The 2007 AGM was held on Sunday 30th with some new faces getting involved this year.
Over 30 people attended this year's meeting which was opened by chairman Pat Whelan and a number of reports were read out by out going secretary Mike Murphy, treasurer Dave Kenny and juvenile secetary Kevin Phelan. There then followed a discussion on the proposed new format for the championships in Laois for 2008. The meeting agreed that smaller groups for the championship would be beneficial for the club and we would be also able to then facilitate any player who would like to play senior grade with an amalgamated club. However this would ultimately have to be passed at couonty board level.
There then followed discussions about our own teams' performances in 2007, while the championship was disappointing the success of the Junior A team in Div 3 was noted. It was reported at the meeting that Ned Martin was again eager to train the team in 2008. Well done Ned.
After that was the election of officers which surprisingly passed off quite quickly with some new faces eager to get involved.
The elected officers for 2008 are as follows;
Chairman; Pat Whelan
V. chairman; Eugene Brennan
Secretary; Mike Murphy
v. secretary; Stevie Langton
Treasurer; Dave Kenny
v. treasurer; Richard Kingston
Pro; Mikey Langton
v. PRO; Kevin Phelan
Committee; Ned Martin, Martin Brennan, Micharl Brennan, James Brennan, Tom Phelan, Garry Howe, Liam Langton, Paul Kenny, Paschal Lacey, Kieran Murphy, Emmet Malone.
Well done to all!! Looking forward to a good 2008.
Barrowhouse Div. 3 League champs.
Barrowhouse 2-8 ; Park ratheniska 1-8
After a disappointing championship this year it was great to see Barrowhouse ending the year on the up. To some clubs it might seem as barely significant but to this club it provides further evidence that the team is going in the right direction. Having been promoted from Div. 4 last year many wondered if the team would be able to compete with some very strong teams in this division, however even without some star players for most of the campaign we have remained unbeaten in the league in 2007.
This game took off at a frantic pace with Joe Murphy scoring our first goal inside 5 minutes. A point from Stevie langton shortly afterwards ensured that we kept the good start going. Two more points from Donie Kingston after he was introduced as a sub opened up a significant gap. However Park Ratheniska used all their experience to reduce the gap by scoring 1-2 but Donie answered with a free to leave the half time score Barrowhouse 1-4 Park 1-2.
Park started off the second half in determined fashion and reduced the margin to the minimum. Both teams traded points and there was still two points between the sides with five minutes to go. Then came the decisive score when Ian Whelan somehow managed to pick up the ball in a crowd of defenders and score the winning goal.
However the game then took a sour turn when Mike Langton was sent off for a dangerous tackle on former Laois minor Mark Delaney who was taken to hospital by ambulance. Thankfully he subsequently turned out to be ok. The game nonetheless was delayed for approx 15 minutes and on the resumption Park scored two more frees. Barrowhouse however managed to hang on to claim the silverware.
Team: K. Fitzgerald, T. McDonald, K. Phelan, M. Murphy, S.O'Keefe, M. Langton, S. Phelan, P. Carbery. J. Malone(capt), M O'Donoghue, K. Murphy, S. Langton, K. Langton, J. Murphy, I. Whelan. Subs. D. Kingston, R. Grufferty, A. McDonald, J. Wallace, W. Holligan, K. Langton
See all the photos of the match on www.photoshelter.com/gallery-show/G0000L4MOwYW.M2Y
Ian and Donal help laois minors to Leinster glory
Leinster Minor Football Final
Laois 3-8 Carlow 1-12
A riveting Leinster minor football final ebbed and flowed but in the end it was a classy Laois side that claimed the crown at Croke Park on Sunday.
The curtain raiser to the Senior Final set a high standard for the afternoon but the O’Moore County minors just about did enough in the frirst half that saw Conor Meredith nap a hat-trick of some quality.
After setting a fearsome early pace, Carlow fell away as Laois full forward Meredith’s three goals gave his side a nine point lead going in at the interval. The Barrowsiders’ eight first half wides could maybe attributed to nerves given that they were appearing in their first ever final in this grade.
In contrast, Laois made good of almost every attack and their superior abilities on the ball were eptimosed by left wing-back Zac Tuohy’s 12th minute point. The shaggy haired Portlaoise clubman carried possession all of 70 metres before spinning past the challenge and cooly paddling the ball over the bar.
Meredith was the hero of the half though with his first major coming in the ninth minute of play. The tall O’Dempsey’s player dodged between two defenders before blasting to the net. His second came in the 22nd minute from the penalty spot when he sent Pat Hughes the wrong way under the slowly filling Hill 16 terrace.
Meredith moved out the field after his second green flag and the ploy paid off soon after when he followed an attack inside the 21 only to find himself unmarked with plenty of pace. A pass across the face of goal was quickly gathered and tapped past Hughes to relive any doubt still hanging over the result.
That was the view of most of the stadium, not so the Carlow XV. They came out after the break and hit two unanswered frees through skipper Daniel St. Ledger. Laois quickly replied with two of their own, but Carlow simply wouldn’t lie down.
Two more unanswered scores came their way and then sub Jordan Lowry gave real hope in the 45th minute with a well-taken goal. The ball found its way through to full-back Alan Callinan in an unorthodox position outside the Laois square. His shot cannoned off the crossbar before Lowry dispatched the rebound to the net - 1-9 to 3-7.
Carlow managed three more points to Laois’ one, but essentially it was too little too late.
Laois: M Webster, R Kehoe, J Mulhare, J O’Connor, K Lillis, P Boyle, Z Tuohy (1), S Ramsbottom, J O’Loughlin (2), K Farrell, D Kingston (3), B Smith (1), S Miller, C Meredith (3-1, 1 pen), E Kelly.
Subs: I Whelan for K Farrell (20 min), C O’Shea for M Webster (39 min), D Lowry for Ramsbottom (54 min).
2007 ACFL Div. 3 A
Junior A Championship results 2006
Final; Park-Ratheniska 1-13 Barrowhouse 0-8
Semi-final; Barrowhouse 1-6 Killeshin 0-8
Quarter-final; Barrowhouse 0-15 Ballyroan 0-9
Barrowhouse fall at final hurdle
Junior A Final
Park Ratheniska 1-13 Barrowhouse 0-8
All the local expectations came tumbling down last weekend as the Junior A's battled bravely but ultimately in vain against Park. It was obvious from early in the game that Barrowhouse were going to have to produce something special to win this game but unfortunately it didn't happen this time.
In a similiar pattern to the semi-final Barrowhouse were forced to live on scraps as Park were dominant around the mid-field area, despite the best efforts of James Malone. However unlike Killeshin in the earlier round Park made full use of their possession running up a five point lead 0-6 to 0-1 mid way through the first half. Our only score coming from a Donie Kingston free, indeed the same player was to score all but one of Barrowhouse's points.
Donie made it 0-6 to 0-2 before Park struck for the game's only goal, a series of defensive blunders left Tom Bowe with the task of beating Karl from close range. Both sides added two further points to leave the score at half time Park Ratheniska 1-8 Barrowhouse 0-4.
It was vital that Barrowhoouse got off to a good start in the second half but it was Park who scored first playing into the breeze. Donie then tagged on two points as Barrowhouse looked to increase the pace of the game but, every time they looked under pressure, Park were able to break upfield and tag on a point. Most of the last quarter were played in the Park half however Barrowhouse could only manage two more points and although Kevin Phelan was unlucky not to have scored a goal near the end it would not have changed the result. Park Ratheniska to be fair played by far the better and more cohesive football, they were deserved winners on the night and we wish them well in the Leinster championship coming up and the intermediate championship next year.
For Barrowhouse it was a disappointing end to what has been a very positive year. Well done to Billy Ryan and his selectors Dick Davis and Martin Brennan for picking up the pieces from last year. Also well done to the players who have put in a massive effort this since last January they have brought a lot of pride back to the club over the last eight months.
Team: K. Fitzgerald, T. McDonald, P. Langton, M. Murphy, Sean Langton, J. Grufferty, S. Phelan, J. Malone, P. Carbery, J. Murphy, D. Kingston(0-7), Keith Langton, M.O'Donoghue(0-1), R. Grufferty, I. Whelan.
Subs. M. Langton for J. Grufferty, Stevie Langton for Roger Grufferty, Kieran Murphy for M. Murphy, K. Phelan for M.O'Donoghue
Junior A's see off Killeshin to book place in county final.
Barrowhouse 1-6 Killeshin 0-8
Barrowhouse overcame a tough challenge from well organised Killeshin on Saturday evening side to set up a clash with Park-Ratheniska in the county final. Killeshin were seen as favourites prior to the game as they had dropped a division from Intermediate this year. Killeshin got the first score of the night with a pointed free from the start. Barrowhouse responded with two Ian Whelan points to take the lead. Killeshin aided by the breeze answered with two points to regain the lead again. However just minutes after going behind Barrowhouse scored the crucial goal, a penalty from Donie Kingston, following a great move which led to Donie himself being fouled in the box. Killeshin immediately responded to leave a point between the sides. Up stepped Peter Carbery with wonderful point from a very acute angle to restore the two point advantage. Killeshin pressed again but some poor shooting from good positions cost them dearly. Indeed they only scored a single point when they could easily have had three or four. Barrowhouse led at half time by 1-3 to 0-5.
The second half turned out to be an even more tense affair with scores becomming even more difficult to come by. The reward of a final place seemed to affect both sides. Killeshin were again first to score this brought the sides level again. Barrowhouse replied with a pointed free from Kingston however Killeshin responded with one of their own. At this stage Dom Whelan was introduced for Barrowhouse and his experience was to become an important on the final quarter. Indeed it was he who laid on the pass for Shay Phelan to kick a point which edged Barrowhouse in front again. Killeshin's response was almost immediate, sides level for the fifth time. At this stage Killeshin had laid seige on the Barrowhouse defence.
With time running out Barrowhouse managed a breakaway into the Killeshin defence where Donie embarked on a mazy run attracting the attentions of a number of defenders. This left a number of forwards free, Donie was then able to pick out Mark O'Donoghue on the edge of the square and his piledriver clipped the top of the crossbar and went over. For the remaining couple of minutes Barrowhouse defended as if their lives depended on it and held out for the narrowest of wins.
Karl in goals and the entire defence must be given great credit to hold a side like Killeshin to only eight scores over the hour. James and Peter worked extremely hard in midfield against a very talented Killeshin duo. While up front the frowards made the most of limited the opportunities that came their way. However the overall performance will have to improve if the side is to claim the ultimate prize in the county final.
Team: K. Fitzgerald, T. McDonald, P. Langton, M. Murphy, Sean Langton, M. Langton, S. Phelan(0-1), J. Malone, P. Carbery(0-1), J. Murphy, K. Murphy, D. Kingston(1-1,1 pen,1f), M.O'Donoghue(0-1), R. Grufferty, I.Whelan(0-2).
Subs. Keith Langton for Sean Langton, Dom Whelan for P. Carbery, Stevie Langton for Roger Grufferty, Kieran Burke for Kieran Murphy, Kevin Langton for M.O'Donoghue
Junior A's in semi-final
Barrowhouse qualified for the semi-final of the Junior A championship with a hard earned victory over Ballyroan on Saturday. The game was played in blustery conditions in Timahoe which made scoring for both sides difficult. Barrowhouse played with the aid of the elements in the first half and kicked some fine scores from Donie Kingston, Kieran Murphy, Keith Langton and Ian Whelan. Ballyroan were restricted mainly to close in frees in the first half as the wind made shooting very tricky. Barrowhouse were on top for most of the first half but didn't fully drive home their advantage however they still had a useful five point lead at half time, 0-10 to 0-5.
The second half proved to be much more even contest Barrowhouse got the first score however Ballyroan the hit their best spell with three unanswered points. This left just a goal between the sides. Donie Kingston then pointed a free but Ballyroan hit back almost immediately. With about ten minutes to go Barrowhouse introduced Stevie Langton and Dom Whelan and this seemed to inspire the team again with Kieran Murphy and Donie adding two further points. Barrowhouse seemed to be the fitter team at this stage and were reasonably comfortable in the end.
Overall this was a good team performance with the defence as a whole playing well despite giving away some soft scores. James Malone and Peter Carbery won the midfield battle, while up front Donie Kingston, Keith Langton and Kieran Murphy played well. Final score Barrowhouse 0-15, Ballyroan 0-9.
Team: K. Fitzgerald, M. Murphy, Mikey Langton, Sean Langton, J. Murphy, J. Grufferty, S. Phelan, J. Malone, P. Carbery, R. Grufferty, K. Murphy, D. Kingston, Keith Langton, M. O'Donoghue, I. Whelan. Subs; Stevie Langton for R. Grufferty, D. Whelan for J. Grufferty inj, Kevin Langton for K. Murphy.
First title for Barrowhouse in 14 years
By: Tomas Moore
ACFL Division 4
Barrowhouse 1-11 Graiguecullen 1-10
14 years really is a long time for any side to last win some silverware. The year that Barrowhouse last lifted a trophy was 1992, when they completed a league and championship double.
On Wednesday last they defeated Graiguecullen by a single point in the Division 4 final. Tears flowed afterwards, pints were sculled in Maggie Ryan’s pub that night as the ‘house finally could celebrate some eagerly awaited success. It was fitting that their new messiah Donie Kingston kicked the winning free two minutes into injury time; it has been an incredible season for the ‘boy wonder’.
“It is great for the club; they have treated me so well down here. It just feels so much like home,” delighted Kingston told the Laois Nationalist.
Barrowhouse had heroes all over the park in Ballylinan, the likes of Joe Murphy, Ian Whelan, Se·n Langton and Shay Phelan have all staked their claim for a place in the Barrowhouse folklore.
They were without their manager Billy Ryan, who is a native of Ballylinan, the fiery manager was holidaying in Spain and there were numerous rumours before the game saying that he had cut short his stay.
“It is magic, we are just delighted we have waited so long for this. Everything is worth it. The lads have worked so hard and they deserve it. The championship is our goal now. It was great to win this for Billy who is on holidays, this is for him,” Barrowhouse selector Richard said.
Graiguecullen on the other-hand will be disappointed. For a club of their stature it seemed with only minutes remaining that they were going to grab victory from their opponents, when substitute Seamus Doogue fired to the back of the net. They still have the championship to look forward to, once they don’t lose players like Kevin Smith and Chris Hurley to the seniors, well they can look forward to a long summer.
The industrious Kingston got the early exchanges underway with a point. It was to be the final score from Barrowhouse for quiet some-time as the Carlow-border side took control. Chris Hurley who should be senior player scored three excellent points all from frees. It seemed to shake Barrowhouse to life, especially as Peter Carbury announced his return to club colours with a point. Barrowhouse managed to take the lead for the second-time during the game through points from Kingston and Mike Murphy.
Points were traded through Brian O’Rourke and Mark O’Donaghue, before Kingston then added a brace with two magnificent points from near the side-line. In fairness to Kingston he didn’t let the unpleasant vocal support from a section of the Graiguecullen support effect his confidence.
Laois minor panellist Ian Whelan had the last say off the half, to give Barrowhouse a interval lead of 0-8 to 0-4.
Chris Hurley (two) and Patrick Scully tried to inspire a mini-revival for their side. Just as the tide was turning, Barrowhouse struck for a sucker-punch. Peter Carbury found himself in space, and he cutely spotted Patrick Scully off his line, which he cheekily chipped the stranded keeper.
Hurley then scored three points to leave only two-points between the sides once more. The onslaught was short lived as a double from Kingston seemed enough for his side.
Graiguecullen are known for getting the odd goal, and they did after 56 minutes to tie up the sides. Substitute Seamus Doogue found himself in space and he blasted to the net. The hill 16 end of Graiguecullen exploded into life, as it seemed they were destined to bring the clash to a replay.
With the referee reluctant to blow his whistle, Kingston didn’t complain as he pointed a late injury time free. The party started as it replicated scenes from the final whistle of the Laois v Tyrone epic.
The ‘house are back. BARROWHOUSE: Karl Fitzgerald; Thomas McDonald, Mike Langton, Stephen Langton; Mike Murphy (0-1), Se·n Langton, Joe Murphy; James Malone, Mark O’Donaghue (0-1); Shay Phelan, Peter Carbury (1-1), Donie Kingston (0-7, 4f); Roger Grufferty, Keith Langton, Ian Whelan (0-1). Subs: Kevin Phelan for M Murphy (36mins), Kieran Murphy for Grufferty (53mins), James Grufferty for K Langton (60mins).
Junior A's qualify for quarter finals.
Barrowhouse claimed a hard earned victory over Ballinakill to clinch a place in the quarter finals. The game was played in intense heat in Timahoe which drained both sets of players. Ballinakill started off at a whirlwind pace knocking over two points in the opening minutes Barrowhouse replied with a pointed free from Donie Kingston after Joe Murphy had been fouled. Barrowhouse then hit a purple patch with goals from Roger Grufferty and Keith Langton and points from Donie Kingston and Ian Whelan. However disaster struck for Barrowhouse when Noel Buckley was sent to the line for a second bookable offence this was followed shortly after by a goal for Ballinakill. The sides went in at half time level 2-4 to 1-7 with Barrowhouse seemingly up against it. However straight after half Barrowhouse scored a great goal from Joe Murphy and a point from keith Langton to establish a four point lead. Ballinakill then added two points before Ian Whelan replied with one for Barrowhouse. Ballinakill then added a goal and a point to draw level to set up a tense final ten minutes. However two points from Donie Kingston sealed a hard earned victory for Barrowhouse. Final score Barrowhouse 3-7 Ballinakill 2-8.
It has been a good week for the Junior A team, following victory over Rosenalis in the Championship, a hard earned win over a gallant Graiguecullen side yesterday (28/5) ensured that they topped their section of the Division 4 league. Having been relegated last year from div. 3 one of the teams goals this year was to get promoted as quickly as possible, this victory was an important step towards that aim. Barrowhouse are now in a semi-final and should they win that match will play div. 3 next year as both teams in the league final will be promoted.
Barrowhouse started off this game in whirlwind fashion and were 1-3 to 0-1 inside 10 mins. Keith Langton netted for Barrowhouse. After an exchange of points Graiguecullen scored a penalty but Barrowhouse immediately struck back with a rare goal from James Malone. At half time Barrowhouse led by 2-7 to 1-2. Graigue came with all guns blazing in the second half and added three points before Keith Langton scored a point. Graigue dominated the exchanges in the second half and only some great defending by Karl in goals and the whole of the backline denied the visitors. Two points by the experienced heads of Mick Murphy and Shay Phelan steadied the ship and Barrowhouse ran out winners by 2-10 to 1-9.
Div. 4A League Table 30/7/2006
Semi Final; Barrowhouse 4-10 Mountmellick 1-4
Final; Barrowhouse 1-11 Graiguecullen 1-10
Div. 5A League Table
Over 30 people attended this year's meeting which was opened by chairman Pat Whelan and a number of reports were read out by out going secretary Mike Murphy, treasurer Dave Kenny and juvenile secetary Kevin Phelan. There then followed a discussion on the proposed new format for the championships in Laois for 2008. The meeting agreed that smaller groups for the championship would be beneficial for the club and we would be also able to then facilitate any player who would like to play senior grade with an amalgamated club. However this would ultimately have to be passed at couonty board level.
There then followed discussions about our own teams' performances in 2007, while the championship was disappointing the success of the Junior A team in Div 3 was noted. It was reported at the meeting that Ned Martin was again eager to train the team in 2008. Well done Ned.
After that was the election of officers which surprisingly passed off quite quickly with some new faces eager to get involved.
The elected officers for 2008 are as follows;
Chairman; Pat Whelan
V. chairman; Eugene Brennan
Secretary; Mike Murphy
v. secretary; Stevie Langton
Treasurer; Dave Kenny
v. treasurer; Richard Kingston
Pro; Mikey Langton
v. PRO; Kevin Phelan
Committee; Ned Martin, Martin Brennan, Micharl Brennan, James Brennan, Tom Phelan, Garry Howe, Liam Langton, Paul Kenny, Paschal Lacey, Kieran Murphy, Emmet Malone.
Well done to all!! Looking forward to a good 2008.
Barrowhouse Div. 3 League champs.
Barrowhouse 2-8 ; Park ratheniska 1-8
After a disappointing championship this year it was great to see Barrowhouse ending the year on the up. To some clubs it might seem as barely significant but to this club it provides further evidence that the team is going in the right direction. Having been promoted from Div. 4 last year many wondered if the team would be able to compete with some very strong teams in this division, however even without some star players for most of the campaign we have remained unbeaten in the league in 2007.
This game took off at a frantic pace with Joe Murphy scoring our first goal inside 5 minutes. A point from Stevie langton shortly afterwards ensured that we kept the good start going. Two more points from Donie Kingston after he was introduced as a sub opened up a significant gap. However Park Ratheniska used all their experience to reduce the gap by scoring 1-2 but Donie answered with a free to leave the half time score Barrowhouse 1-4 Park 1-2.
Park started off the second half in determined fashion and reduced the margin to the minimum. Both teams traded points and there was still two points between the sides with five minutes to go. Then came the decisive score when Ian Whelan somehow managed to pick up the ball in a crowd of defenders and score the winning goal.
However the game then took a sour turn when Mike Langton was sent off for a dangerous tackle on former Laois minor Mark Delaney who was taken to hospital by ambulance. Thankfully he subsequently turned out to be ok. The game nonetheless was delayed for approx 15 minutes and on the resumption Park scored two more frees. Barrowhouse however managed to hang on to claim the silverware.
Team: K. Fitzgerald, T. McDonald, K. Phelan, M. Murphy, S.O'Keefe, M. Langton, S. Phelan, P. Carbery. J. Malone(capt), M O'Donoghue, K. Murphy, S. Langton, K. Langton, J. Murphy, I. Whelan. Subs. D. Kingston, R. Grufferty, A. McDonald, J. Wallace, W. Holligan, K. Langton
See all the photos of the match on www.photoshelter.com/gallery-show/G0000L4MOwYW.M2Y
Ian and Donal help laois minors to Leinster glory
Leinster Minor Football Final
Laois 3-8 Carlow 1-12
A riveting Leinster minor football final ebbed and flowed but in the end it was a classy Laois side that claimed the crown at Croke Park on Sunday.
The curtain raiser to the Senior Final set a high standard for the afternoon but the O’Moore County minors just about did enough in the frirst half that saw Conor Meredith nap a hat-trick of some quality.
After setting a fearsome early pace, Carlow fell away as Laois full forward Meredith’s three goals gave his side a nine point lead going in at the interval. The Barrowsiders’ eight first half wides could maybe attributed to nerves given that they were appearing in their first ever final in this grade.
In contrast, Laois made good of almost every attack and their superior abilities on the ball were eptimosed by left wing-back Zac Tuohy’s 12th minute point. The shaggy haired Portlaoise clubman carried possession all of 70 metres before spinning past the challenge and cooly paddling the ball over the bar.
Meredith was the hero of the half though with his first major coming in the ninth minute of play. The tall O’Dempsey’s player dodged between two defenders before blasting to the net. His second came in the 22nd minute from the penalty spot when he sent Pat Hughes the wrong way under the slowly filling Hill 16 terrace.
Meredith moved out the field after his second green flag and the ploy paid off soon after when he followed an attack inside the 21 only to find himself unmarked with plenty of pace. A pass across the face of goal was quickly gathered and tapped past Hughes to relive any doubt still hanging over the result.
That was the view of most of the stadium, not so the Carlow XV. They came out after the break and hit two unanswered frees through skipper Daniel St. Ledger. Laois quickly replied with two of their own, but Carlow simply wouldn’t lie down.
Two more unanswered scores came their way and then sub Jordan Lowry gave real hope in the 45th minute with a well-taken goal. The ball found its way through to full-back Alan Callinan in an unorthodox position outside the Laois square. His shot cannoned off the crossbar before Lowry dispatched the rebound to the net - 1-9 to 3-7.
Carlow managed three more points to Laois’ one, but essentially it was too little too late.
Laois: M Webster, R Kehoe, J Mulhare, J O’Connor, K Lillis, P Boyle, Z Tuohy (1), S Ramsbottom, J O’Loughlin (2), K Farrell, D Kingston (3), B Smith (1), S Miller, C Meredith (3-1, 1 pen), E Kelly.
Subs: I Whelan for K Farrell (20 min), C O’Shea for M Webster (39 min), D Lowry for Ramsbottom (54 min).
2007 ACFL Div. 3 A
| P | W | D | L | Pts | |
| B'House | 6 | 4 | 2 | 0 | 10 |
| Graigue | 5 | 4 | 0 | 1 | 8 |
| Ballinakill | 6 | 3 | 1 | 2 | 7 |
| Spink | 5 | 2 | 1 | 2 | 5 |
| Stradbally | 5 | 2 | 1 | 2 | 5 |
| B'Abbey | 6 | 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 |
| A'Kilcruise | 6 | 0 | 1 | 5 | 1 |
Junior A Championship results 2006
Final; Park-Ratheniska 1-13 Barrowhouse 0-8
Semi-final; Barrowhouse 1-6 Killeshin 0-8
Quarter-final; Barrowhouse 0-15 Ballyroan 0-9
Barrowhouse fall at final hurdle
Junior A Final
Park Ratheniska 1-13 Barrowhouse 0-8
All the local expectations came tumbling down last weekend as the Junior A's battled bravely but ultimately in vain against Park. It was obvious from early in the game that Barrowhouse were going to have to produce something special to win this game but unfortunately it didn't happen this time.
In a similiar pattern to the semi-final Barrowhouse were forced to live on scraps as Park were dominant around the mid-field area, despite the best efforts of James Malone. However unlike Killeshin in the earlier round Park made full use of their possession running up a five point lead 0-6 to 0-1 mid way through the first half. Our only score coming from a Donie Kingston free, indeed the same player was to score all but one of Barrowhouse's points.
Donie made it 0-6 to 0-2 before Park struck for the game's only goal, a series of defensive blunders left Tom Bowe with the task of beating Karl from close range. Both sides added two further points to leave the score at half time Park Ratheniska 1-8 Barrowhouse 0-4.
It was vital that Barrowhoouse got off to a good start in the second half but it was Park who scored first playing into the breeze. Donie then tagged on two points as Barrowhouse looked to increase the pace of the game but, every time they looked under pressure, Park were able to break upfield and tag on a point. Most of the last quarter were played in the Park half however Barrowhouse could only manage two more points and although Kevin Phelan was unlucky not to have scored a goal near the end it would not have changed the result. Park Ratheniska to be fair played by far the better and more cohesive football, they were deserved winners on the night and we wish them well in the Leinster championship coming up and the intermediate championship next year.
For Barrowhouse it was a disappointing end to what has been a very positive year. Well done to Billy Ryan and his selectors Dick Davis and Martin Brennan for picking up the pieces from last year. Also well done to the players who have put in a massive effort this since last January they have brought a lot of pride back to the club over the last eight months.
Team: K. Fitzgerald, T. McDonald, P. Langton, M. Murphy, Sean Langton, J. Grufferty, S. Phelan, J. Malone, P. Carbery, J. Murphy, D. Kingston(0-7), Keith Langton, M.O'Donoghue(0-1), R. Grufferty, I. Whelan.
Subs. M. Langton for J. Grufferty, Stevie Langton for Roger Grufferty, Kieran Murphy for M. Murphy, K. Phelan for M.O'Donoghue
Junior A's see off Killeshin to book place in county final.
Barrowhouse 1-6 Killeshin 0-8
Barrowhouse overcame a tough challenge from well organised Killeshin on Saturday evening side to set up a clash with Park-Ratheniska in the county final. Killeshin were seen as favourites prior to the game as they had dropped a division from Intermediate this year. Killeshin got the first score of the night with a pointed free from the start. Barrowhouse responded with two Ian Whelan points to take the lead. Killeshin aided by the breeze answered with two points to regain the lead again. However just minutes after going behind Barrowhouse scored the crucial goal, a penalty from Donie Kingston, following a great move which led to Donie himself being fouled in the box. Killeshin immediately responded to leave a point between the sides. Up stepped Peter Carbery with wonderful point from a very acute angle to restore the two point advantage. Killeshin pressed again but some poor shooting from good positions cost them dearly. Indeed they only scored a single point when they could easily have had three or four. Barrowhouse led at half time by 1-3 to 0-5.
The second half turned out to be an even more tense affair with scores becomming even more difficult to come by. The reward of a final place seemed to affect both sides. Killeshin were again first to score this brought the sides level again. Barrowhouse replied with a pointed free from Kingston however Killeshin responded with one of their own. At this stage Dom Whelan was introduced for Barrowhouse and his experience was to become an important on the final quarter. Indeed it was he who laid on the pass for Shay Phelan to kick a point which edged Barrowhouse in front again. Killeshin's response was almost immediate, sides level for the fifth time. At this stage Killeshin had laid seige on the Barrowhouse defence.
With time running out Barrowhouse managed a breakaway into the Killeshin defence where Donie embarked on a mazy run attracting the attentions of a number of defenders. This left a number of forwards free, Donie was then able to pick out Mark O'Donoghue on the edge of the square and his piledriver clipped the top of the crossbar and went over. For the remaining couple of minutes Barrowhouse defended as if their lives depended on it and held out for the narrowest of wins.
Karl in goals and the entire defence must be given great credit to hold a side like Killeshin to only eight scores over the hour. James and Peter worked extremely hard in midfield against a very talented Killeshin duo. While up front the frowards made the most of limited the opportunities that came their way. However the overall performance will have to improve if the side is to claim the ultimate prize in the county final.
Team: K. Fitzgerald, T. McDonald, P. Langton, M. Murphy, Sean Langton, M. Langton, S. Phelan(0-1), J. Malone, P. Carbery(0-1), J. Murphy, K. Murphy, D. Kingston(1-1,1 pen,1f), M.O'Donoghue(0-1), R. Grufferty, I.Whelan(0-2).
Subs. Keith Langton for Sean Langton, Dom Whelan for P. Carbery, Stevie Langton for Roger Grufferty, Kieran Burke for Kieran Murphy, Kevin Langton for M.O'Donoghue
Junior A's in semi-final
Barrowhouse qualified for the semi-final of the Junior A championship with a hard earned victory over Ballyroan on Saturday. The game was played in blustery conditions in Timahoe which made scoring for both sides difficult. Barrowhouse played with the aid of the elements in the first half and kicked some fine scores from Donie Kingston, Kieran Murphy, Keith Langton and Ian Whelan. Ballyroan were restricted mainly to close in frees in the first half as the wind made shooting very tricky. Barrowhouse were on top for most of the first half but didn't fully drive home their advantage however they still had a useful five point lead at half time, 0-10 to 0-5.
The second half proved to be much more even contest Barrowhouse got the first score however Ballyroan the hit their best spell with three unanswered points. This left just a goal between the sides. Donie Kingston then pointed a free but Ballyroan hit back almost immediately. With about ten minutes to go Barrowhouse introduced Stevie Langton and Dom Whelan and this seemed to inspire the team again with Kieran Murphy and Donie adding two further points. Barrowhouse seemed to be the fitter team at this stage and were reasonably comfortable in the end.
Overall this was a good team performance with the defence as a whole playing well despite giving away some soft scores. James Malone and Peter Carbery won the midfield battle, while up front Donie Kingston, Keith Langton and Kieran Murphy played well. Final score Barrowhouse 0-15, Ballyroan 0-9.
Team: K. Fitzgerald, M. Murphy, Mikey Langton, Sean Langton, J. Murphy, J. Grufferty, S. Phelan, J. Malone, P. Carbery, R. Grufferty, K. Murphy, D. Kingston, Keith Langton, M. O'Donoghue, I. Whelan. Subs; Stevie Langton for R. Grufferty, D. Whelan for J. Grufferty inj, Kevin Langton for K. Murphy.
First title for Barrowhouse in 14 years
By: Tomas Moore
ACFL Division 4
Barrowhouse 1-11 Graiguecullen 1-10
14 years really is a long time for any side to last win some silverware. The year that Barrowhouse last lifted a trophy was 1992, when they completed a league and championship double.
On Wednesday last they defeated Graiguecullen by a single point in the Division 4 final. Tears flowed afterwards, pints were sculled in Maggie Ryan’s pub that night as the ‘house finally could celebrate some eagerly awaited success. It was fitting that their new messiah Donie Kingston kicked the winning free two minutes into injury time; it has been an incredible season for the ‘boy wonder’.
“It is great for the club; they have treated me so well down here. It just feels so much like home,” delighted Kingston told the Laois Nationalist.
Barrowhouse had heroes all over the park in Ballylinan, the likes of Joe Murphy, Ian Whelan, Se·n Langton and Shay Phelan have all staked their claim for a place in the Barrowhouse folklore.
They were without their manager Billy Ryan, who is a native of Ballylinan, the fiery manager was holidaying in Spain and there were numerous rumours before the game saying that he had cut short his stay.
“It is magic, we are just delighted we have waited so long for this. Everything is worth it. The lads have worked so hard and they deserve it. The championship is our goal now. It was great to win this for Billy who is on holidays, this is for him,” Barrowhouse selector Richard said.
Graiguecullen on the other-hand will be disappointed. For a club of their stature it seemed with only minutes remaining that they were going to grab victory from their opponents, when substitute Seamus Doogue fired to the back of the net. They still have the championship to look forward to, once they don’t lose players like Kevin Smith and Chris Hurley to the seniors, well they can look forward to a long summer.
The industrious Kingston got the early exchanges underway with a point. It was to be the final score from Barrowhouse for quiet some-time as the Carlow-border side took control. Chris Hurley who should be senior player scored three excellent points all from frees. It seemed to shake Barrowhouse to life, especially as Peter Carbury announced his return to club colours with a point. Barrowhouse managed to take the lead for the second-time during the game through points from Kingston and Mike Murphy.
Points were traded through Brian O’Rourke and Mark O’Donaghue, before Kingston then added a brace with two magnificent points from near the side-line. In fairness to Kingston he didn’t let the unpleasant vocal support from a section of the Graiguecullen support effect his confidence.
Laois minor panellist Ian Whelan had the last say off the half, to give Barrowhouse a interval lead of 0-8 to 0-4.
Chris Hurley (two) and Patrick Scully tried to inspire a mini-revival for their side. Just as the tide was turning, Barrowhouse struck for a sucker-punch. Peter Carbury found himself in space, and he cutely spotted Patrick Scully off his line, which he cheekily chipped the stranded keeper.
Hurley then scored three points to leave only two-points between the sides once more. The onslaught was short lived as a double from Kingston seemed enough for his side.
Graiguecullen are known for getting the odd goal, and they did after 56 minutes to tie up the sides. Substitute Seamus Doogue found himself in space and he blasted to the net. The hill 16 end of Graiguecullen exploded into life, as it seemed they were destined to bring the clash to a replay.
With the referee reluctant to blow his whistle, Kingston didn’t complain as he pointed a late injury time free. The party started as it replicated scenes from the final whistle of the Laois v Tyrone epic.
The ‘house are back. BARROWHOUSE: Karl Fitzgerald; Thomas McDonald, Mike Langton, Stephen Langton; Mike Murphy (0-1), Se·n Langton, Joe Murphy; James Malone, Mark O’Donaghue (0-1); Shay Phelan, Peter Carbury (1-1), Donie Kingston (0-7, 4f); Roger Grufferty, Keith Langton, Ian Whelan (0-1). Subs: Kevin Phelan for M Murphy (36mins), Kieran Murphy for Grufferty (53mins), James Grufferty for K Langton (60mins).
Junior A's qualify for quarter finals.
Barrowhouse claimed a hard earned victory over Ballinakill to clinch a place in the quarter finals. The game was played in intense heat in Timahoe which drained both sets of players. Ballinakill started off at a whirlwind pace knocking over two points in the opening minutes Barrowhouse replied with a pointed free from Donie Kingston after Joe Murphy had been fouled. Barrowhouse then hit a purple patch with goals from Roger Grufferty and Keith Langton and points from Donie Kingston and Ian Whelan. However disaster struck for Barrowhouse when Noel Buckley was sent to the line for a second bookable offence this was followed shortly after by a goal for Ballinakill. The sides went in at half time level 2-4 to 1-7 with Barrowhouse seemingly up against it. However straight after half Barrowhouse scored a great goal from Joe Murphy and a point from keith Langton to establish a four point lead. Ballinakill then added two points before Ian Whelan replied with one for Barrowhouse. Ballinakill then added a goal and a point to draw level to set up a tense final ten minutes. However two points from Donie Kingston sealed a hard earned victory for Barrowhouse. Final score Barrowhouse 3-7 Ballinakill 2-8.
It has been a good week for the Junior A team, following victory over Rosenalis in the Championship, a hard earned win over a gallant Graiguecullen side yesterday (28/5) ensured that they topped their section of the Division 4 league. Having been relegated last year from div. 3 one of the teams goals this year was to get promoted as quickly as possible, this victory was an important step towards that aim. Barrowhouse are now in a semi-final and should they win that match will play div. 3 next year as both teams in the league final will be promoted.
Barrowhouse started off this game in whirlwind fashion and were 1-3 to 0-1 inside 10 mins. Keith Langton netted for Barrowhouse. After an exchange of points Graiguecullen scored a penalty but Barrowhouse immediately struck back with a rare goal from James Malone. At half time Barrowhouse led by 2-7 to 1-2. Graigue came with all guns blazing in the second half and added three points before Keith Langton scored a point. Graigue dominated the exchanges in the second half and only some great defending by Karl in goals and the whole of the backline denied the visitors. Two points by the experienced heads of Mick Murphy and Shay Phelan steadied the ship and Barrowhouse ran out winners by 2-10 to 1-9.
Div. 4A League Table 30/7/2006
| Club | Points |
| Ballylinan | 5 |
| Barrowhouse | 10 |
| Crettyard | 6 |
| graiguecullen | 10 |
| Killeshin | 1 |
| O'Dempseys | 6 |
| Stradbally | 2 |
Semi Final; Barrowhouse 4-10 Mountmellick 1-4
Final; Barrowhouse 1-11 Graiguecullen 1-10
Div. 5A League Table
| Club | Points |
| Annanough |
8 |
| Arles Killeen | 7 |
| Barrowhouse | 10 |
| Park Ratheniska | 6 |
| Spink | 2 |
| St. Josephs | 0 |
| The Heath | 11 |
| Timahoe | 12 |