Our U8 boys made the early morning trip to St Colmcilles on Saturday morning. With 2 punctures, a few wrong turns, a change of transport and some free apples along the way for breakfast it was an action packed morning before a ball was even kicked. 

Even without the mentor’s coffee! Beautiful conditions greeted us as the early morning chill was replaced with warm sunshine. After a quick scramble to find our pitch we began to get our players set. St Colmcilles were already through their warm up and ready for the challenge of Donaghmore Ashbourne.  

We soon realised we were playing a strong football only team. After the first break we made a few tactical changes, had a quiet word to wake up the sleepy heads like limpets still stuck to their pillows dreaming of past victories.  

A rally call issued and a response was delivered. With bloodied noses and bodies on the line we saw something in hindsight. They battled and wouldn’t lie down. They didn’t let the decisions against them deter them and then we saw individual play that Marty Morrissey is still talking about in the studio. When they played as a team the scores came from all angles and nothing beats watching a clenched fist pumping into the air in delight after 5 passes and a ball splitting the posts. 

After the final whistle and we came in for our chat and through the sweat and muck on their faces we saw the one thing we want, big smiles and happy boys. With word coming through that we were through to the next round showed us the true meaning of the morning. 

The players thrive on the continued boisterous support on the sidelines and the mentors appreciate the support and messages throughout the day. With a pit stop for treats and a coffee for this mentor we now look forward to swapping gum shields for helmets and footballs for Hurleys next week. Training continues on Thursday on pitch 3. 

We are  

Stronger Together 

Team Mates Together 

Donaghmore Ashbourne Together.