The annual Cumann na Bunscol West Connemara Mini-Sevens Gaelic Football Blitz took place in glorious sunshine in the lovely setting of Carna football field on October 13th last. Teams from Carna, Ardmore, Aird Thiar, Carraroe, Clifden, Ballyconneely, Letterfrack, Lettergesh, Eagles Nest and Tully took part in the tournament for boys and girls. In the girls section, the two dominant teams were the Eagles Nest-Lettergesh amalgamation and the Ardmore team. They produced a good standard of football throughout and in the final the strength, pace and experience of county Under-12 star Kim Young proved the difference for Eagles Nest-Lettergesh and they proved worthy winners. Others to star for the winning team were Shannon Mullen and Sinead Salmon. The Ardmore team had star performers in Mairead Flaherty and Brenda Mulkerrins.
The boys’ competition was equally competitive and the semi-finals saw Carraroe defeat a highly fancied Carna team. Clifden easily defeated a gallant Tully side, to set up a classic north versus south final. In a very tight match, Clifden led by one point at half time and the lead changed hand on a number of occasions. Carraroe looked to have sealed victory with a great goal two minutes from time. But there was still time for their star forward, Jack Vaughan, to get in behind the Carraroe defence to crash home a decisive winning goal with time almost up. The final score was 3-2 to 2-4 in Clifden’s favour. They retained the trophy they won last year. The victors were coached by P.J. Lee.
The whole event was co-ordinated by Paul Gannon and it was a huge success. He thanked all who helped out on the day, the teachers, parents, referees and the Carna Field Committee for the use of their facilities. The boys and girls winners will now advance to the county finals.
Written by Bernard Lee.
Connemara Advertiser
October 24th 2003
