U11's at Tramore Blitz Oct 9, 2005
Under 11’s Caravan Rolls On
An early departure from Dublin saw us arrive in a windy Tramore around 11 am for the start of a great hurling day as guests of the host club. Eleven a side was the order of the day with unlimited rotation.
Our first game saw us come out the wrong side of a 5-4 to 4-1 scoreline against Waterford hotshots Ballygunner, allowing them revenge their defeat to us in the Na Piarsaigh (Cork) tournament during the Summer. This was a tough game with little quarter given and the difference at the end arose from the fact we were not able to capitalise on our fist half wind advantage, going in level at the break 3-0 to 2-3.
At half time in our second game against De La Salle we were wondering would the same happen when with a gale force wind we only lead 0-7 to 0-2 at half time. However in the second half our boys having learned that every ball has to be battled for really knuckled down and we added 2-1 while only conceding 2 points.
The final game of the day turned out to be one of the games of the blitz although when we lead with aid of the wind 3-3 to no score at the interval we looked in a comfortable position. Within minutes of the restart the home team had goaled and soon after added a second to really set the game alight. From there it was nip and tuck all the way with Crokes prevailing by a single point 4-4 to 4-3 after a nail biting second half.
Each and every one of the players who travelled put in titanic effort and the travelling party of parents, family and supporters went home immensely proud of the achievements of the team in a prestigious tournament. Cian MacGabhann was excellent in goals all day. In front of him Peter Corish covered and cleared brilliantly. Conor Sweeny complimented him and let little pass. Oisin O’Rorke had a fine blitz with his placed ball striking in the second game a particular feature. Conor O’Dwyer was as combative as ever. Maitiu Geraghty, who captained the team in the final game, led by example. Conor O’Byrne was neat and tidy in everything he did. Conor Devins showed marvellous athleticism and scored three great points against Tramore. Cian Gormley had an exceptional tournament, especially in the last game. Neil Gorey made some excellent runs and constantly chased back as well as scoring some great goals. Maitiu McNicholas operated to good effect both as a forward and midfielder. Eoin Ryall played the classic corner forward game always posing a danger. Michael Herlihy was a very effective forward causing his markers a lot of trouble. Thomas Campion played as both a back and forward scoring one outstanding goal. Caolan Conway’s skill shone through and he registered a number of good scores. Barry Horan was always busy and unlucky not to score. James Murphy also played in defence and attack showing up very well in both cases.
Many thanks to all concerned, especially to the parents who refereed games not involving Crokes for the blitz organisers, as well as to our hosts and the other clubs that took part.
Panel: Cian MacGabhann, David Corish, Conor Sweeney, Maitiu Geraghty, Conor Devins, Conor O’Dwyer, Oisin O’Rorke, Eoin Ryall, Conor O’Byrne, James Murphy, Caolan Conway, Neil Gorey, Cian Gormley, Maitiu McNicholas, Michael Herlihy, Barry Horan, Thomas Campion.