Vol. 3 Issue 3 April 2015

IT’S BEEN A BUSY MONTH FOR OUR JUVENILES WITH THE UNDER- 16 TEAM LEADING THE WAY. PLEASE COME OUT TO SUPPORT YOUR YOUNG PLAYERS!

NORTH TIPP UNDER-16 MUNSTER SHIELD WINNERS 2015 INCLUDING NENAGH ÉIRE ÓG’S (CAPT.) CONNOR BONAR, CONNOR MCCARTHY, MARK O’FARRELL AND MENTOR DAVID MINOGUE

NENAGH ÉIRE ÓG UNDER-16 A NORTH FOOTBALL FINALISTS 2015 FOLLOWING WIN OVER BORRISOKANE. THEY FACE INANE ROVERS IN THE FINAL

Vol. 3 Issue 3 April 2015

Vol. 3 Issue 3 April 2015

CLEAN IRELAND RECYCLING COUNTY SENIOR CHAMPIONSHIP

ÉIRE ÓG BEAT BALLINA BY converted the resultant ’65 before TWENTY-SIX POINTS points from Paddy Murphy, Pearse May 4th 2015 Morris and Billy Heffernan (two, one free) completed the scoring from an Clean Ireland Recycling County Éire Óg point of view. If any player Senior Hurling Championship encapsulates the spirit of the Ballina Nenagh Éire Óg 1-30 Ballina 0-7 men it is veteran centre-back Tom Collins and in the first minute of Playing with the wind in the opening injury time Collins notched a fine half Ballina started well and led 0-2 point, his side’s sole score of the to 0-1 after three minutes. Tommy second half. Heffernan had presented Nenagh Please note that the Blues’ final Éire Óg with an early lead, but group game against Clonoulty- Ballina hit back through Kevin Rossmore is scheduled to take place Cosgrove and (free). time left ten between them at the on Sunday, May 10th in The Ragg at The Blues, however, responded with break (1-13 to 0-6). Éire Óg added 6.30pm. Entering the final round of three Donnacha Quinn efforts (two four points to their tally during the games Clonoulty-Rossmore lead the frees) and led 0-4 to 0-2 when opening seven minutes of the group on four points (+21), David Hickey scored a third Ballina second half thanks to Andrew Templederry are second on two point in the eighth minute. Coffey, Billy Heffernan and points (+1), Nenagh Éire Óg are Donnacha Quinn (two frees). The third on two points (+24) and Éire Óg struck for the only goal of Blues looked certain to goal for the Ballina are fourth on zero (-46). the game in the ninth minute when second time in the 38th minute Shane Maher created an opportunity when Tommy Heffernan sent Philip Nenagh Éire Óg: Michael for team captain Paddy Murphy and Hickey through on goal, but Ballina McNamara, Mark Flannery, John the full-forward made no mistake ‘keeper Adrian Power advanced Brennan, Conor Ryan, Dáire Quinn, from close range. Donnacha Quinn expertly to avert the danger. Hugh Maloney (0-1), Barry (two frees) and Paddy Murphy Heffernan, Billy Heffernan (0-3, 0-1 (below) added to the Blues’ tally The Blues proceeded to add seven frees), Andrew Coffey (0-3), before David Hickey (free) managed points to their tally and led 1-24 to Donnacha Quinn (0-14, 0-10 frees, a response for Ballina in the 22nd 0-6 by the 47th minute. Killian 0-1 ‘65), Shane Maher (0-1), minute (1-7 to 0-4). Gleeson, Donnacha Quinn (four, Tommy Heffernan (0-2), Philip three frees), Hugh Maloney and Hickey, Paddy Murphy (1-3), Killian Andrew Coffey were responsible for Gleeson (0-1). Subs: (37th) Pearse these efforts. Morris (0-2) for Shane Maher, (52nd) James Mackey for Philip Ballina were struggling, but played Hickey. with great spirit and almost had a goal to cheer in the 50th minute Ballina: Adrian Power, Dónal Kent, when Steven O’Brien raced through Jerry O’Brien, Rody Kennedy, only for a combination of John Michael Breen (0-1, 0-1 frees), Tom Brennan, Hugh Maloney and Michael Collins (0-1), Brian O’Connor, Terry McNamara to expertly turnover the O’Halloran (0-1), Steven O’Brien, Tommy Heffernan (above, red inter-county football star. Kevin Cosgrove (0-1), Pat Cosgrove, helmet) and Terry O’Halloran then A Pearse Morris point opened a 22- Diarmaid Healy, Ronan Bourke, traded points, but Éire Óg surged point gap between the sides before David Hickey (0-3, 0-2 frees), Brian into a 1-12 to 0-5 lead thanks to Andrew Coffey’s rasping effort found McKeogh. Subs: (46th) Eoin Kent points from Paddy Murphy, the Ballina crossbar. Donnacha for Ronan Bourke, (49th) Brian Donnacha Quinn (free), Shane Quinn was on hand to gather the Connolly for Diarmaid Healy. Maher and Andrew Coffey. rebound, but Adrian Power pulled Converted frees in first half injury off a terrific reaction save to deny Referee: Johnny McDonnell Éire Óg once more. Donnacha Quinn (Roscrea). Vol. 3 Issue 3 April 2015

CIAN TUCKER’S JUNIOR BS equal to the task and made a REGISTER FIRST WIN OF match-winning save. THE YEAR IN TOOMEVARA Toomevara did add a late point May 3rd, 2015 with the final puck of the game, but Nenagh held out to win by Cian Tucker’s junior B squad the slenderest of margins. recorded their first win of the year following an entertaining The lads deserve great credit clash with Toomevara at St for this win. Minutes before the Michael’s Park, Toomevara. And, game Kieran Duffy had to cry it was no more than the Blues off due to illness and taking to deserved following some the field with a panel of sixteen tremendous performances in (the substitute was sub their previous league clashes when At the break Niall Madden replaced goalkeeper Brian Darcy) the Blues a series of brave efforts came up the impressive Paul Lillis, who it worked extremely hard throughout. just short. later transpired, had broken a bone Niall Madden had to summoned in his foot which will unfortunately from the stand to replace Lillis at Watch Centre North Tipperary see him out of action for a number half-time. Not only that, but the Junior B Hurling League of weeks. Tomlinson opened the discipline of the side was Nenagh Éire Óg 0-12 Toomevara second half scoring after collecting a noteworthy. In the team’s previous 0-11 rebound following a fine Tony game the Blues conceded twenty- Delaney save and splitting the one frees, but after the Nenagh started with serious intent posts. Niall Madden pointed a ’65 in management drilled it into the when Thomas O’Brien raced through the 34th minute before Toomevara players this free count improved the heart of the Toomevara defence scored three points on the trot, the dramatically and referee Ciarán to set up Michael Hallinan for a third of which was the result of a Timmons was forced to blow his great goal chance, but Toomevara superb save from Dáire Gleeson whistle only eleven times in the veteran Tony Delaney, playing in which deflected over the bar. entire match to award free pucks to the unusual position of goalkeeper, the home side. was equal to the effort. This seemed Brian Tuite scored his second point to inspire the home side who scored of the game and shortly after This year’s Watch Centre North their opening point straight away, Gleeson made another stunning Tipperary Junior B Hurling League but this was cancelled by a fine stop, a full-length save which will be played on a two-group Brian Tuite effort. eventually Toomevara converted system with the top two teams in into a point. If Gleeson was making each progressing to the semi-finals. Paul Lillis, with a seventy-yard saves at one end, Tony Delaney was Nenagh Éire Óg have just one group effort, cancelled out a second proving equally as brilliant at the game to play against Shannon Toomevara point before he other and in the 55th minute he Rovers. The Nenagh Éire Óg team unorthodoxly scooped the ball over stopped a Gavin O’Connor bullet. In are managed this year by Cian the bar following a long-range the 59th minute Gleeson was again Tucker (manager), Mark Long, Thomas O’Brien free. Lillis followed called into action with a great stop Paddy Flynn and John Paul King. this up with two pointed frees and with the game in the balance up before the home side went on a stepped Gavin O’Connor to give Éire Nenagh Éire Óg: Dáire Gleeson, three-point scoring spree. Noelie Óg a slender one-point advantage. John Kelly, Lenny Ryan, Brian Duffy, Tomlinson, playing his first game for Jack Sheedy, Jamie Gallagher, the club since his transfer home Niall Madden doubled the lead with Gavin O’Connor (0-1), Brian Tuite from Knock, set up Niall McKeogh a ’65 and it looked as if victory was (0-2), Thomas O’Brien, Paul and Liam Maher for two excellent Nenagh’s. However, Toomevara O’Leary, Paul Lillis (0-4), Noelie points. Toomevara added a late poured forward in search of a Tomlinson (0-1), Niall McKeogh (0- score of their own to leave the half- winning goal and they almost got it 1), Michael Hallinan, Liam Maher (0- time score reading Nenagh Éire Óg when a Toome forward broke 1). Subs: Niall Madden (0-2) for 0-7 Toomevara 0-6. through the Éire Óg defence and hit Lillis. the sliothar towards the roof of the Referee: Ciarán Timmons net, but once again Gleeson was (Silvermines). Vol. 3 Issue 3 April 2015

2015 COUNTY SENIOR HURLING CHAMPIONSHIP

The Blues lost their opening game in game (0-10 to 1-7) the 2015 county senior hurling by the 22nd minute. championship to a terrific Éire Óg then raced Templederry Kenyons team at St into a two-point lead Michael’s Park in Toomevara on thanks to two Sunday evening, April 12th consecutive points from the stick of the Clean Ireland Recycling County influential Tommy Senior Hurling Championship Heffernan (0-12 to Nenagh Éire Óg 0-20 1-7). Templederry Kenyons 1-19 The Templederry Both sides started nervously, but it men illustrated their was Templederry who set the pace resolve during the early on with two efforts helping the closing minutes of -coached side into a 0- the opening half 2 to no-score lead by the fourth when hitting three minute. Tommy Heffernan got Éire unanswered points Óg off the mark in the fifth, but the in highly impressive Kenyons hit back with a free almost fashion. The immediately. Kenyons led 1-10 to 0-12 at the break. A Shane Maher point reduced the deficit once more, but Templederry A Donnacha Quinn then out-scored Éire Óg by three free in the 32nd points to two and led 0-6 to 0-4 in minute tied the the 14th minute. Tommy Heffernan game before and Donnacha Quinn (’65) were Templederry edged responsible for the Blues’ scores back into a two- while Shane Maher was cursing his point advantage (0- luck in the 12th minute when 13 to 1-12). The Kenyons ‘keeper Mathew Ryan Blues responded saved well from the full-forward. with points from Templederry struck for the only goal Donnacha Quinn of the game in the 14th minute. The (free), Andrew Kenyons then added a point in the Coffey and Pearse 15th and Éire Óg found themselves Morris and led 0-16 six points adrift (0-4 to 1-7). to 1-12 by the 41st minute. The Blues responded to the challenge in rousing fashion. A Templederry point Indeed, between the 16th and 24th in the 44th minute minutes Éire Óg hit eight points tied the game once without reply. Andrew Coffey more before a sparked this surge with a point superb hook on before Donnacha Quinn added to Tommy Heffernan denied Éire Óg a effort before a Donnacha Quinn the Nenagh tally. A Tommy certain goal in the 46th minute. An point in the 49th minute helped the Heffernan point in the 18th minute Andrew Coffey point was then Blues into a 0-18 to 1-14 left a goal in it before points from cancelled out by a Templederry advantage. Paddy Murphy, Donnacha Quinn (free) and Andrew Coffey tied the Vol. 3 Issue 3 April 2015

Templederry then illustrated their credentials as real contenders for county championship honours when firing four terrific points to take a 1-18 to 0-18 lead by the 55th minute. A brace of Donnacha Quinn frees cut the Templederry lead to one, but a 19th Templederry point in the first minute of injury time left two between them.

There was still time for Éire Óg to recover the situation and the lads tried hard to do so. In the 62nd minute Tommy Heffernan batted Andrew Coffey’s cross goalwards, but Templederry ‘keeper Mathew Ryan saved once more. Nenagh Éire Óg: Michael Then, in the 63rd minute, Andrew McNamara, Mark Coffey was fouled for a penalty. Flannery, John Unfortunately Tommy Heffernan Brennan, Dáire steered the placed ball wide and Quinn, Billy Templederry survived to register a Heffernan, Hugh famous win. Maloney, , Andrew In the corresponding Roinn I group Coffey (0-4), Kevin one game Clonoulty-Rossmore beat Tucker, Pearse Ballina 4-20 to 1-9 on Sunday Morris (0-1), evening. Paddy Murphy (0- 1), Tommy Nenagh Éire Óg’s next match in the Heffernan (0-5), county senior hurling championship Killian Gleeson, is against Ballina. That game is Shane Maher (0- scheduled to take place on the 1), Donnacha week-ending Sunday, April 26th in Quinn (0-8, 0-5 Newport at 2pm. The Blues’ final frees, 0-1 ’65). group game will be against Subs: (42nd) Clonoulty-Rossmore on the week- Philip Hickey for ending Sunday, May 3rd or Sunday, Killian Gleeson, May 10th depending on Tipperary’s (44th) progress in the knock-out stages of for Shane Maher, the Allianz National League – the (53rd) Conor Ryan league final is scheduled to take for . place on Sunday, May 3rd. Please keep an eye on the club website and Referee: Philip associated social media channels for Kelly updates. (Ballinahinch).

Vol. 3 Issue 3 April 2015

JUNIOR A HURLING – ROSCREA V NENAGH ÉIRE ÓG APRIL 18TH 2015

players gave an exhibition with Hackett converting five to Ryan’s six.

Éire Óg worked very hard in the second half and by the 24th minute a superb seventy- yard effort from Gavin O’Connor levelled the teams for the first time in the second half and it looked as if we were in for a grandstand finish until Jim

McDonnell used all his experience to collect a high ball and despite

intense pressure from full-back ÉIRE ÓG JUNIOR AS LEAVE the hurley’s of David Cleary and two Michael Collins he managed to shoot ROSCREA EMPTY-HANDED John Cahalan efforts. It was looking past the advancing Kevin Flynn for good for Nenagh up to this stage, the decisive score. Nenagh Éire Óg travelled to Roscrea however, the home side took control to take on the hosts in our opening of the match for the remainder of Nenagh, to their credit, battled right game of the north Tipperary junior the half with nine points of their to the end to get a three-pointer of A league and despite a battling own – their scoring spree only their own, but the Roscrea backs performance left empty-handed as interrupted by a point from the soaked up all the pressure and the hosts emerged victorious thanks impressive John Cahalan after he earned a deserved victory. to Jim McDonnell’s late goal. intercepted a short puck-out to leave proceedings 0-11 to 0-5 at Nenagh Éire Óg: Kevin Flynn, the break. North Tipperary Brian Flynn, Michael Collins, Junior A Hurling League Leonard Ryan, Seán Geaney, Adam Nenagh Éire Óg 0-19 Roscrea 1- Nenagh started the second half Gratton, Darragh Walsh, Niall 19 brightly with three well-taken frees Madden, Alan Kelly, David Cleary, from David Hackett and another John Cahalan, Kieran Duffy, The Blues started brightly with a effort from John Cahalan inside the Christopher Ryan, Brendan O’Brien, David Hackett pointed free following first ten minutes with Roscrea’s only David Hackett. Subs: Gavin a foul on Christopher Ryan in the reply an excellent free from Mark O’Connor for Madden, John second minute. However playing Ryan. O’Donoghue for Cleary. with a strong wind Roscrea led 0-6 to 0-4 by the mid-way point with In fact the second half almost Referee: John Cleary Nenagh’s other scores coming from became a free-taking contest (Knockshegowna). between Hackett and Ryan as both Vol. 3 Issue 3 April 2015

JUNIOR B TEAM SUFFER closed the gap and AGONISING ONE-POINT DEFEAT with just four TO NEWPORT between them (0-8 April 19, 2015 to 1-9) at the break there was every Cian Tucker’s junior B hurlers chance of an Éire suffered an agonising one-point Óg reprieve. league defeat to Newport at MacDonagh Park on Sunday evening Two minutes into April 19th. The Blues recovered a the second half a four-point interval deficit only to be Paul Lillis free cut denied by a late Newport surge. the gap to three and although Éire Óg ‘keeper Brian Darcy made a Newport hit back almost superb save at his near post in the Watch Centre North Tipperary immediately Anthony Walsh cracked 56th minute, but there was no Junior B Hurling League over a smashing point in the 33rd denying Newport two late points Nenagh Éire Óg 2-16 Newport 2- minute to close the gap once more. which helped the visitors into a 2-17 17 to 1-16 lead. In the third minute of A Paul Lillis free reduced the margin second half injury time Paul Lillis Following defeats suffered at the before Thomas O’Brien won Brian fired home a great goal, but the hands of Portroe and Moneygall the Darcy’s puck-out in the 36th minute final whistle blew shortly thereafter. Blues started in determined mood and raced through the heart of the with Darragh Walsh and then Jamie Newport defence before firing home The Watch Centre North Tipperary Gallagher setting up David Cleary to off his left to present the Blues with Junior B Hurling League will be score two early points. Éire Óg led a 1-11 to 1-10 lead. played on a two-group system this 0-2 to no-score before Newport got year with the top two teams in each off the mark in the sixth minute. Newport responded with a progressing to the semi-finals. converted free, but Éire Óg were Nenagh Éire Óg have remaining In the ninth minute the Newport utterly dominant at this stage. A group games against Toomevara ‘keeper made a stunning save to Paul Lillis free preceded a converted and Shannon Rovers. The Nenagh deny Thomas O’Brien a goal before sideline from the stick of Darragh Éire Óg team are managed this year a Gavin O’Connor point helped Éire Walsh. Paul Lillis added a point from by Cian Tucker (manager), Mark Óg into a 0-3 to 0-1 lead. Newport play and then in the 41st minute Long, Paddy Flynn and John Paul then converted three consecutive Brian Duffy won a terrific turnover King. frees and led 0-4 to 0-3 by the 13th in defence, the ball was worked into minute. the hand of Darragh Walsh and Nenagh Éire Óg: Brian Darcy, John Walsh landed a monster of a point Kelly, Lenny Ryan, Brian Duffy, Alex Kieran Duffy drilled a long-range to hand Éire Óg a 1-15 to 1-11 lead. Jones, Kieran Duffy (0-1, 0-1 frees), free into the wind in the 16th Aodhán Geaney, Jamie Gallagher, minute to tie the game following a Newport re-structured their side, Anthony Walsh (0-1), Gavin foul on Jamie Gallagher. A minute installed a sweeper in defence and O’Connor (0-2), Thomas O’Brien (1- later Paul Lillis pulled on a Duffy to their credit worked their way 0), Darragh Walsh (0-3, 0-1 delivery and the Blues led 0-5 to 0- back into this contest. Two Newport sideline), Michael Hallinan, David 4. Newport hit back with a brace of frees cut the deficit to two and then, Cleary (0-4), Paul Lillis (captain, 1- points from play before a right- in the 51st minute, the visitors 5, 0-3 frees). Subs: (39th) Jack handed Gavin O’Connor point in the struck for a vital goal. A minute Sheedy for Michael Hallinan, (53rd) 24th minute tied the game at 0-6 later Newport added a point and Brian Tuite for Anthony Walsh, apiece. Éire Óg trailed by two (1-15 to 2- (58th) Adam Healy for Alex Jones. 14). Newport then raced clear of their Referee: Mike Murphy hosts when hitting 1-3 without reply A David Cleary point in the 54th (Toomevara). in a devastating four-minute spell minute gave the Blues some hope, and led 1-9 to 0-6 with half-time fast approaching. Late points from but Newport hit back with a David Cleary and Darragh Walsh converted free. Vol. 3 Issue 3 April 2015

HCP - THE DERMOT EARLEY LEADERSHIP PROGRAMME

Over the course of April two of our members, Louise Hickey and Enda O’ Sullivan, travelled to The National University of Ireland, Galway to complete a Diploma in Training and Education as part of the Dermot Earley Youth Leadership Initiative.

In conjunction with the Healthy Club Project, members of our club between the ages of sixteen and eighteen will be invited to do the Dermot Earley Youth Leadership Initiative between September and April whereby they will complete three modules focused on developing their leadership skills.

It is hoped to bring these participants to Croke Park on the day of the Ireland V Australia compromise rules fixture in November when they will THIS UNIQUE PROGRAMME be presented with their module one evokes and honours the values certificates. Dermot Earley epitomised and tries Those who complete all three to foster them in a new generation modules will be eligible to graduate of young Irish leaders. During the from NUIG with a Foundation programme, the content of which Certificate in Youth Leadership and was designed by Foróige’s best Community Action. practice unit in partnership with NUIG’s Pat Dolan (UNESCO Chair Brought together by the National for Children, Youth and Civic University of Ireland, Galway, Engagement), the participants, Foróige, and the GAA, the Dermot aged between 15- and 18-years- Earley Youth Leadership Initiative old, explore all elements of aims to inspire a new generation of leadership before putting their skills young Irish leaders by engaging to work in their own clubs and them with the values and ideals communities. Dermot epitomised on and off the field of play. This programme Speaking at the launch in 2013, enhances the vision, passion and Uachtarán CLG, Mr Liam O’Neill, idealism of young people by teaching said, “Few better demonstrated the them key leadership skills and broad and varied skills and challenging them to use these skills attributes associated with true for their own and society’s benefit. leadership than the late, great,

Dermot Earley (left). On and off the Further information on this course field the field Dermot led by and how to apply will be made example and inspired all those available in due course. Anyone around him. The GAA is honoured to interested in doing the course are contribute to this great legacy invited to make contact with Louise through this initiative.” or Enda for further information.

Vol. 3 Issue 3 April 2015

FROM HEARTBREAK TO HOPE – AN EVENING WITH CHRISTY KENNEALLY Christy Kenneally, the veteran broadcaster and author of numerous publications, including the bestselling book, Living with Loss brought great hope and insight to a large gathering in the Scout’s Hall recently as part of the club’s Healthy Club Project. His simple message that “too often, we can sink into despondency and despair. It is possible to move from heartbreak to hope. All of us can develop the muscle of resilience to cope with and transform change” was inspirational. Young and old took heart from his stories. Many thanks to Christy for taking the time out of his busy schedule to come to Nenagh.

PICTURED RECENTLY AT – AN EVENING WITH CHRISTY KENNEALLY

Top left: Michael Geaney (HCP Chairman) Sr. Claire Slattery. Jim Nagle, Nenagh Éire Óg Chairman, Stacy Cannon, Croke Park Healthy Club Project Co-ordinator. Christy Kenneally, Ger McCarthy, Scout’s Hall committee and Proctor & Gamble and Phil Hennessey, Nenagh Éire Óg and Proctor & Gamble.

Top right: Christy receiving some words of wisdom from Joan Geaney.

Left: Christy brought great comfort and enlightenment to his audience through his unique, humorous story-telling.

Vol. 3 Issue 3 April 2015

BLAST FROM THE PAST- WHEN PHIL HENNESSEY LED THE 'MINES TO VICTORY OVER NENAGH!

Singles, Back L to R Paul Kennedy, Johnny Ryan, Chris Bonar, Michael Grace, Noel Coffey, Michael Kennedy, Jim Nagle, Ronan Burns Front L to R Paudie Gleeson, Michael Morrissey, Philip Mulqueen, Phil Hennessy, Gearoid Cleary, James O Meara, Married, Back L to R Christy Delaney, Jimmy Rochford, Michael ‘Charlie’ Hynes, Donie O Brien, PJ Maxwell, Neilly Corbett, Liam Heffernan, Matt Ryan, John Darcy, Rody Cawley Front L to R Jim O Sullivan, Sean Minogue, Liam Flannery, Martin Morris, Con Morris, Brendan O Meara, Seamie Morris …… Michael McGrath in the middle.

On St Patrick's Day 1990 Éire Óg many chances for his colleagues". from Silvermines. Here is the report held a married verses singles Due to the heat inside the on the married verses singles game hurling game on the outside field in magnificent stadium it was decided that appeared in the club notes in MacDonagh Park. This was a great to play the fixture over four the Guardian on March 24, 1990. tradition held in many clubs up and quarters and played down the country usually on days the first two quarters before being "The annual married v singles game replaced by Conor O Donovan. took place on St. Patricks Day in like St Stephens Day, New Year’s It was the first time an official McDonagh Park. There was a fine Day or in our own case St Patrick's hurling match was played on an turnout for the game. The married Day. As people tend to get married artificial surface under lights. Many team were assisted by a number of older nowadays this tradition has of the players painted two black players of dubious status who flew more or less died out. stripes under their eyes on the in especially for the game. The premise of protecting them from the game itself was a tight affair with

glare but it reality it was more of a the married men ahead at half time Notable absentees from the game skit than anything else. Here is by 7 pts to 6. Both teams were Conor O Donovan, John some footage from the exchanged the lead in an exciting Heffernan and Michael Cleary who game. https://www.youtube.com/w second half before a late burst by were otherwise occupied atch?v=bJ2AtMW835w the singles gave them victory by 13 representing Tipperary in an Phil Hennessy captained the singles pts to 11 pts. exhibition match against the 1989 to victory interestingly enough All Stars. The game was held in the A special word of thanks to former wearing a set of jerseys borrowed Skydome, Toronto and Michael club player Martin Moloney now Cleary was in superb form on the manager of the First National artificial surface in Canada in front Building Society in Nenagh who of an attendance of 29,525 and kindly sponsored the splendid Donal Keenan, in the Irish trophies for the game and also to Independent, was moved to report Martin Darcy who kindly refereed "Michael Cleary did for Tipperary the game. A minute's silence was what none of the All Star forwards observed before the game as a seemed capable of doing. He was in mark of respect to the late Jack lively form and scored six points in Nolan who passed away last week- that first half, as well as creating end." Vol. 3 Issue 3 April 2015

DATES FOR THE DIARY!

Vol. 3 Issue 3 April 2015

OUT AND ABOUT WITH ÉIRE ÓG

Well done to our under-12 hurlers who are helping out North Tipp Development manager John O’Keeffe with North Tipp Coaching sessions at Nenagh College.

All of us in the club wish to extend a special happy 21st birthday greeting to our junior A camogie captain Ciara McGrath. Ciara celebrated the event in Buddy's Bar along with former player Claire Collins.

Indeed Ciara showed what a true captain she was when lining out at midfield against Lorrha Dorrha the following day in a crucial league match. Happy birthday Ciara and Claire from everyone in the club

OUR MINOR CAMÓGIE STARS The Tipperary Minor team met recently and received their new tops. Present were our minor camógie stars Maeve Coffey, Grace O’Brien, Sarah Quigley and Rachel Maher.

CONGRATULATIONS!

Well done to Tommy Heffernan who collected his Irish Independent Rising Stars hurling award in Croke Park on Tuesday, April 28th. From left: (UL & Moyne-Templetuohy), Brian Stapleton (UL & Templederry Kenyons), Brian Troy (UL & Kilkenny), Cian Buckley (Cork IT & Cork) and Tommy Heffernan.

Vol. 3 Issue 3 April 2015

OUT AND ABOUT WITH ÉIRE ÓG

GRASS FIGHT AT THE MINOR MATCH! Geraldine Armitage, Margaret O’ Sullivan, Helen O’ Everyone has a favourite field from their childhood at Sullivan and Úna Flynn in The Scout’s Hall at the recent matches, the one that had the best hill/trees/walls! Nenagh Éire Óg Healthy Club Project night with Christy Bring the juveniles out to matches. They will find their Kenneally friends to play with and occasionally ask the score! TIPPERARY SUPPORTERS CLUB DRAW 2015/16 HAS BEEN LAUNCHED. SUPPORT YOUR COUNTY, SUPPORT YOUR CLUB AND YOU COULD WIN!!

CONGRATULATIONS TO NENAGH ÉIRE ÓG’S DENIS PARKER (Rathmartin, Nenagh) who won the €20,000 jackpot in the Tipperary GAA Members Draw. On Wednesday last Mr Parker was presented with his cheque at the MacDonagh Park complex by Ger Gavin (representing the Tipperary County Board). The presentation ceremony was hosted by club chairman Jim Nagle who welcomed the Parker family to the club.

For the past twenty-seven years the Tipperary GAA Draw has served the clubs and the people of Tipperary well. A unique Nenagh Éire Óg branded brochure will become available in the coming weeks to promote the up-coming draw. The Tipperary GAA Draw features an extraordinary €500,000 prize fund. And, don’t forget that your club, Nenagh Éire Óg, benefits significantly from your contribution to the Tipperary GAA Draw. Indeed, the draw committee has introduced major increases in commission for the coming year. Should you wish to join the draw or renew your subscription to the Tipperary GAA Draw please contact any club officer or email [email protected] . Vol. 3 Issue 3 April 2015

CAMÓGIE NEWS ÉIRE ÓG SEE OFF CASHEL IN JUNIOR A LEAGUE SEMI- FINAL AT THE RAGG May 3rd, 2015

The junior A Camogie team crossed another milestone today by qualifying for the club’s first- ever junior A league final in only the second year competing at this grade after a well-deserved four- point win over Cashel Camogie Club.

County Junior A Camogie League Semi-Final Nenagh Éire Óg 1-8 Cashel Camogie Club 1-4

Nenagh started brightly with Holly O’Brien setting up her sister Grace with an almost telepathic pass for score reading Nenagh Éire Óg 0-5 danger. This wasn’t to be the only the opening point of the game in the Cashel Camogie Club 0-2. time Quigley would thwart Hayden’s second minute. Holly once again efforts. with a great ball found Alicia The half-time words of Hallinan who bore through on goal, encouragement from joint- At the midway stage Emer Ryan but her stinging effort was well managers Kieran O’Brien and Noel replaced the injured Saoirse saved by the Cashel netminder. Coffey had the desired effect almost Gleeson and shortly after Maeve straight from the throw-in. Louise Coffey, who was carrying a knock In the fifth minute captain Ciara Hickey raced straight through on into the game, replaced Sarah McGrath pointed after yet another goal before finding Sarah O’Connor O’Connor. Moments later Cashel had superb pass from Holly. with a great pass and the full- a goal of their own when Clodagh forward left the Cashel goalkeeper O’Gorman blasted past the helpless Cashel opened their account with a with no chance to give Nenagh a Quigley to give the west side hope. point in the tenth minute before six-point advantage. Alicia Hallinan found Holly O’Brien Two minutes later though Alicia with a pass who, in turn, played in Three minutes later Grace O’Brien Hallinan pointed after great Grace O’Brien. Grace was fouled on extended the lead with a pointed interplay between Louise Hickey and the 21-yard line before popping free. Shortly after Emily Hayden, Holly O’Brien. In the 53rd minute over the resultant free to extend the who had been having a fascinating Cashel won another 21-yard free Blues’ lead. tussle with Rachel Maher, used all and once again Quigley brilliantly her experience to catch a high ball stopped Emily Hayden’s shot. The hardworking Sarah O’Connor at over the full-back’s head and full-forward set up Grace for headed straight for goal. She was After two great saves from Quigley, another point which was responded pulled to the ground and referee Hayden elected to point a ‘21 in the to in kind by former All-Ireland Kieran Slattery had no option, but 57th minute and not take chances winning captain Emily Hayden. In to extend his arms and award a trying to beat the Nenagh the 27th minute Rachel Spillane was penalty. Hayden took it and her netminder. fouled with Grace scoring the superb effort was brilliantly saved resultant free to leave the half-time by Sarah Quigley and Alanna Morris Leah Sheedy replaced Holly O’Brien

was fastest to react and clear the and made an immediate impact Vol. 3 Issue 3 April 2015

CAMÓGIE NEWS

scoring a fine point after a great Nenagh Éire Óg: Sarah Quigley, Referee: Kieran Slattery pass from Hazel McAuliffe who just Saoirse Gleeson, Rachel Maher, (Knockavilla Kickhams). about shaded the player of the Kara Ryan-Mulqueen, Aileen match accolade from centre-back, Duggan, Hazel McAuliffe, Alanna regularly intercepting the play and Morris, Michelle Collins, Ciara breaking up Cashel attacks. McGrath (captain), Alicia Hallinan, Grace O’Brien, Rachel Spillane, Emily Hayden scored a great point Holly O’Brien, Sarah O’Connor, in the 60th minute to finish the Louise Hickey. Subs: Emer Ryan for scoring to leave it at Nenagh Éire Gleeson, Maeve Coffey for Óg 1-8 Cashel Camogie Club 1-4. O’Connor, Leah Sheedy for O’Brien.

UNDER-12 CAMÓGIE TEAM TRAVEL TO SEMPLE! Our under-12 camógie team played a blitz in Semple Stadium on Saturday 25th April and defeated Bodyke (Clare), St Catherine's (Cork) and St Anne's (Waterford). They had a great day out. Thanks to all the organisers and mentors for their superb work.

Vol. 3 Issue 3 April 2015

ÉIRE ÓG JUNIOR A CAMÓGIE Seven minutes later Éire Óg struck another stunning save before a TEAM SURGE TO THIRTEEN- for their second goal when the Grace O’Brien ’50 in the 41st minute POINT WIN impressive Hazel Coffey picked out extended the Blues’ lead. Seconds April 05, 2015 Louise Hickey and the centre- later Rachel Spillane set up Grace forward fired home from close O’Brien for a right-handed point and A terrific display saw the Éire Óg range. In the 18th minute the the home side led 2-4 to 0-2. junior A Camogie team register a Burgess ‘keeper saved from Hickey thirteen-point win over Burgess at before a Burgess point in the 22nd Éire Óg’s third goal materialised in MacDonagh Park, Nenagh. This doubled their tally. Alanna Morris the 44th minute when Grace display featured some great scores, notched the score of the game in O’Brien’s long-range free found the excellent approach play and a the 27th minute when landing a Burgess net. Five minutes later the terrific work rate. terrific point off her left following Burgess goalkeeper denied Grace O’Brien with another stunning save.

Burgess hit back with a 1-1 blast in the 51st minute to cut the gap significantly (3-4 to 1-3), but Éire Óg were far from finished. In the 52nd minute Alicia Hallinan set up Grace O’Brien for the home side’s third goal and three minutes later O’Brien struck once more, this time Michelle Collins provided the assist. Aislinn O’Brien enjoyed the final say in the matter in the 59th when the substitute scored a fine point.

Nenagh Éire Óg: Sarah Quigley, Kara Ryan-Mulqueen, Rachel Maher, Saoirse Gleeson, Aileen Duggan, good work from team captain Ciara Sarah Quigley pictured making a Zoe Gratton, Alanna Morris (0-1), McGrath. stunning save at MacDonagh Park. Michelle Collins, Ciara McGrath (captain), Julie Moylan, Louise County Junior A Camogie League Éire Óg ‘keeper Sarah Quigley made Hickey (1-0), Alicia Hallinan, Hazel Nenagh Éire Óg 4-7 Burgess 1-3 a terrific save to deny Burgess a Coffey, Sarah O’Connor, Holly certain goal in the 29th minute and O’Brien (1-1, 1-1 frees). Subs: The Éire Óg junior A Camogie team the home side led 2-2 to 0-2 at the (16th) Aislinn O’Brien (0-1) for Holly were eager to build on their recent break. O’Brien, (37th) Rachel Spillane for win over Portroe and despite falling Julie Moylan, (37th) Grace O’Brien behind due to a converted Burgess Nine minutes into the second half (2-4, 1-1 frees) for Sarah O’Connor, free in the first minute the hosts Sarah Quigley was asked to conjure (44th) Emer Dight for Hazel Coffey, raced into a 2-1 to 0-1 (56th) Sarah O’Connor for Louise lead by the 17th minute. Hickey.

A Holly O’Brien free in the Referee: Martin Griffin third minute got Éire Óg (Silvermines). off the mark and although Julie Moylan saw her shot saved in the ninth seconds later Holly O’Brien’s ’50 Nenagh Éire Óg centre-back Zoe beat the Burgess ‘keeper Gratton pictured in action against and handed the Blues a 1- Burgess. 1 to 0-1 lead. Vol. 3 Issue 3 April 2015

COUNTY JUNIOR A CAMÓGIE game Lorrha responded in kind with charges gave. Their teams battled LEAGUE LORRHA DORRHA 3-9 a great goal and two points of their right to the end and can look NENAGH ÉIRE ÓG 4-8 own. Ciara McGrath pointed a free forward to the remainder of the just before Alicia Hallinan bagged league with lots of confidence. It

her second goal of the game, a should be pointed out that Ciara great low shot after playing a one- McGrath (below left) more than Nenagh Eire óg travelled to Lorrha two with Aislinn O Brien. Lorrha played a captains role as the to take on the hosts in the third round of the junior A league and it pointed themselves to leave the previous night she celebrated her score at the interval Lorrha Dorrha twenty-first birthday and spared no took a superb injury time save from stand in goalkeeper Holly O Brien to 2-03 Nenagh Eire óg 2-06. energy covering a lot of ground in ensure that we emerged from this Lorrha started the second half this game. Well done Ciara. brightly with a point inside three highly entertaining encounter with a slender two point victory. minutes before Hazel Coffey was picked out Both sides entered the game full of with a fantastic pass from confidence having won their respective two opening round Aislinn O Brien. Coffey ran twenty yards before matches however Nenagh were unleashing a rocket which down four players, Rachel Maher, Grace O Brien, Sarah Quigley and gave the goalkeeper no chance. Nenagh found Maeve Coffey due to inter-county commitments. the net again a minute This was a hugely entertaining later after an Aileen Duggan long range free match incorporating all that is great about camogie with tremendous deceived all and landed in the goal. grit, determination and no end of Lorrha to their absolute skill on display from two hugely credit did not drop the committed teams. heads and scored 1-3 of their own The game started in a whirlwind with only an Aileen Duggan pointed with Nenagh’s captain, Ciara Nenagh Éire Óg free breaking their momentum. McGrath, landing a fine point from 1. Holly O Brien Entering the closing minutes there forty yards. Lorrha responded with 2. Hazel McAuliffe was only two points separating the a superb goal of their own which left 3. Emer Ryan Holly O Brien, standing in for the sides when Michelle Collins got the point of the game. Referee Joe 4. Kara Ryan Mulqueen absent Sarah Quigley, with no 5. Aileen Duggan chance. Nenagh remained focused Cahill threw in the ball and after a scramble Collins emerged with the 6. Zoey Gratton and centre forward Aislinn O Brien ball and under severe pressure from 7. Alanna Morris opened her account after some fine interplay with Ciara McGrath. the backs shot over her shoulder 8. Ciara McGrath from a difficult angle to leave a goal McGrath herself, levelled 9. Michelle Collins between the teams. proceedings with a point of her own 10. Hazel Coffey in the seventh minute. Lorrha piled on the pressure in the 11. Aislinn O Brien final moments and scored a point. Things started to settle down and 12. Rachel Spillane Our backs were under unbelievable wasn’t until the sixteenth minute 13. Alician Hallinan pressure and deep in injury time it when the next score came, a point 14. Sarah O Connor appeared as if Lorrha were going to from full forward Sarah O Connor 15. Louise Hickey after a fine pass from Aileen snatch a late winner when a shot Duggan. Seconds later Alicia from the fourteen yard line was heading into the lower corner of the Hallinan sent a bullet to the roof of Subs: Ruth Hassett for Hickey, the Lorrha goal. It was all Eire óg at Eire óg net but Holly O Brien was Eimear Dight for O Connor equal to it for a fine save the once this stage and Louise Hickey forced Referee Joe Cahill (Kilruane upon a time her father Kieran would a superb save before Hazel Coffey MacDonaghs) coolly pointed the rebound. have been very proud of. Both sets of management will be Just as it looked as if Nenagh were delighted with the performance their going to take full control of this Vol. 3 Issue 3 April 2015

NATIONAL CAMOGIE REFEREE Players may not or a subsequent foul committed within COMMITTEE wear Jewellery of the 5 seconds if more advantageous. PLAYING RULES CHANGES any kind while The Referee shall apply the appropriate CHAMPIONSHIP 2015 playing. sanction for the Foul. INTRODUCTION Failure to comply is (Previously, having allowed an Congress 2015 ratified a number of to be treated as advantage a free could not be awarded New , and amendments to the dissent. for the original foul, the Referee can Camogie Playing Rules. While some (The Playing gear Rules must be now allow play continue for 5 seconds changes consist of Terminology applied, Jewellery applies particularly to and if no advantage accrues a free may changes, others will alter how the game Hand s, or any other items the Referee be awarded from the spot where the is Refereed .It is important to note that considers may cause injury. Notify Team foul occurred OR if the Player is fouled a there is no substantial change as to how management of your concerns) second time within the 5 seconds in a the Game is played, the main changes Rule 8.2 (new) Camogie games may be more advantageous position, the are listed below and come into effect on played on a full size synthetic pitch Referee may award a free/penalty for Tuesday 28th April 2015 at all levels. where available. the second foul and apply the (This is a draft document in advance of Rule 9.5 (amended) if the sliotar appropriate penalty. EXAMPLE: #14 has the publication of the complete new touches any non player during play a her Jersey held on the 20m line, Rule Book) throw in occurs, where it strikes a non advantage is applied and within the 5 player from a free it must be retaken. seconds she is pulled down within the PLAYING RULE CHANGES (Usually this will apply to the Sliotar large rectangle by the opposing #3, the Official Guide Part 1. Duties and powers striking the Referee, from Play a throw Referee may award a Penalty and issue of the The Referee. in but if from a free it must be retaken) a Yellow card to #3. What is 5 seconds? 41.2 The Referee may remove a person Rule 9.6 (new) A player may hand pass Say, one thousand-two thousand-three from the playing area for persistent the sliotar to score thousand-four thousand-five-thousand, interference/abuse etc, the persons Rule 10.1 (I) amended to read " a that’s 5 seconds.) name/nature of incident and language player may not take the sliotar out of Rule 11.7 For a Player on the team used. play by lying on it awarded a free to stand nearer than (This should only be used following a Rule 10.1 Technical fouls. For a player 10m before the sliotar is struck, cancel verbal warning to the Offender for on the Team awarded a free to retaliate free, award free to opposition . persistent and deliberate abuse. The before the free is taken, cancel free and (A player awarded a free strikes the name, and nature of abuse including throw in sliotar, apply appropriate Sliotar to her Team mate who is Not words used are vital) penalty. 10m away, free puck is cancelled and a Play may be temporarily suspended due (Where a player on the Team awarded a free awarded to the opposition) to serious injury, extreme weather or free retaliates, the free is cancelled and Rule 15.4 A player who strikes the any other serious unforeseen situation sliotar is thrown in, apply the proper sliotar directly over the crossbar from a which may occur. Play is suspended for sanction) side line cut shall be awarded 2 pts a Max of 15 min, if the issue cannot be Rule 10.2 (e) "to dig an opponent" provided it is not touched in flight by resolved the game should be upgraded to a Red Card any player on the attacking or defending abandoned. The referee should keep (This offence is regarded as Striking, Teams. both Teams and Officials informed of and is now upgraded from Yellow to Red ( A sliotar striking the Post or Cross-bar what is going on. card) and scoring from a side-line puck is (This covers unforeseen circumstances, Rule 10.2 (I) to abuse a Referee, worth 2 points, but if touched by any the Timeframe should be adhered to) official, opponent, teammate, manager player is worth only one point) 41.3 A Referee/Umpire may use upgraded to a Red Card RULE - LIMITATION OF LEGAL Hawkeye where it is available to clarify ( Upgraded from Yellow to Red card, LIABILITY if a score was correct. apply for Deliberate and Persistent These Rules shall not impose on any ( The Referee and his/her Umpires Abuse) Referee, should be clear on the Protocols Rule 10.2 (j) to interfere with any part Linesman, Umpire, Sideline Official, regarding the use of this technology of the helmet now a Red Card. Team Official where available) (No distinction between or Unit any legal duty of care or legal 41.5. A Referee may consult her/his Plastic/Faceguard, DELIBERATE responsibility officials on any matter during the game, interference with an opponents helmet (which duty shall remain with individual and may apply the appropriate penalty is now a Red card) Players for any rule infringements. and, if relevant, Parents, Guardians or (This applies to incidents the Referee Advantage Rule: Having allowed an other has not observed, both Umpires and advantage to an offended Team, the persons legally responsible for them) Referee should be clear on when/where referee may allow the advantage to run ( This places the onus of responsibility it is used) by holding her/his arm upright for up to on the individual regarding duty of care Rule 6: playing gear, base layer (skins) 5 seconds if no advantage occurs she/he and not on the Referee) may be worn. may award a free for the original foul, Vol. 3 Issue 3 April 2015

GLIMPSE AT THE PAST BY NOEL SHOER I started hurling for Eire Óg at U 14 level. To me the name itself “Eire Óg” is magical and conjures up a wonderful sense of pride. Obviously MacDonagh Park was a different place then. We never referred to it as MacDonagh Park, it was just “the field.” There was no Complex. The building inside the gate housed four dressing rooms which were quite basic and did not have showers. season was over! They were very Some may not now be even aware lean years for Eire Óg. We were of the stone seat outside the singing the blues to a different beat. dressing rooms. It was there that So I suppose it was a feat in itself to we togged out for training, leaving ensure the Club’s survival in senior our clothes on the seat. The ranks. dressing rooms were always locked. Back to the dressing rooms – I sometimes wondered why this was Eventually lads got tired of togging so. I always thought that the field out at the stone seat. One evening was “ours.” As a young fellow I it was suggested that the locks on didn’t realise that the dressing the dressing room doors be broken. rooms and inside field were under No sooner said than done. I’m not the auspices of a North Board Park sure if we had been climbing the Committee. fence around the “big field” for Apparently that was the reason why training at that stage but the locks Eire Óg teams, including the Seniors there suffered the same fate. The trained on the outside pitch. I can rest, as they say, is history. I’d like remember sheep grazing on that to think that those events sparked field. the action which brought us to the On the seat of stone we’d moan Young players at that time did not stage we’re at today. and groan have the best of gear. Most of us There our clothes lain, in sunshine had “hand-me-downs.” Few had real and in rain. jerseys. In my case I had an old Ag Feachaint Siar The dressing rooms were locked, an pair of ankle high boots with several idea I thought half-cocked. cogs missing. There were no laces I sometimes sit and dream of many “Mol an oige” they used to say, but in them so I used thickish twine. an Eire Og team, that was hardly the way. The under age teams which I played Lads of yesterday, who gave many Inside the rail was the holy grail, on contested North Tipp Finals U14, a great display, Sometimes we’d encroach, though U15, U16.5, minor and U21. We And with a sigh I wonder why, so wary of who’d approach. didn’t win one of them! When we little success came their way. Twas hard to understand why on graduated to the Senior team we For us the thing to do, was to earn that glorious patch of land, hadn’t any better luck. As the North the jersey blue, Of green and swarthy sod, we Championship was run that time we To give of your best when put to weren’t allowed to trod. had two games per year. Having the test We only wanted to play, so that lost the first game, we went in to So that the club might have its due. come the day, the Losers’ group. Losing the first We’d not let down Eire Og of game in that group meant that our Nenagh town. Vol. 3 Issue 3 April 2015

More lows than highs brought tears to the eyes. Through many a lean year, with little to cheer. Men went out we shouldn’t forget about, Whose spirit and drive kept the club alive.

Our efforts to capture Others patrolled the ditch at Grey’s The gear we had – ochon – nothing Dan Breen were often tales of lane stopping people gettin’ in new we’d own, might-have-been, without payin’. The old boots of mine had laces of But we battled on and with great Half-time - teams stayed in the twine pride brought Dan home with us in ground, mentors and fans all I don’t remember ’ 57, though it ’95. gathered round, must have been Heaven, To the gaels of those times, it’s Moving in close as they dare ‘til When the boys from the town won true, our gratitude is due, someone said: “Stand back. Give that famous North Tipp crown. For providing in Nenagh such a ‘em air”. wonderful arena. They’d take off the jersey and sup It wasn’t ‘til ’64 we won the Lucozade, championship once more. Running repairs were done with I’ll never forget how Kearns shook yards of bandaid. the net, Some might swig from a magic How he came from the wing and bottle in a bag with his unique swing, While others would take a drag Put such power in the ball, ‘twould from a fag. have gone through the wall!

That was the day the great team Then the order was given: “Shove from Roscrea in lads. Come on. Shove in.” Had to go down to the team from I remember the ground, concrete A rallying call started off low And our town. seats all around, gradually built to a rousing

And the cheering and cat-calls could crescendo, Against Holycross-Ballycahill we be heard far from the Whitewalls. With a stirring speech, a tear or two gave it a rattle, On sunny Sundays of summer, to shed, he’d lift the hair on the back We went there to win, not to give the field we’d happily wander, of your head. in. The men paid the quids,’twas free But our hopes faded away, as did for women and kids. the light of day. A cacophony of sounds rang Fights often broke out and blood around the grounds, spilled about The hawkers plied their wares – Tempers rose and passions too apples, oranges and ripe William defending the honour of the parish pears. abu! At the final whistle sound, people streamed from the ground, A man was employed to guard the Some thrilled with what they’d seen, wall, another to follow and throw others lamenting what might back the ball. have been.

Vol. 3 Issue 3 April 2015

JUVENILE NEWS – NENAGH ÉIRE ÓG STREET LEAGUE 2015

WELL DONE TO ALL OF THE GIRLS AND BOYS WHO ARE MAKING A GREAT SUCCESS OF THE 2015 STREET LEAGUE. UNDER-12 CAMÓGIE AND JUVENILE HURLING MENTORS HAVE DONE A SUPER JOB IN BALANCING THE FOUR TEAMS SO THAT EACH CHILD GETS A CHANCE TO COMPETE ON THE FIELD. ALL OF THE MATCHES HAVE BEEN VERY CLOSE AND WITH TWO ROUNDS PLAYED AND TWO MORE TO GO, IT’S ALL THERE TO PLAY FOR!