On Sunday an U11 contingent was on the N7, bound for Maynooth. It was their first outing of 2018 and with training being hampered due to weather of late; the punters were dubious of the ability of these debutants.
After a formal parade, where teams were led by a pipe- player around the perimeter of the pitch, the Young Ireland boys were up against Faughs of Dublin. This was a close game until half time, but in the second half the Gowran boys got their momentum going and pulled ahead winning 2:3 to Faugh’s 0:1.
The second game was against a very formidable Ballyboden team. This was nip and tuck all the way, the game was fast, the side-line hot, the intensity ardent! But the Gowran boys fought tooth and nail and won 1:4 to Ballyboden’s 1:1.
The third game was against hosts Maynooth, who had lost two of their players in earlier games. The sideline was eerily quiet, but a retired Gowran Principal was involved with the Maynooth side hence the Daddys were mute!!! Despite this the Gowran boys won well on a scoreline of 5:2 to no score.
So topping the table, Gowran were to face Naas on the other side. This was fixed for 3 o’clock, giving the boys over an hour break. However, Maynooth GAA club provided refreshments and an abundance of food for all.
Maybe it was the wait, maybe tiredness set in; but the final caught the Gowran boys in the headlights. From throw-in, Naas dominated the game. Their physicality, speed and skill was commendable. The Gowran boys battled hard and fought to the bitter end; but a better Naas side won out 5:6 to Young Ireland’s 0:3.
The boys were given goodie bags for their journey home by Maynooth GAA and a stop-off in Supermacs, Carlow was also on the itinerary. It was a great bonding day for the boys who had a ball, a great start for 2018! Thanks to their three coaches for organising the day.