On a wet and windy, Monday morning Newcastle N.S. boys competed in the Mini 7s hurling competition in Monivea. Drawn in a group with Monivea, Kiltullagh and Gaelscoil Riada - the boys were up against stiff competition.
In the first game against Monivea, the boys played into a strong breeze in the first half and did well to be just two points down at half-time. The second half was end to end with both teams swapping goals and excellent score taking from both sides. Newcastle were unlucky to finish on the wrong side of a 2-02 to 1-02 scoreline.
The second game against a powerful Kiltullagh side proved very challenging as the wind picked up considerably and the conditions got tougher. The Newcastle boys battled bravely until the finish and were disappointed to lose out again.
In the final match against Gaelscoil Riada, the boys showed great character and resilience to respond to earlier setbacks. They worked really hard as a team and came out deserving winners on a 5-04 to 1-01 scoreline.
We had superb performances on the day from Daniel Ruane, Daithí Burns and Daragh Lyons. They were strongly backed up by the hardworking Ódhran Madden, Paraic Fahy Rabbitt, Conal McDonagh and the versatile, Oran Costelloe (who mixed goalkeeping duties with some fine midfield displays). Cillian Ryan, Jack Duane and Liam Cake also made telling contributions during the three matches. A special mention to Conor Saunders and Bobby Madden for helping out on the day and being so supportive and encouraging to their team mates.
We look forward to taking part in more hurling competitions as the year progresses.
Mr. Watson (3rd Class)
