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Ballinasloe
Soccer Notes,
Sunday
28th August 2005
The Ballinasloe 1st
team travelled to Cloonfad, under the ever-watchful eye of Noel Lyons. The frist half was a very tight fought and exciting
affair. With neighter team, giving or conceding a quarter. The second half saw Ballinasloe go ahead from a great strike from
Gary Egan. Then in the 80th minute the team went one better from a delightful goal from Liam Lynch. The icing on
the cake was a few minutes later Liam Lynch scored his second. 3-0, to the visitors a job well done.
Players to note for Ballinasloe
were Padriac Moloney, Shane Duffy and Lian Lynch.
Ballinasloes second team
faced a very strong Erricson team. The dead lock was broken in the 20th minute
by a good strike from Ian Moloney 1-0 Ballinasloe. In the second half on the 65th minute Ian Parker Made
it 2-0, and 5 minutes later another fine goal from Ian Parker made it 3-0 to finish a hard fought battle for Ballinasloe.
Player to note for Ballinasloe
were Jose Goldstar, Marty Ford and Brian Campbell.
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| Marina & Gerry Downey Presenting Jerseys to Peter Carroll and Mark Duffy |
Best of Luck to the 1st Team for
the coming season, who have a lot to live up this season after a terrific year last year that saw them win the Connaught Cup
and the Roscommon Premier Divison Cup.
Managment Team
- Ist Team
Team Manager, Mr. Peter Carroll. Mr. Carroll has a wealth of experience in the game having played for Shamrock Rovers and Drogheda United
in Ireland he was also on the books of Blackburn Rovers and Preston North End in England for some 5 years. Since hanging up his boots some time ago Peter has turned to coaching and management. He had a year coaching in Belgium and then returned to his native Dublin where he carried on for a numbers
of years before settling in Ballymoe where he got the local team into the Roscommon and District Premier division. Henry Loughnane is the 1st team Player /Coach.
Roscommon
Cup Final Vs Skyvalley Rovers 15th May 2005
Ballinasloe proved
to good for their local rivals Skyvalley Rovers in the Roscommon Cup Final and completed a famous league and cup double. Ballinasloe got off to the worst possible start when they conceded a goal in the opening
minute, when a Skyvalley striker beat the offside trap and coolly finished. Ballinasloe
never panicked and they were soon into their normal passing game and although they controlled the ball for long periods of
time, Ballinasloe were unable to get the final killer pass to breakdown a well organised Skyvalley defence. That was until the half hour mark when Ballinasloe were awarded a free kick 20 yards out from goal
and Mark Duffy stepped up to brilliantly fire home the equaliser. It was one
all at half time. Ballinasloe took the lead early in the second half when a brilliant
run by Shane Treacy ended with a fierce shot that the Skyvalley keeper failed to hold and Mark Duffy followed up to nod home
from close range. Ballinasloe scored a third after some excellent passing finished
with Jason Twohig heading home a cross from the left. It looked all over for
Skyvalley, but in a bid to pull themselves back into the game they piled men forward and they end they were playing at least
4 upfront. This meant that it was a long ball tactic for the remaining time and
while it wasn’t pretty it was somewhat effective. Ballinasloe were coping
well with this and hitting Skyvalley on the break and with their defence short on numbers Ballinasloe were creating some great
chances, unfortunately they failed to convert any of them. Skyvalley did pull
a goal back after a long ball and goalmouth scramble, but it was late on. Inexplicably,
the ref played a full 7 minutes injury which baffled may watching, but it didn’t matter as Ballinasloe held on for a
great victory. A lot of credit most go to Skyvalley for a very brave performance
and despite not having one of their best seasons in the league, they helped make a very exciting and tense cup final. Best for Ballinasloe were Mark Duffy, llyod Kelly and Gary Egan.
HOME
Vs Castlerea Celtic – Divisional Cup – 8/5/05
Ballinasloe lost
out to Castlerea Celtic in the Premier Division Cup on Sunday. Ballinasloe who
dominated the game from start to finish, simply could not score. On another day
it would have been an easy win for the home team, who hit the woodwork 3 times, but some excellent defending from a determined
Castlerea saw the game finish goalless. Extra time couldn’t separate the
teams and the dreaded penalty shoot out was called for. Castlerea held their
nerve and advanced to the next round. Best for Ballinasloe were Shane Duffy,
Paddy Ryan and Shane Treacy, who on another day could have had a hat trick. Ballinasloe
have the significant consolation of the Roscommon Cup Final to look forward to on Sunday, when they face local rivals Skyvalley
Rovers in Newbridge at 3.30pm.
AWAY
Vs Castlerea Celtic – Roscommon Cup Semi-Final – 1/5/05
Ballinasloe remain
on course for the Roscommon league and cup double after a very convincing victory over Castlerea Celtic on Monday in the Roscommon
Cup Semi-final. Ballinasloe took only 3 minutes to take the lead when Shane Duffy
finished off a brilliant move that started from near their own goal line. Before
half time Gary Egan made it 2 nil when he fired home a 20 yard free kick. Castlerea
simply had no answer to a super team performance from Ballinasloe and very rarely threaten the Ballinasloe goal. Their place in the final was wrapped up when Mark Duffy got on the end of another flowing move to score
from near the penalty spot. The game finished 3 nil to Ballinasloe, it could
easily have been more, on what turned out to be a very wet day and a lot of credit must go to the Shiven Rovers ground staff
who had the pitch in excellent condition given the weather conditions. Best for
Ballinasloe were Peter Keighrey, Gary Egan and man of the match Paddy Ryan. Ballinasloe
will no face Skyvalley Rovers in the final on the 15th May in Moore.
HOME
Vs Kilkerrin United – Roscommon Cup –17/4/05
Ballinasloe 1st
Team advanced to the semi-final of the G
& H Service Station Roscommon Cup after a comfortable 2 nil home win against Kilkerrin United.
Despite some terrible weather conditions at the weekend the pitch was in very good condition thanks to the great efforts
of the Ballinasloe groundskeepers, Brendan McNally and Pat Campbell. Ballinasloe
are getting back to their best form and had created a few good chances before Henry Loughnane calmly scored their first goal
from a one on one situation. Mid way through the 2nd half Peter Keighrey
headed home a free kick to make it 2 nil and the game was really over as a contest.
Killkerrin battled back, but they never looked like scored against a of Kevin Flanagan, Peter Keighrey and Gary Egan
who were all in tremendous form. There is still a lot of football to be played,
but the league and cup double is very much on for Ballinasloe. Ballinasloe can
seal the Premier league title if the manage to beat Monklands away on Sunday at 2pm.
AWAY
Vs Skyvalley Rovers – League – 10/4/05
The Ballinasloe 1st
team are moving ever closer to the Roscommon & District Premier Division title after beating local rivals Skyvalley Rovers
2-1 on Sunday. Ballinasloe started well and were always in control of the game,
a brilliant strike from Liam Lynch mid way through the first half and a calm piece of finishing from Jason Twohig gave them
a 2 nil lead. Ballinasloe did concede a goal with 10 minutes to go when Alan
Oliver headed home a free kick for Skyvalley. The result was never really in
doubt thanks to a great team performance and in particular from the “3 Amigos”, Kevin Flanagan, Paddy Ryan and
Jason Twohig. Ballinasloe have two games remaining and if they win one of those
they are champions. They have the nice distraction of a Roscommon Cup quarter
final against Kilkerrin at home on Sunday at 2pm as they bid for the league and cup double.
HOME
Vs CP Ajax – Roscommon Cup – 19/3/05
Ballinasloe advanced
in the Roscommon Cup by beating C.P. Ajax 4 nil on Saturday night under lights in the Curragh Grounds. It was a very strange game in that the visitors seemed to be totally disinterested in being there. They did not attempt to play football and were happy to simply kick the ball as hard
as they could over the line. In any event Ballinasloe tried to play, but were
being somewhat frustrated by the negative tactics of their opponents. Despite
having numerous chances Ballinasloe only managed to score once in the first half thought a Peter Keighrey header. In the second half Ballinasloe added another three goals, a tremendous long range effort from Gary Canavan
and two penalties, one converted by Gary Egan and one by Henry Loughnane. The
Ballinasloe goalkeeper did not have a single shot to save. Best for Ballinasloe
were Peter Keighrey, Shane Treacy and Henry Loughnane.
AWAY
Vs Shiven Rovers – League – 13/3/05
Ballinasloe 1st
team moved a step closer to the Premier Division title when they beat Shiven Rovers away on Sunday. Ballinasloe started very brightly and were quickly into their usual passing game. Kevin Flanagan went close
on a few occasions from corners and Henry Loughnane had opportunities as well, but it was Eoin Donnellan started the scoring
with a fine strike from outside the box that flew into the top corner after 18 minutes. On 30 and 60 minutes Peter Keighrey
showed his strikers how to score with 2 goals from Corners. The 1st
was a sweet shot from the Penalty spot and the 2nd was a powerful back post header.
Best for Ballinasloe were Glen Campbell, Eoin Donnellan and Peter Keighrey. With
only 3 games remaining for Ballinasloe, only Castlerea Celtic can catch them at the top of the table. With the clubs still to face each other in the league it could be a very tense finish to their title charge. Next for the 1st team is CP AJAX in the Roscommon cup at 2pm on Sunday
in the Curragh Grounds.
HOME
Vs Kilkerrin – League – 6/3/05
The Ballinasloe 1st
team were held to a scoreless draw at home against Kilkerrin United on Sunday. Despite
having the lion’s share of possession, Ballinasloe were unable to breakdown a very well organised Kilkerrin defence. Both sides did have their chances, but neither set of forwards were able to break
the deadlock. It might be considered a valuable two points dropped for the home
team as they push for their first Premier division title, but at it is stands they still have the fate of the title very much
n their own hands.
HOME
Vs Gurteen Celtic - Connaught Cup 27/2/05
Holders Ballinasloe
Town bowed out of the Connaught Cup at the weekend when they surprisingly lost to Sligo side Gurteen Celtic. Ballinasloe would have been quietly confident before the match as they had home advantage, they were the
defending champions and were in a rich vein of form. From the outset Ballinasloe
were obviously the better footballing side, but Gurteen seemed to be that little bit hungrier and fought tigerishly for every
ball. Ballinasloe created numerous chances and on another day, they would have
been comfortably ahead, but with the Gurteen goalkeeper in inspired form you felt that it might not be their day. A defensive mix up at the back for Ballinasloe gave Gurteen the lead, a lead that they were not going
to give up. Ballinasloe threw everything they had at the Gurteen goal and continued
to create scoring opportunities, but never managed to get the equaliser. Maybe
Gurteen just about deserved this victory for sheer endeavour, even if Ballinasloe played the better game. Best for Ballinasloe were Gary Canavan, Glen Campbell and Shane Duffy.
Home
Vs Cam Celtic - Roscommon Cup – 19/2/05
Ballinasloe’s
1st Team played Cam Celtic in the Roscommon Cup on Saturday night under floodlights. Even though Ballinasloe weren’t as fluent as previous weeks, they were still too good for their visitors. Goals from Mark Duffey and a brace from Henry Loughnane saw Ballinasloe comfortably
through to the next round, winning on 3-1 score line. Best for Ballinasloe were
Henry Loughnane, Cary Canavan and Wane Coyne.
HOME
Vs Glen Celtic – League – 5/2/05
The 1st
team had an easy win over Glen Celtic underlights on Saturday night. Despite
only leading one nil at half time, they romped home 6 nil winners in the finish. Goals
from Paddy Ryan, Jason Twohig, Kevin Flanagan, Dara Concannon and a brace from Eoin Donnelan saw them remain at the top of
the table
AWAY
Vs St. John’s League – 30/1/05
The 1st
Team travelled to St. John’s in the league on Sunday. Both sides tried
to play football on a pitch that was a credit to the great work undertaken by St. John’s recently. Ballinasloe were always the better side and in the first half they created 4 or 5 very good chances, while
limiting St. John’s to a couple of halve chances on the break. 15 minutes
into the second half Ballinasloe go the break through, when after some lovely build up play Shane Treacy brilliantly fired
home from the edge of the box. By this stage Ballinasloe were dominant and the
second goal came on 75 minutes. Another good build up saw Mark Duffy score from
6 yards out and secure all 3 points. Ballinasloe are still top of the Premier
Division table with 6 games remaining getting ever closer to the title.
AWAY
Vs Cloonfad – League – 23/1/05
Balliansloe travelled
to Cloonfad in the league on Sunday. Some credit must go to the grounds staff
to have the pitch playable at all, even if it wasn’t ideal. The first half
was a quite affair, while Ballinasloe did have 3 or 4 good chances they failed to score, Cloonfad were limited to a single
half chance. The second half started well for Ballinasloe, after only 3 minutes
Shane Duffy broke down the wing and crossed perfectly for his brother Mark to head home.
10 minutes later, after a goal mouth scramble, Cloonfad equalised. Shortly
afterwards, Glen Campbell make a terrific run from midfield and just managed to beat the advancing goalkeeper to a through
ball to slid home the lead goal. In what was turning out to be a very eventful
half, Cloonfad were awarded an interesting penalty, but unfortunately for them it was put just wide. With 10 minutes remaining Cloonfad swung in a free kick from way out on the wing, loads of people went
for it, but know one connected and it flew straight into the goal for another equaliser.
Ballinasloe were not finished and the move of the game saw them score the winner, some sweet passing from defence through
midfield and eventually to the feet of Captain Mark Duffy to finish the game 3-2 to Ballinasloe and keep them at the top of
the Premier Division. Best for Ballinasloe were: Mark Duffy, Shane Treacy and
Glen Campbell.
Match Day - 16th
January 2005
HOME Vs Carew
Park (Limerick)
Last 32 of F.A.I.
Junior Cup
Ballinasloe faced Carew Park of Limerick in the last 32 of FAI Junior Cup at the weekend. There was a great crowd present for this very important game and nearly €400
was collected for the Tsunami appeal. Ballinasloe got off to the worst possible
start when Carew scored after only 7 minutes from a great free kick from 20 yards out.
For the rest of first half Ballinasloe defended excellently coping well with Carew’s wind assisted long ball
tactics. Ballinasloe did create a few half chances in the first half, but nothing
came of it. The second half was a much different story, Ballinasloe dominated
for long periods but a very physical Carew defence were playing very well. Ballinasloe
had at least 3 gilt edge chances to get back in the game, but a combination of the crossbar and probably inexperience meant
that they were destined not to score. Carew were down to 10 men for the last
10 minutes and Ballinasloe piled on the pressure pushing everyone forward which did leave some gaps at the back and Carew
had some late chances, however Padraig Maloney in the Ballinasloe goal made some clever saves.
To sum up, Ballinasloe were definitely the better footballing side, but with 5 under 18’s in their ranks they
were perhaps little too inexperienced for the more mature Carew side. A draw
was the worst that Ballinasloe deserved on the day and on another day they would have won the game, but not on this day. Best for a very good and gutsy Ballinasloe side were Padraig Maloney, Gary Egan and
Jason Twohig. A special mention must go to the Ballinasloe grounds staff who
had the pitch in tremendous condition despite all the bad weather of late and also to the referee Tommy Cormican who was always
in control and let a very good game flow as much as possible.
Match Day 12th
December
HOME Vs Trinity
Corithians - FAI Junior Cup
The Senior Men’s side beat Dublin side Trinity Corinthians to advance in the FAI Junior
Cup. Ballinasloe have in the last few seasons turned penalty shootouts into some
what of art form such is their record in cup competitions. They probably shouldn’t
have needed to go that far, ironically missing a penalty in normal time. Ballinasloe
were the better side and was it not for the heroics of the Trinity goalkeeper they would have won more comfortably. In the end it was Paddy Ryan who slotted home Ballinasloe 8th and winning penalty. Ballinasloe manager, Peter Carroll, praised his team for their magnificent performance
and in particular Gary Egan, Liam Lynch and Eoin Donnelan. He also had praise
for the referee Tommy Cormican who was always in control.
Match Day 5th December
HOME Vs Corrib Rangers - Connaught
Junior Cup
On Sunday the Ballinasloe 1st team were out again, this time as defending champions in the Connaught Junior
Cup against Galway side Corrib Rangers. Corrib are a big, physical, fit side
and it Ballinasloe time to settle against them. For the first 10 minutes Corrib
were on top, but after that Ballinasloe looked comfortable. On 27 minutes Ballinasloe
were awarded a penalty after the ever threatening Henry Loughnane was fouled in the box, this was calmly dispatched by Gary
Egan. 10 minutes later and Ballinasloe failed to mark up at the back post from
a free kick and Corrib equalised. Early in the 2nd half Ballinasloe
re-took the lead when centre-half Peter Keighrey fired home brilliantly when a ball dropped to him following a dangerous freekick. Keighrey popped up with similar success 15 minutes later to leave Ballinasloe cruising
at 3-1. A last minute consolation goal from Corrib left the final score 3-2 to
Ballinasloe and the champions are still on course to retain their title.
Match Day 1st December
HOME Vs Skyvalley Rovers - FAI
Junior Cup
It was a busy week for the 1st team as they had play a rearranged FAI Junior Cup games against local rivals
Skyvalley Rovers on Wednesday night. A good crowd enjoyed a very good and very
close game under the new floodlights in Ballinasloe. While both sides created
good chances throughout the game and into extra time there was nothing to separate them and the game went to the dreaded penalties. Ballinasloe won a number of games last year on penalties and this experience proved
vital as they won 5-4 in a very tense shootout. Next up in the cup are Dublin
side Trinity Corinthians who travel to Ballinasloe for this 5th round contest at 2pm on Sunday next.
Match Day 26th November
HOME Vs Monkland - League
Ballinasloe Town had a great night on Friday
when they had their first ever game under floodlights. A crowd of over 200 enjoyed
a cool but clear night under the stars and lights, to see Ballinasloe faced Monksland in the league. Pat Campbell, long time committee member, said that it was a very proud day for the club, bringing even
more great facilities to the town. He hoped that the games under lights would bring out the crowds and that everyone in the
town should come up at least once to see them. It was a very even game as you
would expect when 2nd play 3rd in the league. Ballinasloe
probably just edged the first half and saw one wonderful strike from Shane Duffy crash back off the crossbar on 20 minutes. Ballinasloe got a great start to the second half when Henry Loughnane poked home the
lead goal. A Monksland defence that was previous very solid looking then gave
away a silly penalty with a blatant handball. Gary Egan duly dispatched the penalty
for well earned if not over comfortable home win. Best for Ballinasloe on this
historic night were paddy Ryan, Shane Duffy and Gary Furey. The 1st
team will continue in their quest to retain their Connaught Cup Title when then face Corrib Rangers at home at 2pm on Sunday.
Match Day 7th
November
HOME Vs Manor
United - FAI Junior Cup
Ballinasloe’s first team had a very easy win in the F.A.I. Junior Cup against Manor
United. A classy hat-trick from Vinny Doherty, two goals from Glen Campbell including
a magnificent 20 year volley and one goal from Jason Twohig saw Ballinasloe win 6-1.
On Friday night Ballinasloe will host their first ever floodlit game when they kick off against Monklands United at
8pm in the league. They are hoping for a good crowd for this momentous occasion.
Match Day 17th
October
HOME Vs Shiven
Rovers
The 1st Team won 3-1 at home against Shiven Rovers. The goals came courtesy of Gary Egan who scored from a cleverly worked corner kick. Vinny Doherty
had a tap in after closing down an attepmted clearance from the goalkeeper and Glen Campbell scored with tunderour header
from 20 yards. Ballinasloe even had the luxuary of Gary Egan missing a penalty. Ballinasloe
played well and deserved the points and even though they were missing some key players they still maintained their perfect
start to the season with their 6th win on the trot.
Match Day 10th
October
HOME Vs Abbey
Rovers - SFAI CUP
Ballinasloe’s 1st Team faced Abbey Rovers in the SFAI Roscommon Area Junior
Cup last Sunday. Ballinasloe were strong favourites as they were playing some
3 divisions above their guests. The Abbey players seemed more up for the game
and harried Ballinasloe throughout the game and didn’t let Ballinasloe settle into their normal fluid passing game. It wasn’t until early in the second half that Ballinasloe took the lead after
mark Duffy controlled well and fired home from inside the box. Abbey kept to
their tactics and drew level from the penalty spot with 25 minutes remaining. Ballinasloe
did not look impressive throughout game, but they scraped the win when substitute Paddy Ryan scored with a great strike from
outside the box with 15 minutes remaining. Abbey created some good chances after
this, but it is Ballinasloe who go through to the next round after a dogged but unimpressive win. The game was kindly sponsored
by Downey’s Bar & Restaurant. Ballinasloe next face Shiven Rovers in the league at 11am on Sunday the 17th
at home
Match
Day 19th September
HOME
Vs Clonfad United
The first team have made it 5 wins out of 5 in the league, they came
from behind thanks to two headed goals from Jason Twohig to beat Clonfad United 2-1 in the Curragh. Against the elements and a very physical side, Ballinasloe will consider themselves a little bit fortunate
to take all 3 points. While they would have been favourites before the game,
Ballinasloe did not reach their usual high standards and seemed a little off their game.
However, it says a lot for the team that they can play badly and still take all 3 points. Much credit must go the Ballinasloe defence trio of Peter Keighrey, Gary Egan and Kevin Flanagan who have
yet to concede a goal from open play in the league. The game was kindly sponsored
by Downey’s Bar and Restaurant.
Match Day 12th September
AWAY Vs Glen Celtic
Playing against a very strong wind and driving rain in the
first half they twice took the lead, firstly through Vinny Doherty and again from a great strike from Liam Lynch. Glen Celtic twice equalised from free kicks aided by the wind. In
the second half and with the wind at their back, Ballinasloe dominated. Two goals
from Henry Loughnane and one from Mark Duffey saw them comfortable 5-2 winners in the end.
Special mention must go to Gary Egan, Peter Keighrey and Kevin Flanagan for their great displays at the back especially
in the first half. Ballinasloe face Cloonfad United at home at 2pm on Sunday,
hoping to make it 5 wins out of 5 in the league.
Match Day 5th September
HOME Vs St. John's Athletic
Ballinasloe continued their perfect start to the season when they beat
St. John Athletic by 6 goals to nil in the league. It was Ballinasloe’s
first home game and credit to Brendan McNally and Pat Campbell for presenting the pitch in wonderful condition. St. John’s are a good side and will cause other teams a lot of trouble in the league this season,
but on Sunday Ballinasloe were just too good. On 17 minutes Vinny Doherty scored
a wonder goal, first hitting the post from 25 yards with a right foot drive and then after following in the rebound he scored
in the top corner with his left foot. On 42 minutes Wayne Coyne crossed precisely
for Glen Campbell to make it 2 nil. 4 minutes into the second half Henry Loughnane
glanced home a Gary Egan free kick. The 57th minute saw Vinny Doherty head home his second. On 67 minutes Paddy Ryan finished with some aplomb when through on the keeper and Jason Twohig finished
the scoring on 73 minutes when he cleverly lobbed the advancing keeper. Ballinasloe
manager, Peter Carroll, was delighted with his team performance, which he said was easily their best of the season. Last years Connaught Cup win has given the side a new confidence and long may it continue. Best for Ballinasloe were Peter Keighrey at the back, Wayne Coyne in midfield and Vinny Doherty upfront
Match Day 29th August
AWAY Vs Skyvalley Rovers - League
Ballinasloe were away to local rivals Skyvalley
Rovers at the weekend. Even though it is very early in the league, this game
always gives you a good sense on how you are likely to perform for the season as it against one of the most consistent teams
over the years. It has to be said that Ballinasloe passed this test with flying
colours. They began very well, on an excellent pitch, working the Skyvally goalkeeper
from the start, but from early on it looked like it might be “one of those” games, the keeper was making some
great saves and anything he missed was being cleared off the line. On 20 minutes
they got the breakthrough when Peter Keighrey rose highest to met a corner and head home their first goal. Ballinasloe kept on the pressure, but Skyvalley held out until half time.
Skyvalley made some tactical changes at half time at for the 1st 10 minutes of the half they were causing
Ballinasloe some trouble, but without getting any reward. On 60 minutes Gary
Egan swung in a fierce free kick and Henry Lounghnane appeared to get the slightest of touches to glance home Ballinasloe’s
second. 15 minutes later Shane Duffey played a great through ball for his brother
Mark who beat the advancing goalkeeper with a tidy finish. In the last few minutes
Glen Campbell latched on to another Shane Duffey pass and fired in great shot which the Skyvalley keeper managed to get a
hand to, but to no avail as the ball crawled towards the line and Vinny Doherty finished brilliantly from a matter of inches. Best for Ballinasloe were Peter Keighrey, Glen Campbell and Mark Duffey.
Match Day August 22nd
AWAY Vs Moore United - League
The new season kicked off on Sunday with
Ballinasloe travelling the short distance to play neighbours Moore United in their first game in the league. The weather really was terrible with strong winds and driving rain making playing a passing game very difficult
indeed, but credit to both sides as they were determined not to let the weather dictate their style of play. A mention must go to the grounds staff at Moore who had the pitch in excellent condition, despite the elements
being against them. Ballinasloe started the match well, creating a few chances
but failed to put them away. Moore had a few chances as well, but never really
looked like scoring early on. On 43 minutes Glen Campell put the visitors in
front when he slid home a great cross from Paddy Ryan at the back post. The second half was a bit more physical than what
had gone before, this was evident in the number of free kicks Ballinasloe had around the Moore box. Gary Egan was taking the frees and he seemed to be getting closer with every one, the Moore goalkeeper
pulling off 2 great saves to deny him. It was from an Egan free kick that the
security goal came from, when Paddy Ryan rose highest to meet one and headed home. Ballinasloe
deserving held on for a winning start. Best for Ballinasloe were; Padraig Maloney
making his debut in goal, Mark Duffy the new captain for the season and Paddy Ryan the “seasoned campaigner”.
| Ballinasloe 1st Team Squad 2003/2004 |
|
|
| Barry O'Connor 2nd Team Manager (sorry about the poor picture Barry) |
2nd Team Management
Barry O'Connor, a long time servant and player with the club, continues the running of the second team for
the coming season. Barry has long being invloveld with the club as a player and this is his second season as Manager
of the 2nd Team. he will be hoping to build on his first season, where they disappointed somewhat in the league
and were unlucky to lose their Divisional Cup Final. We wish them all the best and know that if their commitment counts
for anything they will have a successful season.
HOME Vs Castelrea Celtic
– League – 8/5/05
The second
Team finished their season with a scoreless draw at home to Castlerea. It was
a game that had little significance to Ballinasloe, but Castlerea needed a win to gain automatic promotion. It was a hard fought draw with Ballinasloe showing great determination given that they were only playing
for pride. It is the end of another somewhat disappointing season for the 2nd
team, who promised so much early in the year, but failed to deliver on the pitch despite the very best efforts of their manager,
Barry O’Connor, who has put in a tremendous amount of effort with the team throughout the season. Best for Ballinasloe were Mark Scannell, Warren Coyne and Billy Dempsey.
AWAY Vs Monksland – League – 10/4/05
The 2nd
team were desperately unlucky to only draw 2 all with Monksland in the league. Monklands
scored in the first 2 minutes and the last minute and Ballinasloe pretty much dominated for most of the time in between. Goals from Ian Maloney and Ian Parker gave Ballinasloe a 2-1 lead going into the final
minutes, but they couldn’t hold on. Best for Ballinasloe were Ian Maloney,
Warren Coyne and Patrick Loughnane. Ballinasloe now have the tough task of facing
Castlerea in the Divisional Cup on Sunday at home at 11am, it is their last chance at a piece of silverware.
AWAY Vs Rahara –
League – 13/3/05
Ballinasloe
2nds had a narrow loss away to Rahara Rovers in the league. On a very
poor and tight pitch Ballinasloe struggled to break down their hosts. Rahara
went 1 nil up early on after a goalmouth scramble, before Ballinasloe pulled level thanks to great free kick from Frank Delany
from all of 35 yards out. Ballinasloe had to push forward because a draw was
no good to them in their efforts for promotion, but they were caught on the counter attack for Rahara’s 2nd
goal and try as they might they simply could not get the goals they needed despite dominating possession. Best for Ballinasloe were Frank Delany, Billy Dempsey and Ian Parker.
HOME Vs Shiven Rovers 6/3/05
The 2nd
Team were at home to league leaders Shiven Rovers in the league and they really needed all three points on offer. Ballinasloe battled well and played some great football and were rewarded with the lead very early in second
half thanks to an impressive Ian Parker strike. Ballinasloe continued to create
chances, but couldn’t get he all important 2nd goal and the game was always in the balance. Disaster struck for Ballinasloe late on when a goalkeeping error let Shiven in for a soft equaliser
and the points were shared. Best for Ballinasloe were Padraig Ryan, Ian Maloney
and Warren Coyne.
HOME Vs Lisnamult Celtic – League 13/2/05 Ballinasloe’s 2nd
team were out in the league against Lisnamult Celtic on Sunday. It was a game
that they had to win to keep their slim hopes of promotion alive. On a blustery
but fine day and on a pitch that was in great condition for this time of year, Ballinasloe played some excellent football. From the outset Ballinasloe were the better side and they created some good goal scoring
opportunities, but failed to make them count until midway through the first half when Patrick Loughnane rose highest to brilliantly
head home from a corner. Lisnamult had a few chances on the break and were always
in the game only being one goal down. It wasn’t until the 80th
minute when Aidan Coyne fired home Ballinasloe’s 2nd that they could relax.
The 2 nil victory was well deserved by a hard working Ballinasloe side. Best
for the winners along with the goal scorers were Frank Delaney, Warren Coyne and Ian Parker.
The game was kindly sponsored by Melody’s Bar & Restaurant.
Match Day 17th January 2005
AWAY VS Laurencetown
Ballinasloe were hoping to put a poor run
of form behind them when they travelled to play local rivals Laurencetown. On
a very heavy pitch Ballinasloe took some time to find their feet, but once they did they created some great chances. It was Stephen McNally who opened the scoring with a fierce shot from all of 25 yards
to give Ballinasloe the lead. Ballinasloe have been unable to close teams out
all season and this trait continued as Laurencetown came from behind THREE time to equalise.
Their first was direct from a good free kick from just out side the box. Ballinasloe
then scored again through Owen Keighrey with a similar effort. Lauencetown then
equalised with great individual goal starting from nearly half way. Ballinasloe
then thought they had secured all three points when captain Warren Coyne struck from 12 yards out following some confusion
in the Laurencetown box. To their credit Laurencetown kept playing and with only
two minutes remaining they scored again, a header from long free kick was well saved by Barney Johnston, but it fell to nicely
for the home player to tap home. Ballinasloe were left feeling gutted, they,
missed numerous chances throughout the game and should have been well ahead, but yet again let a valuable 3 points slip away. Best for Ballinasloe were Patrick Loughnane, Warren Coyne and Aidan Coyne.
Match Day 17th October
AWAY Vs Shiven Rovers
The second team were away to Shiven Rovers
in a game that was a credit to the 3rd division. Both sides played
passing football and tried to avoid the long ball, you could have been watching any division in the league. Ballinasloe started the better and could have scored a few early on, but they had to wait until the half
hour mark when Stephen McNally latched onto a through ball to clip the ball past the advancing keeper. Ballinasloe remained ahead until 10 minutes from time when the Shiven pressure finally paid off and they
scored from 10 yards. A draw was a fair result on the day as neither team deserved
to loss for the skill and effort shown. Best for Ballinasloe were: Warren Coyne,
Mark Scannell, Stephen McNally and Mark Forde.
Match Day 10th October
HOME Vs Rahara Rovers
The 2nd Team faced Rahara Rovers
in the league. Ballinasloe started brilliantly, passing well and winning all
the 50-50 challenges, but had to wait until just before half time to get on the score sheet through Steven McNally. After the break Rahara came back into the game more and created a few half chances, but never managed a
telling shot on goal. With 20 minutes to go Ballinasloe sealed the points with
yet another goal from the prolific Owen Keighrey. Best for Ballinasloe were Greg
Egan, Padraig Ryan and Lorcan McCarty. The game was kindly sponsored by Joe’s
Bar.
Match Day 26th September
HOME Vs Abbey Rovers
Although this game was played in the Curragh
Grounds it was technically an away game as Abbey Rover’s pitch was not playable.
The fact that it will count as an away game is little consolation. This
was a very poor display from Ballinasloe, they played poorly all over the pitch. Ballinasloe
went one down early on after some careless defending and struggled to get back into the match.
Ballinasloe did have a few chances to get back into the game, most notably when they were awarded a penalty with 20
minutes to go, but Warren Coyne saw his effort come off the angle of crossbar and post.
Within 10 minutes Abbey were 2 nil up, a short back pass gave Padraig Maloney no chance and he was easily rounded for
a tap in for Abbey. Abbey Rovers seem to be somewhat of a bogey team for
Ballinasloe, having struggled against them in the league last year as well, although they did beat them in the divisional
cup. Ballinasloe manager, Barry O’Connor was bitterly disappointed with
his team’s performance. Having seen them play brilliant football the 2
previous weeks, he could not understand how they were dragged down to the visitors tactic of kick and chase. Hopefully they will be back to normal after their break for the fair
Match Day 19th September
AWAY Vs Lisnamult Celtic
The second team have also started their campaign
with straight wins, beating Lisnamult 3-1 away. Despite playing all the football
Ballinasloe found themselves a goal down at half time, but a great second have display saw them score 3 unanswered goal and
in truth it good have been more. Joe Kelly who was making his first start was
twice unlucky with efforts from left back, Aidan Sheridan came close from midfield and Stephen McNally had chances upfront. The goals came from Owen Keighrey and 2 from Lorcan McCarty. Man of the match was undoubtedly Greg Egan who controlled the midfield.
Match Day 12th September
HOME Vs Ballymoe FC - LEAGUE
The second team had a great start to their
season beating Ballymoe FC 5-1 in the Curragh. It looked like it might be very
tough for Ballinasloe when they could only managed 1 all at half time despite playing with a strong wind, but in the second
half they totally out played and out passed their guests and thoroughly deserved their winning margin. The goals came courtesy
of a hat-trick from Ian Parker and one each from Owen Keighrey and Stephen McNally.
It was a very encouraging display with Lorcan McCarty, Ian Maloney and Mike O’Connor catching the eye in particular. Next up is Lisnamult away at 11am on Sunday
Match Day 12th September
Match Day 22nd August
HOME Vs Laurencetown - FRIENDLY
The 2nd beat Laurencetown in a
pre-season friendly. Goals from Jason Fallon, Mike O’Connor and Warren
Coyne putting them 3 nil up before a spirited comeback saw them run out tight but deserving 3-2 winners. Ballinasloe
were short a few players and had to resort to putting player /manager, Barry O'Connor in goals for the 1st half. Barry
managed to keep a clean sheet, but the same cannot be said for "specialist" goalkeeper Padriag Maloney who left in 2 in the
second half. Neither of them were his fault, but that won't stop the Manager doing a bit of gloating. Best for
Ballinasloe were Barry O'Connor, Greg Egan and new captain Warren Coyne.
The game was kindly sponsored by Melody’s
Bar & Restaurant.
Reports for Senior Mens teams from 2003/2004 Season
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