Cead Mile Failte, and Welcome to the Official Website of Mac Cabhann Ui Bhriain
     
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2004 Reports
County Players
Player Profiles
GAA Humour
Keep up to date with all the club news through our news archieve section.

********************************2008**********************************

The senior hurlers take on Crusheen in the championship first round this Friday the 7th June in Cusack Park Ennis. All support is welcomed. See the Clare champion for throw in time. (Probable 7:30pm)
 
The recently formed field committee has commenced work on the club grounds and surrounding areas. The club premises are very well kept as a result. Much work is planned over the coming month. Work commences every Wednesday from 7pm for approx. 2 hours, all are welcome to help out. Contact Tony O'Brien for more details.

 

 The Clubhouse Development is in its final stage with new showers being installed in the home dressing room. Great credit is due to all the volunteers especially Michael Crotty & Joseph Furlong.
 
The club is currently seeking input from club members and supporters regarding future developments of the grounds. Examples of possible development work are: erecting a stand / playing wall, floodlighting the pitch etc. Please send your comments and suggestions to club secretary, Martin Furlong, 2 Main Street,O' Brien's Bridge Co. Clare by June 20th.
 
The U-14 hurlers narrowly lost out in the 'C' county final during the week. More details to follow soon.

 

Senior Hurling Championship Draw 08'

 Group

 

Tulla, Wolfe Tones, Ballyea,Newmarket-On-Fergus, Inagh/Kilnamona

 1

 

Sixmilebridge, Tubber, St. Joesphs D/B, Cratloe, Corofin

 2

 

Clarecastle, Eire Og,O. C. Mills, Clooney-Quin, Kilmaley

 3

 

Crusheen, Clonlara, Scariff, Ogonelloe, Smith O Briens

 4

 

Race Night

 

The club is holding it annual race night in Walsh's Bar this coming Friday, the 7th of March at 9pm. Horses can be bought off any senior player, club officer or committee member, for a price of €20. Members, supporters and locals are encouraged to come along, enjoy the night and have a flutter on the tote. 

 

U-21 Hurling Championship

 

The first round of the hurling championship is due to take place on St. Patrick day. The team is in the "B" division and have being drawn to face Corofin.

 

Minor Hurling League

 

The minor hurlers turned in two good performances in the league recently. They were however just pipped in both games, going down to Parteen/Meelick and losing to Sixmilebridge by 2 points.


Membership Night

The club wishes to thank all those who attended its annual registration night in the club house recently. Membership is still open, with single membership costing €30 while a couple rate of €50 is available. All players must be paid members in order to train or play with the club! Contact any committee member or officer of the club to join                                                             

                                                              Grounds Development


The  development of  the  club facilities  is  winding  down  after  a  hectic  few  months.
The car park within the club grounds is finished. Work is coming to a finish on the newly refurbished dressing rooms. The meeting room has being painted with heaters installed. Many local community groups are set to avail of this superb facility


                                                                           Lotto


 
Club members,  players  and supporters are encouraged  to check  out  the clubs  website and its online lotto at: www.smithobriens.com This weeks jackpot is  €3,000 with five €30  lucky dips also drawn  every  week.  Tickets  cost  only  €2  and  are  available  in  shops  and   bars  in   Killaloe, Bridgetown, O’Brien’s Bridge & Ballina

 

                   Membership Night

 

The club will be holding its annual registration night in the club house on Tuesday the 12th February

 from 6:30pm until 8:30pm. All players must be full members before they can play for the club

and must join on the night. Single membership is €30 while a couple rate of €50 is available.

All of last year’s members are encouraged to come all on the night and renew their membership

 for the coming year.

 

Grounds Development

 

The exciting development of the club facilities continues at a fast pace. The car park within

the club grounds is nearing completion. Work is coming to a finish on the newly refurbished

dressing rooms. While the meeting room floor is almost complete and will serve as a superb facility

for the GAA club and the wider Killaloe Parish as a whole. Great credit is due to all the local

volunteers for their great efforts over the last year or so. 

 

Training Resumes.

 

The Senior and Junior hurling panels have resumed training under the watchful eye of manager

Anthony Rodgers. The selectors for the coming year are: John Howard, Johnny Healy, Eddie

Rosney, John Sheedy and Eddie Rosney Jnr. For any interested players who wish to return

they are encouraged to come along. Training is on Tuesday and Friday (7:30pm) and Sunday

(9am). For more details contact one of the management team.

 

Bereavement

 

The club suffered a tragic loss of the Christmas period of well known local women, Mary Howard.

The club once again extends its sympathies to the Howard family. Mary was a much loved friend

and member of the club, serving on the senior club committee last year.  

 

                              AGM

The Smith O Brien’s GAA club AGM was held in the Kincora Hall hotel on Tuesday the 27th of November 2007. A very large crowd of players and members were in attendance. A review of the up and down year was presented in the chairman and secretaries reports. Treasure John Culhane presented a detailed financial report. It is clear from the ever increasing costs of running the club that a more serious approach to fundraising is required from everyone in the club. The under 14 and under 16 teams were congratulated on winning their respective county titles in hurling and football.

The out going executive of Naoise Lawlor (Chairman), Martin Furlong (Secretary) and John Culhane (Treasurer) was retained. Club President is Father Grace while Séan Kierse is the Honorary Life President. Michael Culhane was retained as club Vice Chairman, Lucy Flynn continues to be the club registrar likewise Patrick Aherne as PRO. Pat Reddan was elected as assistant treasure. The previous year’s committee were retained while some new faces include, Kevin McCarthy, Seamus Gleeson, Derry O’Leary and Anthony Rodgers.

 

 

Out going senior hurling manager Michael Culhane stepped down and Anthony Rodgers was elected to the post unopposed. The U-21 hurling manager’s position was temporarily left vacant as the club awaits a possible restructuring of this competition. Paul McCarthy and Eddie Rosney were appointed as the Junior Football management team. While Paul also handles the Junior Hurlers along with Conor Hayes.

 

********************************2007**********************************

After defeats to both Ogonelloe and Ballyea, the senior hurlers faced the grim task of trying to retain their senior status. The seasoned campaigners that are Kilnamona, put up a good effort but on the day Smith O'Briens ran out comfortable winnners.   

After going down by three points, (1-15 to 2-9) to Ogonelloe in last weeks encounter in Scariff, both sides meet again this Saturday (22nd) at the same venue to decide their Championship faith. Finishing level on points after the end of the group stage, the winners will go through to face the Mills in a Senior B 1/4 final, while the loser will face Ballyea in a relagation semi final. Throw in is at 3:30, and all support is welcome!  

 ***************************************************************************

 

Its being a hectic few weeks for Smith O ' Briens GAA club. With plenty of action both on and off the field. The Seniors recorded their first championship win of the year against Tulla in a hard fought match in Scarriff. Trailing by a point (0-6 to 0-5) at half time, having played into the wind, Smith O'Briens were in a  good position to mount a strong challenge in the second half. That they did and were ahead by two points with time running out.Tulla launched a late siege on the Smith O ' Briens goal but we held out for a valuable two point win.

 

They now face Ogonelloe this Saturday at 2:30pm in Scarriff. In a do or die game, both sides are battling to secure a spot in the Senior B quarter final, rather than face the daunting prospect of a relagation play off. Michael Culhane is out with a broken finger suffered in the Tulla game, while Shane O'Brien and Pat Vaughan return to the team, from holidays and illness respectively. All Support is appreciated!!!

 

The recent drive to upgrade the dressing rooms, resulted in the opening of marvellous new showers in the club house in Killaloe this week. Great credit must go to all involved, especially chairman Naoise Lawlor and all the tradesmen who helped out. Further work is planned and is underway at the moment.

 

The minor B hurlers lost out in the county quarter final to Corofin last week. Missing star forward Liam Walsh was a big blow, but the team have had a good year. Full match report on website next week.

 

************************************************************************

 The Senior Hurlers take on Tulla in a must win game this Saturday afternoon in Scariff. All Support is appreciated. Preparations had being going well, but recent injuries to Paul McKeogh (broken thumb) and Seamus Gleeson (dislocated shoulder) have reduced the team’s options somewhat.

The Junior B footballers have played two games in recent weeks. Taking on Kilmurry Ibrickane in Ballyline they took an early lead which was never in danger of being hauled in. A late goal for Kilmurry Ibrickane gave them some hope but time and the scoreboard were against them. Final Score Smith O’ Brien’s 0-8 Kilmurry Ibrickane 1-2. Team: Martin Haugh, Sean Conway, Seamus Gleeson, Brian Scanlan, Patrick Aherne, John Cusack, Shane Burns, Adrian Duhig, John Culhane, Shane McCarthy, Brian McKeogh, Paul McKeogh, Stephen McCarthy, Damien McCarthy & Dermot McCarthy  

 

 

In the second group stage game they played East Clare rivals Meelick. In a poor affair the team never gelled as well as the Kilmurry game. The sharper Meelick team led by 5 points at the break with Smith O’ Brien’s waiting until the end of the half to get on the score board. An  improvement was seen in the second half as a late surge capped off by an Anthony O Sullivan goal had the Meelick men rattled. However a serious injury to Seamus Gleeson overshadowed the final result, with the centre back now likely to miss the rest of the hurling campaign. Meelick held on for a deserved win by 3 points with Smith O’ Brien’s knowing an improvement is needed for their next game no matter the opposition. 

 

 

Congratulations to the Junior B hurlers who won the league title in Broadford recently. They defeated Newmarket on Fergus in the semi final on a score line of 1-10 to 0-3, to set up the final show down against a highly rated Sixmilebridge team. With a nice blend of youth and experience the hurlers led throughout and won the final on a score line of: 2-12 to 1-8. A night of celebrations took place in Horans Bar in Bridgetown. With wins over Parteen and Ruan already secured their attention now returns to the Championship race.

 

 

The Minor Hurlers continue to impress in this years B Hurling Championship and look set to reach the knock out stages. Stay tuned for more updates.

 

The Senior Hurlers took on Scariff in Whitegate on the 6th August in a bid to retain their Clare Cup division 2A league status. After a mixed league campaign both sides were very determined to stay up. Smith O Brien’s held a slim lead throughout and led by the narrowest of margins at the break. A long range Willie Neary free went all the way to the net to regain the lead after Scariff had started the second half brightly. With two minutes of injury time played Smith O’ Brien’s led by two points. Heart break was to follow however as Scariff snatched a last gasp winning goal.

We are proud to announce that the clubs lotto is available to play online now!! Buy your ticket online today and you can enter multiple tickets in one draw, or play the same numbers for the full year, with special online reductions!  So tell your family, friends and relatives living away from the parish, in Ireland or over sea's that its never been easier to support your club!

The Senior Hurlers take on local rivals Scarriff in the championship second round this thursday evening in Cusack Park Ennis at 7pm. A large crowd is encouraged to travel and offer their support

Brian McKeogh is set to make a return from injury for the Scariff game, while Trevor Howard has been ruled out with a fractured thumb. John Cusack has resumed training following a lengthy injury, while Paul McKeogh has rejoined the Senior Panel after returning from Australia.

Under 14 Hurlers Win 'B' Title

 

Fans were treated to a breath taking, whirlwind and heart stopping game of skill and determination by Smith O’Brien’s and Clonlara Under 14’s in the “B” championship final in Scariff. On a dreary Friday evening with a fresh wind at their backs and led by the inspirational captain Micheal Ryan, Smith O’Brien’s lead by 0-2 to 2-3 at half time. Luke Howard reacted quickest to pull on a breaking ball in the square after a long delivery to give Smith O’Brien’s a dream start. Clonlara struck back with a point to narrow the gap. Mark Stritch pointed a 45 yard free, before seeing a 30 yard ground stroke brilliantly saved by the Clonlara keeper. Piling on the pressure and showing great commitment Smith O’Brien’s struck for another goal when the dangerous Mark O’Halloran rifled an unstoppable shot into the top corner to send the crowd delirious.

 

At this stage Clonlara switched Oisin O’Brien onto Micheal Ryan in an effort to curb his growing influence and raking clearances. Stritch and Ryan added two frees before the end of the first half to extend their lead. The second half resumed with Clonlara danger man, Cathal O’Connell pointing on several occasions to chip away at the Smith O’Brien’s lead. A goal for Clonlara saw the lead cut to two points with ten hectic minutes still remaining. Clonlara refused to die and fought back excellently to bring the sides level for the first time two minutes into injury time. Most neutrals would agree that on balance a draw would have being a fair result, but this group of young men had other ideas. Cometh the hour cometh the man, and with time up Micheal Ryan launched over a 60 yard free from the sideline, cue wild celebrations. It was a tremendous game and both sets of mentors and players deserve great credit. All the Smith O’Brien’s players played their part but the outstanding Micheal Ryan, Mark Stritch, Chris Balfe and Mark O’Halloran deserve special mention.  

***

 

Congrats to Smith O Briens Young Hurlers on Winning the Noel Sheedy Cup recently. Seeing off stiff competition from 15 other team from several counties.  

June 

Best of Luck to all Leaving Cert and Junior Cert students from the club.     

 Senior Hurling Championship: Smith O Briens 1-7 Crusheen 1-16

 Senior Hurling League: Smith O Briens 0-18 Ballyea 1-12

                                 ClareCastle 3-25 Smith O Briens 0-9

                                 O Callaghans Mills 3-9 Smith O Briens 1-11

                                 Smith O Briens 2-15 Ogonelloe 2-14

Junior B league. Venue: Scariff, 15th April 2007. 5:30pm
 HT: Smith O'Briens 0-6, Scariff 1-02 FT: Smith O'Briens 2-15, Scariff 1-4

Senior Hurling League: Smith O Briens 2-15 Ogonelloe 2-14

Senior Hurling Challenge: CastleLyons (cork) 1-9 Smith O Briens 2-18

A forty year anniversary celebration for the Junior A Championship winning team of 1967 will take place in the lakeside hotel Ballina onthe 27th of May. Tickets are available on the night and cost only €10.Music City are performing, with the festivities beginning at 9:30. Light refreshments will be provided and all are welcome to attend.

April-May

The Senior hurlers recorded a hard fought away win against Ballyea on Sunday last. Playing with the aid of a strong breeze in the first half, they led by seven points at half time. A determined second half performance saw Smith O Briens emerge winners by four points, 1-12 to 0-18. The next competitive game is the eagerly anticipated championship opener against Crusheen.

Best of luck to senior hurler Trevor Howard who is a key member of Bridge Celtic Soccer team. They can secure the premier league crown this weekend with a win over Bridge united in Sixmilebridge. All
support is encouraged.

March 07'

The clubs fundraising drive kicked off in style with a race night in Reddans bar on the third of

 

March. A total of 19 races were ran on the night, along with two special auction races. Many thanks to all

 

the local businesses who sponsored a race or advertised in the race night booklet. The generous support of

 

all the people on the night is greatly appreciated by the club.

 

 

Well done to John Cusack who is part of the Clare Seniors panel. The side had a comfortable victory over down last weekend in the league.

 

 

Congratulations to our recent lotto winner Anthony Broe who scooped the top prize jackpot of € 6,000!

 

 

The senior team has resumed training recently for the upcoming Clare Cup campaign. Michael Culhane is

 

manager, along with selectors Derry O' Leary and coach Martin McKeogh. Rosie Foley is over seeing the

 

team’s physical training. All players are reminded training is at 7:00pm Tuesday and Thursday.

 

 

The U-21 championship draw was made recently and Smith O’Brien’s have again drawn last years

 

Champions Newmarket on Fergus. This knock out match will take place on St. Patrick’s Day.

 

Feb 07'

The under 21 hurlers enjoyed a Saturday in Dublin recently where they played a competitive challenge game

before going to GAA HQ to witness Tyrone Vs Dublin in the first round of the football league under lights in

front of a capacity crowd.

 

The Club is holding a membership registration night on the 1st of February at the club house. All

 

members past and present are invited down between 7 – 9:30pm. Membership is only €20 per

 

person or €30 per couple. Players are reminded that club membership is compulsory!  Special

 

discounts are available in many local shops with membership card. If unable to attend any club

 

officer can register you on the night, or at any other time. 

 
 
 
The Smith O'Brien's A.G.M took place on thursday 28th December at the Kincora Hall Hotel and was well
 
attended.The following officers were elected for 2006, President: Fr.Grace, Honorary Life President: Sean
 
Kierse, Chairman: Naoise Lawlor,  Vice Chairman: Michael Culhane, Secretary: Martin Furlong, Asst
 
Secretary/Registart Lucy Flynn, Treasurer: John Culhane, Asst Treasurer: Ollie Ryan, P.R.O: Patrick
 
Aherne, Equipment Officer Joseph Furlong and not forgetting our Flagman, John Collins. 
The committee members appointed last year were returned to their positions, with one or two new additions.
 
The managers for the upcoming season were also voted in.
 
Senior Hurling Manager: Michael Culhane.            Junior B Hurling Manager: Conor Hayes.   
 
U-21 Hurling Manager: Tony O' Brien. 
 
Football Managers: Kevin McCarthy, Eddie Rosney & Paul McCarthy 
 
The club would like to express their sincere thanks to all outgoing club officers, committee members and
 
managers for their hard work over the last twelve months. With a special word of thanks to Ollie Ryan (8yr's
 
as Treasurer), Tony O'Brien and Pat Sheedy.

 

********************************2006**********************************

The club recently held a 16km sponsored walk along the riverbank walks in O'Briens Bridge & Clonlara. An eager group including players, supporters and officals helped to raise some much needed funds for the club.

Congratulations to Naosie Lawlor on his production of the Smith O'Briens GAA newsletter. To date there have being two issues. These information sheets are available in local churches, bars and shops in the parish.

After a disappointing end to the season in a number of grades, the end of the year is once again upon us. Club activities are all but finished until spring. At least in reaching so many finals and semi's credit must go to the players and management for there work throughout the year.

Thanks to all the fans for all there support during the year, and to you the visitors to the site. With over three thousand hits before our 1yr birthday last September. Stay Safe and have a peaceful Christmas.

Junior Hurlers pipped by Killenana in County Final.

Junior Footballers lose out in semi final replay to the Tones

Cratloe Beat Smith O'Briens well to claim first Senior Crown in Shannon

Hurling Semi Final finishes in a draw 1-13 a piece replay set for Sunday

Junior Footballers also Draw' with the Tones 1-9 each in Co. Semi

Senior  Hurling Championship Quarter Final 06' September 30th Ennis 1:30                   

SOB 1-12 Nemarket OF 3-9

Smith O Brien's unbeaten run was brought to an end this Saturday in Cusack Park thanks to a Newmarekt purple patch early in the second half.

Junior B Footballers Down Ennistymon to reach Semi

All Roads lead to Cusack Park.

This Saturday all roads will lead to Cusack park in Ennis as we take on Newmarket on Fergus in the Senior Hurling Championship Quarter final with a spot against Crusheen awaiting the winners. The throw in is at 1:30 and all suppourt is much appreciated. 

Tulla County Semi Final Postponed.

The match was called off at the eleventh hour due to the untimely death of Killaloe man Michael "block" Reddan who died suddenly in Limerick aged 42. May he rest in peace.

An Taosieach, Bertie Aherne visits the club!

An Taosieach, Bertie Aherne visited the club on Thursday 21st Sept! Organised by local F.F councillor (and our Chairman)  Tony O'Brien, many locals braved the elements to meet the man. He congratulated the club on its recent sucess at adult level and thanked those volunteers who manage and help our young children stay fit and active. He posed for pictures and shook many hands. Tony presented An Taoiseach with a framed picture of the riverside and Killaloe. The Taoiseach finished with a best of luck wish to the hurlers on Saturday Vs Tulla.

 

KRFM provided live commentary on the Tubber Senior B game and are most likely to do so when the hurlers face Tulla in the Semi final in Scarriff on the 23rd at 5:30.If done, the commentary will be streamed live on the internet via www.killaloeradio.com

August 06

Junior C hurlers blitz Banner to reach semi final (Johnny Healy & Chippie Star!). *NEW*

Junior B Footballers defeat the Banner's Best in Bodyke to reach 1/4 final.

Congratulations to John Cusack on his winning his second U-21A Football medal with Kilmurry Ibrickane on Saturday. They defeated Doonbeg 1-13 to 1-6 in Cooraclare.

Senior hurlers qualify for County 1/4 final and Senior 'B' semi with impressive win over Tubber.

Congratulations to Mark McInerney who was part of the Clare U-15 hurling team which won the Munster championship in Carrigaline county Cork.

Senior B Hurling Championship Rd2. Smith O'Briens defeat Whitegate 1-14 to 2-9. Report.

Former Clare and Tipp manager Len Gaynor trained the Senior team this week before Saturdays long awaited clash with Whitegate. After bad losses to Granagh Ballingary and Scarriff recently a big improvement is needed, but confidence is high and a win would secure a semi final spot.

July 06

Minors beat Bodkye.    Junior B's draw with Whitegate.

Junior B championship starts this weekend (July 9th) Vs Whitegate in Scariff.

Club Dragon Boat team wins Feile Brian Boru race for Patrick Hein Cup. (2nd July)

Minors lose to Parteen in 1st round of Championship by 3 points. (29th June) Report Wanted!!!

U-16's beat Scariff in Challenge match. (27th June)Final Round defeat to Newmarket ends our interest in this years Clare Cup. (24th June)

Senior Hurlers lose to Killenana in Clare Cup. (17th June)

Junior B championship starts this weekend (July 9th) Vs Whitegate in Scariff. For full match details check the Clare Champion or contact Conor Hayes.

Club Dragon Boat Team wins Brian Boru Feile race for Patrick Hein Cup. (2nd July)

In glorious weather a large crowd attened the Feile Brian Boru dragon boat races outside Mollys bar by the Ballina jetty. Smith O' Briens entered a team comprising of: Trevor Howard, Shane O' Brien, Ian O'Halloran, John Cusack, Mike Flynn, Patrick Aherne, Brian Scanlan, Stephen McCarthy, Rory Cahill, Patrick Kennedy & Conor Hynes. Ten members rowed while one beated the drum and called the shots from the front of the boats, (supplied by UL activity centre). 14 teams entered the race and it was run over 7 heats (2 boats racing each time) with the top 8 times going through to the knock out stage. Smith O' Briens qualified in joint second with a time of 33 seconds in their time trial. The course was approx a 70 metre sprint downstream to the bridge with the finish line at the jetty.

The team won through to the semi final with a win over the canoe polo team. They then faced the reigning champions and favourites Larkins. In a fierce race (with the boats level with 15 metres to go and only feet apart) Smith O' Briens just pulled through to win by a metre. Taras bar provided the opposition in the final but with Smith O' Briens  finding their rythm early in the race after a powerful start the youth shone through for a fast time and a half boat length win. Cue joyous scences of celebrations. Patrick Aherne accepted the cup and thanked all those responsible for the day, which was a record success raising over €1400 for childrens charity.

Minors lose to Parteen in 1st round of Championship by 3 points. (29th June) Report Wanted!!!

U-16's beat Scariff in Challenge match. (27th June) Report Wanted!!!

Final Round defeat to Newmarket ends our interest in this years Clare Cup. (24th June)

Senior Hurlers lose to Killenana in Clare Cup. (17th June)

Seniors Draw with the mills in Clare Cup  (20th March) See Clare Cup Page for full report

 

Under 21’s Suffer from the Blues but go down Fighting.   (18th March)

 

A gallant, courageous and passionate performance from the Under 21 hurlers saw them narrowly fall at the first hurdle of the championship to Newmarket on Fergus in Meelick on St. Patrick day.

 

Short senior team members, John Cusack (twisted knee,came on with a few minutes to go), Ian O Halloran (recently had surgery on his knee), Stephen McCarthy (Shoulder) and Patrick Aherne (studying abroad) the side faced an up hill battle, but the young hurlers filled there spots admirably.

 

With Trevor Howard proving to be the heart beat of the team once more from centre back, he turned in another simply awe inspiring game, with endless heart, energy and spirit. Newmarket were pre game favourties due to the depleted Smith O’Brien’s team but were stung by the hard hitting passionate play from the men in saffron and red.

 

Bernard Gaffney’s bustling frame proved to be the difference between the two teams on the day, scoring 3 killer goals in the first half. Still stinging from the defeat at the hands of Smith O’Brien’s in the Minor A championship semi final in Scariff three years earlier, they planned their revenge.

 

Managed by Brendan Foley with Selectors Kevin McCarthy and Brian Lenihan the team line out was: Eric Monaghan, Niall Toomey, Mike Flynn, Edward Moloney, Patrick Kennedy, Trevor Howard, Willie Neary, Michael Sullivan, Shane O Brien, Liam “Goose” Walsh, Shane Burns, Pa Vaughan, Eoin “Lar” Ryan, Rory Cahill and Dwayne Sheedy.

 

After playing with the aid of a slight wind in the first half Smith O’Brien’s went into the break trailing 3-4  0-5 in a low scoring affair. Every player gave 100% in the second half to out score Newmarket 0-4 to 1-5, but the first half goals proved to be the difference and Smith O’Brien’s went down by 4 points losing 3-8 to 1-10. Liam Walsh and Shane O Brien scoring frees and Lar Ryan kicking in the goal from close range (also unlucky with another second half chance).

 

Most of these players will concentrate on the Clare Cup for now, but many of the young talented up coming players will hopefully be leading the minor team to success later this year. Credit due to all for a proud performance.

 

Clare Cup Campaign off to good start with win over Broadford (11th March)

 

See the Clare Cup Page for full coverage.

 

 

Olive Stritch Weekend Events   10th Feb 06'

 

On Friday night the book launch of "Hurling in the Shadows", was held in the lakeside hotel. Edited by Joss Lowry the proceeds raised are going to the North Tipperary Hospice, also in memory of Olive Stritch. Contributions from several different writers including Sean Kierse, Sarah Devane.

 

The night was very successful with a full house in the Lakeside.  Anthony Foley donated his Munster jersey from the heineken cup match versus Sale jersey which was auctioned for 1,500 euro. Speakers included Sean Hehir, John Leahy, Sparrow and Arthur Stritch.

  

                                                          Munster Star Anthony Foley Donates his Sale Jersey for auction.

                  

Not men but Giants!? Joss Lowrys record

   breaking hurley seem to prove it! 

   

On Sunday Smith O Briens played Broadford U-12's before the big match. The closely fought game ended in a draw. With Clare star Ollie Baker presenting the medlas after the game. The grounds were pristine for the big day, with an estimated  crowd of 3,000 attending, including ex-Clare hurlers such as Tommy Guilfoyle from Feakle, Jim McInerney from Tulla and Liam Doyle from Bodyke.  Munster rugby player Anthony Foley was also there to support this local cause.  In particluar a large crowd from Olive's home village of Broadford.

 

The teams parade around the grounds, led by the pipe band in front of a large crowd.

 

 A lively match was played with a good atmosphere. The pitch kept in excellent condition by the grounds staff led by Jimmy Healy. Paul McCarthy painted a colourful picture of events, commentating live on Killaloe radio (streaming live on the web www.killaloeradio.com). A mixture of youth and experience on both sides, saw a tough game with Clare coming out on top on a scoreline of 3-9 to    1-16.  Arthur Stritch presented cup to Clare captain Sean McMahon. Credit due to all for the great events and organising. Including Joesph & Martin Furlong for equipping the changing rooms with new seats and Naoise and Chippy for the painting jobs.

 

 

U 21's Beat Burgess    3rd Feb 06'

 

The under 21's hurlers recorded a 3 point win over Burgess in a challenge match recently, while they prepare for the St Patricks day championship game. 

 

Big Scoop for Ian 'Nutz' O Halloran

 

A big congratulations to Ian O Halloran won recently claimed a E3,000 first prize in the club lotto.

 

U 21's back in training.  Jan 06'

 

After the relaxing christmas break the season is already gearing back up with Brendan Foley taking charge of the under 21 A Hurlers. Training is underway, with the St Patricks Day Championship date already pencilled into the calendar. This talented team is the group of players who reached the Minor A final three years ago, losing by two late points to Clarecastle. Hopes are high and the team wants to make ammends for last years early exit to Wolfe Tones in the first round in Meelick.

 

********************************2005**********************************

 

AGM  Dec 05'

 
The Smith O'Brien's A.G.M took place on Sunday last at the Kincora Hall Hotel and was well attended.The following officers were elected for 2006, President: Fr.Grace, Honorary Life President: Sean Kierse, Chairman: Tony O'Brien, Vice Chairman: Michael Culhane, Secretary: Pat Sheedy, Asst Secretary: Naoise Lawlor, Treasurer: Ollie Ryan, Asst Treasurer: Martin Furlong, P.R.O: Peter Murphy,Registrar: Lucy Flynn and not forgetting our Flagman: John Collins. 
The new committee members appointed were Pat Reddan, Pat Aherne, Pat McNamara, Brendan Foley, Pat Vaughan, Tom Gleeson, Seamus Gleeson, Charlie Power, Kevin McCarthy, John Ryan, Robert McNamara, John Howard, John Sheedy and Jack Hogan.
The managers for the upcoming season were also voted in, Senior Hurling Manager: Arthur Stritch, Junior B Hurling Manager: Conor Hayes, U-21 Hurling Manager: Brendan Foley, Football Manager: Kevin McCarthy and Kit Manager: Joseph Furlong.
 
The club would like to express their sincere thanks to all outgoing club officers, committee members and managers for their hard work over the last twelve months. Merry Christmas from Smith O'Brien's GAA club, we look forward to an exciting and successful 2006 on and off the pitch. (4th December)

 

Junior B Shield

 

On Halloween afternoon, the club went in search of County honors, exactly a year on from last years intermediate championship win, in Clareabbey in the Junior B Hurling Shield. The West Clare men form Clonboney proved worthy opposition with the minimum between the sides after an intense sixty minutes of action. Young Pat Vaughan sealed a great win for the club, a sensational score with time running out and the sides deadlocked proved to be the difference.

Read more on the Junior B page...(click on the link on the left)  ( 3rd November)

 

U-12 Win

Under 12 side win East Clare B championship in Meelick. Managed by Brendan Foley, Arthur Stritch and Miriam Flynn. Final score 3-4 to 2-3. More coming soon.. ( 3rd November) 

Healy Ref's County Final

A big congrats to Johnny Healy of Killaloe who recently took charge of the Senior County final of Clarecastle Vs Wolfe Tones in Cusack Park Ennis. Johnny also refereed the County Minor A final this year. Johnny has put alot of effort into his role as one of the top referee's in the county in recent years and played admirably in goals all year for the Senior team.

Seniors Crash & Burn in Semi

Smith O’Briens crashed out of the Senior B championship with a disappointing display against a determined Ogonelloe outfit at Scariff on Saturday (8th of October) last. Three goals in the first five minutes for the black and amber men proved fatal to Smith O’Briens hopes of progressing to another County final. Read more on the senior hurling page... (click on link on the left) 

The future of Smith O’Brien’s Senior hurlers in this years Senior B championship was secured thanks to a hard fought victory against neighbours and rivals Clonlara in Broadford on Saturday. read more (10th September)

The Senior Hurlers are taking on Clonlara in Broadford on Staurday next. A win means Clonlara would be in relagation fight, while Smith O' Briens would face a 3 way play off at worst for the two semi finals spots with Kilnamona & Tulla.

A strong second half performance saw the men of Tulla snatch a deserved victory, after trailing by six points at half time. On an overcast day in Scarriff, a strong wind blew towards the club house end of the grounds making this very much agame of two halfves.read more (28th August)

Pa Vaughan & Liam Walsh represent Clare in Neagh Co Op.Mark McInerney goes to Forristal in Waterford. .read more (27th August).

Junior Ladies lose final to Shannon Gaels (27th August).

Championship back in Action...With the gallant Clare senior team out of the race for All- Ireland glory, the hurling championship is finally getting into full swing, with several games up for decision next weekend.read more (21st August)

Minors out of championship race after losing playoff to Bodkye. (9th August)

Played in Feakle on the 6th of August the Junior B team took on the locals in the East Clare championship. Having already lost to Cratloe in the championship losing would bring the teams interest in this season to a close. Short a few regulars they were forced to line out with the experienced duo of Pat & John Sheedy at corner forward and corner back respectively.read more (6th August)

The minor hurlers are one step closer to a quarter final spot with a victory over Broadford, in this playoff match. It was a game that saw Broadford finish with ten men.read more (6th August)

The Junior B hurling team travelled with high expectations to Meelick for this 1st round championship against Cratloe, after a bright league campaign. Played in bright conditions & on a perfect surface the game was a lively free flowing affair.read more (30th July)

An amazing comeback by the men of Smith O'Brien's saw them snatch and unlikely victory from the jaws of defeat, in their first senior championship match in over forty years. This friday evening match was played at Wofles Tones of Shannon grounds in front of a large attendance.read more (29th July)

U-21 Hurling Cork 1-17 Clare 1-11

Junior B football team lose to Clonboney

Brendan Foley ruled out for year with cartilidge damage

This years Brian Boru festival match took place at 7:30 in Killaloe on Friday 8th July between these near neighbors and rivals. Smith O’Brien’s teams were short many regulars including the four U-21 hurlers and captain Brian Lenihan who was away on holidays. Ballina have already had a championship round underneath their belt, while Smith O’Brien’s were looking to use this as a good warm up game before the 1st round of the championship versus Kilnamona.read more (8th July)

The experience of Ollie Baker played a big part in St Joseph’s victory over Smith O’Briens. It was a result that didn’t seem likely for much of this entertaining tie which saw both teams pick up worrying injuries a few weeks before the various championships get underway.
Four points was also the margin in this game with St Joseph’s scoring their two goals in as many minutes at the turn of the final quarter.read more (25th June)

Junior B team continue great run

Seniors finish group stages unbeaten.read more (19th June)

County U-21's make final preparations for Cork game.

Noel Sheedy tournament hugely successful.

 
©Smith O'Briens