The Myshall Crusaders

Formation of the G.A.A

A lot of water has flown under the bridge since Michael Cusack and the dozen or so great men that met in Hayes Hotel on November 1st, 1884, lit the flame, and founded Cumann Luthchleas Gael and Nationalism. There is no doubt directly and indirectly the real driving force behind the success of Cumann Luthchleas Gael in Eire was Archbishop Dermot Croke of Cashel & Emily of which famed Croke Park is named after. When asked by the organising committee to become a Patron he gladly accepted and it was his steadfastness and organisation in directing the clergy and particular the Catholic Curates in every Parish, nook, and corner of Ireland to promote and foster the aims of Cumann Luthchleas Gael without fear or favour and against many obstructions. It seems Archbishop Croke was a man that didn’t take no for an answer as can be seen by one of his letters enclosed. Word of mouth was the only real communication people had at that time, but it was enough to spread the spirit and love of our own Gaelic Games like wildfire throughout Ireland.

Cumann Luthchleas Gael Ceatharlach was founded in November 1888 and the first championships were organised the following year. Remember at that time all Ireland was under British rule and command and Cumann Luthchleas Gael was a thorn in their side that they didn’t like. Glad to say against all adversity the Passion and Nationalism was so strong from Muintir na hÉireann that every man, woman and child in every nook and corner in all Ireland embraced it with fire and passion, it was something the ordinary poor and down trod people of Ireland owned themselves that has given us such a great legacy today it has never wavered and long may it continue.

The Parish of Myshall and Drumphea gladly embraced this new organisation and the first ever football club was formed under the chairmanship of Fr. Fenelon C.C. who had family links with Ballaghmore. The football team lived up to their name in winning many a hard game, never lacking in courage and determination but final victory somehow always eluded them. They reached the semi-final of the first ever Carlow County championship only to be beaten narrowly by neighbouring Ballon who had an easy win over Tullow in the final of 1889.

Many the great tale that was told around the fireside or in some of the great meeting places ‘The Public House’ or ‘The Sheebin’ of their brave deeds and mighty clashes with opponents, little did they know the wonderful legacy they started that has lasted to his day and will for many years to come.

The Myshall Crusaders

The Start

Johnny O’Neill the bonesetter from Ballinrush considered him-self too old to play was their coach and trainer. He was a man of great physical strength and agility and had had acquired the basic skills of Gaelic football which he imparted to this group of young men so full of enthusiasm at the dawn of a new era. We can be sure that he was often called on to mend the broken bones, to soothe the sprained muscles and put in the dislocated joints at the end of the day in a game that was just developing from an all-in parish to parish confrontation.

Training

To begin with their playing field was the field at the Aclare end of the New Line now owned by Kathleen and P.J. Abbey, but at that time was the property of Mr. Micky Kelly of Ratheenleigh House. They practiced regularly there on Sunday afternoons and on summer evenings. Road running was used to strengthen the legs of the players and give them stamina. They would run the circuit, leaving the field on to the road down by the Adelaide Church, the R.I.C barracks on Church Rd.(where the Doyle family now live) down the street of Myshall on to the Croppy Road to Jack Neill’s cross turn left up to Brennan’s cross turn left and continue over the New Line until they came back to the field. By running in this direction down through the Village the danger of dropouts was eliminated as they were fresh passing by the Public Houses or as they were known back then ‘Porter Houses’ and they wouldn’t be passing that way again until after training. It must also be pointed out that there were no tarred roads at that time, no cars or traffic only the odd ass and cart or horse and cart, but it was something great to do on a fine summers evening.

Jerseys

Their first jerseys were hand knitted by the local women in dark green material and the words Myshall Crusaders embroidered in red thread in oval shape on the back and a red cross in the centre.

Teams of 21 players

At that time teams were twenty-one aside consisting of a goalie and five lines of four players in each line. The practice of using numbered lists to indicate players positions on the field of play didn’t come into general use until the 1930’s and particularly after Golden Jubilee Year 1934. For that reason and because of conflicting accounts that have come down to us it is difficult, almost impossible to assign places to the players that are most often mentioned. To avoid that difficulty let us rotate the wheel of history with its hub at Cullen’s Corner in the same direction as the Crusaders ran their road circuit.

The Townlands

The Scratoe gave us John and Pat Byrne, Aclare gave Dan Brien a native of Ullard and possessed great speed and strength, Coolnasheegaun gave Peter Neill the smallest man on the team but a very skilled ball player, Knockbrack gave Pat Scully, Myshall gave Pat Doyle and Pat Nolan, Shangarry gave Pat Doyle, Dan Fenelon, Jim Kealy, and Bob Morrissey, Ballaghmore gave Jack Nolan from the Doctors Cross, Rosslee gave Tom Nolan and Peter Nolan. Knocklonogad gave Mick Byrne, Milltown gave Har and Will Smithers, Tourtane gave John Carthy. Knockindrane gave John Fitzgerald, and his brother Big Ned, of unequalled size and strength, Rathnageera gave Andy Keating of athletic fame. Coolnasnaughta gave Jim Hanrick, Ratheenleigh gave Jimmy Barron the goalie, Johnny Byrne, Jack and Patrick Murphy, John Kavanagh, and Mick Timmons, Bealalaw gave Johnny Fitzpatrick, and Croanruss gave Neddy Murphy who was the last survivor of that first team. Who could have foreseen the broad and secure foundation that Fr. Fenelon and his gallant men were building? Beannact De le Hanamann na Marbh. No one can doubt the unshakable strength of the present Naomh Eoin super structure resting on that base of community commitment and glad to say that after one hundred and thirty-two years there are very many direct blood lines if nearly all to be found to this day. Andy Jordan N.T. Myshall.

Timeline

April 1888

“Another Gaelic Club for Co. Carlow, following the example of their neighbors (Clonegal Pyne Club) the young men of Myshall have determined to take their proper place in the revival of the national games. A most satisfactorily start was made last Sunday in a field generously given by Michael Kelly Rateenlee, (Ratheenleigh). The parish being dedicated to the Holy Cross, the branch has adopted the name Crusaders and sports a Red Cross.

May 1888

Myshall 1-1 Clonegal Pynes 0-2 at Clonegal

Clonegal was enfete for three games. “Hundreds of sturdy Gaels made it their rendezvous. The field was beautifully situated affording glimpses of the Wicklow, Wexford, and Carlow hills. Azure and Brown and Golden under the soft May sunshine. Between it and the deserted town the placid waters of the River Derry flowed. The weather, scenery and excitement combined to lure from a distance many of the large concourse of spectators, and on all the neighboring hillsides might be seen quiet and patient groups, whose range of vison would seem to be abnormal and who for some reason or another did not venture nearer to the scene of action.

The Play

With Myshall versus the first team of ‘Pynes’ the fray began and the latter playing a vigorous and determined game quickly put two points to their credit. This seems to put the visitors on their mettle, causing them to set about equalizing in an effective manner and put up a point against their opponents score. A splendid rush soon after brought the play within close proximity of the Myshall goal, and after a fierce struggle the bearers of the ‘White Cross’ though much interfered with, by outsiders who crowded up against the goal, causing the ball when struck to rebound, but Myshall were allowed the goal by the referee, much to the annoyance of the home side. Half time and change of sides did not benefit either party as the visitors returned home with the spoils of war and their ‘tails up’

“When the new Sunday closing Act comes into operation Clonegal may be added to the list of exempted cities. The bona fide traveller even beyond the seven miles bourne has some difficulty in obtaining there the cup of Cold Water which promised such a great reward. Some uncomplimentary remarks were heard probably from the unwashed of High Street smarting under a sense of defeat.

May 1888

Myshall seconds lose to Newtown Barry (Bunclody). A very fast and exciting game the ball going up and down the field with considerable velocity. During the first half Myshall scored two points, one of them a brilliant kick by John Kearney from the right half back position. This kick will be long remembered as the ball was kicked out by the Newtownbarry goalkeeper and aided by the wind the ball went over the heads of a lot of players before it hit the ground and then rolled along the ground out on the right wing. John Kearney was playing a half back and when he saw the ball rolling along the ground coming his way, he got excited. He was a good twenty yards from the ball, and he took such a run and met the ball with his right foot (boot) and ferocious force and from over sixty-five yards out and against the wind he sent the ball ‘sailing’ back over the cross bar as the big crowd were silent and speechless. After this happened, he was heard say to himself by some bystanders on the sideline “No one can say I’m afraid of the football now”

However more kicks like that were wanted as after half time and change of sides showed the superior discipline of the Wexford men who quickly retrieved their losses.

November 1888

Ballon 1-7 Myshall 0-0

This game was played in Maurice Kealy’s field Shangarry (opposite Tommy Murphy’s House). Both teams were guided and instructed by their teachers who were present

The game may not have had much significance at that time, but it was the semi-final of the first ever Carlow Championship, Ballon won by 1-7 to 0-1 and went on a week later and beat Tullow to win the first ever Carlow GAA Football championship final played in a field of Doyle’s of the Shamrock Carlow on June 9th 1889, final score Ballon 1-1 Tullow 0-0

1889

February 3rd Myshall 0-2 Nurney 0-1,

February 17th Nurney 0-3 Myshall 0-0, Nurney 0-3, Myshall (2nd Team) 0-0,

March 24th Ballon 0-3 Myshall 0-2 at Tullow,

June 2nd Kilmyshall 1-3 Myshall 0-3

Special Meeting

What was perhaps one of the most important meetings of the young Carlow Co Board was held in the Assembly Rooms Carlow on November 4th, 1889.

This was towards the end of the year that had seen a lot of trouble on and off the pitch. Letters were written to “The Nationalist” some from “C.C2 demanding that the games be abolished as neither player or spectators can be controlled. Other letters supported the GAA and urged those in office to carry on. It was of vital importance that that this meeting be well attended as to get the opinion of the clubs of the county. The meeting was one of the most representive held in those early important years with the following clubs attending.

Aghade; J. Doyle, E. Conroy, Paul Maher.

Bagenalstown; E; Drea, M. O’brien, Martin Kavanagh,

Ballyhackett; John Byrne, Ml. Murphy, George Ward,

Borris; John Rice Martin Murphy John Ryan,

Carlow; N. P. Roche, T. O’gorman, W. Bergin,

Grange & Killerig; P. Mcdonald, P. J. Griffen, John Reid,

Myshall: P. O’Neill, M. Kavanagh,

Nurney; J. Mcgrath (2), James O’gorman,

Rathvilly; Maurice Kelly, E. O’Toole, M. P. Maher,

Tinryland; Stephen Nolan,

Tullow: E. Peppard, Murtha Rooney, Pat Farrell,

Tynock; Lawrence O’Toole, Walter Barry, Michael D’arcy.

Mr. M. P. Maher presided, and the following were elected to carry on the games.

Chairman M. P. Maher, Treasurer, re-elected, J. Reid, he reported a balance of £3- 19s-0. on hand. (Three Pounds and Nineteen Shillings = to today’s money three euro and ninety cent)

Secretary P.J. Griffen.

Although there were still some hard times ahead for the County Board, this was the last time that it was suggested to abandon the GAA in Carlow

Let it be said at that time there was a lot of young people in Ireland many coming from very large families and apart from in a town or village many large gatherings of young and old people were found at many crossroads and many great teams were affiliated and registered from the same crossroads

1890

1890 Draw: Carlow v Nurney, Borris v Rathvilly, Grange v Myshall, Tullow v Ticknock, Crecrin v Ballinkillen, Ballybar v Clonmore.

March 9th Myshall 2-1 Ballybar 0-0, April 13th Myshall 0-1 Grange 0-0, Myshall were disqualified for fielding illegal players and was censored by the County Board.

Parnell Split

1894

March 18th Myshall 0-1 Fenagh 0-0

At this stage there is no information on whether there were teams in the Parish for a number of years due to the Parnell Split. This needs to be researched further

1915

Drumphea in the begining

Drumphea beat Leighlinbridge in the junior football championship on October 17th in Myshall. December 19th Drumphea 0-0 Clonegal 0-0 at Leighlinbridge

1916

January 30th from the Nationalist & Leinster Times

Football at Ballon

On Sunday last Clonegal defeated Drumphea in the re-play of the semi-final of the County Carlow Junior Championship by 3 goals 1 point to 4 points for Drumphea. The game was not a scientific one, yet it was watched with keen interest by a large crowd of spectators.

Mr E. Wall Newtownbarry, acted as referee in a very capable manner.

The hurling match did not take place owing to St. Mullins failing to field a team. Bagenalstown were therefore awarded the game.

Myshall G.F.A. (Gaelic Football Association)

There will be a meeting of the above club in the Boys’ School Myshall on Sunday 5th March 1916 at 7 o’clock. All members and well-wishers are requested to attend

G.A.A. Tournament at Myshall

A really enjoyable evenings sport is assured all those attending the tournament booked for tomorrow (Sunday) at Myshall.

In the junior football championship, Donore will meet Drumphea, at the conclusion of which Bagenalstown will meet Bunclody in a hurling match. Kildavin and Ballon will meet in a friendly football encounter. The first match is timed for 2- 0’ clock. The tournament will be held in a field generously lent by Mr. M. J. Donoghue. The Myshall War Pipers Band will be present. Players are requested to be promptly in attendance.

September 10th from the Nationalist & Leinster Times

Tinryland 4-5 Rathvilly 4-4

Mr R. Hogan acted as referee. Immediately after above game Myshall and Tullow juniors met in a football friendly and a well contested game resulted in a draw. The scores were, Myshall 2 goals 2 points Tullow 2 goals 2 points

Mr. Matt Doyle Carlow-Graigue was referee I hope that on the occasion of the championship matches to be played at Ballon tomorrow (Sunday) the good example given at Tullow will be followed to the letter.

7 A-Side Hurling Match

Coolnasheaguan Whites v Aclare Blacks

This seven-a-side hurling game was played in what’s known as O’Neills Treshing Field Coolnasheagaun in the Summer of 1916. It was organized by the O’Neill Family who were also very athletic. Word about this challenge game spread like wildfire across the country side.

One thing we do know the weather was great and the field was in great order for hurling. Friends and neighbors walked considerable distances and a great crowd of excited spectators was there long before the game started. After all the “Honor of the Little Townland” was at stake. Don’t you know a few bob or pence was wagered on each team some lost some won.

The referee for the game was Mary Cusack from Dublin an outstanding camogie player who played with Dublin, winning a number of All-Ireland senior camogie titles, she was on holiday and staying at Mrs O’Brien’s Aclare to whom she was related. Each half was twenty five minutes duration with a ten minute interval break.

All players lined up in the middle of the field for the throw in as was the case at that time and then run like hell to their positions especially the goalie and defenders. The sliothar was thrown in by Josie Byrne Scratoe a friend of the O’Neills. Seven-a-side demanded fitness, stamina, fast running, strike the ball to an unmarked player and take scores as quick as possible

The referee was a tough cookie enough and whether it was for devilment or the players making mistakes the few hard earned scores that the teams got were disallowed by Mary Cusack and no one had any use in saying anything as it fell on deaf ears, much to the bewilderment of the big crowd at the game. As time passed each side seemed to be happy enough because if they had a score disallowed, it was only a short while before the opposition also had a score disallowed and big cheers went up from the opposing opposition every time a score was cancelled.

The hurling although not that all skillful at times was fair, fast and furious and tough, and a few names were taken here and there, possibly resulting from ‘Late Hard Pulls’. Voices and tempers were raised in places along the side line as the game progressed but gladly sanity prevailed and the Puck in the Gob that was to be given didn’t materialize. When the referee sounded the final whistle everyone was relieved as the “Honor of the Little Townland” was preserved to the highest order

There weren’t many ‘fag’ boxes or buts of pencils’ needed to keep account of the scores on that day as the game finished.

Aclare 0-0   Coolnasheagaun 0-0

The O’Neills would have probably supplied the hurleys although some of the locals would have carved out neat enough Camans from the Ash root with hatchets and rasps. Wonder was there many broken hurls on the day.

After the game all the players, Josie Byrne, and Mary Cusack were treated to a sit down meal in O’Neills parlor and all the rest of the big crowd had what was known as an old Irish saying goes ‘A mug of tay in their hand’ in the kitchen and out in the yard.

This game was played in O’Neills Treshing field which was at the back of the O’Neill household on the top of Ballinacrea Hill. At that time the entrance to O’Neill’s was through the present Gordon Jones family yard on the cart road up to the top of the hill through a wooden gate and you were in the field. When in that field it was possible to see fourteen or fifteen counties or more if your eye sight was good enough.

Thanks to Gerry Keogh Aclare for all his research on above and also his brothers for their help.

1917

May 6th Drumphea 0-3 Bagenalstown 0-3 at Drumphea,

May 20th Coolroe 2-7 Drumphea 1-5 at Ballymurphy,

On Sunday last at Ballymurphy a friendly football match was played the teams being Coolroe (Kilkenny) and Drumphea Carlow, and as each team are aspirants for county championship honors a keen contest and a good exhibition of the game was to be expected and those who travelled to the match were well rewarded. In the early stages of the game it looked as if the Drumphea men were going to be the victors, and rigid well did they keep up the pressure until half time at which time they were leading with the scores at Drumphea 1 goal 5 points Coolroe 1goal 3 points. On the change of sides the followers of the Drumphea men were somewhat confident that their team would emerge victorious. But the Coolroe stalwarts whose prowess as footballers needs no introduction were not to be defeated and they set themselves a going and soon equalized. Excitement at this time was running high each side pressing for victory with grim determination and at the closing stages of a fast and scientific hours play the Coolroe men were declared the winners, the score being

Coolroe 2goals 7 points Drumphea 1 goal 5 points, Mr. H. Wallace Graignamanach as referee was most satisfactory.

1918

Nationalist & Leinster Times Saturday August 10th 1918

GAA

Gaelic Sunday in Carlow

Every Club turned out on Sunday and played arranged games.

In some places the attendance would have been better, but the anilable attitude of the Government, and their throwing up of the sponge as regards Gaelic games showed that Gaelic Sunday had gained its points before hand, and that being done many people stayed at home and were satisfied.

Good games were played in Carlow at several venues. At Rathvilly before a small crowd Clonmore and Grange played a draw, while the senior contest Rathvilly v Bennekerry had to be abandoned owing to rain.

At Bagenalstown a medicore game between Graigue and Nurney attracted a small field and Nurney won rather easily. At Ballon the home team beat Clonegal while the Tullow Kildavin match was stopped owing to the rain.

The junior game Myshall v Drumphea arranged for Myshall collapsed owing to the non- appearance of Drumphea. At Borris Drumphea seniors played a team from over the border, but we cannot understand why they should ignore the fixtures of their own county committee which they ought to have known were arranged. Myshall had a healthy practice at home with a sizeable crowd present.

At St. Mullins a very good match was played between parish teams representing Drummond and Bahana, and we have it on Fr. Owen Brennan’s authority that a club is being organised down south which will be affiliated to the county committee and will be therefore eligible for junior league.

This prompts us to ask cannot Ballymurphy, Clashganny or Borris do likewise.

The newly formed Tinryland junior club kept the Sunday by turning out en masse at practice.

At Castledermot the locals and Kilkea also met in a friendly combat.

The meeting of the County Committee arranged for Sunday will not take place till Sunday week, but as it is a closed Sunday in the county, it is hoped all Gaels will support the Newtown Sports (Fenagh) which is hoping be’d for such a laudable object and which promises to be a huge success

The Nationalist & Leinster Times Saturday August 17th 1918

“Lorcan” writing in the “Irishman” says:

“The programme of Gaelic Sunday was carried out without a hitch fifteen hundred Gaelic Matches being played without interference. The action of the authorities was in sharp contrast as compared with their work the previous Sunday when nine school boys were arrested in the Phoenix Park for kicking a ball. Unlike our despotic rulers Irish Ireland did not applaud its own victory, though a feeling of intense satisfaction was felt the success of their determination to fight the issue to the finish.

The good order that prevailed even in the hour of victory was a credit and typical of the Gael.

The Central and Provincial Councils and Co Boards are to be commended on the perfect organisation that marked the proceedings. In only one case did the arranged contest fail to come off and the failure was due to a misunderstanding on the part of one of the teams as to the venue. Gaels have every reason to feel proud of Gaelic Sunday which was an event that will take due prominence in the history of our Country’s fight for its ancient freedom.”

August 4th 1918                  100              August 4th 2018

One hundred years on Cumann Luthchleas Gael Ceatharlach will reflect on Gaelic Sunday and we salute all the men women and children who stood shoulder to shoulder in our county Ceatharlach to make Gaelic Sunday the success it was against all adversity, and from that the legacy they handed down to us to the present day.

Reflection will be during the interval at the championship games in Netwatch Cullen Park on Saturday 4th August and Sunday 5th of August. This was one of the most defining moments in the history of Cumann Luthchleas Gael and they came through with flying colours and our Parish also came through.

1919

Drumphea played in the senior grade in 1919 and they lost to the powerful Graiguecullen they then joined up with Myshall after that. However the Black & Tan troubles and dangerous times kept football very restricted Gerry Fenelon Carrig

October 12th 1919 Palatine 2-3 Drumphea 0-4 semi-final of the junior football championship at Nurney

1920

Mr. O’Sullivan a teacher in Garryhill School got a letter to say his family home in West Cork was burned to the ground and two brothers arrested soon after he was removed from Garryhill.

There was very little football in the county in the early 20s Gerry Fenelon Carrig.

1921

July 10th Bagenalstown 2-3 Drumphea 1-0 junior football championship.

1922

Myshall were back again in the 1922 junior final which was played in 1923, but were beaten by Hacketstown Mick McQuaids.

It was hard enough to keep clubs going during the nineteen and twenties. The 1916 rising and above all the bitter Civil War had split some families and left very sore marks on families neighbours and friend clubs and counties. Thankfully the GAA and the love for its games will always be remembered for bringing families and communities back together after they were torn apart by the Civil War, hardship and poverty.

1923

Nationalist & Leinster Times,   

On Sunday next at Tullow, Hacketstown and Myshall meet in the final of the junior League. Both teams have got through their preliminary rounds in convincing fashion and their meeting in the final is anxiously looked forward to by their connections.

Sunday 25th March

GAA Co. Carlow Football League Final

Hacketstown 0-2     Myshall 0-0

Hacketstown defeated Myshall by two points after a strenuous though rather rough struggle on Sunday last at Tullow. Fouls especially on the Myshall side were very glaring and probably lost them the match. It is to be hoped that during the coming season there will be more training and considerably fewer fouls. For Myshall, Murphy (captain), Ryan, O’Hara, and Byrne played a good game. While Keating, Plant, and Keeffe were conspicous for the winners The County Committee presented the medals to Tom Molloy (Capt) after the match. 

June 10th     

Milford 5-2 Myshall 0-0,   junior football championship,

June 17th    

Myshall 3-1 Hacketstown 0-1(Boys)

1924

15th June

Muinebeag 2-2 Myshall 0-0 minors at Muinebeag.

16th November

Milford 0-0 Myshall 0-0 semi-final of junior football championship  

14th December

Myshall lost to Milford in the junior championship replay.         

Tailtean Games in Croke Park Fr. Prendergast C.C and Paddy Murphy represented Carlow in Handball. 

1926 

The late Bishop Patrick Lennon D.D. won a flash lamp in an under 14 race at a Parochial Parish sports day in Myshall in 1926 in the field where the houses in Mountain View now are.

Folklore had it:  It was a field day that there was a tournament game between Myshall and Borris. As was the custom in those days Borris arrived in Myshall early and all had a few jorums along with the locals in Corrigans (Corner House). Both teams agreed that they didn’t want the match a runaway for one side or the other and to give people value for money especially as it was a parochial sports. Borris had a great player Bill Doyle.  Tom Doyle of Doyle’s Cross was also a noted player and he would be playing at midfield for Myshall and Bill Doyle (no relation) playing at midfield for Borris. They all agreed in Corrigans, Bill Doyle would go for the first ball catch it  and kick it down the field for Borris, Tom would go for the second ball and kick it up the field for Myshall and this pattern to continue throughout the game. The game started and as planned Bill Doyle went high caught the first ball and kicked it down the field. Tom went every bit as high for the second ball and kicked it up the field for Myshall. This went on for a good bit and the big mighty big crowd were really geared up urging on their teams. The heat of battle was at simmering point, Bill Doyle went for what by agreement was his ball, Tom in top form came thundering out of nowhere and took the ball off Bill.  Bill said, “Ah God Tom that was my ball you shouldn’t have went there,” to which Tom replied “sorry Bill I forgot, I forgot”.

The pace of the game was now in overdrive and Tom and Bill played good football for about another ten minutes without clashing. Bill went for another high ball and again Tom went high caught the ball and flattened Bill in the process. Bill got up and said very cross to Tom, “You shouldn’t have went for that ball” to which Tom replied equally as cross and with fire in his belly “I’d go for it if me mother was there” to which Bill Doyle replied “You don’t think much of your Mother” Not sure whether the game finished or not. (Sean Keogh might have a bit more to add here)

1927

Sunday 26th March

Football; In the Football arena, Bagenalstown on Sunday was something akin to the days that are passed.  Two excellent matches were provided andparochial sport enthusiastic gathering of spectators. The ‘All Blacks’ (Leighlinbridge) opposed Drumphea in the first game, resulting in a win for the former.  In the second match Bagenalstown defeated Ballinkillen by a good margin.

Saturday 21st May (preview)

The opening round of the Carlow Junior football championship will take place at Borris on Sunday May 22nd when Drumphea will oppose Ballymurphy, Drumphea who have not been seen in the football arena for some time, will field a strong team, while Ballymurphy led by Bill Doyle will take some beating. The match is billed for 4 o’clock new time. Mr Peter Hickey will have charge of the whistle.

Saturday 28th May

The first round of the County Carlow Junior Football Championship played at Borris on Sunday, resulted in a very disappointing contest.  The competing teams were Drumphea and Ballymurphy, and the latter had the best of matter for the twenty minutes played, scoring two points per Whelan and Doyle. Some altercation then arose, and a Drumphea player struck Whelan (Ballymurphy).  Mr. Peter Hickey referee intervened and ordered the offending player to retire. This ruling apparently did not meet with some of the player’s supporters who withdrew and declined to continue.   

“Drumphea entered two teams and Myshall and Ballon played with them. In a championship game the No 1 team drew against Ballymurphy, during this game Tom Doyle was ordered off Maurice Doyle from Ballon walked off and Paddy Murphy captain called the team off. Bally murphy won the replay and went on to win the County Championship (Gerry Fenelon Carrig)`

 26th June

Drumphea won v Coolnasneaghta

7th August

Aclare v Coolnasnaughta

The early stages of the Gaelic Athletic Association went through many trials tribulations and setbacks and it’s a tribute to the men and women of Ireland since Michael Cusack lit the flame in Thurles in 1884, they never wilted and kept the flame and passion of Gaelic Games burning brightly through thick and thin to this day.

It was the same in our parish as elsewhere in Ireland. Interest had arisen again in many town lands and groups of young men would meet and kick football until dark in the long summer evenings as there was nothing else to do. It must be remembered that the young people had very little mode of transport other than walking so hence the groups played in fields short distances from where they were living.

Groups played in Barron’s Bog Coolnasneaghta, The Bawnogue Cranemore, and more played in Bayley’s Field, the field on the left after crossing Aclare Bridge on the road to Kildavin, others played in the field at the Taylors Cross at the back of John and Sally Murphy’s house and there were many more fields used. 

While it was most enjoyable there was very little organised clubs or teams.  To progress the game the young men eager to try their skills and prowess against the next fellow asked Andy Keogh Aclare if he could get teams together to play one another. Andy got John Kearney Kylemaglush (Ballybree), a young Dan Jordan Coolnasneaghta and John Dobbs, Aclare and they went to see the lads playing in the different fields.  Of course, many people were working on farms and the manual work kept them naturally fit.

The four people named did good work they formed teams and there was great excitement when it became known they were playing a couple of challenge games with each other.  It seems they were playing under the early rules as laid down by the GAA but if they didn’t work, they made them up as they went along or whatever suited. The teams were also changed and mixed up for the different challenge games.

Finally, they selected two teams one was Aclare the other was Coolnasneaghta and they played a proper game under County Board rules in late Summer of 1927.  Aclare colours were Royal Blue and Coolnasneaghta Grey.   Fr. Dowling Parish Priest of Myshall refereed the game and it ended all square, Coolnasneaghta 1-2 Aclare 1-2. Folklore handed down was that “the game was a good tough encounter, hard but fair no quarter asked or given and sporting all the way through. Each side had chances to win and didn’t take them, and a draw was a fair result. A great crowd of spectators and supporters attended and many on the sideline were ready, willing and able to strike a blow in the cause of their beloved Town land if the need arose.”   Also a few names on each side caught the eye of the spectators and they described them as ‘a great footballer’, ‘a he’s a dandy’ this always applied to a player with blonde wavy hair, ‘a lovely footballer’ or ‘a mighty man’, and of course the most famous one, ‘He’s a hard root’

After the match the two team’s subs and mentors were treated to a sit-down meal and a drink sponsored by the Corner Pub in Myshall owned by the Corrigan’s also a very sporting family. Some of the games were played in the field on the right-hand side of Cullen’s Corner now owned by the Brennan Family and it is believed the Aclare v Coolnasneaghta game was played on Corrigans Hill Ballinacrea.  

Aclare

Colours: Royal Blue

John Dobbs

Aclare

    John Kenny Paddy O’Neill Dan O’Brien

Cranemore Coolnasheagaun Aclare

Charlie Murphy Hugh Baggett Peter Hughes

Cranemore Cranemore Aclare

Andy O’Neill John Somerton

   Coolnasheagaun Worked at Rothwell’s

Andy Nolan Tom Dobbs Jimmy Curry

Rossacurra Aclare Cranemore

Jack Murphy Tom Curry Andy Keogh

  Cranemore Lower Cranemore Aclare (over 40)

Subs on the day   Simon Donnelly (age 16) on holidays at O’Neill’s,       Jim O’Rourke Knockbrack, Dick Farrell Upper Cranemore, John Byrne Scratoe, John Wall Knockanacree, Chester Whelan worked at Rothwell’s,  Mark Rothwell Lower Cranemore

                                           Coolnasnaughta             Colours Grey

Ger Cosgrove

Shean

Tommie Fox              Tom Fitzgerald       John Jones

Shean                             Miltown                 Shean

Jim Kavanagh          Stephen Garrett    John Barron

Ratheenleigh            Ratheenlee                Coolnasneaghta

Nick Kelly (captain)             Jack Kavanagh (6 feet 6 inches)

Knockdrumagh                     Coolnasneaghta

Ned Murphy             Dan Fitzpatrick               John Dowling

Croanruss                    Bealalaw                    Croanruss

Peter Doyle                   Dan Jordan                    Paddy O’Donoghue

Bealalaw                      Coolnasneaghta                     Ratheenleigh

Subs on the day;   Pat Barron Coolnasneaghta, John Canavan Coolnasneaghta, Dickie Kavanagh, Coolnasneaghta, Ned Brennan Bealalaw, Referee Fr. Dowling P.P. Myshall

Thanks to Ger Keogh for all information

1928 -29

Aclare

Pat O’Neill Coolnasheagaun Chairman, Mick Byrne Barragh Secretary, John Dobbs Aclare Trainer,  James Nolan Rossacurra, (goal), James Byrne Scratoe (captain), Patrick Kavanagh Aclare, Patrick Keogh Aclare, John Farrell Cranemore, Laurence Byrne Cranemore, Michael Cunningham Ballinvalley, Michael Kavanagh Myshall Hill, Anthony McDonald Moneygrath, Patrick Murphy Rossacurra, Jim Murphy…….., Pat Murphy …….,  Andrew Nolan Rossacurra, Patrick O’Neill Coolnasheagaun, John Kavanagh Cranemore, Michael Farrell Cranemore, Thomas Farrell Cranemore, Dan Jordan Ballinvalley, Patrick Kavanagh Myshall Hill, John McDonald Moneygrath Michael Townsend Clonelea, Jimmy Murphy Rossacurra, James Murphy Rossacurra, John O’Brien Aclare, 

Field opposite Kennedys Cross was where the team trained and played.

Junior Football Championship

It would appear from research that Coolnasnaughta and Myshall had teams that took part in the 1928 junior football championship Coolnasnaughta played Balinkillen in Borris,  the Coolnasnaughta men were Martin McDonnell, Dan Jordan, Mick Mullins, Dan Mullins, Paddy Mullins, Tommy Kelly, John Kavanagh, Tom Donoghue, Artie Keogh, Paddy Kavanagh (Aclare), Mattie Kavanagh Shean,

Jim Walsh, (Killaughternane), Paddy Connell (Killaughternane), Jim Tuite (Killaughternane), Mick Tracey (Seskin). Ballinkillen won that game which meant Coolnasnaughta were out of the championship for that year.

It’s hard to believe that Myshall who competed in the first ever Carlow football championship semi-final had to wait a further forty years before history smiled on them to reach their first final, although Drumphea had broken the ice winning the 1917 junior final,

Myshall drew against Ballymurphy in the first round and won the replay.

They played Ballinkillen in the second round and won easily, that panel was Tom Doyle Shangarry, Jay Doyle Shangarry, Peter Nolan Roslee, John Nolan Roslee, Johnny Carroll Lismaconly, Paddy Murphy Lismaconly, Dinny McAuliffe Barragh, Nick Kelly Myshall, Charlie Nolan Shean, Robert Nolan Shean, Gerry Fenelon Carrig, Tom Fitzgerald ‘The Forge,’ Mick O’Hara Drumphea, Mylie Byrne Knockindrane, Paddy Kavanagh Shangarry, Garda Logan. 

They then went on to beat Kildavin in the semi-final and were now in the final.  However, on the other side objections from Kilbride and Palatine meant that the final was held up until May 1929  

1928 Junior Football Championship

Although it was played in May 1929 at the famous ‘Bog in Bagenalstown’ this was where people had to cross the Barrow in a boat or raft at Rudkins Mill and cross a field before they came to the pitch.   The game was a draw at full time. The replay was also a draw at full time with Myshall winning in extra time by eight points

The following account is take from the Nationalist and Leinster Times Saturday May 11th 1929;

Carlow Junior Football Championship

(Sunday 5-5-1929)

Before a large and enthusiastic gathering at Muinebeag on Sunday last Palatine and Myshall played a draw in the final of the Carlow junior football championship. The day was beautifully fine. The Myshall forwards did badly and in this respect compared unfavourably with the Palatine front line who allowed few scoring opportunities to pass.

The backs on both sides showed to advantage and for the greater part it was a keen hard-fought game. In the first half palatine got away from the throw in and soon after a scramble near the Myshall goal scored a major. This start seemed to dishearten the Myshall boys and play for the greater portion of the first half was in Myshall territory. Nearing the interval Myshall wakened up and scored a point which was disallowed. From a free close in for Myshall J. Doyle scored a neat point. This brightened the Myshall hopes. Play then swerved around and Palatine had three points in quick succession. The interval scores were Palatine 1 goal and 3 points Myshall 1 point.  On resuming Myshall had most of the play and the ball only twice left Palatine territory

In succession, J. Doyle took several ‘50s’ for Myshall and cantered them beautifully but of no avail. Still keeping up the pressure Myshall from a ‘50’ by J. Doyle to Nolan on the left wing who cantered brought play into the Palatine goal mouth and from a scrimmage scored a goal. This brought the scores level, and Myshall were pressing hard when the final whistle went, leaving the scores 1 goal and 3 points each. Mr T.  Kinsella was an impartial and capable referee.

Nationalist & Leinster Times, Saturday June 15th 1929      

Football at Bagenalstown  (Replay Sunday June 9th 1929)

Myshall 2-9   Palatine 2-1 (AET)

“At the Bagenalstown Gaelic Field on Sunday before a large attendance of Gaels Myshall defeated Palatine in the final of the 1928 J.F.C.  About five weeks ago these teams met and played a drawn game, so the replay on Sunday last was eagerly awaited and looked forward to. The enthusiasm of the followers of each team reached a high pitch during the progress of the game on Sunday and excitement was intense when the hour’s play ended in another draw. A consultation between both captains and the referee was then held when it was decided to play an extra half hour.

If this protracted struggle was disappointing to the teams, it at least had the merit of intensifying the interest of the spectators. On the third attempt the title went to Myshall though palatine strove hard for victory. Ill-luck and erratic shooting were responsible for Palatine’s failure in the closing stages, while Myshall worked like Trojans and lost no opportunity.

The Play

Palatine winning the toss, elected to play with the breeze and the hill, Myshall facing the sun. Palatine secured from the throw in, and a foul about thirty yards out gave them an opportunity but their forwards sent wide. A combined effort by   Myshall at midfield put McAuliffe in possession but he sent wide. From the kick out Dillon secured for Palatine and neatly placed the ball for Palatine to open the scoring with a goal. This put life in to the Myshall players and they soon scored a minor.  Palatine was soon again pressing when Curran from a difficult angle sent wide, but amends were soon made when Dillon from the kick out secured the ball and dribbled into the net for Palatine’s second goal. Play at this period was all in the Myshall territory and there defence was hotly contested. A further goal scored by Palatine was disallowed. Towards the captain)  first half Myshall seemed to be getting into their stride, but their forwards missed several good openings. The half time score was Palatine 2-0 Myshall 0-1.

On resuming Myshall broke away to send wide. After the kick out Myshall again got possession and McAuliffe scored a minor. Fouls at midfield were rather frequent and two frees taken by Doyle went for naught. Palatine was soon attacking, but Mick O’Hara saved well and sent the ball to midfield where Lar Byrne sent to Nick Kelly who scored Myshall’s first major. The scores now stood 2-0 to 1-2 in Palatine’s favour and the struggle for supremacy became more and more determined. The excitement reached its highest point when Paddy Murphy added the equaliser and a deafening cheer from the Myshall supporters greeted Jay Doyle’s point to give Myshall the lead. Soon after from a ’50 Dillon balanced the score and despite great efforts by both teams the final whistle found the scores level 2-1 to 1-4.

The teams agreeing to play the extra thirty minutes the ball was soon again in motion but during this final phase Myshall monopolised the play and added a further goal and five points per Nolan and McAuliffe while their opponents failed to register a single score. The spectators waited for play to swing around but in vain and Myshall were declared winners on the score Myshall 2-9 to Palatine’s 2-1. Mr Michael Byrne was a most important referee.”

Thanks to the Nationalist for preserving such a vivid account of this event. Lists of players were seldom published and placing’s never until after the Golden Jubilee Year of 1934. In fact many sets of jerseys had no numbers printed on them

After much inquiring the following seems to be the Myshall team in positional sequence on that memorable day

Dan Dowling

Ballinacrea

Tom Fitzgerald                   Mick O’Hara          Peter Nolan

Miltown                    Drumphea                     Rosslee

Jay Doyle                  Charlie Nolan                      Tom Doyle

Shangarry                     Shean                      Shangarry

Gerry Fenelon           Mylie Byrne

Carrig                    Rathnageera

Lar Byrne                  Nick Kelly                 Robert Nolan

Strawduff                     Myshall                Shean

Paddy Murphy (Capt)    Dinny McAuliffe      John Nolan

Lismaconly                Myshall                 Rosslee

Others to play during the championship, Paddy Kavanagh Shangarry Richie’s father) came in for Peter Nolan Rosslee, (injured in the final)  Ned Nolan Rosslee Cross, Dinny Nolan Ballaghmore Cross, Paddy Carroll Shangarry,  Garda Lohan,  Mick  O’Brien Barrack who went on to win an All-Ireland Junior football championship with Wicklow in 1936 .

There was no cup in 1928 only medals which was presented by Matty Doyle a trader in Myshall Paddy Murphy Lismaconly was captain and the team were presented with their medals on Saturday November 1st, 1929, at Corrigans of Myshall, later to become ‘Doyle’s of Myshall’ of surely was a great night in the village and there were many great days and nights thereafter .

Andy Nolan was Chairman, and Dinny McAuliffe who was a bar man at Corrigans  was secretary of the Club left for America shortly after the final and Dan Dowling Ballinacrea took over as secretary.

“Some players called Myshall no Ballon players. The 1928 final was played in 1929. Fenagh Coursing Club put up a set of medals.  Myshall drew against Ballymurphy and won the replay. They beat Kildavin in the semi-final, but objections from Kilbride and Palatine held up the final until May of 1929. Myshall v Palatine in the final which was a draw on Sunday May 5th, 1929, the teams met again on Sunday June 9th in The Bog in Bagenalstown and it was another draw, but after extra time Myshall won by a double score in the end. Gerry Fenlon was marking Tom Dillon there was no trainer”                                                                         Gerry Fenlon Carrig

1929

“Myshall beat Leighlin and so went on to beat Kildavin in Kilbride in the semi-final. Myshall played senior after 1929 with the majority of the 1928 team. Bagenalstown beat Myshall in Borris in 1929.  Myshall were beaten by O’Hanrahans in Bagenalstown in 1930”

                                                                                                           Gerry Fenlon Carrig

1930

“There was no team from 1930 to 1933. Fr. Flood came to Myshall in 1933 and reorganised the team.  Tom and Jay Doyle came back from Kilbride”                            Gerry Fenlon Carrig

1931    No team

1932 No team

1933 No team     

1934    Fr. John Flood came to Myshall as a CC.

1935    Started an area junior hurling team

1936    A large area team contested the junior hurling league or championship final

1937

The club had a lot of players and entered two teams in the junior football championship of 1937. With two good sides and particularly the first team they looked odd’s on to win the junior football championship. However Ballon came and defeated Myshall’s second team in the semi-final, and a couple of weeks later they defeated the number one team by 3-3 to 0-1.

Paddy Murphy Lismaconly who had captained the team in 1928 came on as a sub at forty two years of age and scored Myshall’s only point.

1938

More subdued after the disappointing year before Myshall with striped Black and Amber jerseys battled back and beat Ballymurphy by a single point 0-5 to 0-4 in the junior football championship final.

Paddy O’Neill played Co. Minor for Carlow 

1940

Intermediate Football Final played on Sunday April 28th 1940

Myshall 0-14      Leighlinbridge 0-7

Myshall won the 1939 Intermediate football championship played in Dr. Cullen Park on last Sunday when they defeated Leighlinbridge by double scoring 14 points to 7.  The issue was never in doubt as from the early stages of the game it was clearly to be seen that Leighlinbridge were quite unable to hold their opponents.  Sunday’s victory showed that their lapse was only a temporary show down as their record in the County Grounds for the past few seasons is unequalled by any other country club on account of their long line of successes  achieved at this venue. It is not necessary to go in to details of the game as Myshall played well to a man and to single out a few for special mention is no reflection on the remaining ones. Blanch last year’s junior star put in sterling service for the hour. Smithers, Nolan, Fox and Doyle were also outstanding in this great game .It is surprising that the County selectors selecting the county junior team could not find at least a half a dozen of the 30 who played on Sunday, to acquit themselves more creditably there on.   It is to be hoped that this victory will give a new impetus to the Myshall Club who should now leave no stone unturned to make their club a foremost one in our county.

Does anyone know the line out and the subs?

                                                                 Dan Dowling,

Peter Nolan,                  Andy Jordan,                 Willie Fenelon,

Charlie Nolan             Jack Kavanagh           Willie Handrick

Paddy Smithers                   Johnny Fox

Paddy Fitzgerald                   Paddy Ryan             Mick McCormack

                          Pa Blanch                            Jim Handrick                Jay Doyle

Subs?

Sunday May 19th 1940

In Co. Carlow

Myshall 1-4    Ballymurphy 0-4

Myshall successfully defended their Intermediate Title (Dr. Cullen Par Tournament) at Muinebeag on Sunday where they defeated Ballymurphy by a one goal margin thus qualifying to meet the winners of the Leighlinbridge v Shamrocks game in the semi-final.   Ballymurphy had many defections from their full strength team and never showed a glimpse of last year’s form.  Myshall had the assistance of two former Kilbride players Smithers and Maher who were the big men of the match as they held up the southerners many attacks well and but for their fine displays Ballymurphy would have obtained full points.

Play opened in favour of Myshall and Smithers and Ryan had points before Kennedy replied for Ballymurphy.   Myshall again went ahead from frees by Doyle, and Ballymurphy came back for a second minor from Kennedy which left the interval score 4 points to 2 in favour of Myshall.

In the second half play was of an even nature until Smithers had a Myshall goal turning in to the last quarter.  But Ballymurphy made a spurt towards the end and had points by Magee and Byrne to close the scoring. Mr. Willie O’Connor Refereed    

From the Bagenalstown notes

G.A.A.

The Myshall v Ballymurphy clash here on Sunday attracted quite a good crowd who witnessed a game which though keen and exciting fell somewhat short of the standard expected.  Myshall were the superior team right through and their victory was well deserved.

Sunday June 16th 1940

Myshall 1-7 Shamrocks 1-2

The Intermediate teams furnished a good exhibition of football with both sides featuring distinct styles of football.   Shamrocks favoured short nippy passing, which was sometimes overdone, while Myshall featured the long punt and high fielding and gave an exceptionally good display.  The return of Maher and Smithers to their colours was a vital factor in Sunday’s success as they were the principal steppingstone to shamrocks dismissal but taken all around the team is a much improved side from last year and will provide stout opposition in the final test. Play opened with Myshall attacking and Byrne in the Shamrock goal was called on to save before Doyle opened the scoring from a free.  Shamrocks levelled up from a free by Carpenter and took the lead when Kelly pointed from McEvoy’s drive.  With Myshall still under pressure Shamrocks maintained the fast pace and had a good goal coming as the result of effective work  by Carpenter McEvoy and Brien.   The scene of the attack changed, and J. Kavanagh reduced the lead and Myshall kept up the pressure for Smithers to add further points before the interval when the score stood 1-2 to 0-4 in Favour of Shamrocks.   Points by Doyle and Kavanagh after resumption did not augur well for Shamrocks but they fought on gamely against superior forces and tried hard to avert defeat but a goal by Fenlon sealed the issue for Myshall who finished deserving winners Jordan, Maher, Smithers, and J. Kavanagh were Myshall’s best with Carpenter and McEvoy outstanding for the Shamrocks.

Sunday July 7th 1940

Muinebeag 1-2        Myshall 0-3

Muinebeag emerged victorious over Myshall in the Intermediate final inflicting the first defeat of the season on the holders, whose tactics at times did not enhance their prospects. Play ran on even lines in the opening half but when Cahill flashed through a crowded goalmouth to the net Muinebeag established a grip on the exchanges which they held until the end. Brennan and Cahill in the second line of forwards, Darcy and Jones at centre field and May, O’Connor and Guilfoyle in defence were the most prominent of a well-balanced Muinebeag string whose victory was not out of place.  The losers were not as impressive as on previous occasions and though enterprise mostly of a negative variety was squandered in efforts to turn the tide, it only tangled them more hopelessly into the meshes of defeat.   Mr. Willie Hogan Graiguecullen refereed.

Nationalist & Leinster Times Saturday August 10th 1940 (Preview)

Muinebeag v Myshall

An Intermediate Championship tie will precede the big match at 3-00 pm summer time, between Muinebeag and Myshall who contested the Dr. Cullen Park final at the same venue last month. On that occasion Muinebeag got on top but the cause of Myshall’s failure was attributed to their tactics.  Myshall are the present holders of the title having defeated Leighlinbridge on a second outing. They are a strong Hefty lot and when they strike their best form can play football of a good standard, but their championship outlook has been to the wrong compass point so far this year.  The last two victories displayed football merit in Muinebeag that will probably suffice to overcome tomorrow’s opposition as their present fifteen are a well-knit team with a tenacity of purpose that has carried them thus far successfully. The match will be refereed by W. Hogan Graiguecullen.

Sunday August 11th 1940 Dr. Cullen Park

Muinebeag defeat Myshall

Muinebeag 3-6 Myshall 0-9

The intermediate championship which preceded the senior one was a closely fought struggle in which neither side could claim to have any marked superiority.  Both sides divided eighteen scores but in the Muinebeag total three green flags were included which left them winners by 3-6 to 0-9. On the face of this score they looked easy winners but in actual fact they were far from it. Until two quick goals were got at the end Myshall gave just as much as they had taken and had they been in lucks way they might easily have avoided defeat and possibly won. It was a bright and interesting game and the football was of a good standard. Fast and even play ruled throughout the opening half and the scores were level twice before Muinebeag went in to the lead before the interval 1-5 to 0-5. Early in the second half Myshall pressed strongly and were more in the picture than in the opening half. P. Smithers who supplied most of their total had three points and with fifteen minutes to go it was anybody’s game. Myshall lost a chance of going in front through over eagerness, before Muinebeag took the lead with a goal, and although Myshall made a determined effort to retrieve their fortunes. Muinebeag made the issue safe with a further goal just on time. Hickey Cahill and Ahern supplied the Muinebeag total, with Smithers and Kavanagh scoring for Myshall.

Teams;    Muinebeag; Cahill, Cahill, Phelan, Mahon, Mahon, Keegan, Jones, Darcy, O’Connor, May, Ahern Hickey, Brennan, Madden, Rowan

Myshall;     Kavanagh, Kavanagh, Kavanagh, Smithers, Smithers, Smithers, Fox, Jordan, Nolan, Nolan, Fitzgerald, Blanche, Fenlon, Dowling, Ryan

1941

Nationalist & Leinster Times Wednesday March 12th 1941

Co Board meeting in Tinryland Draws for the 1941 championships

Intermediate Football Championship;   Kilbride v Ballymurphy, Shamrocks v Palatine,   Ballinkillen v Leighlinbridge, Myshall a bye

Dr. Cullen Park Tournament

Myshall v Leighlinbridge, Shamrocks v Palatine, Kilbride v Palatine, Ballinkillen a bye

Junior Football Championship (South Division)

Nurney v Myshall, Fighting Cocks v Clonegal

Four players Andy Jordan Coolnasneaghta, Pat Nolan Shangarry, Jim Smithers Shean, Jack Kavanagh The Square were picked for a county junior football trial South v North.

Foot & Mouth Disease

The dreaded Foot & Mouth Disease broke out in 1941 with devastating effects on rural Ireland and particularly our parish 

1938-1939-1940 1941  needs to be researched more

1942

Research needs to be done here as it seems there was no team from any part of the the parish affiliated until 1955

However a lot of young men would have played trained and kicked football in different fields in the parish during the Summer evenings to pass the time most of these groups kicked in a field within walking distance of their area.  In a lot of cases there probably was no football, a football consisted of wads of paper stuffed in to a shopping bag made in to a round shape and tied really tight and would last a couple of evening and then that ‘football’ would have to be repaired or a new one made. If in a hurry it was often paper wrapped tight in a ball and tied that often was used.

None of these groups were affiliated to a county board, and didn’t take part in any championship or leagues. There is no great account of any of the groups.  Players from the parish went to neighbouring teams and played in championships and tournaments with them eg Ballinkillen, Kilbride, Fighting Cocks and maybe more.

It must be clearly remembered from the turn of the century Ireland was a very poor country. There was any amount of work for want of a better word slave labour with very little or no pay. People and families were starving and always under the constant fear of evictions and being thrown out on the side of the road, and evictions did happen.  One thing it did lead to was constant mass emigration of our young people men and women to England and America and they not knowing where they were going. It left a huge amount of broken hearts both at home and for the people that emigrated. Poverty loneliness and isolation played a big part in rural life for many years to come and it also played a massive role on the people that emigrated, never to be mended.