US College team, the Centre College Colonels from Kentucy played IAFL team, Dublin Rebels in Seapoint Rugby Club earlier today. The Colonels won by a score of 90-0. The game was well supported by both IAFL fans and the large contingent who travelled from the USA. The game was organised to launch the Rebels permanent move to Seapoint RFC.
FULL REPORT TO FOLLOW SOON,
Representatives of the IAFA were among the delegates attending the FIS Annual Conference which took place at the Guinness Storehouse in Dublin on Thursday 29th May.
The Conference is the largest NGB event on the calendar and the attendance included over 160 people representing 50 National Governing Bodies, 9 Local Sports Partnerships, Government bodies and the sports industry.
FIS CEO, Sarah O’Connor opened the Conference by highlighting the contribution that sport makes to Irish society and the economy. Minister Leo Varadkar gave the keynote speech and took part in a panel discussion on the funding of sport alongside Bernard Allen of the Irish Sports Council (ex-Minister for Sport), Hugo McNeil, MD of Goldman Sachs and Chair of the Ireland funds and Patrick Kelleher of the Shelbourne Development Group, who also owns St. Patricks Athletic. During the discussion, the Minister mentioned that consideration was being given to introducing legislation to help regulate sporting activity companies and that he is seeking views on the introduction of municipal sports centres similar to those in operation in many European cities and towns.
Andy Reed OBE, Chair of the UK Sport and Recreation Alliance (the FIS’s equivalent in the UK) gave a speech on the role of sport in society which was followed by a panel discussion featuring Kate O’Flaherty of the Department of Health, Fiona Coughlan – PE teacher and rugby player, Brendan Kenny of Dublin City Council and Keith McCormack of Failte Ireland.
The Conference also featured an open mic session with Keith Barry of Newstalk and exhibitors stands.
A bumper weekend of Irish ball this week! We have three Shamrock Bowl Conference games, an IAFL-1 match-up and the International Challenge Match between the Dublin Rebels and the Centre College Colonels from Kentucky, USA. So let’s get to it!
Carrickfergus Knights vs. Craigavon Cowboys
This is a highly interesting match-up. The two teams actually met in a preseason match-up, with the Cowboys coming out on top, but the Knights have one of the largest squads in the Irish Leagues this year with thanks to a very proactive offseason recruiting and nurturing their youth squad. With the experience those new pick-ups will have acquired in the baptism of fire that has been Carrickfergus’ opening three games, this will be a very different side to the one that Craigavon faced before the year.
However the Cowboys will have adapted too, having had somewhat of a baptism of fire of their own. Their schedule has been tough, with four of their five games being against the top 3 teams in the SBC, with their fifth match being a comfortable win against the West Dublin Rhinos. The Cowboys’ youth set-up is probably the only one that can match the Knights’s youth development team, something that will set these two sides in good stead for years to come. And looking at some of the young talent now available in the senior side it is easy to see why.
Two things you can always guarantee with the Cowboys is that they will travel in good numbers and they will be physical throughout the entire game. They don’t know how to give up and that is something Carrickfergus will have to contend with on Sunday.
However the Knights proved in their last game, a 34-7 whupping of the Dublin Dragons, that they also continue firing right until the end of the game. So one thing is certain, these two will battle to the final whistle.
North Kildare Reapers vs. West Dublin Rhinos
The Reapers have had a fantastic season no doubt. A win here and they will guarantee at least a .500 record, which is impressive alone in a debut Shamrock Bowl Conference year, but factor in that it will more than likely see them head to the playoffs and it is an outstanding effort by all those involved at the club.
They’re coming off the back of that 68-0 destruction of the Waterford Wolves, where receiver Michael O’Reilly retired from the team in style, reigning in four touchdowns to finish his Reapers career at the top of the SBC Receiving Scoring Charts. The team still has an array of weapons including Ciaran Heneghan and Sean Leamy, who both also profited from a leaky Waterford defence last time out, and a quarterback in Eoin Hallissey who has the arm to get the job done.
The North Kildare team has one of the strongest coaching set ups in the entire League, and this combined with the team’s close-knit bond has seen them reap (sorry, had to be done) the rewards on the gridiron.
The West Dublin Rhinos are at the other end of the spectrum. They are a well organised side and well coached too, but they remain winless so far this year. Their offence has been low scoring for a number of years now but their defence has regularly been solid, often keeping teams to a score or two, and thus they have picked up wins in past seasons. In 2014 however they have struggled to score or defend, putting up just 5 points per game and conceding 23.5 on average.
They look to be relegation candidates along with the Waterford Wolves, and the two sides meet on the final game of the year in what could be the decider of who goes down. A drop in division may not be the worst thing for either of these sides, but talk of that is premature when there is still football to be played. The Rhinos will not give up for sure and will make the Reapers work hard for any spoils they are to take from this game.
UL Vikings vs. Waterford Wolves
The Wolves are another team that have limped through 2014. Injuries have piled up and left the squad down to the bare bones. So a travel to Limerick to face the red-hot Vikings is probably not going to help matters.
The Vikes have hit some form, and their rookies will have developed well because of it. Their two losses, against Trinity and the Dublin Rebels, probably came at the right time for team, in terms of getting them out of the way early in the year before hitting a streak of wins heading into the playoffs. They’re a team that will cause waves, and could quite easily mount a challenge for the Bowl.
With Marc Ashworth, Adrian Garvey and Sean Goldrick having been here and done it all before and a fine set of rookies such as tight end Jake Kelly, who has provided Ashworth with a reliable target in tough spots at times this year, the Vikings’ offence is in an excellent state.
But the defence has defined the team for a number of years now, and it’s been solid again with two shut outs in the last two games.
So what can the Wolves do to stop the Vikings?
Well keep quarterback Eoin Reinhardt upright. He’s been knocked out of a couple of games already this year and, like everybody, can not repeatedly sustain injuries. And then tackle hard but fair! Close the Vikings down quickly, which is easier said than done, and bring them to the floor the first time, something the Wolves struggled with against the Reapers.
UCD vs. Mullingar Minotaurs
It’s been a good few weeks now since that impressive 8-0 win over the Meath Bulldogs for Mullingar so they’ve had time to prepare for a UCD side that lost to Cork last time out.
The Minotaurs have gone through somewhat of a transformation this year, going to a run heavy offence that is working wonders for the side. They are 2-1, which is already an improvement on last year and that is despite them not putting many points up on the board, showing that their defence is getting the job done when required to.
The only blip for the Minotaurs was the 26-0 shutout they suffered at the hands of this weekend’s opponents, UCD. The home side’s quarterback, Dave Murphy, managed to pick holes in the defence at will that day, and they’ll be keen to correct that this weekend.
UCD looked like they would rip the league apart in early season, with the 26-0 win before a 53-0 win against Cork, but a 2-0 defeat against Meath and the 8-6 loss against Cork has them at 3-2. However, their scoring says it all. They’ve put up 146 points in those five games and conceded just 10. Ridiculous numbers!
Belfast Trojans 0 – 18 Trinity College Dublin
Wow.
Lots will be made around the League about the end of the Trojans’ 26-game unbeaten streak and yes, it’s a big deal, particularly that it was ended in Belfast. But let’s not forget, this Trinity side has become a powerhouse of its own, and they were fully deserving of the win. For now it’s TCD that stays undefeated in the League.
A vintage defensive performance by the away team saw Dylan Campbell and George Walsh, both playing their first games for the club, cause chaos from the line, whilst Conor Foley put in a stellar shift at corner back on his final game for the team.
However it would be League-leading rushing scorer, Rob McDowell who would steal the show with three breakaway scores, utilising his speed to find the end zone to increase his lead in the scoring charts and to ensure his team stayed without a loss.
The Trojans are not the type of team to go and sulk about this loss. They will take it on the chin, accept that they were beaten by the better side on the day and come back stronger and better because of it. Expect a backlash, and expect them still to go far in the playoffs. Every team has to suffer loss, it’s the way they bounce back that tells you how strong they are, and this Belfast side has an excellent attitude.
But what about Trinity? Can they go all the way? With exams out of the way and the squad still looking strong, of course they can, if they manage to keep everybody fit and playing beyond the end of the university term.
UL Vikings 37 – 0 Dublin Dragons
The UL Vikings continue their fine form with another shutout and a decent amount of points put on the board, but it could have been more had it not been for the amount of penalties the team gave up. Again the home side proved their defensive capabilities, keeping the Dragons without a first down until deep into the game, and repeatedly turning the ball over, with four interceptions on the day. Stand out performances from Blake Farber, Alex Indjeyan and Alvaro Carvajal Martinez (who took a pick to the house) ensured the Vikings held the Dragons pointless.
On offence penalties kept UL pegged back, in one instance bringing up a 1st and 47, but the Vikings continued to roll, with quarterback Marc Ashworth hitting Martinez for a 50-yard gain. The quarterback then finished the drive himself, with a 6-yard rush for a touchdown.
Ashworth, who had another fine game for the team, then found receiver Gavan Duffy for a 40-yard score before utility man Adrian Garvey found rookie tight end Jake Kelly for the successful 2-pt.
Veteran Vikes player Glen Carr then passed to Ashworth for the final touchdown of the day, the 30 yard completion catching the Dragons off guard.
A Dublin mistake led to them conceding a safety, whilst Garvey’s three successful PATs rounded off the scoring and increased the player’s lead at the top of the SBC Kicking Charts.
This UL Vikings team is flying somewhat under the radar due to the form of Trinity in the division. When the two sides met at the beginning of the year, the Vikes had a number of untested rookies, whilst the team was unlucky to lose in the dying seconds against the Dublin Rebels. The form they have been in since could spell that the side is ready for another excursion deep into the playoffs, and maybe even a Bowl appearance.
Cork Admirals 8 – 6 UCD
Talk about a turnaround. When the Admirals started the year with a 53-0 loss to UCD, many feared the worst in the League. Will they be able to complete the season?
So when they beat Meath soundly, and followed it up with a win against Drogheda, people began to take note. They had a strong defence and the offence has serious talent, but surely a 53 point turnaround would be too much to ask in just a few weeks?
Granted UCD were coming in to the game weaker, missing 6 starters on defence and 3 offensive linemen, but they managed to get on the board first, with quarterback Dave Murphy running in for the score to add to his impressive tally this year.
But Cork managed to turn it around, with quarterback Stephen Hayes hitting receiver John Madden for the score, continuing their pass-heavy offence, before Hayes then found Josh Neil for the 2-pt.
The Admirals showed their prowess on defence too, with four picks in total. Ben Jenkins took his picks to 4 for the season, adding another 2 against UCD, whilst Brian Leonard and John Madden also got one each.
The Dublin Rebels have publically announced a prestigious International Challenge game against U.S. opposition to take place in Dublin next month. NCAA college football team, the Centre College Colonels, will visit Dublin in late May and play the Rebels at Seapoint Rugby Club on Saturday 31st May.
The Colonels, who hail from Kentucy, posted a 7-3 record in the Southern Athletic Association (SAA) last season. They are coached by Andy Frye, and have an impressive 15-6 record over the past two seasons. Four members of the team were 1st team All-Conference in the SAA. Ex-Colonels player, Jordan Gay was with the Carolina Panthers of the NFL in 2013 and recently signed with the New York Giants.
The Rebels have been one of the elite teams in the IAFL over the past decade. They were Shamrock Bowl finalists in 2013 and have won the Championship six times since 2003. Led by veteran quarterback Andy Dennehy and featuring RB Simon Mackey and TE Paul Grogan, they are an unbeaten 2-0 in the SBC this season. The Rebels have very recently signed an agreement with Seapoint Rugby Club in Killiney for use of the facilities and this game will be used to publicise the Rebels permanent new home.
A spokesman for the IAFA said, “The Rebels should be applauded for attracting this high profile game to Ireland. The victory by the IAFL U20 selection in last years Gathering Challenge has shown that Irish teams can compete with equivalent North American teams. Also, the success of The Gathering Bowl has clearly shown that domestic football can stage this type of event to a much higher standard than some of the external organisations who previously operated in this space. There is a lot of local interest in this type of fixture and we hope that this will be the first of many such events to take place in Ireland over the coming years.”
The event, which is supported by HSS Hire and Harrys on the Green, will kick-off at 3pm on the 31st May and admission is free of charge.
The Drogheda Lightning @ Meath Bulldogs game due to take place next Sunday is being rescheduled for later in the season. The new time/date will be be communicated shortly. Apologies for any inconvenience.
Craigavon Cowboys 6 – 18 Dublin Rebels
Waterford Wolves 0 – 68 North Kildare Reapers
Talk about a statement! We knew the Wolves were banged up, we knew they were going to struggle for the rest of the year but that’s taking nothing away from what is a stunning North Kildare performance in all phases of the game. If they were going to rally from the 49-0 loss against UL and prove to both themselves and the rest of the League that they are ready to play with the big boys in the SBC then this is the result they needed, and they got it with emphatic style.
Running back Sean Leamy started what would be a great day for him with a 29 yard rushing score, before quarterback Eoin Hallissey added one himself from a yard out.
Leamy would score his second and North Kildare’s third touchdown just before half time. Hallissey would then open up through the air, hitting wide receiver Ciaran Heneghan, who also kicked 4 PATs on the day, for a 45 yard score.
The running back Leamy would be at it again, running in from 30 yards out, before Michael O’Reilly scored his first of three on the day. Leamy grabbed his fourth and final rushing score of the day before Heneghan reigned in his second. O’Reilly would then round the day up with two receiving touchdowns from Hallissey for a combined 95 yards.
The Reapers’ offensive efforts in this game have proved that they can turn up the heat when they need to. They are going to cause some waves before the season is out and can, and probably will, have a big say in the playoff picture.
Drogheda Lightning 0 – 6 Cork Admirals
Galway Warriors 0 – 2 South Kildare Soldiers
A cagey, defensive battle of a game played in difficult conditions saw the South Kildare Soldiers walk away with the W, with a safety the only score of the match up. That moves the away side to 1-1 in the IAFL-2 whilst the Galway Warriors are still looking for both their first win and their first points of the year.
This article has been syndicated from Double Coverage and any opinions expressed are those of the author and do not necessarily represent the opinion of IAFA. Any references to non-IAFA websites are provided for convenience only and do not in any manner serve as an endorsement of those websites.
It was a very damp and wet day at Portadown Rugby Club; perfect conditions for a hard-hitting football match as the Craigavon Cowboys (1-3) hosted the Dublin Rebels (4-0) in what would prove to be a close contest. This was a battle from start to finish, and one that could have gone either way.
The opening exchanges were dominated by heavy run plays by both oppositions, with the passing game succumbing to the typical Irish weather. The first half saw each team grind to make yards, but with both offences struggling, the ball was turned over on multiple occasions as fumbles and penalties began to halt any forward momentum.
With the constant turnover of possession, it was going to take a moment of skill to break the deadlock; up step Simon Mackey. One of the leading rushers so far this year, once Mackey came into the game the Rebels offence suddenly looked much more threatening. In the 2nd quarter, Rebels converted on 4th down to set up 1st and goal, which led to Mackey rushing in the first of his three touchdowns of the day, however they failed with the 2pt conversion. This only sparked the Cowboys into life however and as the first half drew to a close, Craigavon were unlucky not to convert themselves when they pinned the Rebels back within their own 10 yard line, but the Dubliners defence stood firm. Rebels led 6-0 at the interval.
The second half began very much like the first, with penalties once again damaging any effort from an offensive perspective. It was beginning to get cagey, both defences doing an excellent job in preventing any forward progression and it looked as if it would come down to whose defensive grip broke first. However, as we entered the 4th quarter, a huge drive by the Rebels gave them excellent field position inside the Cowboys 20, and after some strong patience by the offence, Mackey once again ran in from a yard out to grab his 2nd touchdown of the game. The Rebels extended their lead to 12-0 after the failed 2pt conversion.
It would be easy to say that this was a game of inches, as not to be outdone, the Cowboys fought back and their efforts were rewarded as Quarterback, Conor Fearon scrambled in from the goal line to close the gap to within 6 points. Although they failed with the extra points attempt, it was game on again! The Cowboys battled hard to find the breakthrough they needed to tie the game, but their efforts were duly undone as Mackey rounded off the scoring by rushing in his third of the day from 22 yards out. Again, the 2pt conversion failed as the score finished 18-6 to the Dubliners.
Despite not playing their best football, The Rebels continue to win. They are able to grind out victories and their positive results see them sit top of the North Conference momentarily, having played an extra game over the Trojans. Meanwhile, the Cowboys now go to (1-4) for the season, as their good form in big games is yet to reward them. However, the season could still end positively for the ‘Boys’ as with games against the Knights and Dragons still to come, there is still an outside chance the Cowboys could steal the last Wildcard spot.
This article has been syndicated from Double Coverage and any opinions expressed are those of the author and do not necessarily represent the opinion of IAFA. Any references to non-IAFA websites are provided for convenience only and do not in any manner serve as an endorsement of those websites.
Cork Admirals took the long road north Sunday to take on Drogheda Lightning for the first time. Coming off the back of a good winning performance against Meath last time out Cork were in a buoyant mood. Drogheda were coming off a tough loss to UCD. However so far the league this season has been a case of any given Sunday.
Drogheda won the toss and elected to receive. At kickoff a light drizzle was falling but with light winds conditions were ok. Ads D started strong and held the Drogheda offense reasonable well. On the ensuing punt Nick Coffi made a great return to set up good starting field position. Two quick fire strikes to Coffi and Cullinan from QB Steve Hayes got the Ads into the redzone. However Ads became their own worst enemies with two false starts on offence. On two repeat third downs Admirals dropped balls in the end zone and going for it on 4th down hit the fingertips of Nick Coffi in corner of endzone but he could not haul it in.
Admirals defence held strong on next series and again pieced together a drive mostly through the air although one long carry by Coffi got Admirals into the endzone. Steve Hayes found Cullinan in the right corner to score. XP was missed to leave the score 6-0.
Over the next few series into the second both D’s controlled proceedings although both teams did threaten to break off some runs. Conditions were worsening with rain intensifying which made conditions greasy. Ads were able to string one drive together just before half time. Nick Coffi carried, fumbled, recovered the fumble and still broke off a 25 yard scramble to the 10. HT whistle went to leave it 6-0.
Admirals started quickly on opening of second half with quick outs to McAuliffe and Coffi. The drive ground to a half with a number of drops on catchable passes.
The rain was falling heavily at this stage and was to decide the rest of the proceedings. Both defenses were hitting hard as it turned into smashmouth football.
Harris Monagan was imperious at middle linebacker racking up nearly 20 tackles covering the proverbial every blade of grass. Admirals D-line were causing havoc also with a number of sacks and tackles for loss. Similarly Drogheda were also tackling in the back field and blunting Admirals running game. The collisions were ferocious with no quarter given by either team.
The teams swapped fumbles and interceptions and Drogheda nearly broke off a punt return to score save for a last ditch tackle from the ever present Monagan.
Into the fourth quarter Admirals started to get some success on the ground from Dowling and Donaldson and were able to move the chains. They saw out the last 5 minutes of the clock with hard direct carrying up the gut for an Admirals 6-0 victory.
Admirals now turn their attention to the return fixture against UCD next Sunday 25/05 at 2pm.
MVP on the Cork team without question goes to Harris Monagan.
Special mention to Coach Russell Kerley who was in the trenches all day for the Lightning.
Thanks to the Cork Admirals for submitting this game report
Craigavon Cowboys vs. Dublin Rebels
The Craigavon Cowboys had a difficult start to the 2014 campaign with three losses to the top two teams in our Power Rankings before they managed to come away from Castleknock with a win against the West Dublin Rhinos last time out. Whilst that will release some pressure and have confidence high in the Craigavon camp, they are now heading back into the fire as they welcome a Dublin Rebels side looking to head back to the SBC North.
The home side will want to grind out another win here and further ease their relegation worries, but it will be easier said than done when facing an offence featuring a veteran quarterback like Andrew Dennehy and weapons such as Chris Purdy, Paul Grogan and Simon Mackey, amongst others.
The Rebels will be favourites for sure but this Cowboys team has a reputation of being hard working and never giving up. Could we see an upset?
Waterford Wolves vs. North Kildare Reapers
A rematch of a game from earlier in the season, this matchup is becoming quite the rivalry! It’s also a game that Waterford can’t afford to lose, if they’re going to avoid the dreaded relegation.
The Reapers won the earlier match, coming out 13-0 victors in North Kildare, but can they do so again? They have a large, talented roster and key off-season acquisitions have made them a stronger team. However they were knocked back down to earth somewhat last time out as they suffered a 49-0 loss to a UL Vikings side that clicked on the day. That isn’t to take away from the clear progress the Reapers have made though. Their coaches have the experience and their players have the talent to take this team far, and a playoff berth is not beyond their abilities.
The Wolves are suffering though. With a small squad and injuries on top of that the Waterford side are still awaiting their first win of the year. Can they do it in front of the crowds at the RSC? To do so they will have to do a better job of protecting quarterback Eoin Reinhardt, who has been knocked out of two of their three games thus far. Keep him upright and they have every chance of challenging the North Kildare Reapers and getting revenge, and potentially a W.
Drogheda Lightning vs. Cork Admirals
Well this could be an intriguing match. The Drogheda Lightning are suffering with a small roster and are yet to win this season whilst the Cork Admirals are full of surprises, having turned round a 53-0 loss on opening day to UCD to win 20-8 against the Meath Bulldogs.
But that victory was at home. Can Cork travel well? It’s a long journey to Drogheda, and Cork’s squad isn’t the biggest. However their offence is full of talent, with quarterback Stephen Hayes, receiver Nick Coffi and running back Shane Cullinan all dangerous in terms of their ability to put points on the board. Their home form this year could be critical to their success but an away win or two would be sure to turn the doubters.
The Lightning however need a win. The loss against Mullingar on the opening day must have hurt but the 61-0 destruction by UCD will have them wanting a victory badly now. It’ll be difficult, made even more so as on-field general Mick O’Shea is banned for the game due to his ejection in the last match.
Galway Warriors vs. South Kildare Soldiers
The South Kildare Soldiers make the long journey to Galway to play the first ever competitive game of American football in the city.
Both of these teams are 0-1, with the Warriors losing to the Tyrone Titans and the Soldiers missing out to the Dundalk Mavericks first time out.
The away side probably has the most experience, with the team taking several forms in a nomadic existence over the last few years, and with several of their players heavily involved with flag football and even representing Ireland in the European Flag Football Championships last Summer. Their Head Coach, Ken Farrell, has the experience too. Can he mastermind a first win for the South Kildare team?
It won’t be easy. The Warriors have talent and the guys to pick up a victory. Their offensive line in particular has some big guys on it, though a lack of numbers could see them tire quickly, as they did against the Tyrone Titans.
This should be a fine game, and one worth making the journey out to beautiful Galway to see.
This article has been syndicated from Double Coverage and any opinions expressed are those of the author and do not necessarily represent the opinion of IAFA. Any references to non-IAFA websites are provided for convenience only and do not in any manner serve as an endorsement of those websites.
Dublin Dragons 7 – 34 Carrickfergus Knights
The Carrickfergus Knights gave a stunning second half display to come from 7 points down to blitz the Dublin Dragons. With the scoreline 0-0 at half time, this one looked like it would be a close cagey affair, even as the Dragons took the lead through Wello Flash in the third quarter.
However, after a difficult opening month, the Carrickfergus Knights were not to be denied a win as they went on the rampage. In difficult conditions, the run game was prominent, with rushing scores from Gareth Millar, Eoin Heatly and Darren Montgomery racking up the points.
But the aerial attack also got in on the scoring, as quarterback Paul McKillop found free-scoring wide receiver Chris Ireland for his fourth touchdown of the year. And the defence wasn’t to be left out of the glory either as a pick six by Lee Boyd rounded off the scoring for the away side.
West Dublin Rhinos 6 – 19 Belfast Trojans
Difficult weather conditions made this game a ground and pound battle, one both sides managed to give a good account of themselves in.
The Trojans managed to run the Rhinos into the ground with the combination of Neil Montgomery and Peter Roberts doing the majority of the damage. But it was quarterback James McKelvey that opened the scoring, with a trademark run from short yardage.
A 90-yard drive followed, before Roberts would finish it emphatically with a touchdown.
The Trojans’ defence would get in on the scoring too, as former Jyväskylä Jaguars’ player Jon-Erik Talvio scored his first touchdown for the team, picking off Rhinos’ quarterback Arun Mooney and taking it back for the score.
The West Dublin side have had a difficult start to the year but holding the Trojans to just 19 points should give them heart, and they showed more by grabbing a late score, Mooney connecting with Dan Breslin in the end zone.
Mullingar Minotaurs 8 – 0 Meath Bulldogs
Dundalk Mavericks 7 – 20 Tyrone Titans
An excellent IAFL-2 match-up saw the Northern team come out on top away at Dundalk.
Tyrone quarterback Daniel Mullan continued his rich form for the team as he threw two more touchdowns, hitting Ryan Brolly and Ruairi Bradley for scores, two targets he passed to for six points in the Titans’ last outing.
The running game proved telling too, as Steven Harkness and Kyle McAneny pounded the ball for the away side, with McAneny putting the ball in the end zone for a touchdown to boot.
Matty Hagan scored for the home side, before the same player dispatched the PAT.
This article has been syndicated from Double Coverage and any opinions expressed are those of the author and do not necessarily represent the opinion of IAFA. Any references to non-IAFA websites are provided for convenience only and do not in any manner serve as an endorsement of those websites.
Last week in Double Coverage’s ‘What we know: IAFL1 Edition’ we suggested that the Minotaurs would be looking at the opposition in IAFL1 and quietly contemplating the famous Seattle Seahawks mantra ‘Why not us?’. The time for quiet contemplation is done.
The rain poured down and a sea of umbrellas swarmed the Harbour Field side line. (Expertly marked off with the beloved respect barrier, this being the same game that last year spawned the now constant of IAFA sidelines.) A field that doesn’t drain particularly well and a deluge from the Heavens indicated early that this was to be not going to be a high flying, fast paced game. Seasoned Referee Tony Rivers took charge and the Bulldogs won the toss. Electing to defer the option, Mullingar chose to kick off the game, favouring wind direction over possession.
Not a single pass was thrown in the 1st Quarter as both sides struggled with the terrain underfoot and the swirling gale running across the field. The Meath men’s opening drive was cut short after being stopped on 3rd and short and failing to illicit a jump offside on the ensuing punt. A healthy return set Mullingar up in great field position in the Bulldogs half of the field. Minotaurs running back Dermot Corroon showed no signs of being slowed down by the conditions and drove the Westmeath team deep into the Bulldogs Redzone. As so often before, the Bulldog defence held firm and forced a turnover on downs. So went the first quarter, all rushing attempts and neither team making the decisive break through.
The rain had subsided slightly at the opening of the 2nd Quarter but the period looked much the same as the first with both teams slugging it out in the trenches. Mullingar perhaps had the better of it defensively as the Bulldogs offensive continued its poor early season form. Following an excellent punt from the ever reliable John Brennan, Mullingar found themselves in the shadow of their own goal posts. Solid carries from Fullback Niall Corcoran and Dermot Carroon gave the home side some breathing space. Following a first down, Mullingar QB Niall Folan handed again to Carroon and some excellent blocking upfront sprung the elusive back to the second level where he found himself with one man to beat. Stuck in the mud the Bulldogs Safety Steve McDonnell, couldn’t get a hand near Carroon, as the Midland Express found a new gear and was gone, carrying the ball 75 yards for the score. Impressive blocking upfront by former Bulldog and Minotaurs left guard, Jo Coyne, opened a hole on the 2PAT for Niall Corcoran to waltz into the Endzone for 2 points. At half time the Minotuars led 8-0.
Some adjustments by Bulldogs Offensive Co-Ordinator and QB Eddie McMahon saw an improvement in the 3rd Quarter. Some added protection saw the veteran QB take to the air and threaten deep. The conditions still playing their part meant any kind of comeback would be difficult for the Bulldogs and after piecing together a drive to the Mullingar 25 yard line, the Bulldogs thought their prayers had been answered when WR Darryl Ratty was man handled attempting to reel in a pass. A flag thrown for Pass Interference and as the ball lay on the swampy field, indiscipline again cost the Bulldogs as a comment from the sideline and another flag for unsportsmanlike conduct wiped out any gain following the PI call. The Bulldogs most promising drive withered after that and an offence that has struggled all season long continued to do so.
The 4th Quarter was an exercise in time management for Mullingar and Folan kept his team moving and the clock ticking; even managing to catch out the Bulldogs Defence with 9 men in the box with a completed deep pass off play-action down the right side to WR Shane Walsh narrowly being kept out of the endzone. Mullingar were extremely efficient in their clock management and were able to kneel the game out after the two minute warning. There remained little enough white, orange, purple or black on the field at the end, with most wearing an unflattering shade of brown.
This article has been syndicated from Double Coverage and any opinions expressed are those of the author and do not necessarily represent the opinion of IAFA. Any references to non-IAFA websites are provided for convenience only and do not in any manner serve as an endorsement of those websites.
Dublin Dragons vs. Carrickfergus Knights
Well what a game this could be. The (1-2) Dragons host the (0-3) Carrickfergus team, and both are eager for a win. The Knights have had a tough start to the year, taking on the top 3 teams in our Power Rankings in their first three games and they’ve coped admirably, not shipping too many points whilst also scoring a few themselves. Now it’s time their season got back on track.
Does that start with the Dublin Dragons though? The home team will be desperate to grab a win to ease themselves away from the mire of relegation. They have a tough remaining season and will hope they can pick up at least one more win to ease the worries. Can the tough defence help power the Dragons to victory? Or will the Knights win this one?
West Dublin Rhinos vs. Belfast Trojans
Those Trojans take to the field once again, and again they will look to extend the unbeaten streak that leads back to 2011. They face off against the West Dublin Rhinos in Castleknock, a team that is in an almighty struggle to save their 2014 season and their SBC status.
The Rhinos are struggling with injuries for sure but their usual solid defence is shipping points and the offence is lacking firepower. But this is also the team that upset the Dublin Rebels last year. Can they pull off a bigger shock in 2014?
Doubtful. This Belfast side is rolling again. With names all over the scoring charts on offence and a defence that is disrupting teams for fun, the Trojans are the odds on favourites to win the Shamrock Bowl for a third consecutive year.
Mullingar Minotaurs vs. Meath Bulldogs
The IAFL-1 is continuing its unpredictability in 2014! After UCD demolished Cork and then Meath beat UCD, we all expected the Bulldogs to demolish the Admirals. But that wasn’t the case as the Navan side went down 20-8 to Cork team.
The Bulldogs are struggling on offence. They weren’t putting massive numbers up in 2013 but with a rotation of staff, the attack isn’t providing the firepower required to firmly put teams away.
Their defence, however, is doing well. Shutting down UCD’s offence is no easy task, considering the same team has put up 140 points in their other three games. They should task themselves with shutting down the Minotaur’s run game.
Mullingar propped up the division a year ago. However, with a shake up, a new quarterback and a rush orientated offence, the Minotaurs have already won a game in 2014. However, can they face off against the trio of Meath, UCD and Cork? Are they at that level yet?
Dundalk Mavericks vs. Tyrone Titans
The two 1-0 teams in the IAFL-2 face off in what is sure to be a cracker in Dundalk!
The Mavericks overcame the South Kildare Soldiers in the first game with two well drilled punt returns for touchdowns. Their special teams will be something to watch for the Titans.
The Tyrone side are probably the most experienced in the IAFL-2 with a smattering of ex-Cowboys throughout but the Mavericks have a whole host of old Drogheda Lightning players amongst their roster so look for this game to be more IAFL-1 standard.
This article has been syndicated from Double Coverage and any opinions expressed are those of the author and do not necessarily represent the opinion of IAFA. Any references to non-IAFA websites are provided for convenience only and do not in any manner serve as an endorsement of those websites.
Earlier today, coaches from the Irish American Football Association introduced school children from the South Dublin County Council area to flag football. The event, run in the National Basketball Arena, Tallaght was part of the Sky Sports sponsored Living For Sport programme which runs in various cities around the UK and Ireland. Several Irish sporting bodies took part in the event in Tallaght.
Hundreds of local school children were given the opportunity to try flag football and receive instructions from IAFA coaches, Russell Kerley, Eoin O’Sullivan (both Drogheda) and Ken Farrell of the IAFA Schools Flag Programme.
The IAFA is currently recruiting a panel of schools flag coaches with a view to introducing the school flag football programme to the South Dublin area in the near future.
Three tiers of American football awaits in the Irish Leagues this weekend!
Dublin Rebels vs. Dublin Dragons
The 3-0 Rebels host the 1-1 Dragons in a Dublin-derby that means a lot to both of these teams. The Dragons will be looking at the schedule ahead of them and keeping an eye on the other teams around them with apprehension. The year ahead is tough now, with a rematch against the Rebels, the Trojans and the Vikings still to go. The games against the Carrickfergus Knights and Craigavon Cowboys will be crucial. But first up they face the Rebels.
Last year’s Shamrock Bowl finalists will be looking to go 4-0 and take the top of the SBC North in the absence of a Belfast Trojan game this weekend. With the likes of Andrew Dennehy, Simon Mackey, Paul Grogan and a young but talented receiver corps on offence they should have more than enough to break down the Dragons’ defence. We’ve still not seen the Rebels hit what we’d consider to be their top gear yet but they’re 3-0 and that’s what counts.
West Dublin Rhinos vs. Craigavon Cowboys
Well what a game this could be. Both teams are without a win so whoever grabs it here could be looking for more than just a first W of the season but some comfort away from that feared relegation spot.
The Cowboys were demolished last time out by the Belfast Trojans, losing several of their players to injury, players that they’ll hope will be back to full fitness for this game.
The Rhinos are displaying their usual prominence on defence, having played two difficult games so far, against Trinity and the UL Vikings. However they’re displaying their usual difficulty on offence too, scoring just one touchdown in those two games. Should they put some points on the board in this game though, you’d have to fancy them to take the win with their defensive capabilities, but can they put the necessary points on the board?
UCD vs. Drogheda Lightning
UCD suffered a disappointing 2-0 defeat last time out, to the Meath Bulldogs, and will be eager to get back on to winning ways. The high powered offence that we saw in the first two games came to a stuttering stop but you should fully expect to see quarterback Dave Murphy and the receiving corps, including Paul Geraghty, who is having a great season thus far, putting points on the board in this one.
Drogheda had a difficult start to the year, going down 8-14 to the Mullingar Minotaurs at home in week one. They’ll want to put that result behind them and crack on with the season but it’s going to be difficult to topple UCD, especially away from home.
Tyrone Titans vs. Galway Warriors
The first competitive games for two newbies! That’s an exciting prospect. I bet coaches and players on both sides are absolutely pumped for this match-up.
The Titans have experience throughout their squad, with the likes of Kyle McAneny and Ryan Brolly coming over from the Craigavon Cowboys whilst Galway have a big, strong squad.
This article has been syndicated from Double Coverage and any opinions expressed are those of the author and do not necessarily represent the opinion of IAFA. Any references to non-IAFA websites are provided for convenience only and do not in any manner serve as an endorsement of those websites.
Croke Park, Sunday 27th April: A delegation from Penn State and the University of Central Florida (UCF) visited Dublin this weekend to put detailed operations plans in place with the Croke Park team for the Croke Park Classic on August 30th.
A crew from both universities, including UCF Head Coach, George O’Leary, and Penn State’s Director of Athletics, Dave Joyner, along with their backroom staff joined the team at Croke Park to run through logistics plans ahead of their 2014 American College Football season opener.
This included a pitch transformation at GAA HQ as American Football posts were erected and pitch markings laid down. The American Football pitch size for the college game is half the size of the Croke Park pitch at 110m x 45m compared to 144m x 86m. The visit was the first time the pitch plans had been laid out and game operations and production were also finalised. In addition, the groups visited the locations for citywide events including the joint Pep Rally and Tailgate venues at Dublin Castle and Temple Bar.
Speaking at the visit UCF’s George O’Leary said he is eagerly anticipating the Croke Park Classic clash, “It’s been great to put the last few operations plans together over the past few days. Now we can start to look ahead to the big game with excitement. We are really looking forward to putting on a show in Dublin.”
Since the team’s first visit to Ireland for the official announcement of the game last year, Penn State University have seen a change in Head Coach as Bill O’Brien, who departed for the NFL’s Houston Texans. He was replaced by James Franklin, whose first competitive game in charge at Penn State will be the Croke Park Classic.
Coach Franklin also can’t wait to arrive in Ireland for the season opener, “Our team is excited about coming to Ireland to play UCF and open the season. Irish fans of American Football and all of the Penn State fans travelling to Dublin will be in for an exciting game and a memorable experience. We’re looking forward to getting the season underway in front of a huge Penn State crowd at Croke Park.”
GAA Director General Páraic Duffy said, “It was great to welcome the colleges to Croke Park again this weekend. Next time it will be for the big game in August which promises to be a superb event for the city.”
Tickets are on sale for the Croke Park Classic through ticketmaster.ie and tickets.ie. For further information visit www.crokeparkclassic.ie
F: www.facebook.com/crokeparkclassic
T: @crokepkclassic
Photographs released FOC by Sportsfile www.sportsfile.com
