ALLIANZ CUMANN Na mBUNSCOL
GIRLS’ INDOOR FOOTBALL HEAT 1: OMAGH
Our girl footballers got their chance to shine, following-on from the exploits of the boys last week. Attention turned to Omagh’s Station Centre where four school battled it out to win this – the first heat – and, subsequently, a place in the county Final.
A number of schools forwarded their apologies for being unable to attend. However, this didn’t take away from the superb quality on show from the 5 schools in attendance. Indeed, our referee, Brian McGinn, who is involved with girls’ development squads in the county, commented favourably on the ability levels of these talented girls. Given the smaller numbers, a round-robin format was employed whereby each school got to play each other – a total of four league matches.
The teachers helped make the draw and when that was completed, the girls were ready for action. There followed a series of enthralling games. Most of the matches went to the wire. St. Brigid’s P.S. Mountfield, Sacred Heart P.S. Tattyreagh and St. Ciareall’s P.S. Aghyaran all played some wonderful football. They are a credit to their schools and clubs. Ultimately, though, their efforts were just not enough to gain a place in the Heat Final. Hard luck, girls!
As the league matches progressed, two teams stood out from the others: St. Ronan’s P.S. Recarson and St. Mary’s P.S. Fivemiletown. Both squads deserve enormous credit for their tremendous efforts and skill levels, particularly Fivemiletown who were making their season debut.
The Finale was a great game, befitting of a final. Both schools gave everything in a nip-and-tuck encounter. However, it wasn’t to be for the brave girls from Fivemiletown. They met a team who went undefeated throughout the day – ending the day with a perfect 100% win record – in St. Ronan’s P.S. Recarson. They really are a formidable outfit. These talented girls now progress to the county Final at MUSA Indoor arena, Cookstown, on Friday 02 March. We wish them well, indeed.
Our thanks to the staff of Omagh’s Station Centre for their great help and hospitality. Thanks, also, to Brian McGinn for his expert officiating, and to Patrick McGivern (Cathaoirleach Uladh Cumann na mBunscol) for overseeing the smooth running of this event. Maith sibh go léir!
