23 When Dunmore MacHales captain Colin Lyons was presented with the Joey Murphy Cup at the end of the County Minor B final on September 29th it was the culmination of a long football year for minor manager John Dooley. John’s year actually began on St. Stephens Day when he and his loyal assistant Seán Doorey commenced training with the Under 21 panel. When the Under 21 season finished in March John and Seán generously began work with the minor panel and were joined by selectors Paul Gleeson, David Glynn and Jim Carr. The Minor league campaign began in March with an away match to Ballinasloe. A comprehensive 3-12 to 0-9 win augured well for the season and wins over Athenry, Cortoon, St. Gabriels and a draw with Caherlistrane put Dunmore into the Shield final which resulted in a 2-14 to 2-7 win over Glenamaddy. The good run continued into the championship and wins over Ballinasloe and Menlough set up a North Board final clash with Caherlistrane. A beautiful September Saturday on a perfect Tuam Stadium pitch provided the backdrop for a wonderfully competitive sporting occasion. A great team performance was the hallmark of Dunmore’s 2-11 to 1-7 win and the character shown when going two points behind to a second half penalty epitomised the spirit of the team. Jamie Coen’s two stunning second half goals, Dean Slattery’s long range point and Michael Glynn’s man of the match display were just some of the highlights of a great day. That North Board final win was celebrated but the focus was kept firmly on the bigger picture, the County final proper against city kingpins St. James’. An intensive training schedule included a very early morning trip to Corofin (7. 00 a. m. ) and an inspirational coaching and motivational contribution from former Galway Manager John O’Mahony. The players responded well to the challenges put before them by their progressive management team and it was with cautious confidence they lined out against St. James’ in the county final. A very well contested match ensued and, as before, the team showed exceptional character, being undaunted by the first half concession of two goals. A brilliant response included a superb Thomas Gleeson goal and excellent defensive work by John Rattigan and man of the match Colin Lyons. Dara Walsh’s midfield contribution and hard working forwards Matthew Reddington, Thomas Fallon and Ian Feerick were also critical to the outcome. But perhaps it was the immediate impact of super sub Seán Ryder that clinched the victory. Seán’s final quarter inspirational point and well taken goal ensured that it was to be Dunmore’s day! The 2-10 to 2-6 victory over a gallant St. James’ team was due reward for the team, their management and the hard working juvenile committee for whom the late James O’Toole did so much work. James’ work with underage players is always recognised and was graciously acknowledged by Captain Colin Lyons in his acceptance speech. All in all, the success of our minors in 2012 was a tremendous boost for Dunmore MacHales, a well deserved reward for a determined and hard working panel of players and a manager whose thorough preparation and unwavering, passionate dedication left no stone unturned in his quest for glory. Hopefully, many of the players who tasted success this year will have learned what is required and will go on to feature prominently in Dunmore MacHales teams in the years ahead. MINORS’ SUCCESS BOOSTS DUNMORE MacHALES BY PAT COLEMAN The Thomas Shaughnessy Memorial Cup will be presented Annually to the winners of the Division 2A County League. Left to right: Eileen Shaughnessy, Gus (Presenting the Cup) & Michael Shaughnessy, Seamus O'Grady, Football Board Secretary and Eileen Lynch. CUP PRESENTATION TO GALWAY FOOTBALL BOARD Mrs. Dympna Murphy presents the County Minor 'B' Cup to the Dunmore McHales captain Colin Lyons
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