passes that set up the Óg’s each time. Eoghan Bradley and McKane linked up once more when Bradley won possession and sent a disguised pass offloaded to McKane who pulled brilliantly across the ‘keeper to cap off a stunning hat-trick. And his work wasn’t even done there. With the scores tied, with the game hanging in the balance in added time and the dangerous Sean Mortimer on the attack once more for the north Derry side, Dylan Jackson intervened with a crunching tackle that ruthlessly overturned possession on the Óg’s 45’. From that, Jackson launched a cutting counter attack and, when Luke McCarron fed McKane with the final move of the game, the Derry U16 burst by the challenge of the full back to drill over the cross bar and cap a well-earned win for an improving Steelstown bunch. Steelstown: Cormac Durey; Conor McGuire, Jack O’Donnell; Diarmuid Baker, Matthew Martin, Thomas McGurk; Joe McCartie, Cathal Roarty; Luke McCarron (1-1), Liam Doherty (1-1), Liam Clarke; Eoghan Bradley (0-3), Odhran McKane (3-6) Subs used: Dylan Jackson, Cathair O’Doherty, Oisin Burke

U16 Boys Steelstown 8-17 Banagher 2-7

Despite falling behind early on, the Óg’s soon got to grips with their hosts and, with Dylan Jackson keeping a tight lid on the St. Mary’s danger man and Luke McCarron cleverly mopping up any loose ball, the blue jerseys gained control of the game and never let it go. The Odhran McKane and Eoghan Bradley partnership in the full forward line came up trumps again for Steelstown as ball went in long and early and the attacking duo did the damage. Joe McCartie continued to show what an asset he could be in the middle of the park as he competed in the air, ran the legs off the opposition and played direct accurate passes inside. The first goal was carved out when Eoghan Bradley popped Odhran McKane through and he made no mistake when he rattled the top left hand corner. Nine white flags in a row for the city men were followed up by three quick goals which all but put the tie to bed in the first half. Matthew Martin times his run from midfield to perfection before hammering home, Eoghan Bradley got in on the act, and then McKane doubled his goal tally. Just before the break, a powerful run from Cathair O’Doherty saw the centre forward burst through and bury to the bottom right hand corner. And the Óg’s never slowed up afterwards. Matthew Martin struck again after the break before Eoghan Bradley rounded two defenders and coolly slotted home and substitute Bryan Smyth came on to rifle the net as well. All in all, it was a good win for Steelstown and, with Diarmuid Baker starring from wing half back and Conor McGuire continuing to impress in a new defensive role, it was a worthwhile outing and another two valuable points. Steelstown scorers: Eoghan Bradley 2-8 (0-2f), Odhran McKane 2-6 (0-1f), Matthew Martin 2-0, Cathair O’Doherty 1-0, Bryan Smyth 1-0, Liam Clarke 0-1, John Boyle 0-1, Luke McCarron 0-1 STEELSTOWN GIRLS CLINCH SUCCESS WITH DERRY

Steelstown girls Sarah Kelly, Clódagh Laverty and Aoife Collins played an integral role of the Derry U14 team that won section C of the Ulster championship yesterday, beating Fermanagh. The Oak Leafers now progress to the All-Ireland semi finals. Congratulations girls!

DERRY U18 LADIES CLAIM HISTORIC ULSTER CROWN

Six Brian Óg’s girls helped Derry U18 Ladies to their first ever provincial title when they ousted Antrim by a single point in a thrilling Ulster C Final. Derry won the game 6-5 to 4-10 with Steelstown girls Derbhla Wilson, Orla Flanagan, Fionnuala Flanagan, Emma Donnelly, Jasmine Boyle and Rachel Roberts all a part of the squad. PRIMARY SCHOOL BLITZES AT PÁIRC BRÍD

Steelstown was a hive of activity throughout the last month as Games Promotion Office Neil Forester laid on two spectacular feasts of football. 15 teams from local Derry primary schools arrived at Páirc Bríd on two consecutive Thursdays to contest the first ever Steelstown Brian Óg’s Primary Schools Trophy. And, after two separate days of girls and boys tournaments, it was local schools Hollybush and St. Brigid’s who came away with the honours on both occasions, Hollybush taking the cup double for both boys and girls and Carnhill winning the shield twice.

STEELSTOWN CELEBRATE VOLUNTEERS WEEK

Steelstown Brian Óg’s celebrated Volunteers week on the first week of June in typically spirited fashion. On top of the usual daily routines which take place at our club through the committee, through the coaching and the players playing the games, Steelstown once again showed its huge presence in the community this week with a number of projects supporting the community. The club were prevalent at the Walled City Marathon by hosting a water station to support the runners. A number of members also lent a hand with the club clean-up day whilst over 30 volunteers took for B&M Bargains for a bag-packing fundraiser to help the club. There are roles for everyone of every age and ability to join Steelstown. Thanks to Bernie McMonagle for her continued work in raising the profile of volunteers and vouching for support from different bodies. U12s DO THE CLUB PROUD IN GALBALLY

The newly sponsored U12 squad played superbly in Galbally on Saturday in the Martin McCaughey Memorial tournament. With their new jerseys courtesy with the new Expert Financial NI sponsorship on them, the U12s turned heads last weekend. This is a very prestigious tournament with teams invited from throughout Ulster. As is tradition the host club field a second team, and in our first game against Galbally B we warmed to the task with a great start, Shane Hughes finding the net inside 14 seconds. Further goals from Marc Dixon and Callum Deery opened up a 13 point half time lead, and when Noel Smyth and Oisin Duffy added further scores in the second half, we ran out comfortable winners by 5-9 to 0-0. In the second group game against Dungiven, the game ebbed and flowed as Dungiven led by 1-3 to 1-2 at half time. In the second half Oran McMenamin and Ross O’Donnell dominated midfield to ensure a good supply of ball inside. When Marc Dixon scored a brilliant goal to put Steelstown in the driving seat we looked to be on our way, only for Dungiven to steal victory, with a late goal of their own, to win by 2-6 to 2-5. In the final group game, qualification was on the line as we faced up to Brackaville. Two early goals from Shane Hughes, and another by Marc Dixon sent us on our way to lead by 7 points at half time. Top class goalkeeping by Adam Harrigan and resolute defending by Pádraig Nelis, Donncha Gilmore and team captain Michael Moore kept the Tyrone side at bay, while second half goals by Oran McMenamin and Finn O’Donnell saw us win by 13 points on score of 5-6 to 1-5. In the quarter finals we were drawn to play the host club Galbally A. Early scores from the twin scoring threat of Dixon and Hughes opened up a three point lead. Galbally pressed hard but superb defending from Nelis and Gilmore meant the lead was preserved. An inspirational score from Michael Moore and a Callum Deery ‘45’ left us ahead by 0-5 to 0-2 at half time. Oran McMenmain opened the second half in great style with a point from distance. As was to be expected, Galbally pressed hard, but superb defensive work and top class goalkeeping from Adam Harrigan frustrated their best efforts. A spectacular goal from Shane Hughes opened up a comfortable gap and when Marc Dixon added another in the last minute we led by 8. Displaying great bravery in the act of scoring, Marc sustained a broken wrist and, unfortunately, his tournament was over. Galbally scored a late consolation goal, to leave the final score 2-6 to 1-4, in favour of Steelstown. In the semi-final we once again faced our local rivals from Dungiven. A first half goal from Finn O’Donnell kept us in touch, and in the second half of this titanic struggle, two Callum Deery points and a great Oran McMenamin goal gave us the lead, only for Dungiven to force extra time with a late free. In extra time, the game ebbed and flowed in the searing heat, with the sides exchanging points in the first half to ensure parity at half time. At the beginning of the second half Dungiven made the decisive breakthrough, scoring a goal. Steelstown’s young warriors dug deep, and two points from Callum Deery reduced the gap to the minimum, but as they pressed for the equaliser, time ran out, and Dungiven held on to win by 1-8 to 2-4. On a day where they won many admirers and brought immense credit to their club and families the young heroes were – Adam Harrigan, Pádraig Nelis, Donncha Gilmore, Michael Moore (capt), Oran McMenamin, Ross O’Donnell, Shane Hughes, Callum Deery, Marc Dixon, Finn O’Donnell, Noel Smyth and Oisin Duffy.

Alan Walker of Expert Financial NI has continued to be a huge support for Steelstown as the former stalwart player sponsored both the club’s U8s and U12s teams. Thank you, Alan!

U14 Girls get league started with win! Ballerin 3-3 Steelstown 8-6 Steelstown Brian Og’s U14 Ladies got their 2014 North Derry league campaign underway on a sunny Thursday evening away at Shamrock Park against Ballerin Sarfields GAC.

The Steelstown Ladies started slowly with a Nicole Campbell point answered by a point from the home side. A fine goal from distance scored by Captain Clodagh Laverty, should have sparked the usual Steelstown scoring spree, but it didn’t this time and a point followed quickly by two goals, the second from a free by the Ballerin side, put them in front. A goal from Aoife Collins calmed things down a little and was followed by a Clodagh Laverty point. The Ballerin ladies reply of a point was snuffed out by a goal from Clodagh and sub Dearbhla Mooney closed the half with a well taken point leaving the Og’s a narrow two points ahead with a half time score 2-3 to 3-2. A little hair dryer treatment at half-time and the Steelstown side restarted and began to play football as they should have done from the start……Catherine McGuigan started it off with a goal lobbed in from distance. A point from Aoife was followed by goal of the game……..Catherine lobbed another ball into the danger zone and Dearbhla Mooney picked it up in the centre and hooked a perfectly placed shot into the far left corner of the net (the Ballerin goalie had no chance!). Another point by captain Clodagh was followed by a second goal scored by Catherine McGuigan from a free. The goals were flowing freely now and one from Clodagh Laverty was followed by a Maeve Mooney goal, setup by some great play by Niamh Doherty. The Ballerin side did manage one more goal before Clodagh Laverty wrapped the proceedings up with a nice point. Final score: Ballerin Sarfields GAC 3-3; Steelstown Brian Og’s 8-6. A good win to begin the league campaign with some great scoring on display. Niamh Friel stood out again in defense with some excellent reading of the game, supported brilliantly by Aoife O’Reilly, Orla O’Doherty, Niamh Doherty, Orlaith McGough, Niamh Gilmore and Riona Harkin. The attackers Jade Macari, Aoife Collins, Dearbhla Mooney, Nicole Campbell, Evie Doherty and Cliodnha Nelis all worked well together and as always the super-sub U12’s including Connie Roarty, Maeve Mooney and Hannah Lang all played their part in the game. Thanks to all parents who travelled to the game and offered lifts and to Ballerin Sarfields for their excellent and friendly hosting of the match. Steelstown Brian Og’s U14 Ladies: Aoife O’Reilly, Orla O’Doherty, Niamh Doherty, Orlaith McGough, Niamh Friel, Niamh Gilmore, Riona Harkin, Catherine McGuigan, Clodagh Laverty, Jade Macari, Aoife Collins, Dearbhla Mooney, Nicole Campbell, Evie Doherty, Cliodnha Nelis, Connie Roarty, Hannah Lang, Maeve Mooney. COME TO OUR SUMMER CAMPS, JOIN THE CLUB!

Summer Camp Dates at our Club for 2014 are as follows: Cul Camp will be hosted 7th July to 11th July, suits 6-13 year olds costs £37, with reductions for further children. Brian Óg's Camp will be 18th August -22nd August, 6-13 year olds costs £25, with reductions for further children. Charlene's Camp, will be 21st July - 25th July, £10.00 (This is an Irish Camp for P6, P7, Year 8 and Year 9, this fun week will include music, language, sport and more. As this camp will be delivered in Irish all helpers will have to have a minimum of GCSE Irish and above.)

All 3 camps will be Monday - Friday 10.00 - 2.30pm.