Boston Junior title for Donegal

Donegal 1-9 Aiden McAnespies 0-10

Donegal captured the junior A football championship in a very exciting, bruising, and tense encounter with Aiden McAnespies. Donegal played some great football, and forwards Paul Boyce and Aiden O’Hagen proved huge factors in their victory. Donegal led from the start but McAnespies made it close at the end, almost pulling off a late victory as Gary Hennessey’s shot flew over rather than under in bar during injury time.

Who would have thought that the same Donegal team defeated by Macs by 13 points earlier in the season could have beaten a Macs team going for their third title in a row. This was really a team effort that started the training session following the initial Macs defeat.

Donegal got off to a great start in the first meeting of the day between the two clubs, and got into a five points to two lead after 15 minutes. McAnespies then had the better of things for the remainder of the first half, but missed several good chances to score. In contrast, Donegal’s only foray forward resulted in a Paul Boyce point that lifted the siege. McAnespies’ Shane Lynn made it six points to three at the half with the game very much open.

Possession was keenly contested around the middle of the field, and each side fought hard to gain an advantage. Jonathan Byrne and Simon McDonagh for Donegal and Thomas Tuite and Shane Lynn for McAnespies contested everything as if their lives depended on it. McAnespies made inroads early in the half and reduced the deficit to a point with scores from Eugene McKenna and Tuite. However, Donegal came back with a score from a Paul Boyce free. Boyce then won a penalty that was taken by former Tyrone minor, Aiden O’Hagen. O’Hagen’s well directed shot found the back of the net and Donegal were five points to the good. McAnespies made a huge effort to cut into the lead. Barry Brogan ran from corner back to point, and Shane Lynn, McKenna and Nigel Regan each pointed to make it a two point game with less then 3 minutes left.


Paul Boyce was a contender for man of the match

Ricky Rush pointed to put Donegal three to the good again, but Gary Hennessey rushed through from midfield immediately from the ensuing kickout and his shot from the 21-yard line flew over the bar – a goal would have tied it. McAnespies put the pressure on Donegal in the final minutes in an effort to get the goal that would win the game, but Donegal held out and took the first of the games between the teams.

Donegal now face Ulster of San Francisco in the North American championship semi final on Saturday at 1:30 at the ICC. All support is appreciated, come support Donegal as they try to win their first American title.


Inishowen members from Donegal Club
Donegal: E. McLaughlin, D. Harkin, R. Grant, K. McGee, D. McNulty, F. Granaghan, S. McDonagh(0-1), J. Byrne(0-1), Paul Friel (0-1), Adrian O’Hagen (1-2), Paul Boyce (0-3), M. Corr, S. Kelly. Ricky Rushe (0-1). Macs: B. Arkinson, Barry Brogan (0-2), B. McMenamin, N. Clancy, C. Dempsey, Thomas Tuite (0-1), Shane Lynn (0-2), G. Hennessey, Nigel Regan (0-2), M. Doherty, E. Daly, P. Nugent, Eugene McKenna (0-4).

Donegal come up short in Championship decider

Aidan McAnespies 4-6 Donegal 1-7

McAnespies took their fourth championship in a row with a comprehensive victory over Donegal, and truth be told, the margin of victory could have higher. It seems a far cry from the Buffalo Bills days of the South Boston side when victory in the big one always escaped them. An early first half goal, followed by a second mid way through the half put the Macs in the drivers seat, while Donegal did nothing to help their cause. When enjoying a long spell of dominance in possession, and a chance to regain their footing and recover, Donegal kicked wide after wide. The usually reliable Kevin Curran and Dualtach Molloy missed some good chances, and Donegal’s hopes drifted away as the wides mounted.

McAnespies got off to a dream start, and never looked in danger of giving up their title from the word go. Conor McGourty goaled in the third minute, and the score was quickly followed with points from Steven McGettigan and Colm McCrory (free). McAnespies had a couple of chances to blow the game wide open before Doengal got a score. McGettigan found McGourty with a great pass and McGourty’s shot hit the post. Donegal introduced Ciaran Bonner to the fray in an effort to turn things around, and Bonner did bring some mettle to Donegal’s efforts. Dualtach Molloy finally pointed from a free after 10 minutes, but rather than settle down the side, Donegal proceeded to kick 5 wides. With Donegal enjoying a good spell in terms of possession, McAnespies netted a second time. Danny McBride was pulled down in the box as he bore down on goal, and Christy Lynch placed his shot well into the bottom corner. The wides mounted for Donegal as neither Dualtach Molloy nor Kevin Curran could find direction. Eventually Molloy pointed from play, and David Donegan put one over for McAnespies before the half time whistle. McAnespies by seven at the half; 2-3 to 0-2.

Things did not improve for Donegal after the restart. Within 3 minutes McAnespies had themselves another penalty and again, Lynch did not err in his shot. McAnespies now 10 points ahead. Frustation crept in for Donegal, Bonner had his name taken shortly afterwards. The futility of Donegal’s efforts were underlined by the removal of what had been the mainstays of their attack all season, Dualtach Molloy and Eamon Murphy. Ironically enough, their replacements, Michael McGinty and Ronan Diver each pointed shortly after their introduction. McAnespies regained control of affairs again, Alan Feeney, who had an outstanding game, and Christy Lynch who was on top of his man all day, each pointed from their back line. David Donegan also contributed on the scoreboard with a goal after 20 minutes and Donegal’s chances of winning evaporated completely. Plenty of satisfaction in the McAnespies camp having been beaten in each of the junior football finals, taking the big one more than makes up for it.

Macs: D. Traynor, Christy Lynch (2-1), G. Norton, David Donegan (1-1), N. Kerr, A. Feeney, M. Stanbrook, D. McBride, C. Galligan, D. Lally, Colm McCrory (0-1), Conor John McGourty (1-2), Steven McGettigan (0-1). Donegal: N. O’Connell, T. Maguire, P. Witherow, O. Wade, K. Cunningham, N. Hegarty, D. McNulty, R. McNeilis, Dualtach Molloy (0-1), E. Murphy, K. Curran, G. Concar, Declan Murphy (1-1). Subs: Michael McGinty (0-1), Ronan Diver (0-2), Ciaran Bonner (0-1).

Report by Rory o'Donnell Thar an Trasna blogspot

Sundays final results

Sundays Results
Junior A Football: McAnespies 0-10 Donegal 1-09

Senior Football: McAnespies 4-6 Donegal 1-7

Reports to follow

Tones Wilt under Donegal Pressure

Donegal team that defeated the Wolfetones to qualify for Boston final

North Eastern Senior Championship Semi Final, Boston, MA Sunday August 18th

By Rory O’Donnell

Wolfe Tones 0-6 Donegal 1-15

Donegal advanced to the senior football final in impressive fashion with a resounding win over the Wolfe Tones. Donegal totally outclassed their opponents, who this scribe favoured, and in the end ran out easy winners. Donegal saw the return of Dualtach Molloy and Ciaran Bonner made a short reappearance, but had to leave the field due to injury. From the middle of the first half Donegal took control of the game and the Tones could not find their way back into it and surely will be thinking that they could have left more on the field by the time it was all over.

Donegal came out all guns blazing in the first half and worked themselves into an eight point lead over the first 30 minutes. Donegal were first to the ball in the back line and the forwards were one step ahead of their markers. The northerners played the ball well into the forward line and enjoyed plenty of possession from the midfield exchanges. The Wolfe Tones did well in the first quarter of the game, Jamie Murphy and Sean McVeigh pointed, each a fine score. Donegal proceeded to take over for the remainder of the half. The Tir Chonaill men scored nine points to a single point for the Tones in final 20 minutes of the half. Dualtach Molloy was a sure thing with free kicks and put four in a row over the bar. The Tones could not find room when in possession and when Donegal had the ball were searching for answers on how to stop their opponents. Eamon Murphy, Gareth Concar, and Ronan McNeilis also found the mark for Donegal.



The second half was a replay of the first, only worse from a Wolfe Tones perspective. Mick Sammon, who entered the fray as a sub, saw red as his challenge on Ciaran Bonner, who also came in for Donegal, was deemed worthy of a sending off. Dara Joyce put two early points over for the Tones, each a rousing score, but the Tones did not manage to raise themselves. Donegal continued to pick off the points, and a goal came from Concar to well and truly kill the game. Donegal advance to final with an impressive performance and a margin of victory that nobody could have expected. Doneagl now play Aidan MacAnespies in the championship final in what is sure to be an epic encounter. A place in the North American final awaits the winners.

Tones: W. O’Dowd, N. McKenna, D. Scullane, E. Hickson, T. Meagan, K. Gorham, J. Farrell, S. McVeigh, J. Murphy, D. Joyce, C. Farrell, M. Farrell, S. Kelly.

Donegal: N. O’Connell (Kildare), P. Witherow (St.Michaels), T. Maguire (Ardara), N. Hegarty (Kilcar), K. Cunningham (Kilcar), E. Wade (Glenties), R. McNeilis (Gweedore), D. McNulty (Fermanagh), D. Molloy (St. Eunans), E. Murphy (Kildare), K. Curran (Robert Emmets), G. Concarr (Ardara), D. Murphy(Tyrone) subs: C.Bonner (Glenswilly) for Wade, M McGinty (MacCumhaills) for Bonner, Paul Roper (Aodh Ruadh) for Hegarty, Sean Lee(Cavan), Ronan Diver (Gweedore)

Referee: Paddy Russell (Tipperary)

Donegal Juniors make Boston final

North Eastern Junior Championship Semi Final, Boston, MA Sunday August 18th
Donegal 1:12
Cork 1:04

The sunshine returned to Canton for the opening game of the day as Donegal pitted themselves against the men of Cork for a place in this years Junior Championship final. Donegal had already beaten Cork in an earlier league game so Cork were out for revenge. Donegal hit the field running but failed to convert a number of excellent scoring chances. Donegal continued to press the Cork defense and the break through score came from the boot of Galbally, Tyrone native Micky Corr when he blasted to the back of the Cork net. Cork struggled to get through a stubborn Donegal defense marshaled by Fermanagh man Darryl Mc Nulty. Ciaran McGee was also having his best game of the season in the half back line. Donegal tagged on a number of points through Tyrone man Aidan O’Hagan. Cork did push forward for 2 first half points but that was all they would muster. Donegal could have had this game won at half time but 8 first half wides meant that Cork were still in with a shout. Donegal led at the break 1:04 to 0:02. Donegal continued where they left off and punished Cork with a number of quick scores coming from Paul Friel and Simon McDonagh. A missed Donegal penalty rebounded to the boot of Micky Corr who made no mistake in putting the ball over the bar from a tight angle. Further scores came from O’Hagan and Boyce. Cork did break for a goal midway through the second half, but at this stage Donegal were already cruising to a comfortable victory. Donegal will now meet Aidan MacAnespies in the divisional decider. This is a repeat of the 2006 final when the Macs defeated a Donegal side aiming to retain the trophy. Macs are now going for three in a row in the Junior competition. Donegal will be pulling out all the stops to make sure they are champions for 2008. A place in the North American finals awaits the winner.

Donegal Team: Emmet McLaughlin(Moville), Damian Harkin (Urris), Rory Grant(Burt), Felix Granaghan (Bundoran), Daryl McNulty (Fermanagh), Kieran McGee (Robert Emmets), Jonathan Byrne (Malin), Simon McDonagh ( St.Johns, Antrim), Paul Friel Capt (Urris), Aidan O'Hagan (Galbally, Tyrone), Paul Boyce (Carrigart), Shane Kelly (Urris), Michael Corr (Galbally, Tyrone) Subs:Paddy O’Connor (Tipperary), Mark Canny (Carndonagh), Danny Friel (Urris), Eamon Kelly (Buncrana), Ricky Rush(Robert Emmets), Colm O'Sullivan (Kerry)

Donegal too strong for Gaels

Donegal 2-8 Connemara Gaels 1-5

The Connemara Gaels could not overcome Donegal to keep them in with a chance of the senior playoffs, so it will be the Intermediate playoffs for the westerners. Donegal were that bit stronger in the middle of the field, quicker to the ball, and passed the ball well. By half time the chances of the Gaels pulling off a win were slim. Donegal had a nine-point lead and the Gaels had to work very hard for the three scores that were converted, though truth be told there could have, and some may argue should have, been two in the goal column for the Gaels.

Donegal’s quickness and speed had the Gaels under pressure for most of the first 30 minutes. Kevin Curran opened the scoring with a free and Eamonn Murphy followed with another. Kieran Cox snatched a goal chance in the opening exchanges and sent the ball narrowly wide from close range, however, Donegal made the most of their own goal chance shortly afterwards when Declan Murphy sold a dummy to Pat McNicholas and buried the ball with just the keeper to beat. Donegal five points to the good with the Gaels yet to score. James Carlin got the Gaels off the mark with a free, but the Gaels struggled to add to their tally for much of the period.

Declan Murphy tries to elude the attention of Michael Geoghan.

After Kevin Curran put another over for Donegal, Donal McNulty finished a fine move with a point. Eamonn Murphy added another and with Donegal holding a seven point lead , the Gaels enjoyed a brief period of pressure the yielded points from Tom McDonagh and Coleman Conroy. The Gaels could have had a goal, Niall O’Connell pulled off a brave save from McDonagh as the Leitir Mor man was bearing down on goal, and Carlin rocketed the ball off the crossbar in a sequence of play shortly afterwards. Donegal, however, finished the half well having weathered the storm. Curran and Murphy pointed, and Gareth Concar scored a second goal just before half time to put Donegal in the drivers seat for the next period.

The scores were few and far between in the second half and the game slowed considerably. The first 20 minutes saw McNulty put another fine point over the bar for Donegal and Carlin point from a free for the Gaels. The Gaels battled on and tried to whittle down the deficit, but the Donegal defence proved tough to break down. Carlin put another free over the bar, and Frank Niblock goaled from a 21-yard free to pull the Gaels within five points with five minutes to go. It was too little, too late however, as the Gaels could not complete the late rally, and Donegal march on to the senior championship playoffs.
Gaels: J. Flaherty, B. McLoughlin, P. McNicholas, Coleman Conroy (0-1), M. Geoghan, D. Burns, R. Hughes, G. O’Malley, K. Cox, Frank Niblock (1-0), V. O’Malley, Tommy McDonagh (0-1), James Carlin (0-3). Donegal: N. O’Connell, T. Maguire, S. Lee, N. Hegarty, K. Cunningham, P. Witherow, R. McNeilis, Donal McNulty (0-2), E. Wade, Eamonn Murphy (0-3), Kevin Curran (0-3), Gareth Concar (1-0), Declan Murphy (1-0).

By Rory O'Donnell @ http://tharantrasnan.blogspot.com/


In the junior game, Donegal also beat the Gaels, final scoreline of 6:22 to 1:07. In what was a very one sided affair from start to finish, Shane Kelly finished as Donegals top scorer with 2:05, hopefully Shane can carry this form through to the semi final meeting with Cork on Saturday August 16th. This will not be an easy game for the Donegal lads. Donegal got one over Cork during the league winning by 4 points, but the semi could be an even closer affair. The other semi will see Aidan MacAnespies up against Kerry.

Donegal Seniors beat Cork

Cork 0-8 Donegal 1-15

Donegal made short work of Cork in a one sided affair. With the rebels out of contention, and Donegal looking to book a place in the senior semi-finals, the motivation was with the northerners. Donegal did not need to shift into top gear to win the points from the game and sitting on 10 points, have now probably booked a place in the senior semi-finals.
Keith Cunningham eludes the attention of Niall Devlin.

Kildare man, Eamonn Murphy set the tone with a point right from the throw-in. Cian Griffin answered for Cork, but Donegal put 1-7 up before Cork scored again. Kevin Curran was in sharp form for Donegal, the seasoned campaigner put five of the seven Donegal points over the bar, two from frees. Ronan McNeilis and Donal McNulty were on top in the middle of the field as Cork struggled. The rebels did manufacture some decent chances, but they were few and far betweem. The best of them fell to lively Niall Devlin who was put through on goal, but Niall McConnell was equal to the shot and parried it over the bar for a point – Cork’s second and final score of the first half. Eamonn Murphy put a goal away before half time, the Leixlip man slid the ball into the far corner from the edge of the small square. At the half time whistle Cork were 10 points in the hole, 1-9 to 0-2 with little chance of digging themselves out of it.

Cork's Mike Moynihan and Ronan McNeilis Contest a kickout.
The second half was more of the same. Donegal eased off a little through the second 30 minutes. There was not much chance of an upset of the sort from the previous evening when Galway defeated the Wolfe Tones, and Christopher’s came within a whisker of upending Armagh-Notre Dame. Donegal introduced a few subs in the second half, and Cork tried to shift things around to get more change out of the Donegal back line. Kieran Connolly took a more forward position, while Devlin came deeper out the field. Cork fared better on the balance of play, but there was no doubt about who the winner would be. Conrad Bradley and Mike Moynihan get their names on the scorecard in the second half for Cork, but Declan Murphy, Eoin Wade, Eamon Murphy, Ronan Diver, and Kieran Mulvihill got in on the scoring act for Donegal. Not much of a test for Donegal, who may get a better gauge of where they stand when they face the Connemara Gaels in two weeks time.
Cork: K. Reid, M. Carolan, S. Caulfield, D. Kearns, J. Leonard, A. Creagh, Mike Moynihan (0-3), K. Connolly, D. O’Flynn, Conrad Bradley (0-1), K. Moriarty, Niall Devlin (0-3), Cian Griffin (0-1). Donegal: N. McConnell, S. Lee, T. Maguire, P. Witherow, K. Cunningham, Eoin Wade (0-1), D. McNulty, R. McNeilis, Kevin Curran (0-6), Eamonn Murphy (1-4), Ronan Diver (0-1), Declan Murphy (0-2), G.Concar. Sub: Kieran Mulvihill (0-1).

By Rory O'Donnell @ Thar An Trasnan

Donegal Juniors book semi final place

Donegal 2:10

Wolfetones 1:04

Canton, MA Sunday July 27th. Hot and humid conditions met both teams at the ICC Canton on Sunday morning. The Donegal juniors showed the greater hunger throughout and booked their place in the semi finals against either Kerry or Cork. A 2007 defeat to the Tones meant that Donegal failed to advance to the semi final stages, this never looked like happening today. Right from the opening whistle the Tones failed to deal with the Donegal forward line who attacked at every opportunity. As the Tones struggled to get the ball out past their own 45, Donegal forwards punished them on a number of occasions. Some fast thinking on a Donegal free allowed team captain Paul Friel to dribble around the Tones keeper and extend their first half lead. Half time score 1:06 to 0:02. It was much the same from Donegal in the second half and they continued to punish the Tones. As Donegals lead grew, it led to a number of personel changes and fresh legs coming into the team. Eamon Kelly missed a number of opportunities to further extend the northern mens lead. In the end Donegal proved too strong for a Wolfetones team that wont see the playoffs this year. All squad members had a big part to play in this win. Donegals defence excelled throughout with Rory Grant and Damian Harkin keeping the Tones danger men quiet. Simon McDonagh and Jonathan Byrne continue to form a formidable midfield partnership. In the forward line all men had a part to play especially Paul Boyce and our Tyrone friends Micky Corr and Aidan O'Hagan. After 5 games, Donegal have 4 wins. Our last league game is against the Conamara Gaels on Sunday August 3rd. All support is appreciated. Donegal team: Emmet McLaughlin(Moville), Damian Harkin(Urris), Rory Grant(Burt), Felix Granaghan(Bundoran), Daryl McNulty(Fermanagh), Kieran McGee(Robert Emmets), Jonathan Byrne(Malin), Simon McDonagh( St.Johns, Antrim), Paul Friel Capt(Urris), Aidan O'Hagan(Galbally, Tyrone), Paul Boyce(Carrigart), Shane Kelly(Urris), Michael Corr(Galbally, Tyrone) Subs Gareth Ruddy(Carndonagh), Mark Canny(Carndonagh), Kieran Friel (Urris), Eamon Kelly(Buncrana), Ricky Rush(Robert Emmets), Colm O'Sullivan (Kerry)

The Donegal team in their new kit sponsored by Sean Farrell Construction that defeated Kerry 1:14 to 0:06 on July 13th.

Mayo v Donegal July 20
Donegal 0-16 Mayo 1-4Donegal dispatched Mayo with little difficulty on a hot and humid afternoon. Mayo kept it level thru the end of the first quarter thanks to a somewhat fortunate goal, but after that Donegal imposed themselves on the game were always in control. From the middle of the field to lively corner forwards, Gareth Concar and Declan Murphy, Donegal dominated proceedings and set themselves up well for the run-in to the playoffs.The expectations were for Donegal to win this game, and the first half underlined the superiority of the northerners. Mayo put a point and goal together midway through the half, but spent most of the time trying to hold their opponents at bay rather than thinking too much about engineering scores of their own. Donegal put four points over the bar before Mayo got off the ground. Gareth Concar, Ronan McNeilis, and Kevin Curran each pointed for Donegal before Ronan Rochfort got Mayo on the scoreboard after 12 minutes. Mayo leveled the scores soon after with a goal from Sean Gerrity that might have Donegal management concerned with the defending.. A point attempt came high off the post, and Gerrity was waiting unimpeded to gather the ball and slip it below the keeper. All square. Not for long though as Donegal put another six points over the bar in the latter part of the half, while Mayo laboured to match their opponents. Gareth Concar and Declan Murphy were full of running in the Donegal full forward line. Concar was a major threat for Donegal, and had three points in his name before the half was out. Dualtach Molloy pointed twice before half time to put Donegal at a six point advantage.

Mayo claimed the first two scores of the second half – both points, and almost goaled but Pat Hickey’s shot came back into play off the inside of the post. Had it gone in it could have rattled Donegal nerves and provided Mayo with a platform to attempt a comeback. Donegal center forward, Eamonn Murphy played a part in Donegal’s response. Murphy put a dead ball over the bar with a free from 50 yards, and then found Dualtach Molloy for a second point to restore Donegal’s six point advantage. Gervaise Toner fisted over a great point for Mayo after 10 minutes, but that would be it for the westerners. Donegal went on to finish the game with four unanswered points, Molly, Concar, and two from Murphy, and put themselves in a good position senior championship playoff hunt.Donegal: N. McConnell, T. Maguire, S. Lee, P. Witherow, K. Cunningham, N. Hegarty, D. McNulty, Ronan McNeilis (0-1), Kevin Curran (0-1), Eamonn Murphy (0-2), Dualtach Molloy (0-4), Gareth Concar (0-4), Declan Murphy (0-4).. Mayo: D. O’Malley, S. Clifford, M. Murphy, C. Clifford, M. Hunt, T. Scanlon, Ronan Rochford (0-2), C. Brennan, Rory Gavin (0-1), Gervase Toner (0-2), Sean Gerrity (1-0), P. Hickey, B. McStay.

By Rory O'Donnell

Senior match report for Sunday June 22nd 08

Double trouble, with his team down a man after a red card infraction, Donegal’s Sean McEwain finds himself under pressure as he charges through mid field. Picture / Neil McDaid

In a highly anticipated encounter, Donegal and Armagh-Notre Dame played hotly contested 60 minutes of football. In a four-goal final quarter, it was Donegal who were still standing after both sides fought hard for the win.

The first half was evenly contested, one could have argued that Donegal had a slight advantage on the balance of play, but there was just the minimum separating the teams on the scoreboard all the way through. Donegal had to work hard in defence to keep a good Armagh-ND forward line in check, while the Donegal forward line could have done a little better with the possession that came their way.

There were a few attacks that broke down due to overplaying the ball. Armagh-ND opened the scoring with points from Martin McStravog and Liam Morrow. Donegal got themselves on the board with a point from Keith Cunningham. After Martin Donaghy put a third over for the Brighton side, Donegal struck with a goal from Kieran Mulvihill.

The Ballylongford man finished well from 20 yards out and just the keeper to beat. Donegal one point to the good with 11 minutes gone, and the Tir Chonaill men would stay ahead for the remainder of the half. The sides traded points, Dualtach Molloy and Mulvihill for Donegal and McStravog, Downs and Donaghy for the Orchard County.

At the half Donegal led by a single point, 1-4 to 0-6.Donegal started off the second half with a brace of scores to extend their lead to three points. Ronan McNeilis and Molloy pointed for Donegal; the northwesterners got their passing game together and translated their improved play into scores. The game started to get physical and there were some lengthy stoppages as a result of injuries and one or two scuffles.

As the sides began to tire in the final quarter the goals came. Armagh-ND leveled the scores with a goal out of nothing, a high ball down the middle was not dealt with and Brendan Quinn found himself through with just the keeper to beat. Quinn sold a dummy and rounded the keeper to slot home. Almost immediately Donegal regained the lead with a somewhat fortunate penalty. Ronan McNeilis ran through and when challenged in the penalty area fell to the ground, and the whistle went for a penalty. Dualtach Molloy took the shot, which was saved, but Molloy volleyed the rebound into the back of the net. Not to be undone, the Orchard county struck again with a second goal, again from Quinn.

The ball found Quinn unmarked at the far post and the half forward sold the same dummy, and again finished into the empty net. The sides were level again going into the final five minutes. Brian Downs put the Orchard men one point ahead with a well taken free, but Donegal had a third goal in them. Donal McNulty leveled the scores with a Larry Bird-like steal as Armagh-ND were coming out of defence, and a minute later Keith Cunningham stole behind the Donegal defence from his half back position, was played through and with the keeper to beat, and did well to force the ball into the back of net.

With time still left on the clock Armagh-ND brought the game back within a point. Colin Murphy saved well to deny Donaghy a goal and parry the ball over the bar and deny a possible winning goal to the Orchard county men. After a keenly contested 60 minutes of football, it was Donegal who emerged one-point victors.

Donegal: C. Murphy, S. Lee, P. Witherow, Keith Cunningham (1-1), C. Bonnar, S. McEwain, Donal McNulty (0-1), Ronan McNeilis (0-1), Ronan Diver (0-1), E. Murphy, K. Curran, Kieran Mulvhill (1-1), Dualtach Molloy (1-4). Armagh-ND: K. McKerr, J. Taggart, M. Digney, Liam Morrow (0-1), F. Meehan, S. O’Donnell, P. Mulpeter, J. Kielt, A. Blake, Brendan Quinn (2-0), Martin McStravog (0-2), Martin Donaghy (0-5), Brian Downes (0-3).
By Rory O'Donnell @ Thar An Trasnan

Juniors ease to victory over Armagh

Donegal 4:14 Armagh Notre Dame 1:04

Canton, MA June 15th. Heavy morning rain meant the game was moved to field B, the smaller field did the Armagh team no favors as they struggled to contain a fired up Donegal side. New comers Peter Witherow and Eamon Murphy proved to hot to handle for their markers and tormented them for much of the game. Donegals defense held tight throughout, Darrel McNulty excelled in the centre back position ably assisted by John Deery and Ciaran Mc Gee on the wings. Murphy finished with a personal tally of 2:06 before being removed from the action with 20 minutes left on the clock. Donegal will be pleased with the win and the performance, but they know that this was a weak Armagh team. Cork should provide a sterner challenge in the next game on Sunday June 22nd. Donegal Team E McLaughlin, R Grant, D Harkin, C McGee, D McNulty, J Deery, P Boyce, P Witherow, F Granaghan, E Murphy, J Byrne, P Friel, S Kelly Subs: P O'Connor, B Boyce, E McDowell, E Kelly, G Ruddy

Donegal beat the blues

Donegal 1:11 Shannon Blues 0:07

Canton, MA Sunday June 8th. After the shock of an opening day defeat to the Wolfetones, Donegal got things back on track with an impressive win over the Shannon Blues. Donegal welcomed a number of new faces to the team including Ciaran Bonner, Aidan Fennelly and Fergal Clancy. In what was a closely fought contest, it was only in the last ten minutes that Donegal pulled away from the blues. The first half saw both Bonner and Mc Nulty score a brace of points. Donegal went in at the break with a three point lead. Donegal sealed the win thanks to a Ciaran Bonner goal ten minutes from time, a high ball was floated across the goal mouth and Bonner rise highest to punch to the net. Donegal played keep ball for the remaining minutes and a Blues sending off meant there was no way back for them. Donegals next game is against Armagh Notre Dame on Sunday June 22nd. Donegal team C Murphy, A Fennelly, S Lee, P Collins, S McEwen, K Cunningham, R MacNiallais, D McNulty, P Roper, C Bonner, K Curran, D Molloy, K Mulvihill Subs used G McDermott, R Diver, F Clancy

Earlier in the day, the Donegal junior side were defeated in the opening championship game against Aidan MacAnespies. In hot and humid conditions, Donegal battled from start to finish. Donegal will hope to avenge this defeat later in the season.

Donegal claim first silverware of 2008

Donegal captain Kevin Curren, receives the Pat O'Brien memorial cup from Pat's long time friend John Flaherty. Picture/NeilMcDaid

Canton MA, Sunday May 18th. Donegal coasted to a comfortable win over the Wolfe tones in perfect conditions in the Pat O'Brien cup final. Donegals task was made a lot easier with the dismissal Tones midfielder McVeigh mid way through the first half. Donegal took an early lead with points from Mulvihill, Curran and MacNiallais. Donegals went in at half time leading by 0:07 to 0:04.

One down, one to go, Donegal now set their sights on the 2008 Boston Northeast Championship. Picture/NeilMcDaid

Despite being a man down it was the Tones who dominated the early stages of the second half, but they could never get their noses in front. Donegal moved up a few gears mid way through the second half and the Tones had no answer to Donegals numerical advantage. Donegal swarmed forward adding numerous points from Molloy and Mulvhill. The introduction of Mc Ginty, McGee and Friel brought fresh legs into the game for Donegal. Within seconds McGinty had his first point and would later goal for the Northerner's. In between Molloy was pulled down by the Wolfe tones keeper for a penalty, he coolly brushed himself down and sent the penalty right down the middle past the Tones keeper. Tones failed to convert a late penalty. In the end the tones had no answer the pace of Donegal forward line and were held at bay by a stubborn Donegal defence marshalled by McEwen. Final score Donegal 2:14 Wolfe tones 0:06.

Donegal captain Kevin Curran accepted the Pat O'Brien cup and Donegal celebrated into the early hours. Donegal team C Murphy, G McDermott, S Lee, P Collins, S McEwen, D McNulty, R MacNiallais, D McNulty, P Roper, R Diver, K Curran, D Molloy, K Mulvihill Subs M McGinty, K McGee, P Friel.

Donegal get back to business next Sunday in the first round of the senior championship, their opponents will again be the Wolfe tones. Throw in time at Canton is 5:00pm. No doubt this should be a closer affair as the Tones try to avenge last Sundays defeat.

Donegal advance to the Pat O'Brien cup final.

Donegal squeezed past Cork in a closely contested cup semi final at Canton on Sunday. In what proved to be a game of two halves, Donegal impressed in the opening half with Cork putting up a tremendous fight back in the second half. Early exchanges were evenly contested but Donegal’s dominance grew towards the later stages of the first half.

The highlight of the first half saw Kieran McGee advancing from half back to collect a cross field pass that he made no mistake in putting over the bar. Points followed from Curran, McNulty and Roper, Donegal went in at the break with a 0:09 to 0:04 lead. Cork gained the upper hand in the second half and quickly ate away at Donegal’s lead.

A missed goal chance for Cork meant that they didn’t take a lead over Donegal. Letterkenny native Dualtach Molloy put Donegal back into the lead only for Cork to again level the scores. As the minutes ticked away, it looked like this game was heading for a draw until Kieran Mulvihil managed to score the winning point from a tight angle.

Final Score Donegal 0:13 Cork 0:12 Donegal now advance to play Wolfetones in the final scheduled for 2:30 on Sunday May 18th. The Donegal management will be hoping for a better performance against a Tones team that defeated Aidan MacAnespies in the other semi final game. This should be an intriguing contest as both teams are due to meet in their opening championship game the following week.

Donegal team C Murphy, G McDermott, S Lee, R Diver, P Collins, R MacNiallais, D McNulty, D Harkin, P Roper, K Curran, D Molloy, K Mulvihill

Donegal progess with cup win over Kerry

Canton MA Sunday April 20th. Donegal continued their cup run with a comprehensive win over 2007 intermediate champions Kerry. The Donegal team saw a number of changes to the team that defeated Mayo in the first round. Galway native Colm Murphy made his debut in goal, the game also saw the return of the McNulty brothers and Paul Roper in the forward line. The first half was a low scoring affair with both defenses holding tight. Sean Lee and Paul Collins had impressive performances in the back line. Donegal went in at the break with a 0:03 to 0:02 lead. The second half was a different story, Donegal dominated the midfield area with Donal mcNulty and Ronan MacNiallais fielding some excellent catches. Donegal added a number of points to leave the final score 0:09 to 0:02. Top Donegal scorer was Kieran Mulvihil with 3 points. The game also saw Jim Grant play his last game for Donegal Boston. Jim has been a great servent to the club over the years and all at the club wish Jim and his wife Clare all the best as they make the return to the hills of Donegal. Jim will be a welcome addition to the Malin club. Donegal team C Murphy, S McEwen, S Lee, P Collins, R Diver, Darryl McNulty, Donal McNulty, R Mac Niallais, K Curran(Capt), P Friel, P Roper, K Mulvihil, S Kelly. Subs played Jim Grant. Donegal now face Cork in the semi final on Sunday May 4th.

Paul Friel will be running a fund raising night for the Urris club at the Old Dorchester Post in Adams Village on Sunday May 4th. Up for grabs will be signed jerseys, Red Sox tickets and other memorabilia. Doors open at 6pm. Dan Hallisey will be providing the entertainment. Special guest John Friel. All welcome

2008 League Fixtures

Senior Football
Sunday May 25th 5:00 Wolfetones
Sunday June 8th 2:30 Shannon Blues
Sunday June 22nd 2:30 Armagh Notre Dame
Sunday June 29th 5:00 Galway
Saturday July 5th 5:30 Kerry
Sunday July 20th 2:30 Mayo
Sunday July 27th 2:30 Cork
Sunday August 3rd 5:00 Connamara Gaels

Junior A Football
Sunday June 8th 12:00 McAnespies
Sunday June 15th 12:00 Armagh Notre Dame
Sunday June 22nd 12:00 Cork
Saturday July 12th 5:45 Kerry
Sunday July 27th 12:00 Wolfetones
Sunday August 3rd 1:45 Connamara Gaels

Donegal open 2008 season with a cup win

Canton MA. Sunday 13th April. Donegal got a chance to blow away some of the winter cobwebs with an opening day O'Brien cup game against Mayo. The Donegal side included a number of debutants including Sean McEwen, Ronan Diver, Paul Collins, Ronan Mac Niallais, Kieran Mulvihil and Damian Harkin. All are welcome additions to the Donegal club. Donegal had the better of the early exchanges with kerrymen Collins and Mulvihil seeing plenty of early action. Donegal suffered a blow after 10 minutes with Kilcar native Keith Cunningham had to be withdrawn from the action due to a hand injury. We hope to see Keith back in action soon. After 15 minutes Mulvihil got a debut goal after latching onto a fumbled ball from the Mayo goalkeeper. At half time, Donegal led 1:05 to 0:01. The second half saw a more even contest with Mayo making more attacks forward and were unlucky to be denied a goal by the crossbar shortly after the break. Donegal added a number of further points to leave the final score Donegal 1:10, Mayo 0:04. Top Donegal scorer on the day was Kieran Mulvihil with 1:04. Donegal now go on to play 2007 Intermediate champions Kerry in the quarter final at 3pm on Sunday April 20th at the ICC. Donegal team P Robinson, S McEwen, S Leigh, K McGee, P O'Connor, P Collins, R Diver, K Cunningham, R Mac Niallais, K Curran(Capt), P Friel, K Mulvihil, S Kelly. Subs D Harkin, J Byrne