In the early morning drizzle the pitch was set, nets tightened, poles straightened, barriers up and sanitation stations at the ready.

With the promise of dry weather and right on que at the first whistle the sun came out to shine on the might of the U8 boys on pitch 1.

From the very first hotly contested midfield battle at throw in until the first water break, we witnessed relentless blocking, tackling and a few hooks too. All around the pitch that sound of hurls clashing together was a joy to listen to.

After instructions from the dugout out came the roll and jab lifts leading to soloing runs and striking from the hand off the left and right side leading to some scores that would be shown again and again on the sunday game.

With awareness to look for the simple pass to a team mate leading to scores involving 3 or 4 players is showing the fruits of training.

With sideline cuts soaring overhead, a Puck out dropping into the opposition square and a sublime point from the touchline after a jab lift, a flick into the air while looking at the posts and then sweetly struck over the bar all in one movement.

Every single player showed improvement today whether it be striking, blocking, soloing, lifting, passing or their all round play and its great to see the training is working on match day.

To everyone who cheered the lads on today, socially distanced, hand sanitised and filled in health checks we and the players appreciate it.

Training continues on Thursday and all players welcome.

We are

Stronger together

Team mates together

Donaghmore Ashbourne together