Sunrise at 7am. Club gates unlocked. Three colour coded pitches marked out. New match balls inflated. Mascots Ready. Health checks confirmed. Instructions for extra breakfast for the players today and much appreciated coffee for mentors brought up too.

One by one the players like marching penguins entered pitch 2 with a focus in their eyes.

Ratoath the opposition this morning and history telling us that we had a game on our hands today. After a few late tactical changes 54 u8 boys got ready for their all Ireland final today. After some inspiring words to rally the players and from the first whistle to the final act of the day we witnessed something today.

Something special.

Both teams had spells of possession. Both teams had periods of scoring. There was plenty of superb individual skill which would grace any senior game. A bone crunching tackle that made this mentor very proud and all under the watchful eye of our young whistler's Sinead, lesley-ann and Evan.

Three matches in full swing and cheers from all sides for what was on display. After 45 minutes of superb play, teamwork, a noteworthy comment from our visitors. Great games today and well balanced matches well done ‘Your guys wanted it more’.

Pure desire, effort and hard work paved the way for the superb skills and scores today. Remember the names from the 2012 team as they will be all stars one day.

Training continues on Thursday and all players welcome

We are

Stronger together

Team mates together

Donaghmore Ashbourne together