Our U14 panel arrived back in the bridge Sunday evening after competing in Feile 2016 in Waterford/Tipperary. We were hosted by the Ballygunner Hurling Club in Waterford City. After beating Roanmore in their home pitch at 4pm (1-3 to 0-5) we had to cross the city to Ballygunner for our 5.30pm match with Lucan Sarsfields which we lost(1-7 to 0-0). On Friday evening the lads were introduced to their host families for the weekend.
On Saturday morning we played Ballygunner in a great game but were beaten (5-5 to 1-4). We had now qualified for the Shield competition so it was back to Roanmore to play Thurlas Og at 2pm which we won (2-5 to 1-2). We were now in the Shield semi-final which was fixed for Golden in Tipperary for 5.30pm where we beat Toomevara (3-5 to 0-1). After a quick stopover in the Clonmel Park Hotel for food we were back at the Ballygunner clubhouse who had a reception organised for us. Minor Chairman Mike Quinn made a presentation to the Ballygunner Chairman and received a Waterford Crystal piece to mark the occasion and to acknowledge both our Clubs respect and friendship. It was then time for the lads to go back with their host families after a long day but a successful one having qualified to meet Naas in the Shield Final.
On Sunday all roads lead to Waterford IT Sports Complex for the Shield Final at 12 noon with Naas. After playing against a strong breeze and driving rain in the first half we were only 1 point behind (1-3 to 1-2) at half time with Evan Murphy scoring 1-1 and David Kennedy 0-1. After a massive effort in the second half by everyone we failed to get the breaks on scores to push us ahead and a physically stronger Naas team held out by scoring a goal in the final 2 minutes to win by 2-3 to 1-2.
The Minor Club wish to thank all our U14 players for the fantastic way they represented the Club in Feile 2016 both on and off the field, they were indeed a credit to their families and we hope they enjoyed the experience and that they bring back great memories of their weekend in Ballygunner. A special thank you the management team in preparing the lads for Feile and the great work they did throughout the weekend.
Thanks to the Ballygunner Club for the hospitality and kindness they showed to our players, management and supporters. To the host families who looked after the lads in their homes and did all they could to make it a special weekend.
