CROTTA LOTTO RESULTS    December 17,2007

STILL NO LOTTO JACKPOT WINNER!

The Four numbers drawn out of the drum by the Independent observer Willie Keane, Glenballyma, Kilflynn, for The Crotta Hurling club lotto draw on Monday night 17th December, in Herbert's bar, Kilflynn were: 5, 11, 14 & 28. There were no winners of the €10,100 Jackpot.

The Three lucky dip winners each receive €35: Mike O'Connell, Ballyrehan, M. N. Corridan, Ballyduff, and Joe Joe Daly, Abbeydorney.

The next draw take place in Parker's Bar, Kilflynn on Sunday Night, 23rd December, with a €10,200 Jackpot.

There will be a Special €500 Christmas Draw, on Sunday night 23rd December in Parkerâs Pub, five draws for €100, instead of the usual three €35 lucky dip draws, regardless of whether the Jackpot is Won or Not.

Tickets are available at €2 from Club tickets sellers or from Knott's Daybreak Shop, Kilflynn, Herbert's Bar, Kilflynn, Parker's bar, Kilflynn and at Kilflynn Post Office.

ABBEYDORNEY SPORTS HALL

At a recent meeting of the Abbeydorney Sports Hall Development Association committee, it was decided to discontinue all plans for building a sports hall in Abbeydorney. It was further decided by the committee that the funds that were collected should now be used to support the development of projects of a sporting nature that are currently being considered by any group in the community.

Therefore anyone interested in availing of this funding should submit a brief outline of the proposed project which should include details, cost of project and proposed benefit to the community.

All submissions to be sent to the secretary, Carmel Sheehan Quinn, Crotta, Kilflynn on or before Friday January 11th 2008.

TABLE QUIZ

The Fr. Pat O'Donnell / Kilflynn Cancer Support Fund- Fourth Annual Table Quiz will be held in Parker's and Herbert's Bars in Kilflynn on Friday night 28th December.

There will be an abundance of fine spot prizes to be won in the raffle and a very valuable prize to be won on the night. The quiz will kick off at 9:00pm so if you have not participated in the quiz yet this is your opportunity .

Mike Parker               

CROTTA LOTTO RESULTS

The four numbers picked out of the drum for The Crotta hurling club lotto by Independent observer: Timmy Horgan, Kilflynn, in Herbertâs Bar, Kilflynn on Monday 19th November, were: 21, 24, 25, & 27.

There was no winner of the € 9,700.

The Three lucky dip winners each receive € 35. : James Ryall, Taxi, Abbeydorney, Tim O'Halloran, Fear an Flainn, Kilflynn and Oliver Nash, Lyre.

The next draw take place in Parker's Pub, Kilflynn on Monday night 26th November with a € 9,800 Jackpot.

CROTTA RACE NIGHT

The Crotta Hurling Club are holding a race night at The Kingdom Greyhound Stadium, Tralee on December 20th 2007.

Ticket sellers have been going door to door throughout the local area. As we expected people have been very welcoming and generous.

We thank you all for your support and a special word of thanks to our ticket sellers who give their time to sell tickets at a time of year when the weather is not favourable to the task in hand.

Ticket sellers will be selling tickets right up to the race night. In the next week or two areas outside our own area will be covered. The money raised will be used to build a wall ball to improve our hurlers skills.

GAA QUESTIONNAIRE

The GAA have announced details of a new online questionnaire which seeks the opinions of GAA members and the general public on how the Association is perceived and on its role in modern Irish society.

The exercise is part of a broader review in this context which has seen the Association carry out in-depth research among its clubs, players, officials, members and among supporters of the Association as well as key political and media figures.

The GAA have held a series of consultations with its members at all levels in recent months which included nation-wide workshops which sought the opinions of club members of all ages (from 12 years of age upwards) from all over the country.

The views of major figures in Irish public life were also canvassed as part of this process and an omnibus national market research programme has been commissioned.

A questionnaire has been sent to each club in the country and the online survey represents the final strand in the programme.

The questionnaire is currently available to complete at www.gaa.ie or directly at www.questionnaire.gaa.ie and has already generated a huge amount of interest among individuals wishing to have their say in relation to the ongoing development of the Association.

UNDER 8 AND UNDER 10 CROTTA NEWS

Indoor hurling continues every Friday night in Lixnaw from 7pm - 8pm.

The Club would like to express our thanks to Tom 'Blondie' and Lisa McElligott for their sponsorship of training bibs and sliotars for our under 8 and under 10 teams.

Congratulations to St Senans U12 team who won the Div 2 North Kerry League on Sunday last by defeating Ballylongford/Asdee in the final. A number of these players play hurling with Crotta.

KILGARVAN HURLERS CREATE GAA HISTORY

History was made in Kenmare on Sunday as Kilgarvan's hurlers played themselves into the annuals of folklore as they became the first Kerry side to win a game in Munster club huling, at any level, beating Limerick's Caherline on a 2-11 to 2-09 final scoreline in the Munster Junior club championship.

Ever since 1964, Kerry hurling clubs have tried in vain to get the maiden victory but Kilgarvan, inspired by former Kerry Hurler Mike Foley, who scored 1-09, have finally made the big breakthrough.

Kilgarvan now face Tipperary champions Moyle Rovers in the semi final this week-end.

Congratulations and well done to Kilgarvan!

Mike Parker               

CROTTA LOTTO RESULTS

The four numbers picked out of the drum for The Crotta hurling club lotto by Independent observer, Gerry Lenihan (of Leith) in Parker's Bar, Kilflynn on Monday 12th November were: 6, 10, 17, & 25.

There was no winner of the €9,600.

The Three lucky dip winners each receive €35: Martin Quinlan, Ballyconnell, Kilflynn, Michael Sheehan, Castletown, Kilflynn and Jim Daughton, Upper Tullig, Kilflynn. The next draw take place in Herbert's bar, Kilflynn on Monday night 19th November with a € 9,600 Jackpot.

FEALE RANGERS ABU

Congratulations to newly crowned Kingpins of Kerry football, Feale Rangers Senior football team and their management, who captured the County Senior Football title, after a 27 year wait.

Feale Rangers defeated South Kerry on the scoreline of 1-04 to 0-06 at Austin Stack Park, Tralee on Sunday 11th November.

Mike Parker               

CROTTA G.A.A CLUB RACE NIGHT

At a meeting of the Club on Friday night last it was decided to hold a race night on Thursday 20th December 2007 at Tralee greyhound track to raise much needed funds for the club.

A ball wall needs to be constructed to improve all hurler's skills at the club but especially the young players. Having won competitions at Under 8, U10, U16 and minor this year, it is important to build on this success.

These walls are a feature of all clubs in hurling strongholds and are directly responsible for improving player's skill levels. A few clubs in Kerry have recently built them and we need to keep in line with these clubs so we are not left behind.

The club has other developments in mind as well to bring our facilities at Dromakee up to standard.

The meeting was a very positive one and a feature of it was presence of a number of parents of underage players especially mothers, who contributed enormously.

Members of the club will be calling to houses asking for your support and we know from the past that people are very generous in supporting Crotta G.A.A Club of which we are grateful.

        Thanking you once again.

Crotta Race Night

Thursday, December 20th, 2007

Kingdom Greyhound Stadium.        Tickets cost € 5.

First Race 7.45       ~        Music After 'till late!

HURLING DEVELOMENT SQUAD

Well done to Crotta Under 10 players Adrian Mahony, Darragh Ryan, Raymond Nolan and Jordan Conway who have been selected to train with the Kerry U11 development squad.

MEDALS PRESENTATION

The Crotta Coiste Na Nog hurling Club would like to remind parents that medals will be presented to our Under 8 and U10 within the next few weeks. Negotiations with a top hurling star are at an advanced stage and we will keep you posted on developments.

TAEKWON-DO

The Taekwon-do Classes continue every Saturday from 4.00 p.m. to 6.00 p.m., in St Columbas Centre, Kilflynn. All welcome to attend.

CROTTA LOTTO RESULTS

The four numbers picked out of the drum for The Crotta hurling club lotto by Independent observer: Maura O'Connell, Ballyrehan, Lixnaw at Herbert's, Kilflynn on Monday 22nd October, were: 1, 5, 22, & 28. There was no winner of the €9,300. The Three lucky dip winners each receive €35: Katie Falvey, Garrynagore, Mary Twomey, Crotta and Kathleen Hayes, Abbeydorney The next draw take place in Parker's Pub, Kilflynn on Monday Night, 29th October with a€9,400 Jackpot.

COMMUNITY GAMES

Abbeydorney / Kilflynn Community Games A.G.M. will be held on Thursday October 25th in the Community Parish Hall Abbeydorney at 8.30 p.m. All are welcome.

Mike Parker               

The Crotta victorious under 16 hurling team and their mentors, who captured the County Under 16 League Division 2 Title on Saturday last in Rathmore with a victory over a gallant Kenmare side on the 4-9 to 2-12 score line.

Front row L To R: Seamus White, Kevin O'Mahony, Darren Fuller, John O'Connor, Moss Mc Elligott, Paudie Whelan,

Back row L TO R: Gene O'Sullivan (trainer),Thomas Quille, Joe Mc Auliffe(selector),Jason Nolan, Darragh Mc Auliffe,Padraig O'Leary,Sean Weir, Shane Nolan, Gary Marshall,Eoin O'Sullivan, Tom Nolan(selector), Denis Nolan, Paddy Weir(selector).

Unable to attend for this photo: Kevin Rohan, Shane Dolan, Tom B Mc Elligott,David O'Donnell,and Damien Sommers.

U 16's B FINAL

Crotta travelled to Rathmore on Saturday 13th October to defend their County Under 16 -B title against last years rivals Kenmare.

Playing against the breeze Crotta trailed by five points at the interval on a score line of Kenmare 1-9 to Crottaâs 1-4.

However, the second half saw a renewed team effort by Crotta and the game was score for score until the final five minutes when Crotta took the lead and ran out deserved winner on a scoreline of Crotta 4-9 to Kenmare 2-12.

While Crotta gave a very solid team performance especially in the second half, a number of players deserve mention, Shane Nolan, Eoin O Sullivan, Sean Weir, Gary Marshall and Padraig O Leary.

Team and scorers as follows:  Jason Nolan, Moss Mc Elligott, Eoin O Sullivan, Padraig Whelan, Sean Weir, Kevin Rohan, Gary Marshall (0-2), Padraig o Leary, Darragh Mc Auliffe (1-0), Shane Nolan (3-7), Shane Dolan, Thomas Quille, Tom B Mc Elligott, David O Donnell for K Rohan, Damien Sommers for TB Mc Elligott, Darren Fuller, Kevin O Mahony, Seamus White.

The Rathmore pitch was well lined and in excellent condition. The Duhallow referee did a good job and kept the game free flowing by his direct handling of this game.

Congratulations and well done again to Crotta and their trainer Gene O'Sullivan, Joe Mc Auliffe (selector), Tom Nolan (selector) and Paddy Weir (selector) !

Many Thanks to Crotta's sponsor - Kingdom Property.

In the semi final of this Competition on Monday evening 8th October, Crotta defeated Ardfert on the 5-17 to 4-06 scoreline in Ardfert. The Crotta scorers were Shane Nolan (4-14), Jason Nolan (1-00), John OâConnor (0-02), and Thomas Quille (0-01)

CROTTA LOTTO RESULTS

The quest for a jackpot winner continues in The Crotta Hurling Club Lotto.

The four numbers picked out of the drum, by Independent observer: Kevin Galvin, Ballyrehan, Lixnaw at Parker's Pub, Kilflynn on Monday 15th October, were: 1, 3, 7, & 17. There was no winner of the ¥9,200.

The Three lucky dip winners each receive ¥35: Patti Mc Elligott, Leam, Kilflynn, Jimmy Lawlor, Tullacrimin, Abbeydorney, and Noreen Tuomey, The Waterfall. Kilflynn.

The next draw take place in Herbert's Bar, Kilflynn on Monday Night, 22nd October with a € 9,300 Jackpot.

COMMUNITY GAMES

Abbeydorney/Kilflynn Community games A.G.M. will be held on Thursday October 25th in the Community Parish Hall Abbeydorney at 8.30 p.m. All are welcome.

FINUGE/ST. SENANS

Congratulations to Megan Weir one of our U12 ladies who was chosen to play for Kerry in the Michael Cullinan memorial blitz. They had victories over Clare and Sligo and drew with Galway putting them in the "B final", where they played Cork and won the blitz.

What an achievement!

We are proud of you Megan!  - from the club and all your team mates.

Congratulations once again to our U11 girls who played the County Blitz Championship over the last two weeks. They qualified with Abbeydorney last weekend. They played the finals in Spa pitch in Killarney on Sunday 14th October.

They met with Desmonds and won 1-6 to 1-2, and went on to play Abbeydorney and won 4-6 to 1-2.

A proud Siobhan O'Donnell captained the match. Congratulations to Niamh Carmody who won "player of the tournament". What a high note to finish off our year. Hip Hip Hurray to all.

Mike Parker                 

COUNTY MINOR "A" CHAMPIONSHIP SEMI FINAL CROTTA V BALLYHEIGUE

At a sun drenched Causeway pitch on Sunday 30th September CROTTA were hoping to reach the County Minor A final. Their dreams however were shattered when they were narrowley beaten by Ballyheigue 2-10 Crotta 2-9.

In one of the best minor games played in Kerry for a long time.Ballyheigue made the perfect start with a point from a sideline cut by Ronan Kenny , Crotta attacked the Ballyheigue goal but were unlucky not to score , however in the fifth minute a mistake in the Crotta goal mouth was punished by a very alert Kevin Reidy finishing the ball in the net . The same player added another point shortly after , Ballyheigue were having the better of things at midfield and a twentyone yards free from Sean Colgan had Ballyheigue in front 1 - 3 Crotta 0 - 0 .

Crotta had the next two scores by frees from Shane Nolan , however these were cancelled out by Sean Colgan who scored two points one from play , one from a free . At this stage Crotta got more into the game , Shane Nolan had a point from a free , then in the 20th minute Shane Nolan got a pass from Sean Weir , he sidestepped three Ballyheigue defenders before crashing the ball to the back of the net .

Two excellent points from play by Cian Counihan and Sean Weir had Crotta level , Ballyheigue went on the attack and had a great chance of a goal but a brilliant save by Eoin O'Sullivan kept Crotta hopes alive , another point by Shane Nolan had Crotta in front just before half time but Ronan Kenny responded for Ballyheigue scoring the final point of the first half Crotta 1 - 6 Ballyheigue 1 - 6 .

Crotta supporters in the large crowd were hoping for a good start from their team to the second half however it was Ballyheigue who started much the stronger . Kevin Reidy scored 1 - 2 in the opening ten minutes without reply .

Crotta never panicked and team captain Jonathan Caffrey in the 15th minute scored a excellent goal to bring them right back into the match . Ballyheigue responded with a point from Ronan Kenny to lead by 3 points with 10 minutes remaining .

Crotta got the next two scores , pointed frees by Richard and Shane Nolan . Aaron Sheehan and Keith Hannafin were replaced by John O'Connor and Padraig O'Leary .

Ballyheigue were next to score a good point from Ronan Kenny , with time almost up Crotta went on an all out attack- an excellent run by Sean Weir where he passed to Shane Nolan who went on a mazy run to the verge of the Ballyheigue square a quick pass to John O'Connor was blasted just over the bar with the Ballyheigue goalkeeper well beaten .

A goal for Crotta would surly have seen them in the final unfortunately it was not to be .

Final score Ballyheigue 2 - 10 . Crotta 2 - 9 .

Crotta Team:

Eoin O'Sullivan, Paul Lenihan, Darren Twomey, Luke Sheehan, Sean Weir [0 - 1], Paul Costello Alan Leen, Shane McAuliffe, Jonathan Caffrey [1 - 0], Keith Hannafin, Gary Marshall, Cian Counihan [0 - 1] , Aaron Sheehan, Richard Nolan [0 - 1] [1 .65], Shane Nolan [1 - 5] 4f .    Subs- John OConnor [ 0 - 1] for A. Sheehan Padraig O'Leary for K. Hannafin, David Moloney, Thomas Quille, Darragh McAuliffe .

Submitted by : A Fan               

KILFLYNN DEFIBRILLATOR GROUP

The Kilflynn Defibrillator group has organised a second course in the use of the defibrillator which will take place in Bons Secour Hospital, Tralee on Tuesday 2nd October and Thursday 4th October.

If you wish to attend please contact Julie Shanahan at 7135268 or 087 6148916

CROTTA U-15 HURLERS

Crotta under 15 hurlers had a comprehensive win over Ardfert in the 3rd round of North league, played in Ardfert on a scoreline of Crotta 1-13 Ardfert 1-9 on Saturday 22 September.

Team and scorers as follows: Jason Nolan, Moss Mc Elligott, Tom B Mc Elligott, Paudie Whelan, Sean Weir 1-03, Sean Dowling, Shane Dolan, Darragh Mc Auliffe 0-05, Jamie Barry 0-01, Tomas Quille 0-04, Paudie Quille, Kevin O Mahony and Jack Sheehan.

This was a great 13 man team performance on the day. Two games left in this grouping, against Duagh and Abbeydorney.

ST.SENANS G.A.A CLUB

The under 6, under 8 and under 10 sides concluded their seasons with challenge matches against Churchill GAA club at Mountcoal last Friday.

We thank all players and parents for their support over the season and hope you found it enjoyable. We look forward to seeing you all again next year.

UNDER 8 &10 HURLERS

Wednesday September 26th at 6.45pm was the last outdoor training session for our under 8 and under 10 hurlers.

We would like to thank all our young players and their parents for their efforts and co-operation during the year. It was a very successful year and to win two competitions was a great bonus.

Medals will be presented in a few weeks time and all parents will be notified in good time.

We will start indoor training after the mid-term break in early November. Again we will notify all concerned nearer the time.

MINOR HURLERS

The Crotta and Ballyheigue minor hurlers will contest the County Minor A Championship semi final on Sunday 30th September, at 12.00 p.m.

There is no venue fixed at this time. Best of Luck to the lads in green and red.

CROTTA GOLF OUTING

The Crotta hurling club will hold their annual Golf outing on Saturday 6th October in Ballyheigue Golf course, Team of four 160 Euro. Tee box sponsorship 75 Euro.

This event is the main fundraiser to finance the ever-increasing cost of running the club.

Presentation of prizes and other activities in Parker's Pub, Kilflynn at 9 p.m. on Saturday 6th October.

Contact club officers for further information.

Mike Parker               

IMPORTANT CLUB OFFICERS MEETING

There will be Meeting of the Crotta Hurling club officers, at the club rooms, Dromakee, Kilflynn on Wednesday 19th September, regarding the Club golf outing on Saturday 6th October.

All officers are requested to attend this meeting. .

CROTTA GOLF OUTING

The Crotta hurling club will hold their annual Golf outing on Saturday 6th October in Ballyheigue Golf course, Team of four €160.     Contact club offices for further info.

JUNIOR CERT RESULTS

Congratulated all local students who received their Junior Certificate examination results on Wednesday 12th September.

More than 57,000 students received their results at schools throughout the country.

MINOR HURLERS

The Crotta and Ballyheigue minor hurlers will contest the County Minor A Championship semi final on Saturday 29th September. Please note the change of date, There is no venue and time fixed at the time of going to press.

SAM IS BACK AGAIN

Kerry retained their Bank of Ireland All-Ireland SFC crown with an emphatic 3-13 to 1-09 victory over Munster rivals Cork in a disappointingly one-sided affair in front of 82,196 at Croke Park on Sunday 16th September.

Pat O'Shea's men were 1-06 to 0-06 ahead at the break thanks to Colm Cooper's opportunist fisted goal in the 17th minute. Kerry's Declan O'Sullivan became the first man since Dick Fitzgerald in 1913 and 1914 to captain back-to-back winning All-Irelands, and he received the Sam Maguire Cup from the outgoing Director General of the G.A.A. Liam Mulvihill after a brief introduction from GAA President Nickey Brennan.

The Kilflynn area was well represented at the All-Ireland Football Final on Sunday and on Monday when The All Ireland winning Kerry team arrive back in the Kingdom with Sam Maguire to welcome home the Champions.

ALL IRELAND FOOTBALL TICKETS

The Crotta Hurling club Members draw for tickets for the All Ireland Football Final, will take place in the Club rooms, Dromakee, Kilflynn, on Wednesday 12th September at 8.30 p.m.

MINOR HURLERS

The Crotta and Ballyheigue minor hurlers will contest the County Minor A Championship semi final on Saturday 22nd September.         There is no venue and time fixed at the time of going to press.

CROTTA GOLF OUTING

The Crotta hurling club, will hold their annual Golf outing on Saturday 6th October in Ballyheigue Golf course, Team of four 160Euro. Contact club offices for further info.

CHURCH GATE COLLECTION

The Annual Church Gate Collection in aid of the Kerry Team Training Fund in Kilflynn amounted to 373Euro, on September 8th & 9th.

The Crotta hurling club would like to Thank to all who contributed and to those who took up the collection and Wish the Best of Luck to Kerry on Sunday.

DC

UNDER 8 HURLERS WIN BLITZ!

The Crotta under 8 team took part in an under 8 blitz by Abbeydorney GAA Club last Saturday (Sept.8th). The young lads in green and red emerged victorious after winning all their matches.

First up were Ballyduff and this proved to be a very tough encounter. It was end to end playing ground hurling only. Chances came and went but half way through the first half Jack McKenna scored what turned out to be the crucial score of the match, when he goaled from close range. We faced a second half on slaughter and the changing of Darragh O'Donoghue from the full forward line to the full back line stemmed the tide. Barry Mahony (who was the outstanding player in the tournament) Aaron Murnane and Jack McKenna got through and immense amount of work. Darragh Behan, Brian O'Connell, Aodhan McKenna (who was introduced as a sub in this match and held his place for the remaining games) gave it their all. Dominic Nolan gave a tremendous display of full back play bringing ball after ball from defence. Ballyduff through to their never say die spirit had one last chance from a line ball but Adam O'Sullivan made a magnificent save to keep his goal intact and keep Crotta ahead. Full time Crotta 1-00 Ballyduff 0-00.

Match 2 was against Ardfert and after a goal less ground hurling first half, the match was much more entertaining when normal hurling applied. Barry Mahony gave Crotta the lead firing over a fine point from thirty yards out. Soon after he scored Crotta's first goal after good work by Aaron Murnane. Darragh Murnane, Sean Holden, David Ryan and Darragh Clarke all came on as subs in this match. Barry Mahony cut a line ball over the bar for a great point mid way through this second half and Darragh O'Donoghue scored another goal having previously hit the post to close the scoring Crotta 2-02 Ardfert 0-00.

To win the tournament Crotta had to keep up their 100% record. The team was as follows: Adam O'Sullivan, John Quilter, Dominic Nolan, Darragh Behan, Aaron Murnane, Barry Mahony,Jack McKenna, Sean Holden, Brian O'Connell, Darragh Clark, Darragh O'Donoghue, Aodhan McKenna. Subs: Declan O'Donoghue, Darragh Murnane, Sean Murnane, Edith White, David Ryan, Aodhan Behan.

Again this match was played using ground hurling only in the first half and normal rules in the second. Crotta led by 3 goals to nil at half time through goals by Barry Mahony and Jack McKenna. A much stronger Crotta team upped their performance in the second half and goals from Darragh O'Donoghue (1) and Adam O'Sullivan (2) who had changed places with O' Donoghue who now guarded the net.

All subs played in this final game. Crotta emerged from the day as worthy winners of a well organised and well run Tournament. Thanks to all at Abbeydorney GAA Club especially Timmy Spillane and Mikey Leahy.

All players played their part and one player who never put a foot wrong during all games was John Quilter, Adam O'Sullivan made a brilliant save against Ballyduff and was consistent with puck-outs. Dominic Nolan was the pick of a very sound back line. The fact that they did not concede a score is testament to this. Jack, Barry and Aaron played very well in midfield with Barry being the most skilful player on view. Jack chipped in with goals (especially that most important one against Ballyduff).

During the tournament all forwards played their part with Brian O'Connell, Aodhan McKenna, Darragh Clark, Sean Holden, David Ryan working tirelessly. Darragh O'Donoghue showed his versatility by scoring, playing in the full back line and eventually ending up goalkeeper in the latter stages of the final game. Twins Sean and Darragh Murnance and Aodhan Behan wore the club colours for the first time so well done to them.

Good to see both under 8 and under 10 squads winning tournaments but all players have room to improve. Training will continue on Wednesday evenings at 6.45pm for one hour.

As Brian Cody the Kilkenny manager said last week to young players "keep pucking a sliotar off a wall to build up skill"

UNDER 10 HURLERS

Our under 10 team played Ardfert last Sunday morning in Dromakee. Both teams were missing a few regulars but it was an excellent contest. These teams seem to bring out the best in each other and those present witnessed a fine match. Ardfert started the much brighter and soon took the lead with a well struck long range point. A lot of the Crotta lads were playing their first match since the blitz win and it took them a while to get into their stride. Jordan Conway, Sean O'Donoghue and Donacha Brosnan shot wides during the first half but to be fair to them they were put under pressure by the tight marking of the Ardfert backs. On the stroke of half time Jordan Conway gained possession on the right and evaded two challenges before finishing to the net from a tight angle. Jordan again goaled after half time to put the score at Crotta 2-0 Ardfert a point. There was some great passages of play and an excellent clearance out of defence by Darragh Ryan who was solid throughout, found Jordan who slotted it over the bar. Adrian O'Mahony after a slow start was now reading the play and he played Sean O'Donoghue through with a lovely pass and O'Donoghue raised a white flag. the same player goaled shortly after following a great ball across the goals from Darragh Sheehan. Barry Mahony was given no chance in the Crotta goals after a good Ardfert attack. As the play became more open Adrian Mahony and Darragh Sheehan scored points and Jordan Conway finished the scoring with a late goal. Barry Mahony did not have much to do due to a solid back line in front of him. Darragh Ryan as stated earlier was excellent and ably assisted by David Behan who latched on to every loose ball. All players gave it their all and the pick of the forwards were Jordan Conway (3-1) and Sean O'Donoghue (1-1).

Thanks to Ardfert and especially to Tadgh O'Sullivan for travelling to Dromakee.

The Crotta team lined out as follows: Barry Mahony, Brandon Conway, Thomas Quinlan, Darragh Ryan, David Behan, Bill Keane, Adrian Mahony(0-1), Raymond Nolan, Cathal Kennelly, Donacha Brosnan, Sean O'Donoghue(1-1) Jordan Conway(3-1) Darragh Sheehan(0-1)for Donnacha Brosnan (H/T), Darragh Kennelly for Bill Keane, Adam O'Sullivan for Sean O'Donoghue, Dominic Nolan for Raymond Nolan, Mark Egan for Thomas Quinlan, Nathan Fahy for Brandon Conway, Brendan Mahony refereed the match.

G.A.A. RESULTS

AIB Senior County Hurling Championship Semi Final Results: Lixnaw 1-15, Causeway 2-8, and Kilmoyley 1-15, Ballyheigue 2-02

Both games were played at Austin Stacks Park Tralee, on Sunday 9th September.

WIN ALL-IRELAND FINAL TICKETS

The Kerry GAA Supporters Club are organising a raffle for 10 pairs of Stand Tickets for the All-Ireland Finals. The cost is 5Euro a line and each card had 20 lines. Cards have been distributed throughout the county and the Kerry Association in Dublin.

All the proceeds go to the Kerry Senior Team training fund. Tickets are available from the local shop and local pubs.

Mike Parker               

IMPORTANT CLUB MEETING

There will be an Important meeting of the Cotta Hurling Club, on Thursday 6th September at 8.30 p.m. ----

this evening in the Clubrooms, Dromakee, Kilflynn.

All members welcome and should attend.Distrubution of tickets for The All-Ireland Football Final, will be discussed at the meeting.

FOOTBALL TICKETS

Anyone Crotta Hurling club member wishing to enter the draw for tickets for the All Ireland Football Final, please give your name to Crotta Club Secretary Paul Shanahan. On 087 9715781

Please call before Thursday 6th September.

The draw for the tickets will take place as soon as the club receives their allotment, so please ask any Club officers regarding the draw.

Anyone looking for a family ticket contact please Paul before Thursday 6th September as the club will only receive a limited number of Family tickets. Book early, This is to enable people to plan their trip if they get a ticket.

CROTTA SENIORS

The Crotta Senior hurlers bowed out of this years A.I.B County Senior Championship at Austin Stack's Park, Tralee on Tuesday evening, when they were defeated by Lixnaw by 2-17 to 1-11.

Crotta did not play to their usual high standard on the evening, Lixnaw led by 1-09 to 1-05 at the interval. Check out the match report in the sports section of The Kerryman.

Crotta team and scorers: Jerome O'Sullivan, Tom Mc Elligott, John P Quilter, Philip Twomey, Diarmuid Mc Kenna, Padraig Cronin, Cyril Lynch, Tom Cronin (Captain), Andrew Keane (1-05, 0-5f), Colm Mc Elligott (0-01), Ian McCarthy(0-04, 0-2f ), Sean Twomey, Francis Keane, Mike Lynch and Matt Lynch

Subs: John Edwards for F. Keane, Jonathan Caffrey for Mike Lynch, Pa Quille for D. Mc Kenna, David Galvin (0-01) for S. Twomey, Richard Nolan, Paul Costello, Brendan Mahony, Paul Lenihan, Paul Shanahan, and Shane Mc Auliffe.

Mike Parker               

ALL IRELAND HURLING TICKETS

Crotta Hurling club members requesting tickets for All-Ireland Hurling Final: Limerick against Kilkenny at Croke Park, on Sunday 2nd September.

Contact Club secretary Paul Shanahan at 087 9715781 before Wednesday evening, 29th August.

THE KINGDOM V THE DUBS

Captain Declan O'Sullivan led by example as he inspired Kerry to an epic 1-15 to 0-16 victory over Dublin in front of an 82,000 sell-out at Croke Park on Sunday 26th August.

RTE Television's live coverage of the All-Ireland Senior Football Semi-Final between Dublin and Kerry attracted a massive audience with an audience peak of 876,000.

As the two teams battled it out in injury time, a massive 82%of people who were watching television on Sunday afternoon tuned in to RTE Two to see Kerry seal victory.

An average of 644,000 people watched RTE's coverage of the game on The Sunday Game Live, resulting in an average share of 69.3%.

The Sunday Game highlights programme attracted the record audience for this season with an average of 307,000 viewers watching the programme which featured highlights of the afternoon's Senior, Minor and Ladies All-Ireland Football semi-finals plus the All-Ireland Under-21 Hurling semi-final.

Thousands of fans in Kerry will be hoping to get their hands on tickets for this years All Ireland final against Cork.     Details of ticket allocations will be made known in the coming weeks.

G.A.A RESULTS

Bank of Ireland All-Ireland Football S/Final: Kerry 1-15 Dublin 0-16 Venue Croke Park

AIB County Senior Hurling Championship Q/Final: Results Friday Night Ballyheigue 4-13 St Brendan's 1-17; Saturday Night Kilmoyley 2-12 Ballyduff 0-7

Tony Forristal U14 Hurling Tournament: Kerry 3-10 Antrim 2-4 ; Waterford B 0-4, Kerry 1-8; Westmeath 2-14, Kerry 0-5;

All-Ireland U16 Hurling Competition: Laois 2-5, Kerry 1-9; Wicklow 1-1 Kerry 2-15; Armagh 0-6, Kerry 2-8; Semi Final: Westmeath 1-5 Kerry 1-15; Final Kerry 1-7 Laois 2-6

The Crotta hurling club was represented by Padraig OâLeary, Sean Weir and Shane Nolan on the team. Well done to the lads and their mentors.

Mike Parker               

ALL IRELAND HURLING TICKETS

Crotta Hurling club members requesting tickets for All-Ireland Hurling Final: Limerick against Kilkenny at Croke Park, on Sunday 2nd September.

Contact Club secretary Paul Shanahan at 087 9715781 before Wednesday evening, 29th August.

THE KINGDOM V THE DUBS

Local Kerry supporters will travel to Dublin on Sunday 26th August for the All Ireland Senior Semi Final. Kerry Vs Dublin in Croke Park at 3.30 p.m.

Dublin hasn't beaten Kerry in the Championship, since that semi-final in 1977. The nearest they came to it was that quarter-final draw in Thurles in 2001, when Maurice Fitzgerald kicked his famous free.

The last time the teams met in a quarter final in 2004, Kerry ate Dublin without salt.

Even more interestingly, Dublin hadn't beaten Kerry before the 1976 All Ireland since 1934, according to a text message on Des Cahill's show recently. This means that Dublin have two victories to show for seventy-three years of this so-called greatest rivalry in Gaelic football.

Best of Luck to the Pat O'Shea and the Kerry team on Sunday, and safe journey to all Kerry supporters travelling to and from the match.     C'mon the Kingdom!

G.A.A RESULTS

Galway sealed their place in the All-Ireland MFC final for the first time since 1994 with a deserved win over Kerry in a scintillating semi final at Croke Park on Sunday on the 2-14 to 0-17 final score line.

Cork are through to the Bank of Ireland Senior Football Championship Final after a 1-16 to 0-9 semi-final victory over Meath at Croke Park on Sunday 19th August.

SENIOR HURLING CHAMPIONSHIP

Crotta and Lixnaw Senior hurlers will contest the A.I.B County Championship Quarter final on Tuesday evening, 28th August, at 6.30 p.m., in Austin Stack's Park, Tralee.

Best of Luck to the lads in Green and Red!

CROTTA MINOR HURLERS

The Crotta Minor hurlers will play Ballyheigue in County Championship Semi Final. There is no date or venue Fixed for this game.

KERRY UNDER 16 HURLERS

The Kerry U16 Hurling Team will be participating in the All-Ireland U16 Championship in Westmeath on Saturday August 25th.

The 2007 Championship sees a new format in place where all teams will play in groups of four in a blitz formula. Kerry will be in Group 2 with Laois, Wicklow, and Armagh and will be based in Kinnegad, Co. Westmeath.      Best of Luck to the lads in green and gold!

KERRY UNDER 14 HURLERS

The Waterford Crystal Sponsored annual Tony Forristal U14 Inter County Hurling Championship takes place in Waterford City on Saturday and Sunday August 25th & 26th.

This year the Kingdoms are in Group 3 and will be based in St. Saviours Grounds in Waterford with Waterford B and Antrim making up the Group.

Kerry's last victory in this competition was in 2003 when they defeated Laois 2-6 to 1-7 in the Final.

Mike Parker               

FOOTBALL TICKETS

Crotta Hurling club members requesting tickets for All-Ireland Football semi Final: Kerry against Dublin at Croke Park,

Contact Club secretary Paul Shanahan at 087 9715781 before Wednesday evening, 15th August.

CROTTA UNDERAGE HURLING

Pride of Place in the club over the past couple of weeks goes to the victorious Under 10 Panel who recently won the Donal O'Flaherty Shield.

The under 10 blitz was held in Ardfert on Saturday 28th July.

Crotta were drawn in the same group as Kilgarvan, Duagh, Abbeydorney and Ballyduff.

1st Match Summary:

Our first game was against Ballyduff and the team line out as follows:

Goalkeeper - Barry Mahony, Backs - Brandon Conway, Darragh Ryan and Thomas Quinlan,

Midfield - Raymond Nolan, Adrian Mahony, Darragh Regan, Forwards - Sean O'Donoghue, Jordan Conway, David Behan.

Subs - (all used over three games) Dylan McElligott, Darragh Kennelly, Dominic Nolan, Bill Keane, Darragh Sheehan and Jack McKenna.

Crotta raced into an early lead here following two pointed frees by Jordan Conway. These were followed shortly after by a mighty effort by Adrian Mahony which split the uprights . After a point blank save by goalie Barry O'Mahony, Sean O'Donoghue found Jordan Conway with a nice hand pass and Jordan only dispatched the sliotar to the Ballyduff net.

Ballyduff closed the first half scoring with a point from play. Crotta were dominant at midfield in the first half. Half time score Crotta 1-03, Ballyduff 0-1.

Within a minute of the second half Crotta entered their lead after David Behan netted. Following the resultant puck-out a clearance by Adrian Mahony found Jordan Conway in space who again found the net. At this stage Bill Keane and Jack McKenna replaced Sean O'Donoghue and David Behan.

Two points from Jordan Conway and one from Darragh Sheehan who had just come on completed the scoring. Final score Crotta 4-06, Ballyduff 1-1.

2nd Match Summary:

Crotta's next game was against Kilgarvan.

This was a tough battle where no quarter was asked or given. The backs had to show tremendous character here and they were not found wanting. Darragh Ryan, Brandon Conway and Thomas Quinlan blocked, hooked and harried their opponents time and time again. They cleared their lines on numerous occasions and from one of these clearances Jordan Conway plucked the sliotar from the air and shot to the Kilgarvan net. Shortly after following a mighty clearance from full back Darragh Ryan a chop on Jordan once again resulted in a pointed free.

Half time Crotta 1-1, Kilgarvan 0-0. The second half opened with a couple of frees to Crotta but these were not converted. Then half way through the half Raymond Nolan gained possession and hit a hard low shot which deflected off the Kilgarvan keeper to the roof of the net. With two even teams the match was an exhilarating contest. This score was the last of the match.

As Duagh were beaten twice they were eliminated and so Crotta would play the winners of Ballyduff and Kilgarvan. The Roughty Valley men overcame Ballyduff to set up another titanic battle with Crotta. A feature of their play was the stylish hurling of Mike Foley's son. His mother is Geraldine McIntyre so he has hurling from all sides.

"Final" Match Summary:

The Crotta selectors tweaked their team over the three matches and the team that took to the field was as follows:

Goalkeeper - Barry Mahony,

Backs - Brandon Conway, Darragh Ryan and Thomas Quinlan,

Midfield - Raymond Nolan, Adrian Mahony, Darragh Regan,

Forwards - Sean O'Donoghue, Jordan Conway, Darragh Sheehan.

Subs - Dylan McElligott, David Behan, Darragh Kennelly, Dominic Nolan, Bill Keane, and Jack McKenna.

The game was only seconds old when Barry Mahony made a magnificent save to keep the match scoreless. Play swung from end to end throughout the first half. Adrian Mahony was on Kilgarvan's danger man and gave a wholehearted display making him ineffective. Sean O'Donoghue hooked Kilgarvans full back to create a chance for Darragh Sheehan but his shot was saved. A Jordan Conway side line which again fell to Sheehan but this time his shot was deflected for a 65.

Halfway through the half Sean O'Donoghue gained possession having evaded his marker and opened the scoring with a well taken point. The same player was fouled shortly after having his jersey pulled but to everyone's amazement the referee waved play on.

Half time Crotta 0-01, Kilgarvan 0-00. Adrian Mahony found Jordan Conway shortly after the re-start and a goal resulted. This half followed the pattern of the first half and was end to end.

Raymond Nolan won a great ball and flashed it to the net to put some daylight between the teams. Kilgarvan heads seem to drop and Crotta at this stage could sense victory. Adrian Mahony scored a great point from out on the right wing. The same player goaled almost immediately was following great saves from Kilgarvans goalie. Both Jordan Conway and Darragh Sheehan had shots saved by the goalkeeper who was helpless when Mahony followed up. Crotta then introduced all subs.

Final score Crotta 3-02, Kilgarvan 0-00.

The final score does not reflect how well Kilgarvan played and much credit goes to them. For Crotta it was a tremendous victory and a bit of history as we had never won at this grade before.

Barry Mahony gave a brilliant display of shot stopping and who knows what might have happened in the final if he had not evicted such a great save.

The back line of Conway, Ryan and Quinlan proved how teak tough they were when called upon and their opponents earned scores off these trio.

In midfield we had a great mix of skill and hard work. Raymond Nolan has so much skill and both Adrian Mahony and Darragh Regan work so hard. Adrian was man of the match in the final and is a great ground hurler.

Upfront Jordan Conway was awarded Player of the Tournament was ably assisted by Sean O'Donoghue (who opened the scoring in the final), David Behan (a great tryer who never gives up) and Darragh Sheehan (not hurling that long but a great prospect).

A team is only as good as its bench and with Crotta it's no different. All subs played their part.

Joe Walsh of the NK Hurling Board presented Captain Adrian Mahony with the trophy at the end of the match.

In what was one of the wettest days of the year great credit is due to parents and supporters.

Thanks also to Denis Mahony, Brendan Mahony, John Joe Conway and Martin Conway who looked after the team on the day.

Thanks to our sponsor Thomas Walsh Plant Hire.

Our Thanks t o Jerome O'Sullivan, Paul O'Donoghue the under 10 coaches well done over the past 3 years for all the hard work, including Francis White who trains the 5 and 6 year olds every Wednesday evening.

Medals will be awarded later in the year and all who took part over the two blitz's (in Causeway and Ardfert) will get medals.

Thanks to Ardfert GAA Club who again catered for everyone on the day.

Thanks to the family of Donal O'Flaherty for donating the winning trophy in Donal's honour.

( Visit the Gallery # 24 and view photos)

VHI CUL CAMP

Recently a very successful cul camp was held in Dromakee, Kilflynn .Boys and girls from the hurling clubs of Crotta, Abbeydorney and Lixnaw took part. There were 85 in total which was a great turnout.

They were coached over the week by John Griffin, James Flaherty, David Doyle and Pat Corridan. Maurice Leahy was the hurling camp coordinator.

Well done to all who took part and to the coaches as well. Marc O'Shea made a guest appearance and spoke to all players. Well Done to Adam O'Sullivan who won the signed Kerry Jersey. Thanks to Crotta Chairman Paud Twomey who was there everyday to make sure things went smoothly.

MINOR HURLERS

The Crotta Minor hurlers advanced to County Minor Hurling Championship Semi Final, with a 0-10 to 0-09 victory over a gallant Abbeydorney side, before a large crowd at Dromakee, Kilflynn on Friday August 10th. This was a tight contest between the teams, with the Black and Ambers boys led at half time by 0-05 to 0-03.

Crotta team and Scorers: Eoin O'Sullivan, Paul Lenihan, Darren Twomey, Luke Sheehan, Sean Weir, Paul Costello, Alan Leen, Jonathan Caffrey, Richard Nolan (0-05), Padraig O'Leary, Gary Marshall (0-02), Keith Hannafin (0--01), John O'Connor, Aaron Sheehan and Shane Nolan (0-03).