Reports

South Kerry Under 16 Championship Semi-Final Waterville 3-15 Valentia 1-06 (Sun 21st Nov '04))

Waterville 3-15 Valentia 1-8

In a very hard fought under 16 semi final played at a wind swept Portmagee on Sunday, Waterville emerged winners over a gallant Valentia side. Never mind the score line, this was a good game right up to the final whistle. Waterville got off to the better start and this possibly stood to them in the end. The game was very well refereed by Tim Dennehy of Cahirciveen
Valentia won the toss and elected to play with the wind in the first half. Waterville got off to a whirlwind start and had four points on the board in the first five minutes. Paddy Curran(2 frees) and 1 from play and Denis Donnelly one from play. Valentia replied with four good points in the next 10 minutes, to draw level and now we seemed to be in for a rip roaring contest. A long ball from Denis Donnelly was collected by Paddy Curran who turned and kicked a good goal. Immediately, he followed up with a point from play, to make it 1-5/0-4, after 21 minutes. Valentia replied with a point but then Denis Donnelly collected a ball and hit the back of the net for a second goal for Waterville. (2-.5/0-5). Valentia finished the stronger scoring a goal and a point before the break leaving the half time score, Waterville 2-5 / Valentia1-6.

Waterville should have been further ahead at this stage but too much "messing" on the ball could have cost them dearly in the end. However at the short whistle Waterville must have been reasonably happy. With the wind at their backs in the second half, they must have felt confident.

Waterville commenced the second half at high speed with Denis Donnelly scoring a goal and Paddy Curran kicking over two frees.(2-7/1-6). Then young Stephen O' Dwyer kicked a peach of a point. Waterville seemed to have the upper hand now. The wind got a lot stronger and Valentia were finding it very hard to get the ball up field. In the next 8 minutes Waterville had five more points to make it 3-14/1-6. Fair play to Valentia, they kept plugging away and pulled two points back before the finish. Paddy Curran kicked the last point from a free won by Donncha Fenton. This was a good team effort and now we are going for four in a row. The final will be against Cahirciveen in two weeks time, so these boys must keep their heads down and keep training
Sheera O'Connell played very well in goal and made no mistake. (Dad, Dan had a big smile on his face afterwards). Cormac O' Sullivan and Dean Murphy played very well in the full back line while Daniel O' Dwyer and Fionán McAuliffe collected a lot of loose balls around the half back and mid field area. Denis Donnelly and Alan Dwyer were solid at midfield. Greg Gibson linked up well with his colleagues in the forwards. Donncha Fenton did a lot of hard grafting on the wing, carried a lot of ball and earned a lot of frees. Paddy Curran, the target man inside, played well and kicked a number of top drawer scores. Young Stephen O' Dwyer had a fine game and picked off his point with ease. Gerard Grady, Shane Curran, David Concannon and Niall Fitzgerald came off the subs bench and contributed positively to the end result.
Team and Scorers: Sheera O'Connell, Dean Murphy, Cormac O' Sullivan(capt), Daniel O' Dwyer, Fionán McAuliffe, Denis Donnelly (2-.2), Alan O' Dwyer, Greg Gibson, Donncha Fenton, Paddy Curran,(1-12) Stephen O' Dwyer (0-1).
Subs Used: Gerard Grady, Shane Curran, David Concannon, Niall Fitzgerald.

South Kerry Senior Championship Sunday Nov 14th At Páirc an Phiarsaigh

Waterville 0-07 Dromid Pearses 1-10

The inevitable happened at Páirc an Phiarsaigh in the local derby, when Waterville Seniors finally went under to a formidable Pearses side, in the first round of the South Kerry Championship 2004. Pearses were the more focused on the day and Waterville can have no quibble that the better side won.
From the throw in, the ball came to Niall Moran who had a good opportunity to open the scoring after just twenty seconds but his shot went just marginally wide. Waterville were the busier of the two teams in these opening minutes and their first score came from the boot of Denis O'Dwyer after three minutes of play.
In spite of being in the ascendancy for the next ten minutes or so, nothing had been added to their tally on the scoreboard......where it counts. Meanwhile Dromid Pearses were coming to terms with the game gradually and the tide began to turn in their favour. In the space of two minutes they had taken the lead, with fifteen minutes left in the half. Waterville were already fighting a containment battle and a defensive error in the twentieth minute allowed Fergal O'Connor in for an opportunist goal. This had a huge bearing on the remainder of the game and put an extra step in the legs of the Dromid Pearses boys while having the opposite effect on Waterville. Pearses added a pointed free two minutes later to open a five point lead.
Waterville pulled one back via a John D. O'Shea free kick but Fergal O'Connor converted a Dromid Pearses free from the left corner after Mike O'Shea was adjudged to have touched the ball on the ground. This was considered a harsh decision by many observers. With two minutes to go before the interval, sub Paddy Curran turned his marker and reduced the deficit to to four points but before the whistle Fergal O'Connor had a terrific Pearses point from near the dressing room corner.
As both teams went in for the break the question was whether Waterville could turn this game around or would the long standing record between these two teams finally come to an end.
John D. O'Shea opened the second half scoring after two minutes when brother Buddy was fouled after making a telling run through the middle and shortly afterwards Paddy Curran had his second point of the day after some excellent Waterville interplay.
Again Waterville had started well and there was a glimmer of hope that they might climb the mountain. John D added another point in the twelfth minute and the margin was down to two points. Unfortunately, as in the first half the good spell lasted for approximately fifteen minutes and in the remaining quarter of the game Dromid Pearses took over again and had five points to Waterville's one. During this period Dromid Pearses had their cushion and were more relaxed, yet determined, while Waterville saw the game slipping away and made some uncharacteristic errors.
While the game produced one or two tough tackles, in general it was a sporting affair and all present agreed that it was a true championship tussle with Pearses being deserving winners on this occasion.
Waterville Club congratulates our neighbours and wishes them well in the remaining stages off the competition.

Team: Bernard Murphy, Shane Coffey, Seamus O'Shea, Mike O'Shea, Brendan O'Shea, Gary Galvin, Eoin Moriarty, Denis O'Dwyer, Seamus O'Sullivan, Mike Curran, Keith Moran, Niall Moran, John B O'Shea(Capt), Alan O'Shea, John D O'Shea.
Subs Who Played: Paddy Curran, Denis Carroll
Scorers: John D O'Shea 0-04(3 frees), Paddy Curran 0-02, Denis O'Dwyer 0-01.

Senior County Final at Fitzgerald Stadium Nov. 7th 2004 South Kerry V Laune Rangers

South Kerry 1-13 Laune Rangers 2-05

There was joy unbounded at Fitzgerald stadium on Sun 7th of Nov. 2004 when referee Pat Sheehy from Clounmacon blew the final whistle and the Bishop Moynihan Cup was heading to South Kerry after a long absence. It was indeed fitting that Maurice Fitzgerald who has given Kerry GAA followers so many moments of sheer joy and genius was the player to captain the team and lift the trophy.

After the display in the semi final most pundits felt it was going to be difficult to overcome the might of the men from the Laune. This news must have filtered through to players and mentors alike as they played to a man, with eagerness and determination not witnessed for many years.

Declan O’ Sullivan got the scoring started for South Kerry after just two minutes and was followed three minutes later by another after Maurice Fitzgerald fielded a difficult ball and offloaded it to the inrushing Denis O’ Dwyer for an exquisite point. In the 6th min Maurice Fitzgerald was fouled and the free taken by Brian Sheehan made it three for South Kerry with Laune Rangers still to make any decent effort at attack.

Then the dreaded deed occurred when ball went down field and against the run of play Seamus Foley had the ball in the South Kerry net. Many felt that Laune Rangers were about to turn on the style and crush the men from the South but Ronan Hussey converted a free in the dressing room corner for South Kerry to edge ahead again.

Laune Rangers pulled the sides level after 12 minutes through a Pa O Sullivan free and went ahead in the 14th min through a Brian Gannon point. Ronan Hussey levelled again in the 18th min and South Kerry were playing with passion and were the better side. At this point in the game with 8 minutes to go in the first half a foolish back pass in the South Kerry defence ended up being smacked unmercifully to the net. Despair is the only word that describes what the South Kerry following felt. Was this team that promised so much to let it all behind them again?

Wing forward Brian Sheehan and his comrades in green and gold were not going to throw in the towel as he kicked a wonderful point from an acute angle near the corner flag to reduce the deficit but on the stroke of half time Billy O’Shea had another point for Laune Rangers to leave the score at half time….South Kerry 0-06…Laune Rangers 2-03.

While South Kerry were playing excellent football they were nevertheless three points behind and what did the second half hold? Within 20 seconds of the throw in, Declan O’Sullivan reduced the gap to two points but Colin O’Connor for Laune Rangers kicked a reply almost immediately. Brian Sheehan converted two frees for South Kerry and by the 6th minute there was only the minimum between the sides. In the 9th minute after some terrific interplay involving a number of players, Brian Sheehan kicked an extraordinary point and the sides were level. South Kerry were in full stride now and the midfield area, which had been a source of worry in the semi final was being dominated by South Kerry and in particular by Renard man John Sugrue who seemed to be everywhere and fielded balls the way it should be done. This player was having the game of his life and was an inspiration to all around him.
Ronan O’Connor punched a point in the 11th minute to put South Kerry ahead and again it was John Sugrue, after a lay off by Declan O’Sullivan, who kicked a trademark long range point from all of 45 metres which lifted the hearts of all South Kerry supporters and players.

The move of the match was yet to come when the ball was played out of defence by Pádraig Sheehan and Killian Burns along the far sideline and reached the hands of Maurice Fitzgerald who made a timely pass to Ronan O’Connor who raised not alone the green flag but every South Kerry supporter from their seats with sheer delight. The men in green and gold were now five points ahead with 15 minutes to go. Tackles were tough and fair, with every player willing to give his last ounce of breath. In the end both teams had but one point apiece before the end and South Kerry had prevailed.

Special congratulations to South Kerry chairman Pat Everett who made the inspired decision of choosing James O’Sullivan (St. Mary's) as team trainer along with selectors, Johnny Teahan (Sneem) and Johnny Walsh (St. Mary’s). Special appreciation must also go to James O’Sullivan who invited Kerry team boss Jack O’Connor to assist in recent weeks. Others may not have been so willing to share the spoils of possible victory.
All players contributed hugely to this tremendous success, with our own Denis O’Dwyer playing out of his skin as if it was 1997 all over again. However this writer’s choice for Man of the Match on this occasion is John Sugrue (Renard). What do you think?

Team: Mark Drummond (Sneem), Stephen O’Sullivan (Skellig Rangers), Killian Burns (Sneem), Gearóid O’Driscoll (St Mary’s), Pádraig Sheehan (Dromid Pearses), Brian Hickey Skellig Rangers), Adrian O’Connell (St Mls/Filemore), Aidan O’Sullivan (Skellig Rangers), John Sugrue (Renard), Denis O’Dwyer (Waterville), Declan O’Sullivan (Dromid Pearses), Bryan Sheehan (ST. Mary’s), Ronan Hussey (Sneem), Ronan O’Connor (St Mls/ Filemore), Maurice Fitzgerald (St. Mary’s)
Scorers: Bryan Sheehan 0-05(3 frees), Ronan O’Connor 1-01, Declan O’Sullivan 0-03, Ronan 0-02(2 frees), John Sugrue 0-01, Denis O’Dwyer 0-01.

Minor County Final at Fitzgerald Stadium Nov. 7th 2004 South Kerry V East Kerry

South Kerry 0-14 East Kerry 1-13

Waterville’s Paddy Curran opened the scoring in the Minor County final, played at Fitzgerald Stadium, Killarney, on Sunday, 7th November 2004, with a left footed point after a cross-field pass by Rory Keating. Five minutes into the game South Kerry missed a simple free 30m out after a high tackle on John Curran. With fifteen minutes left in the half South Kerry were five points ahead and it looked like East Kerry were in for a drubbing. However in the space of two minutes David Murphy had 2 points for East Kerry. With 10 minutes left in the half South Kerry had restored the margin to 5 points again but by half time the gap was just two points largely due to tenacious defending by East Kerry captain Danny O’ Connor who time and time again set up East Kerry attacks. In these remaining minutes of the half the tide certainly began to turn and what looked like an easy task for South Kerry was now proving to be a more difficult challenge.

Liam O’Sullivan restarted the proceedings with a free in the 2nd minute but David Murphy had one for East Kerry after what can only be described as terrible defending by South Kerry. Within two more minutes East Kerry had a goal after a high ball into the large area was finished to the net by Jimmy Falvey. East Kerry were now in front and gaining confidence all the time. By the 10th minute the lead was extended to 3 points. Padraig King scored a superb point for South Kerry seconds later and gave some hope to the lads from South Kerry. East Kerry made it a 3 point cushion again a minute later but by the 16th min Paul O’ Connor who was one of the busier South Kerry players on the day and Gearoid O’ Sullivan had two excellent points and it was again back to a one point game.
The remaining minutes were frantic with East Kerry stretching their lead to 3 points again and South Kerry doing their utmost to at least achieve a draw. But it was not to be and Liam O’ Sullivan kicked the final score in the 26th minute of the half and unfortunately South Kerry ended up second best.
One feels that South Kerry could have taken this game had they managed to curb the undoubted player of the game, Danny O’ Connor and the free scoring David Murphy.
Team: Liam Sheehan(St. Mary’s), Aidan O’Sullivan(Dr. Pearses), Killian Young(Renard), Kevin O’Shea(Dr Pearses), Mark O’Connell(Sk Rangers), Chris O’Driscoll(Sk Rangers), David King(St Mls/Filemore), Pádraig King(St Mls/Filemore), Gearóid O’Sullivan(Waterville), Liam O’Sullivan(Renard), Gary O’Driscoll(Sk Rangers), Paddy Curran(Waterville), John Curran(Dr Pearses), Rory Keating(St Mary’s), Paul O’Connor(Valentia)
Subs Who Played: Tim O’Sullivan(St Mls/Filemore), John O’Connor(Valentia), Chris O’Sullivan(St Mls/Filemore)
Scorers: Liam O’Sullivan 0-06(4 frees), Paddy Curran 0-02, Paul O’Connor 0-02, Rory Keating, John Curran, Pádraig King & Gearóid O’Sullivan, a point each.

Spectacular win for Waterville girls in U-12 A final. ( 16th Oct 2004)

Waterville 3-11 Ballinskelligs 0-06

Waterville girls had a splendid win over Ballinskelligs in the South Kerry under 12 "A" Championship Final, played in ideal conditions at Colaiste Na Sceilge pitch on Saturday afternoon last.
Having already beaten Waterville in the preliminary rounds, St. Michael's went into this final as hot favourites. It was clear from early on to the large crowd in attendance that Darby Clifford, Timmy Curran and Donie
O'Sullivan had sent this Waterville team on to the playing pitch in a very positive mood.
From the throw in Muireann McAuliffe and Sinead O'Sullivan dominated the mid-field exchanges ensuring an ample supply of ball to their forwards where Tara Dennehy and Josephine McGillicuddy were full of running and creative football posing major problems for the St.Michael's defenders.
This dominance played off in the 4th minute of the game when Team Captain, Muireann McAuliffe scored a fantastic goal. Waterville built on this platform and by the 10th minute of the game, Josephine McGillicuddy had
scored two further well worked goals and a further point from Muireann McAuliffe gave the Waterville girls a 10 point lead which they never relinquished. In defence Mary Fitzgerald and Roisin O'Sullivan were outstanding as they cut out any danger from the opposing forwards. Karen Curran was inspirational in goal with some excellent saves, ensuring that Waterville went in at half-time leading 3 - 5 to 4 points.

As the second half progressed it was clear that these Waterville girls weren't going to be denied their Championship Medal. The continued to play as they did in the first half, restricting St. Michael's to two
points, while tagging on a further 6 points themselves to run out worthy winners on a score line of 3 - 11 to 0-06.
On receiving the Championship Trophy, Team Captain, Muireann McAuliffe complimented her playing colleagues for their winning efforts and team mentors for their commitment. A large convoy of cars carried the team and supporters as they celebrated with the usual tour of the village and then adjourned to Charlie's for complimentary refreshments. Well done to all concerned.
Note: Unfortunately, Róisín & Danielle O'Sullivan, Carla Boyle & Hazel Dineen were unavailable for the team photo.

Under 16 County Championship Final South Kerry V West Kerry (Fitzgerald Stadium Oct. 17th)

South Kerry 1-11 West Kerry 2-08

West Kerry opened the scoring with a free after two minutes but Paddy Curran levelled the scores in the 5th minute and a minute later Muiris O'Sullivan had the South Kerry boys ahead with another point from play. In the eight minute West Kerry were awarded a free which brought the teams level again.
Ten minutes into the game Paddy Curran was hauled down with only the goalie to beat. He took the penalty himself but the West Kerry goalkeeper pulled off a terrific save and the ball rebounded in to the hands of Paddy Curran who kicked it over the bar. Cian O'Connor extended the lead with a well taken left footed shot within a minute and it seemed as if South Kerry were about to pull away. West Kerry had other ideas and 15 minutes into the game they were level once more.
Paddy Curran was most unlucky in the 16th minute after displaying some deft touches to elude his marker but his low bullet screamed wide of the left upright.
West Kerry replied with an unchallenged sally up through the middle and William Devane billowed the South Kerry net. This was an almighty boost for West Kerry and they played with renewed confidence and skill. In fairness to South Kerry they didn't drop their heads and had two more points before the break to leave the scores at half time....South Kerry 0-06....West Kerry 1-04.
On the restart some naive play by South Kerry backs allowed West Kerry to have a soft point with just a minute of play gone. By the 5th minute they had added two more and South Kerry were coming under severe pressure in most sectors of the field. Alan Curran pulled a point back for South Kerry in the 8th minute and Paddy Curran added another a minute later but then West Kerry had their second goal and looked like they were heading for victory. Paddy Curran followed with two frees to reduce the margin to three points with 15 minutes left.....South Kerry 0-10 .....West Kerry 2-07.
South Kerry began to realise they could do better and for the remainder of the game they showed greater determination. Paddy Curran converted another free in the 21st minute to leave just two points between the teams but then to the exasperation of everyone, a South Kerry defender kicked the ball straight to a West Kerry forward who accepted the gift and kicked over the bar. These were indeed hectic final minutes and with three minutes of play left it was Man Of The Match, Paddy Curran who rode some determined tackles and unleashed a left footed pile driver to rattle the West Kerry net and level the game.
Indeed, South Kerry might have snatched it in the end but a draw was a fair result and we look forward to the replay.
Scorers: Paddy Curran 1-08 (4 frees), Alan Curran 0-01, Muiris O'Sullivan 0-01, Cian O'Connor 0-01

County League Div 2 Round 10 Waterville V Milltown / Castlemaine Sat Sept. 12th 04

Waterville 1-07 Milltown / Castlemaine 1-13

In the penultimate game of this years County League Waterville travelled to Milltown on Sat. evening Sept. 12th.
Seamus O'Sullivan won the throw in and immediately put Waterville on the attack but it was Milltown / Castlemaine who had the first scoring opportunity within a minute but failed to capitalise. In the 3rd minute it was again Seamus O'Sullivan who sent in a probing long ball towards the unmarked Dan Fitz but unfortunately it was intercepted at the last moment and the chance was gone.
Play went from end to end and seven minutes in Milltown / Castlemaine were awarded the first 45 of the game. The resultant kick was driven short and cleared by the Waterville defence. Milltown / Castlemaine were beginning to gain a grip in the middle third of the pitch but the Waterville backs were doing well, particularly Eoin Moriarty and Shane Coffey.
The first score of the game came from the boot of Ian Twiss in the 9th minute but almost immediately Waterville had the perfect response. After some terrific work by Alan O'Shea and David Daly in the Waterville forward line the ball was finally chipped off the ground and over the head of the out rushing Milltown / Castlemaine goalie and into the net by John B O'Shea. It looked at this point as if Waterville might cause an upset but unfortunately this was as good as it got.
Milltown / Castlemaine scored their second point in the 12th minute after a needless foul by one of the Waterville backs. In the next six minutes Milltown / Castlemaine scored four unanswered points effortlessly while Waterville were beginning to struggle in most sectors. David Daly had Waterville's second score with a fine point after the Milltown / Castlemaine goalie kicked the ball straight out to him in the 20th minute. Two minutes later it was Daly again who gained possession and spotted Denis O'Dwyer free about 45 metres out. He struck his shot with conviction and scored the best point of the game. With three minutes left in the half, after some determined play by Alan and John B O'Shea, Dan Fitz got the ball, 25 metres out from goal. Dan had but one thing in mind but as he was about to unleash his shot for goal he got a timely nudge and the ball ended up in the goalies hands. He might well have been awarded a free.
Before the break Milltown / Castlemaine tagged on three more points to leave the score ...Waterville 1-02...Milltown / Castlemaine 0-09
With the light fading fast the second half got under way. Alan O'Shea took a sideline ball about 30 metres out but it grazed the right upright and went wide. The crucial moment in the game came in the 6th minute when Milltown / Castlemaine worked the ball unchallenged through the middle and resulted in a left footed pile driver rattling the Waterville net.
John B O'Shea had a point two minutes later after Denis O' Dwyer made a surging run through the middle and rode some robust tackles. However, there was little doubt as to the final result at this stage and before the final whistle both teams chalked up four points apiece.
From the point of maintaining Division 2 status this game mattered little but a much greater degree of fitness and a more determined attitude will be necessary if the team is to progress to the second round of the South Kerry Championship.
Scorers: John B O'Shea 1-01, Denis O'Dwyer 0-02, Alan O'Shea 0-02(2 frees), David Daly 0-01, Seamus O'Sullivan 0-01.
Team: Bernard Murphy, Shane Coffey, Seamus O' Shea, Eoin Moriarty, Buddy O' Shea, Gary Galvin, Mike Curran, Denis O' Dwyer, Seamus O' Sullivan, Gearóid O' Sullivan, Niall Moran, David Daly, John B. O' Shea, Alan O' Shea, Dan Fitz
Subs Used: Kevin O'Dwyer, Mike O'Shea, Martin Curran

Under 12 "A" Final Waterville V Templenoe at Renard Thursday Sept. 9th 2004

Waterville 4-05 Templenoe 2-13

The Waterville Under 12 Boys Team took on the boys from Templenoe at Renard on Thurs. 9th Sept in the South Kerry Under 12 "A" Final.
This was a game that all under age followers were looking forward to, in anticipation of a great contest. They were not disappointed as both teams served up a brand of Gaelic football which was a joy to watch.
The Waterville boys can consider themselves most unlucky not to have been closer at the break as a terrific shot from Michéal Cronin hit the crossbar and rebounded into play. The team was playing well but found it difficult to break down the Templenoe defence. Young Micheál Curran was solid in goal and could do nothing to prevent the two first half goals. Templenoe were the physically stronger team and led at half time by a margin of five points. Waterville 2-02......Templenoe 2-07
The second half saw the boys in red play with renewed vigour and determination but in spite of this Templenoe picked off a few handy points which were to prove the difference in the end. Waterville hearts were lifted when Eoin O'Sullivan latched on to a ball and buried it in the right corner of the net. The old combination football was again evident and with a few minutes left the margin which seemed impossible at one stage was down to two points. Every player gave 100 per cent of effort and trainers John O' Dwyer & Dan Fitz couldn't have asked for more. Some timely interceptions by Templenoe players denied victory to Waterville towards the end and all spectators present agreed they had been treated to a display football of the highest calibre.
All the Waterville boys and their two female players can be proud of their display and we look forward to admiring their skills again in the near future.

Team: Micheál Curran, Sinéad O'Sullivan, Stephen Donnelly, Muireann McAuliffe, Oran Clifford, Micheál Cronin, Barry O'Dwyer, Eoin O'Sullivan, John Vincent O'Dwyer
Subs:Jason O'Sullivan, Joshua Thompson, James O'Connor

South Kerry Minor League Final Caherciveen Saturday 4th Sept 2004

Waterville 1-19 Renard 1-08

Waterville minors secured the first silverware of the season when overcoming the boys from Renard in the South Kerry Minor Final, at Con Keating Park, Caherciveen.
The game was played in a fine sporting manner and capably refereed by Connie O' Connor, St. Mary's.
Waterville were first to register a score and it certainly was one to savour. After stern work in the Waterville defence by Brendan Dennehy the ball eventually came to Fergal Cronin who worked his way terrier like through the Renard defence and rattled the net, with less than four minutes gone. This was the start the boys in red dreamed of and it set the tone for the remainder of the game.
In the 5th minute it was Fergal again with a point after some excellent interplay by Alan O' Dwyer and Donncha Fenton. Three minutes later it was again Fergal who took on his opponent and capped it off with a terrific individual point. Paddy Curran had Waterville's third point in the tenth minute via a free after a foul on Donncha Fenton.
Waterville were now six points ahead with Renard yet to score. Paddy Curran stretched the lead in the 11th minute with another point after a handling mistake in the Renard defence. Waterville were in control throughout the field and midway through the half it was that man Fergal Cronin again who registered his fourth score with a shot that screamed over the bar and might easily have been a goal. While all players were doing well, this game was rapidly becoming the Fergal Cronin scoring exhibition.
Eighteen minutes into the game Renard raised the white flag for the first time with a well executed point from the left side, about 20 metres out. A minute later Paddy Curran missed what seemed like a certain goal but his shot grazed the outside of the post and went wide.
Renard had their second point in the 19th minute and followed with another, two minutes later after a classic save by the Waterville keeper Ciarán Dennehy. Waterville tagged on two more points before the the interval and Renard had one, to leave the score at half time...Waterville 1-07.... Renard 0-04.
Paddy Curran opened the second half scoring with a converted free after a high tackle on a Waterville forward. Two minutes later, William Hunt (Capt) won the ball in his own full back line, offloaded it to Alan O' Dwyer who sent a long ball in the direction of the Renard goal. Paddy Curran won the chase and coolly slotted over the bar. Fergal Cronin had his name on the score sheet again in the 7th minute with another fine point.
Waterville were in total control and it was a case of trying to stem the tide for Renard. The result was beyond doubt and the Lakesiders were playing with passion and skill and could do no wrong. The forwards scored at will and Renard tagged on a consolation goal and four points before the final whistle.
"Man of the Match".......Fergal Cronin
This was a solid team performance all through. The defence was rock-solid, both midfielders won their respective duels and the forwards couldn't be faulted. It should be noted that Renard are capable of much better and might be a different proposition on another occasion.
A special "Well done " to the team mentors who certainly got the selection spot on.....John O' Dwyer, Haulie O' Dwyer and John "Super" O' Sullivan.
Scorers: Fergal Cronin 1-07, Paddy Curran 0-10 (4 Frees), Gearóid O' Sulivan 0-02
Team: Ciarán Dennehy, William Hunt (Capt), Brendan Dennehy, Kevin O' Dwyer, Cormac O' Sullivan, Gearóid O' Sullivan, Denis Donnelly, Alan O' Dwyer, Donncha Fenton, Fergal Cronin, Paddy Curran
Subs Used: Daniel Dwyer, Ger Grady, David Concannon, Niall Dennehy,

County League Div 2 Round 9 Waterville V Gneeveguilla (Saturday August 7th 2004)

Waterville 0-08 Gneeveguilla 1-09

Hurricane Alex wagged its tail in Waterville on Saturday evening for the visit of Gneeveguilla and made playing conditions extremely difficult. The visitors adapted better and were deserving of the spoils in the end.
Alan O' Shea opened the scoring with a point within just 30 seconds after collecting a pass from Denis O' Dwyer but Gneeveguilla goaled within a minute after some naive play in the Waterville defence. This score was to prove crucial and provided Gneeveguilla with a cushion right to the end.
It was Denis O' Dwyer again who turned provider for Alan O' Shea to score Waterville's second point two minutes into the game. Gneeveguilla had two more points by the 5th minute and were exposing with ease some inadequacies in the home defence. To make matters worse a silly free was given away when a Waterville back needlessly tugged his opponents jersey in full glare of the referee. The score now stood at 1-03 to 0-02.
Midway through the half Denis O' Dwyer kicked a trademark long range point and split the posts in spite of the extremely difficult wind. Gneeveguilla had their final point of the half with a beautifully judged kick from near the left corner flag. However, up popped Alan O' Shea again two minutes before the break and secured his third point to reduce the deficit to the goal at half time. Each of Alan's points were of top drawer quality and were as fine a lot of scores as one could expect when the swirling wind is taken into account. Not alone that but the same player won every ball that was directed his way and was playing with confidence.
Five minutes after the restart John D O' Shea converted a free but then a careless kick out by the Waterville keeper allowed Gneeveguilla to notch up another point. 11 minutes into the half Gary Galvin made a cutting run through the the middle from the centre back position and offloaded to the alert Alan O' Shea who coolly kicked over the bar. One felt that if more early ball had come Alan's way the final result would have been different but over elaboration around midfield caused irritating breakdown in play and handed the initiative back to the opposition.
Gneeveguilla had another top class free from the right corner near the sideline and restored the status quo in the 17th minute and by now Waterville had lost John D through injury and was replaced by Dan Fitz. To compound Waterville's difficulties Gneeveguilla had their 7th point in the 18th minute when a long high ball was allowed to hop and go over the crossbar. This put the home team four points in arrears again and the visitors looked comfortable with ten minutes still remaining. Keith Moran scored a close in free but immediately Gneeveguilla scored one of their own.
With six minutes left in the game Bernard Murphy, in the Waterville goal made two terrific reflex saves in quick succession to deny what seemed like certain goals and with four minutes left Dan Fitz had Waterville's final point. In the remaining few minutes Waterville piled on the pressure and played with an urgency that was lacking earlier in the game in an effort to secure a draw but it was Gneeveguilla who kicked the final point of the evening two minutes into extra time.
Scorers: Alan O' Shea 0-04, John D. O' Shea 0-01(free), Denid O' Dwyer 0-01, Keith Moran 0-01(free), Dan Fitz 0-01.
Team: Bernard Murphy, Brendan O' Shea, Seamus O' Shea, Eoin Moriarty, Buddy O' Shea, Gary Galvin, Mike Curran, Denis O' Dwyer, Seamus O' Sullivan, Gearóid O' Sullivan, Keith Moran, Niall Moran, John B. O' Shea, Alan O' Shea, John D. O' Shea
Subs Used: Dan Fitz, Eoin Curran

County League Div 2 Round 7 Waterville V Currow (Saturday 24th June 2004)

Waterville 0-14 Currow 0-11

Waterville secured the brace of points versus Currow on Saturday evening in Round 7 of the County League. A win was vital for morale after two recent defeats.
John D. O Shea opened the scoring for Waterville within 30 seconds from a Keith Moran pass after a mistake in the Currow defence. In the 3rd minute it was John D again after a pinpoint crossfield pass from midfielder Seamus O' Sullivan. Shortly afterwards it was John D once again with a free after a Currow player fouled the ball on the ground. This was a marvellous opening for the Lakesiders with midfield doing particularly well.
Currow opened their account in the 9th minute with a free & followed up with a fine long range free from Kerry panellist Seamus Scanlon. Then in the 11th minute slack marking in the Waterville defence allowed a quick free to to be taken to an unmarked player who coolly drew the sides level.
In spite of playing reasonably well Waterville couldn't progress beyond the half forward line & midway through the half Currow took the lead but Alan O' Shea had the teams level again from a difficult angle on the left side about 25m out from the end line.
Seamus Scanlon had another long range point in the 19th minute but straight away Seamus O' Sullivan made a terrific burst through from midfield to level the scores again. Currow regained the lead with two minutes left in the half but Waterville equalised again via the boot of Keith Moran after some excellent defensive play from Eoin Moriarty who sallied up the field & split the Currow defence. The sides retired at half time at 6 points apiece.
As the scoreline suggests the half was evenly enough divided though Currow made better use of their opportunities. Waterville seemed to run out of ideas especially in the forward line. But for the defensive exploits of Seamus O' Shea at full back & Eoin Moriarty in particular, Waterville could have been in real difficulty.

The second half started with Keith Moran sending a screamer across the Currow goalmouth from the left side after just 22 seconds. In the 2nd minute we had the score of the game from the boot of Seamus O' Sullivan, at least 45m out near the right sideline. This score lifted Waterville players & spectators alike and two minutes later John D was fouled near the left sideline, 40 m out. Denis O' Dwyer placed the ball on the ground and struck as sweet a free as one could wish for to bisect the posts. Keith Moran added another in the 6th minute with an excellent strike. Waterville were a rejuvenated team & were playing with renewed vigour.
But then disaster almost struck but for the dogged, terrier-like defending of Eoin Moriarty who used his superior speed & determination to outsprint his opponent & prevent a certain goal.
Currow converted a free after 14 minutes but John D restored the margin after a foul on Niall Moran. Seamus O' Sullivan had his 2nd point of the evening after linking with John B O' Shea who had cleverly intercepted a Currow pass. Keith Moran & Denis O' Dwyer had two more points for Waterville and Currow pulled one back from a free when Brendan O' Shea was adjudged to have overcarried.
Waterville's final point came from Seamus O' Sullivan in the 26th minute but in the remaining 4 minutes Currow had 3 points. By then Waterville's cushion was too big and they ran out comfortable winners by a margin of 3 points.
The second half display was far superior to the first and there were some fine individual displays from the likes of Seamus O' Sullivan & Denis O' Dwyer at midfield but the Man of the Match award goes to Eoin Moriarty who displayed a "Do or Die" attitude throughout the whole game.
Scorers: Seamus O' Sullivan 0-04(1 free), John D O' Shea 0-04(2 frees), Keith Moran 0-03, Denis O' Dwyer 0-02(1 free), Alan O' Shea 0-01.

South Kerry League Final (Saturday July 10th at Cahersiveen)

Waterville 0-09 Skellig Rangers 0-13

Our senior footballers failed in their bid to lift the Senior Football League trophy at Cahersiveen on Saturday 10th July. There can be no complaints as regards the outcome since Rangers were the better team on the day and fully deserved their first South Kerry senior title in 24 years.
Alan O' Shea opened the scoring for Waterville midway through the first half but by then Rangers had three on the scoreboard. The gap could have been closer but scoreable frees were missed which were to prove costly in the end. Gearóid O' Sullivan & Martin O' Shea had two more points before the break but Rangers had stretched their lead to six.
The introduction of John D. O' Shea after half time added a new dimension to the Waterville attack and he had his name on the score sheet with a well struck free in the fifth minute.
Waterville were awarded a penalty in the 8th minute when Mike Curran was fouled. Seamus O' Sullivan attempted the spot kick but to the disbelief of the Waterville contingent the ball hit the bottom of the post and went harmlessly wide. Had this been converted the gap would have been just 3 points and who knows what might have happened. Instead the ball came right up the field and Rangers added another point.
Seamus O' Sullivan then had a quality point from distance to reduce the deficit again to six points. John D. O' Shea and Mike Curran kicked two more points for Waterville to bring their tally to seven with a few minutes left on the clock and the difference five points. John D. had two more pointed frees before the finish but the mountain was too high and Rangers were the hungrier and deserved victory and ran out winners by a margin of four points.
Waterville needed that elusive goal but it was not to be and then Rangers had Brian Hickey who gave a wonderful display at midfield and had a major say in the destination of the spoils.
Scorers: John D. O' Shea 0-04(4 frees), Martin O' Shea 0-01, Gearóid O' Sullivan 0-01, Alan O' Shea 0-01, Mike Curran 0-01, Seamus O' Sullivan 0-01.
Team: Bernard Murphy, Shane Coffey, Seamus O' Shea, Eoin Moriarty, Buddy O' Shea ,Gary Galvin, Aoghán Courtney, Seamus O' Sullivan, Denis O' Dwyer, Gearóid O' Sullivan, Keith Moran, Alan O' Shea, Martin O' Shea, Mike Curran, John B. O' Shea,
Subs Used: John D. O' Shea, Niall Moran, Dan Fitzpatrick, Brendan O' Shea(Beenbane)

County League Div 2 Round 5 Waterville V John Mitchell's (Saturday 5th June 2004)

Waterville 1-06 John Mitchell's 0-06

With the memory of the Legion game still fresh in the memory the Waterville senior team were determined to make amends and restore morale. It was always going to be a difficult task, bearing in mind that Mitchell's had aspirations towards winning the County Championship.
To compound the situation Waterville had to line out without some of their regulars. Mike Curran & Gearóid O' Sullivan were exam bound while Gary Galvin had to cry off through an ankle injury.
After a warm sunny day the weather deteriorated somewhat just before kick off with a light drizzle descending on proceedings. Nevertheless, conditions were pretty good for football and Waterville played towards the lake end in the first half.
The home side were first to open the scoring via the boot of Paddy Curran who had received a good ball from Alan O' Shea. A minute later a foul on the same Paddy Curran resulted in a free from where the ball landed which Keith Moran slotted over. In the fourth minute Denis O' Dwyer was adjudged to have fouled his opponent and Mitchell's were awarded a free and registered their first score. Three minutes later Waterville had a free of their own on the stand side. Denis O' Dwyer opted to have a go, even though it was one for a left footed player. Denis didn't disappoint and with the outside of his right boot he split the posts with style. Mitchell's weren't to be outdone because immediately the ball was driven up the field and they had an excellent left footed point from the left sideline and reduced the margin to the minimum again. A minute later the teams were level when Mitchell's had another top class point from a distance of 45 metres.
Alan O' Shea had his first point of the game in the 11th minute after taking a good pass from Martin O' Shea but we had to wait another 15 minutes for the next score which drew the teams level again. Mitchell's had a number of good scoring opportunities in this period but failed to capitalise especially in the 23rd minute when failing to convert a straight forward opportunity.
The Waterville backs absorbed an amount of pressure but stuck to their task manfully, especially Mike O' Shea, Shane Coffey, Seamus O' Shea and to a lesser extent Brendan (Buddy O' Shea). Up front Alan O' Shea was playing with encouraging vigour and won every ball that was directed his way. Indeed, the Waterville supporters in the stand wondered why more use wasn't made of the early long ball.
In the 28th minute we had a moment of magic when J. B O' Shea, who had come on as sub delivered a pass to Paddy Curran in the left corner. Paddy slipped a few tackles and made his way along the end line, unleashed a bullet from an impossible angle which ended in the Mitchell's net. This lifted the spirits of Waterville players and supporters alike but before the half time whistle Mitchell's had another point to leave Waterville leading at half time on the score line of Waterville 1-04, Mitchell's 0-05.
The second half was a dull affair in general with little good football being played except for the dogged defending by the Waterville defence and provided just three points. Waterville had two via the boots of Keith Moran (12th min) who started to show some of his old sharpness and Seamus O' Sullivan (24th min). Mitchell's had one through a free in the 10th minute. We were treated to some heart stopping excitement for the last five minutes when Mitchell's did their utmost to level the game and it has to be said they came close on more than one occasion.
The game overall won't be remembered as one of the best but a win is a win and moves the team further away from the danger zone of relegation after just five games played.
It was encouraging to see younger players doing well, especially Paddy Curran and Fenton Daly. Great to see Brendan O' Shea, Beenbane perform well in spite of his long break from football and also the return of Keith Moran from the U.S.
Scorers: Paddy Curran 1-01, Keith Moran 0-02(1 free), Seamus O' Sullivan 0-01, Denis O' Dwyer 0-01, Alan O' Shea 0-01.
Team: Bernard Murphy, Fenton Daly, Seamus O' Shea, Mike Shea,Shane Coffey, Buddy O' Shea , Eoin Moriarty, Seamus O' Sullivan, Denis O' Dwyer, Paddy Curran, Niall Moran, Alan O' Shea, Brendan O' Shea(Beenbane), Keith Moran, Martin O' Shea,
Subs Used: John B. O' Shea

Minor County League Div 2 Final Waterville/Dromid V Dingle (Killorglin May 17th 2004)

Waterville/Dromid 2- 11 Dingle 1-17

Played in ideal conditions at Killorglin. Waterville/Dromid and Dingle contested the Div 2 Minor League Final on Monday 17th May2004. The game started in whirlwind fashion and we knew before long we were in for a fascinating encounter. After ten minutes of play Dingle were ahead on the score line of 0-05 to 0-02.
Dingle capitalised on every opportunity and their play was clinical and effective with nothing wasted while Waterville/Dromid were finding it difficult to settle and seemed to be without any pattern of play.
Paddy Curran reduced the deficit through a free after being fouled himself, having received a pass from Kevin Dwyer. But two minutes later Dingle restored their 3 point lead through a free. Dingle were in a hungry mood and everything they did produced dividends in the form of points of exceptional quality, both from frees and
open play. Waterville/Dromid struggled to contain the onslaught by making some positional switches but by the time the break arrived Dingle had a comfortable lead of 7 points (0-05 to 0-12).
It was obvious the opposition had their homework done on one Paddy Curran who suffered a terrible tackle two minutes into added time for which the culprit was shown a yellow card and can consider himself lucky it wasn't a red one.
Paddy Curran opened the scoring in the 2nd half by converting a free after he was fouled himself and two minutes later the same player found himself chasing a ball, out sprinting his marker, pulling on the ball which screamed over the bar. It could so easily have been a goal. However the gap was down to 5 points. Then a minute later Denis Donnelly sent in a free after a foul on Alan Dwyer, from the stand side. Paddy Curran
was waiting and deflected to the Dingle net. Waterville/Dromid were now and truly back in the game. The margin was just 2 points, but in spite of Waterville/Dromid pressure Dingle extended the lead again to 5 points before Denis Donnelly scored a Waterville/Dromid point mid way through the half.
It was obvious that Waterville/Dromid needed a goal if they were to pull this one off and in the 17th min Paddy Curran rode a few tackles and sent a screamer low but wide of the left upright. The same player converted a free two minutes later after a foul on Donncha Fenton and Waterville/Dromid had two more points in the 20th and 21st minute to reduce the margin to two points again with nine minutes left to play. In the 24th min Waterville/Dromid took the lead for the first time after Gearoid o Sullivan kicked in a long ball and after confusion in the Dingle goalmouth Aidan "Shine" O' Sullivan connected with the ball and sent it to the net. Waterville/Dromid gave away a needless free with 5 minutes left, which was duly converted, and the sides were level again. Waterville/Dromid had been playing with far more conviction and finesse in the second half and fully deserved to be on level terms, but then lady luck deserted them when a high ball into the Waterville/Dromid square was deflected and ended up in the net.
The more direct ball into the full forward line paid dividends in the second half for Waterville/Dromid and had it been supplied earlier in the game things may have turned out different. Waterville/Dromid were unfortunate to lose John Curran as he carried an injury into the game and found it impossible to continue. He was an immeasurable loss as he had been a major playmaker in the competition to date.
Credit to Dingle though and a certain Mark Evans who had a huge influence on the outcome. We certainly will hear a lot more of that young player in the future. Dingle are worthy champions and full marks to them for accuracy and teamwork.
Scorers: Paddy Curran 1-07 (6 frees), Denis Donnelly 0-3, Aidan Shine 1-00, Gearoid O Sullivan 0-01
Team: Ciarán Dennehy, William Hunt, Kevin O' Shea, Cormac O' Sullivan, Brendan Dennehy, Aidan O' Sullivan, Micheál O' Shea, Gearóid O' Sullivan, Kevin O' Leary, Alan O' Dwyer, John Curran, Paudie O' Sullivan, Kevin O' Dwyer, Paddy Curran, Denis Donnelly
Subs Used: Donncha Fenton, Daniel Dwyer, Daniel Curran

County League Div 2 Round 4 Legion V Waterville (Saturday 15th May 2004)

Legion 2-09 Waterville 1-11
Played in beautiful sunshine Waterville and Legion competed for the points in round four of the County League on Saturday 15 of May. Waterville were without some of their regulars and the team had to be re arranged accordingly.
The game was but four minutes old when Denis Dwyer gained possession at mid field and rode some hard tackles but was blown for over carrying when most of the sideline expected the decision to go the other way. This set the tone for the rest of the game with some of the decisions causing raised eyebrows to say the least.
Legion had most of the chances in the early stages and missed some scoreable opportunities. Paddy Curran came close for Waterville in the seventh minute with an effort from the right side near the corner flag but unfortunately the ball tailed wide at the last moment.
The Waterville backs were absorbing some intense pressure and legion finally opened the scoring in the eight minute with a point from the left and followed a minute later with another. J B O Shea had to retire in the fourteenth minute and was replaced by Dan Fitz who made his mark immediately. Paddy Curran won the ball on the wing directed the ball to Gearoid o Sullivan who found Dan Fitz. Dan slipped his man and unleashed a missile like strike from distance to rattle the Legion net. Four minutes later it was Dan again at the end of a move which began with Mike Curran and involved Niall Moran and Denis O' Dwyer and scored Waterville's first point. A minute later Gearoid O' Sullivan fetched a terrific ball under pressure and spotted inrushing brother Seamus who raised the white flag again. Two minutes later Dan Fitz won another great ball and passed to inrushing Paddy Curran who kicked a sweet point.
Legion pulled a point back through a free in the twenty third minute but young Gearoid O' Sullivan kicked a fine point two minutes later after an outstanding save by goalkeeper Bernard Murphy in the Waterville goal who rapidly moved the ball upfield. Disaster struck three minutes before the break with Legion rattling the Waterville net after a long ball in from mid field but shortly afterwards Alan O' Shea converted a free for Waterville after a foul on Paddy Curran. In spite of conceding the goal Waterville were playing reasonably well and the prospects looked good for the second half. Half time score...Waterville 1-05 Legion 1-03.
Waterville opened the scoring in the second half with Denis Dwyer kicking a free from near the right sideline fifty metres out. Legion got one of their own via a punched point a minute later but Paddy Curran fired over two minutes later after taking a pass from Gearoid O' Sullivan. (1-07 to 1-04) .The margin was now three points in favour of Waterville but Legion reduced that to two in the seventh minute. Waterville increased the cushion to four through the boots of Alan O' Shea and Martin O' Shea but then in the space o three minutes Legion stunned the sizeable Waterville following by scoring 1-02 to put their side in front. Denis Dwyer put Waterville on level terms in the twenty fourth minute after some wonderful play, which began with Gary Galvin winning a ball at full back, and contained some great passing movements.
Legion however smelled victory and kicked two more points to Waterville's one and won out by the narrowest of margins.
Frustration was evident on both sides during this game with some of the refereeing decisions and none more so than in the final moments when Martin O' Shea was blatantly fouled within the parallelogram and no free awarded. However, Waterville could have secured the points if some players had a little more vision and were prepared to let off the ball instead of trying for scores from impossible positions.
Scorers: Dan Fitz 1-01, Alan O' Shea 0-03 (2 frees), Paddy Curran 0-02, Denis Dwyer 0-02 (1 free)Seamus O' Sullivan 0-01, Gearóid O' Sullivan 0-01, Martin O' Shea 0-01
Team: Bernard Murphy, Shane Coffey, Gary Galvin, Mike Shea, Eoin Moriarty, Mike Curran, Buddy O' Shea, Seamus O' Sullivan, Denis O' Dwyer, Paddy Curran, Niall Moran, Gearóid O' Sullivan, Martin O' Shea, Alan O' Shea , John B. O' Shea
Subs Used: Dan Fitz,

South Kerry League Semi-Final Waterville V Renard (Monday 3rd May 2004) at Caherciveen

Waterville 1-06   Renard 0-05
Before the game began a minute's silence was observed to mark the passing of Mrs. Peggy Everett, mother of the South Kerry Board chairman Pat Everett. Ar dheis lámh Dé go raibh a hanam dílis.
Renard won the toss and elected to play with the breeze upfield. Within 30 seconds of the start the ball was lost easily around midfield by a Waterville player and Renard capitalised with an opportunist point. Mike Curran found himself in a good goal scoring position in the fifth minute but failed to control the ball with just the goalie to beat.
Waterville's first score came in the 7th minute when Alan O' Shea was brought down and he converted the free himself. Two minutes later David Daly was wide of the mark with a fisted effort after a surging run down field by Niall Moran. From the kick out Renard got possession around the middle and unleashed a hopeful kick towards the Waterville goal which hopped over the bar, much to the annoyance of Waterville joint trainer, Dan Fitz and all supporters of the Lakesiders. Waterville were playing poorly and the fluency displayed in all games up to now was glaringly absent. Few players showed a sense of urgency and basic errors were in abundance. Nevertheless, the backs held out until the 17th minute when Renard midfielder John Sugrue had his sides 3rd point with a clinically executed free kick. Renard had a gilt edged chance of goal in the 24th minute but luckily for the men in red it screamed left and wide of the post. We would have to wait for the next score until the 27th minute when Denis O' Dwyer was fouled and Alan O' Shea converted the resultant free kick.
On the stroke of thirty minutes a passing movement involving David Daly, Aoghán Courtney, Alan O' Shea & Mike Curran set Martin Shea free but he was unceremoniously dragged to ground and a penalty was awarded. Gary Galvin was the taker of the spot kick but he blasted wide of the target. At half time Renard led by 0-03 to 0-02. We had watched a half hour of less than classic football but we were still well in the game.
Some home truths must have been pointed out in the dressing room at half time because within five minutes of the re-start Waterville had added a goal and two points to their tally. In the 3rd minute Martin Shea collected a ball about 45 metres out and passed to brother Buddy. He sent a testing high ball towards the Renard goal where the ever-alert Mike Curran, with his back to goal, flicked past the helpless Renard keeper into the net.
Waterville were in front for the first time in the game. Within a minute Buddy O' Shea made a telling run through the Renard defence and slotted the ball between the posts from 30 metres. In the 5th minute Alan O' Shea sent a cross ball from in front of the stand towards the Renard goal where Buddy again got possession but was fouled and Alan O' Shea secured the point from the free. This change of attitude by the team raised the spirits of the red's supporters and Denis O' Dwyer in particular was directing operations with well timed tackles and telling passes from the midfield area.
Renard were awarded a free from an acute angle in the 8th minute on the left side and again Renard midfielder John Sugrue slotted home a difficult opportunity. Within a minute however, Martin O' Shea again raised the white flag after receiving a good pass from Mike Curran and the margin between the teams was again four points.
Waterville were now playing more composed football and before the final whistle both teams scored a point each.
Waterville were best served by Denis O' Dwyer, Mike Curran, Buddy O' Shea and Seamus O' Shea.
Scorers: Alan O' Shea 0-04 (4 frees), Mike Curran 1-00, Buddy O' Shea 0-01, Martin O' Shea 0-01.
Team: Bernard Murphy, Shane Coffey, Seamus O' Shea, Mike Shea, Eoin Moriarty, Gary Galvin, Buddy O' Shea, Niall Moran, Denis O' Dwyer, Gearóid O' Sullivan, Mike Curran, David Daly, Martin O' Shea, Alan O' Shea, Aoghán Courtney.
Subs Used: John B. O' Shea

Intermediate Championship Dingle V Waterville (24/04/04) Played at Gallarus

Dingle 1-14 Waterville 0-12

Waterville suffered their first defeat of the new season when going down to a superior Dingle outfit in the Intermediate Championship, played at Gallarus on Saturday 24th April.
This was sweet revenge for the men from the west as they had lost to Waterville in the penultimate stage of the same competition last year. Conditions were blustery but sunny and Dingle had the advantage of the wind in the first half.
Within 30 seconds of the start Dingle opened the scoring with a point from the left side, about 30 metres out. Inside two minutes they had doubled the score with a pointed free from the same spot. Seamus O' Sullivan had an opportunity for Waterville near the right side line but the strong wind pulled the ball wide at the last moment. In the 4th minute Alan O' Shea opened Waterville's account when he was at the end of a movement involving Buddy O' Shea and midfielder Seamus O' Sullivan and kicked a fine point into the strong wind from a distance of 30 metres.
Dingle got their third point in the 9th minute from straight in front of the Waterville goal, about 45 metres out and followed with another within a minute from an acute angle on the left. Dingle forwards were creating major problems for the Waterville defence with their swift running and highly effective interplay. However, Alan O' Shea narrowed the gap to two points with a free after a foul on David Daly (13mins) and scored his second point from play five minutes later after a great up field surge by Buddy O' Shea who passed to David Daly. He in turn offloaded to Alan who split the Dingle posts. The gap was now just a single point in spite of Dingle having the assistance of the wind and much of the play.
Waterville failed to score for the remainder of the half while Dingle kicked six points in the remaining 11 minutes of the half. This was the period of the game which ultimately cost Waterville dearly. Seamus O' Sullivan was denied a point in the 28th minute when the ball came back off the left upright. Dingle led at half time on the score line of ....Dingle 0-10...Waterville 0-03.
Dingle extended their lead 3 minutes after the re-start with a well executed point from the left wing and a minute later but for the reflexes of the Waterville keeper, Bernard Murphy they would have had a certain goal. Then in the 8th minute David Daly was fouled near the left sideline, 50 metres from goal. Denis Dwyer took the resultant free kick and reduced the margin to 7 points again. Waterville lifted their game after this score and began to play with renewed urgency. Mike Curran took a pass from Denis O' Dwyer, who was beginning to show the class and determination of old, and pointed. Dwyer himself, after a great tussle around midfield unleashed an almighty kick which again raised the white flag. In the 11th minute Dingle were awarded a free kick, way out on the right which they converted. From the kick out the ball was again moved up field and after Mike Curran was fouled Denis O' Dwyer scored the resultant free from a distance of 55 metres. A minute later Mike Curran again gained possession and with his left foot had his second point of the game. Waterville were now in top gear with Dingle back pedalling. The deficit was now down to four points with every player giving of his best and we still had 15 minutes left. But then disaster struck when a long ball was driven towards the Waterville goal and a defender was adjudged to have pulled down a Dingle forward. The spot kick was converted after a re-take and the margin was again raised to seven points. This was a bitter blow and took the wind out of the Waterville sails.
In fairness to the team though, they kept on battling to the end and scored four more points to Dingle's two, before the end.
But for the period before half time when Dingle were rampant and scored points of the highest calibre the final result might well have been different.
Scorers: Alan O' Shea 0-06 (4 frees), Denis Dwyer 0-03 (2 frees), Mike Curran 0-02, Gary Galvin 0-01
Team: Bernard Murphy, Shane Coffey, Seamus O' Shea, Mike Shea, Eoin Moriarty, Gary Galvin, Buddy O' Shea, Seamus O' Sullivan, Denis O' Dwyer, Alan O' Shea, Niall Moran, Gearóid O' Sullivan, Martin O' Shea, Mike Curran, David Daly
Subs Used: Patrick Curran , Dan Fitz, John B. O' Shea

County League Div 2 Round 3 Waterville V Naomh Mhichíl/ An Fhaill Mhór (April 17th 2004)

Waterville 1-10 St. Michaels/Foilmore 1-07

After a day of inclement weather, the gods smiled on Waterville in the evening and cleared the skies to allow for a highly entertaining and competitive game in Round 3 of Division 2 of the County League, played at Waterville.
Waterville had to line out without the in-form Seamus O' Shea at full back and as a consequence the team had to be rejigged.
Waterville played into the stiff breeze towards the lake goal in the first half and were first to score through a Seamus O' Sullivan point with just four minutes gone. The move began with Buddy O' Shea fielding a ball in defence & after numerous accurate passes Seamus pointed. The joy was short lived however, when a terrific Bally/Filemore strike from distance ended in the Waterville net, with Waterville goalkeeper Bernard Murphy well beaten. Alan O' Shea reduced the deficit with a pointed free in the eight minute but this was negated by a well struck Bally point two minutes later. A reorganisation of the full back line was called for which saw Gary Galvin being moved to secure the edge of the square and for the remainder of the game that player put in a "Man of the Match" performance. In the 11th minute Mike Curran won a good ball on the 40 metre line and off loaded it to Alan O' Shea who gave a sweet return pass & Mike got his name on the score sheet. Three minutes later Mike Curran won another ball after riding a robust challenge and again passed to Alan O' Shea who slotted it over the bar to bring Waterville's tally to four points and draw the teams level. The game was evenly poised at this stage and some good football was being played by both sides.
Martin O' Shea edged Waterville ahead in the 18th minute with an opportunist point but against the run of play Bally/Foilmore levelled within a minute. Alan O' Shea got possession on the left wing and had escaped his markers but was unfairly tackled from behind. He took the resultant free himself and Waterville were ahead again. With five minutes left in the game Seamus O' Sullivan fielded well and after some some excellent interplay Buddy O' Shea continued his run down the right wing, received the ball and casually slotted over to extend Waterville's lead to two points at the break.
The second half started with the wind at Waterville's back & Seamus O' Sullivan set the stage with a wonderfully struck effort from 50 metres, well out on the left side which split the posts. Then, in the third minute it was joy unbounded for Waterville supporters when a mistake by a Bally mid fielder caused the ball to end up in his own square. Mike Curran and Alan O' Shea were there to pounce with Mike Curran getting the final touch and raise the green flag for his side. Waterville were riding high now & indeed might have had another goal in the 7th minute but Martin O' Shea tried to deflect the ball past the goalie with the boot when handling might have proved more fruitful. Mike Curran added another point in the 10th minute with his left foot from what seemed an impossible angle. Waterville now were ahead by a margin of seven points....Waterville 1-09...Bally/Foilmore 1-02.
The game was effectively over and the the only question was the margin of victory. Bally/Foilmore however, reduced the deficit by a nicely struck point mid way though the half and Alan O' Shea converted a free for Waterville 4 minutes later after Mike Curran was fouled 20 metres from goal. This turned out to be Waterville's last score of the game but they had a cushion of seven points and were playing well.
Complacency took over in the camp and the Bally/Foilmore boys woke up. In the space of three minutes they had three fine points and the difference was now down to four points. Tension was all about and when the the men in green & red pointed a free in the second minute of extra time the fear was of a freak goal which would level the match. The Waterville backs rose to the challenge and defended stoutly until referee Tommy Gilligan blew the final whistle and the points were bagged.
Gary Galvin was in inspired form when placed at full back and all the younger players can be proud of their displays.
Scorers: Mike Curran 1-02, Alan O' Shea 0-04 (3frees), Martin O' Shea 0-01, Seamus O' Suillivan 0-02, Brendan O' Shea 0-01.
Team: Bernard Murphy, Dan Fitz, Shane Coffey, Mike Shea, Eoin Moriarty, Gary Galvin, Buddy O' Shea, Seamus O' Sullivan, Denis O' Dwyer, Alan O' Shea, Niall Moran, Gearóid O' Sullivan, Martin O' Shea, Mike Curran, David Daly
Subs Used: Patrick Curran

County League Div 2 Round 2 Ballymacelligott V Waterville (April 10th 2004)

Waterville 0-13 Ballymacelligott 1-09
In a very entertaining game played in Ballymac on Easter Saturday night Waterville were lucky to come away with a valuable win. This was a real ding -dong battle with play swinging from end to end. Ballymac will feel they deserved at least a draw. Fair play to Waterville, they stuck with it and when the tide seemed to be turning against them and in the last 5 minutes they kicked 2 good points to win by 1 point.
This was a team win, with every player putting their shoulder to the wheel when the need was greatest. The backs were kept very busy protecting their citadel .Outstanding in this sector was Eoin Moriarty and this will be a game he will look back on with pride. He tackled, blocked down and his general play was an inspiration to all his team mates.
The game itself was played in a very sporting manner, which was a credit to both teams. Denis Dwyer took over the captaincy from fellow Beenbaner John B O' Shea who had to cry off due to injury. Denis won the toss and decided to play into the wind in the first half.
The game started in a very positive manner for Waterville. Seamus Sullivan broke from the start and made a surging run into the Ballymac half and was fouled. Alan o Shea converted the free. In the 6th minute Seamus Sullavan kicked a good point from play after a good passing movement. Ballymac replied with a point in the 8 minute . Alan o Shea kicked another point from play in the 11 minute and Martin Shea kicked 2 points from play in the 13and 15 minutes to make it 0-5 to 0-1. At this stage of the game Waterville were coasting. Seamus Sullivan and Denis Dwyer were completely in control at midfield. Seamus Sullivan's fielding in particular, was a joy to behold. He caught a couple of great balls around mid field. Waterville then seemed to fall asleep for the next 15 minutes and Ballymac came back into the game. They kicked 3 points from play in the next 10 minutes to make it 0-5 to 0-4. They then kicked over a free to draw level. Ballymac were now on top and in the 28 minute they broke through for a goal to put them into the lead 0-5 to1-5. Waterville's character was now being questioned. Could they reply before half time? Mick Curran kicked a good point from the wing to make it 0-6 to 1-5. On the stroke of half time Alan Shea kicked over a free to make it 0-7 to 1-5. After dominating for so long Waterville found themselves a point behind. A lot of bad passing and overplaying the ball was a big factor in allowing Ballymac back into this game.
Trainer Dan Fitz had a few harsh words to say to his team at half time.
The second half started and straight away Niall Moran kicked a point from play to level the scores, Some fan shouted "game on". Certainly it was. Martin Shea kicked his 3 point from play in the 3 minute to make it 0-9 to1-5. Ballymac replied in the 5 minute with a free. Play was swinging from end to end and both sets of backs were kept busy. Alan o Shea kicked over a 50 to put Waterville ahead again but Ballymac replied in the 14 minute to make it 0-10 to 1-7. Both teams were giving it their best shot now and we had a very entertaining last quarter left. Ballymac took the lead in the 15 minute with a pointed free. Waterville had kicked 4 bad wides in the opening 15 minutes and the supporters were wondering if it would cost us dearly. Seamus Sullivan kicked a great point from midfield in the 17th minute and again the teams were locked on level scores. You could hear Betty cheering in Kenmare! Waterville introduced Gearoid O' Sullivan as a sub at this stage. Ballymac went up field and scored again. Ten minutes left.... could Waterville respond? Play swung from end to end, backs defended stubbornly. Both teams had a few chances but kicked wide. We would be happy to get a draw at this stage. Then in the 27th minute Alan O' Shea kicked his 5 point of the evening and once again the teams were even.
Both teams would be happy at this stage to settle for a draw. In the 28 minute Denis Dwyer kicked a great point to put Waterville in the lead....0-13 to1-9. Ballymac tried very hard to get the equaliser but time ran out for them. A draw would probably have been a fair result, but Waterville were happy to collect the points.

Scorers: Alan O' Shea 0-05 (3frees), Martin O' Shea 0-03, Seamus O' Suillivan 0-02, Niall Moran, Mike Curran & Denis Dwyer, a point each.
Team: Bernard Murphy, Shane Coffey, Seamus O' Shea, Mike Shea, Eoin Moriarty, Gary Galvin, Buddy O' Shea, Seamus O' Sullivan, Denis O' Dwyer, , Alan O' Shea, Niall Moran, David Daly, Martin O' Shea. Mike Curran, Aoghán Courtney
Subs Used: Dan Fitz, Gearóid O' Sullivan,

County League Div 2 Round 1 Beaufort V Waterville (March 28th 2004)

Waterville 1-12 Beaufort 0-11
Waterville bagged their first brace of points in the first game of this season's County League at sun-drenched Beaufort on March 28th 2004.
Having had a successful start to to the season in the South Kerry League, the real test was yet to come and the team and substitutes answered the challenge emphatically. This was a game where the panel of players was vital to achieve victory and where everyone involved played their part.
The game started at a terrific pace and Beaufort were first to raise the white flag in the 1st minute. Then a high, long ball was delivered towards the Waterville goal and dropped near the left upright. Buddy O' Shea, under severe pressure from his marker fielded solidly and cleared the danger when it looked like Beaufort might goal.
Alan O' Shea got Waterville's first point, after terrier like work from young Mike Curran, who contested the ball with two opponents and managed to flick the ball into Alan's path. Alan made no mistake and clinically slotted the ball between the posts. Play was end to end stuff for the next ten minutes until Keith Moran collected a ball, sent in from the left sideline by Mike Curran again and popped it over the bar. Two minutes later Keith Moran converted after being fouled himself.. It was the 16th minute before Beaufort had their second point via a free in front of goal after Buddy O' Shea was adjudged to have brought down his man. The score now stood at ...Waterville 0-03....Beaufort 0-02
Goalie, Bernard Murphy saved the day in the 19th minute when he pulled off an almighty save from a point blank shot from the right corner, 15 metres out. Had that been converted the result of the game may well have been different.
At this stage the backs were being made to work very hard and were dealing with the challenge with superb effect. However, in the 23 minute Beaufort drew level, having been awarded a free. Keith Moran kicked a long range effort having just been switched to the 40. Martin O' Shea then got possession and rode a tackle but his shot hit the upright. The rebound came to Mike Curran who unleashed a well struck shot but the Beaufort keeper pulled off a great save. Two minutes later he had to repeat the performance, when, after and an excellent passing movement involving six players should have ended in the net, but John B O' Shea's shot was saved again by the agile Beaufort goalie.
Beaufort kicked their 4th point in the 29th minute but Keith Moran re-instated Waterville lead with a superb strike from the the left side line, about 40 metres out. The sides went in at the break with Waterville leading by the narrowest of margins. Waterville 0-05....Beaufort 0-04.
Beaufort opened the second half scoring after a minute with a point from former Kerry Minor star Dan Doona and took the lead 5 minutes later when Beaufort were allowed a rare free passage through the the middle. Spectators were beginning to worry that the game might be slipping away but mighty mid fielder Seamus O' Sullivan delivered a pin point pass, all of 45 metres in to the unmarked Alan O' Shea, who made no mistake and the teams were level again. Beaufort took the lead again through a free in the 10th minute but Alan O' Shea again pulled it back to all square with another excellent point from the left wing. Waterville were awarded a free on the right side and Martin O' Shea converted to send Waterville into a one point lead. Alan O' Shea doubled the lead with his fourth point of the game and Denis O' Dwyer, who had come on as a sub increased the margin to 3 points with a guided missile like kick from all of 55 metres, out on the right side line. Again, it was Seamus O' Sullivan who provided the vital pass for this score. Waterville were now in the driving seat but Beaufort didn't read the script and 5 minutes later were back on level terms with both teams on ten points. There was just five minutes left in the game and we were in for a nail biting finish.
Young substitute Gearóid O' Sullivan collected a ball after another good run by Mike Curran and put Waterville ahead again. Then the killer blow was struck by Keith Moran. After a ball that was sent in by Mike Curran rebounded off the goalie Keith Moran was on hand to finish to the net. There was three minutes left in the game. Gearóid O' Sullivan had his second and Waterville last score with a point from 35 metres on the right. Beaufort finished their tally with a point when a bullet from 30 metres was headed goal wards but was deflected over the bar by the ever alert Bernard Murphy.
The final score was...Waterville 1-12 ..Beaufort 0-11
In this game the backs played well when the pressure was on, but the full back line were exceptional. They showed determination and discipline and gave little away. Midfield was consistent with Seamus O' Sullivan ruling the clouds. The forwards were a little sluggish but Alan O' Shea's and Keith Moran's accuracy were key to victory.
Scorers: Keith Moran 1-04 (1 free), Alan O' Shea 0-04, Gearóid O' Sullivan 0-02, Martin O' Shea 0-01(Free), Denis O' Dwyer 0-01,
Team: Bernard Murphy, Shane Coffey, Seamus O' Shea, Mike Shea, Eoin Moriarty, Gary Galvin, Buddy O' Shea, Seamus O' Sullivan, Niall Moran, Alan O' Shea, , Mike Curran, David Daly, John B O' Shea, Keith Moran , Martin O' Shea.
Subs Used: Denis Dwyer, Dan Fitz, Aoghán Courtney, Gearóid O' Sullivan,

Corn Uí Mhuirí Final Coláiste na Sceilge V Coláiste Chríost Rí (21/03/04)

Coláiste na Sceilge 0-07 Coláiste Chríost Rí 2-07
In Arctic like conditions Coláiste na Sceilge surrendered their Corn Uí Mhuirí crown to a determined Coláiste Chríost Rí team from Cork. The game was played in Knocknagree (near Rathmore) and many loyal supporters made the long journey. Waterville had William Hunt, Gearóid O' Sullivan & Patrick Curran on the team, with Ciarán Dennehy in the substitutes.
Despite playing with the strong wind the young Coláiste na Sceilge team were under pressure right from the start and within two minutes Coláiste Chríost Rí had their first point. Coláiste na Sceilge drew level a minute later with a pointed free through the boot of Paul O' Connor (Valentia). Coláiste Chríost Rí piled on the pressure and Coláiste na Sceilge were lucky on a number of occasions not to concede more scores. Ten minutes into the game, despite having all the play, Coláiste Chríost Rí were only two points ahead.
In the 11th minute Paddy Curran (Waterville) collected a short free and reduced the deficit to to a single point. Paul O' Connor converted a free in the 17th minute to draw level. In the space of two minutes disaster struck. Coláiste Chríost Rí converted a free on the right side from an acute angle on the right side. From the resultant kick out the ball was worked up the wing with ease by Coláiste Chríost Rí and ended up in the Coláiste na Sceilge net. On the stroke of half time Paul O' Connor reduced the margin by a point through a 14 metre free. This left the half time score ...Coláiste na Sceilge 0-04...Coláiste Chríost Rí 1-04.
Coláiste na Sceilge supporters were worried their team weren't playing well and in the second half would be facing a stiff gale.
Paul O' Connor opened the scoring in the second minute after the restart. The team were now playing with far more purpose and taking the game to their opponents. Against the run of play however, Coláiste Chríost Rí had the ball in the Coláiste na Sceilge net for the second time with just six minutes gone of the second half. Three minutes later they added a point from a 40 metre free. This was a real body blow to Coláiste na Sceilge and it gave Coláiste Chríost Rí a cushion of five points with the wind at their backs.
Coláiste na Sceilge never gave up but their attacks just couldn't be converted to scores. Full back Colin O' Sullivan and centre back Cillian Young were commanding figures in the Coláiste na Sceilge back line but even they couldn't prevent Coláiste Chríost Rí tagging on two more points. Coláiste na Sceilge had two late points through Alan Curran (Valentia) , who came on as a sub and Patrick Curran (Waterville).
Liam Sheehan in the Coláiste na Sceilge goal had no chance for the two Coláiste Chríost Rí goals and pulled off two magnificent saves in the second half, both from close range.
Gearóid O' Sullivan played his part at mid field and up front Patrick Curran was a marked man and allowed little freedom. Rory Keating went through an amount of ball at full forward but the Coláiste Chríost Rí defence was rock solid.
Coláiste na Sceilge can have little complaint about the result. The opposition was overall a more balanced outfit and deserved victory.
Coláiste na Sceilge Scorers: Paul O' Connor 0-04(all frees), Paddy Curran 0-02 (1 free), Alan Curran 0-01
Team: Liam Sheehan, William Hunt, Colin O' Sullivan, Aidan O' Sullivan, Kevin O' Shea, Killian Young, Timothy O' Sullivan, Christopher O' Driscoll, Gearóid O' Sullivan, Gary O' Driscoll, Patrick Curran, Kevin O' Leary, Dermot Walsh, Rory Keating, Paul O' Connor,
David King & Alan Curran came on as subs

Note: While realising the cost involved in transporting teams etc many patrons felt the charge of €10 for an adult and €3 for a student a bit stiff, when one considers there was no stand and the distances travelled by both sets of supporters. The match programme cost €2 and contained little more than a few adds and the team lists.

South Kerry League (March 13th 2004)

Waterville 1-14 Valentia 0-11
Waterville seniors continued their winning ways with success over old rivals Valentia, on Saturday 13th of March in cold wintry conditions, in the fourth round of the South Kerry League. The game which was played in Waterville was not one we'll remember for too long as both teams failed to excite their loyal followers to any degree.
Waterville started with great purpose in this game and for the first twenty minutes were playing pretty well. From then on they seemed to lose momentum and there was little pattern or purpose in their game. None of the established played up to their usual standard, with the exception of Brendan "Buddy" O' Shea. Martin Shea, brother of Buddy & John D had another fine game, kicking five of his sides points and was Waterville's most effective player.
John B O' Shea had a shot save on the line by the Valentia goalie after just two minutes but it was Martin Shea who kicked the first score of the game in the 4th minute. Valentia levelled affairs two minutes later with a free and took the lead a minute later with another well struck effort from all of 35 metres on the right side. Keith Moran followed with two points in the 9th and 11th minutes. Keith got the ball near goal a minute later and fired a point blank shot at the Valentia goal but the keeper made an outstanding save. Martin Shea then had his second point with the trusty left foot from in front of goal to send Waterville into a two point lead. Valentia converted three frees before the break. Waterville had a goal from midfielder Niall Moran who took his chance with deadly accuracy and four more points through the boots of Martin Shea (2), Mike Curran (1), and Keith Moran (1). For the last ten minutes of the half the team lost momentum with many passes going astray and unfortunately the second half saw little improvement. The half time score was....Waterville 1-08....Valentia0-05
Valentia had the first two points of the second half and five minutes in, Buddy O' Shea suffered a leg injury after a late tackle. After a short delay Buddy recovered and David Daly kicked the point of the game from all of 50 metres after receiving a pinpoint cross field pass from wiry wing back Eoin Moriarty in the 6th minute. Alan O' Shea got his name on the score sheet in the 8th minute and Keith Moran converted another free midway through the half. Valentia added two more points to their tally and with little over ten minutes left in the game the score was ...Waterville 1-11...Valentia 0-09. Buddy and Seamus O' Sullivan tagged on two more points for Waterville and Valentia had one. Martin Shea concluded the scoring for Waterville with just four minutes left and Valentia got their final point in the dying seconds of the game. .
Martin O' Shea was one of the few players who performed well on the day, along with brother Brendan, who was reliability personified at wing back.
Scorers: Martin O' Shea 0-05, Keith Moran 0-04, Niall Moran 1-00, Mike Curran, David Daly, Buddy O' Shea, Seamus O' Sullivan & Alan o' Shea,(a point each)
Team: Bernard Murphy, Shane Coffey, Seamus O' Shea, Mike Shea, , Buddy O' Shea, Gary Galvin, Eoin Moriarty, Seamus O' Sullivan, Niall Moran, David Daly, Mike Curran, Alan O' Shea, John B O' Shea, Keith Moran, Martin O' Shea.
Subs Used: Martin Curran, Kevin Dwyer, Eoin Dennehy

South Kerry League (March 6th 2004)

Waterville 1-10   BallyFilemore 0-10
Waterville played BallyFilemore in the third round of the South Kerry League at sunshine swept if chilly Ballinskelligs on Saturday 6th March 2004.
This was the first meeting of the sides since the semi-final of the South Kerry Championship 2003 when BallyFilemore were victorious.   The game was but 40 seconds old when BallyFilemore were first on the score sheet with an excellent point from the left corner. Straight from the kick out, midfielder Seamus O' Sullivan had a terrific point from an acute angle, about 35 metres out on the left side. Alan O' Shea. who had a busy game all through took a great pass from brother J.B. and got his first point of the afternoon in the 8th minute..
Halfway through the first half Keith Moran took a free from around 45metres which landed to the left of the small rectangle. Martin O' Shea contested the dropping ball and deflected it to the net. This was a major boost for Waterville who raised their game even more. A minute later Alan O' Shea converted his second point of the day, having been forced to kick with his left foot from what seemed an impossible angle in the left corner. Martin O' Shea kicked a similar score from the same spot in the 20th minute. Keith Moran showed sharpness supreme after collecting a pass from Alan O' Shea, he kicked with his back to goal to bring the score to.....Waterville 1-05......BallyFilemore 0-01.
Waterville were in full control with just six minutes remaining in the half. However, BallyFilemore collected three points in the last four minutes and reduced the margin at the interval to four points.
Waterville 1-05...BallyFilemore 0-04.
The second half started as the first finished with BallyFilemore being awarded a point in the fourth minute. (The ball in fact was well right and wide of the upright.) Martin O' Shea got Waterville's opening score of the half in the 5th minute and BallyFilemore converted a free in the 8th minute. Keith Moran kicked a free for Waterville five minutes later. BallyFilemore then had two quick points but again Keith Moran notched another point for Waterville via a free after a foul on Mike Curran.
With just ten minutes left in the game the score was Waterville 1-08...BallyFilemore 0-08.
Keith Moran had another Waterville point on 21 minutes after a mix up in the Bally defence but this was answered with another BallyFilemore free a minute later. The remaining minutes saw tempers and tension rising but common sense prevailed in the end. BallyFilemore had another point six minutes from the end and Alan O' Shea had Waterville's final point after collecting a pinpoint pass from David Daly who had earlier come on as a substitute.
The game ended with Waterville taking the spoils on this occasion on the score line ...Waterville 1-10...BallyFilemore 0-10.
This was a fine game of football so early in the season. Players on both teams showed some exciting skills and most scores demanded a high level of accuracy. It was played in a sporting spirit not withstanding the minuteor scuffle towards the end.
Once again Seamus O' Sullivan at midfield had a fine game while Alan O' Shea created havoc in the BallyFilemore defence with some brave running and determined play. Seamus O' Shea was solid at full back and seems to be getting back to his old confident self.
Scorers: Martin O' Shea 1-02, Keith Moran 0-04 (2frees), Alan O' Shea 0-03, Seamus O' Sullivan 0-01.
Team: Bernard Murphy, Shane Coffey, Seamus O' Shea, Mike Shea, , Buddy O' Shea, Gary Galvin, Eoin Moriarty, Seamus O' Sullivan, Niall Moran, Gearóid O' Sullivan, Mike Curran, Alan O' Shea, John B O' Shea, Keith Moran, Martin O' Shea.
Subs Used: Aoghán Courtney, David Daly

South Kerry League (Feb 29th 2004)

Waterville 2-19     Derrynane 0-04
Played in summer like conditions in the micro-climate of Derrynane sports field, Waterville ran out easy victors in what turned out to be a very one sided contest.
Waterville were without the services of some of their regular players but the replacements more than proved their worth. Within 15 minutes of the start Waterville were four points ahead and the writing was on the wall that their victory was a certainty. All the play was in the Derrynane side of the field and in the 16th minute Niall Moran had an excellent score after weaving his way through the middle. However, the best move of the half was in the 21st minute, when Gearoid O' Sullivan was at the end of a marvellous passing movement but smashed a terrific shot off the Derrynane crossbar. This passage of play showed all that is good in Gaelic football, with crisp passing, positioning, speed, anticipation and determination.
Twenty three minutes into the game saw Waterville 7 points ahead with Derrynane still to score. A minute later they were awarded a free about forty metres out which was kicked short to another Derrynane player who converted his opportunity to a point and their first score was registered. This point was conceded due to slack marking on the part of the Waterville back line and this aspect of our game needs attention.
Waterville scored three more points before half time and Derrynane doubled their tally to two points. The half time score was,.... Waterville 0-10.....Derrynane 0-02.
The only question at half time was as regards the margin of victory for Waterville. Martin O' Shea, who excelled in the corner forward position had his second point of the game within two minutes of the re-start. Two more were added by Keith Moran who commanded the fringe of the square as if it was his own back yard, all through the game. In the fourth minute Waterville were awarded a free about 35m out from goal and the incoming ball was cheekily flicked to the net by Alan O' Shea with his back to goal.
In the 20th minute Martin Curran who came on as a sub for Keith Moran got the score of the game. After receiving a ball out on the right he had to ride a few robust tackles which he did with purpose. He then rifled the ball past the helpless Derrynane goalie to the corner of the net. This was a score of which Ruud Van Nistleroy or Louis Saha of Man Utd. would be proud. Waterville scored another three points before the end and Derrynane brought their total to four. The final score was....Waterville 2-19....Derrynane 0-04.
Little could be learned from this game but a win is always welcome and hopefully will be repeated many more times through the season.
Scorers: Keith Moran 0-08 (4 frees), Alan O' Shea 01-02, Martin Curran 1-01, John B. O' Shea 0-03 (1free), Martin Shea 0-03 (1free), Brendan "Buddy" O' Shea 0-01, Niall Moran 0-01.
Team: Ciarán Dennehy, Shane Coffey, Seamus O' Shea, Mike Shea, , Buddy O' Shea, Gary Galvin, Eoin Moriarty, Seamus O' Sullivan, Niall Moran, Gearóid O' Sullivan, Dan Fitzpatrick, Alan O' Shea, John B O' Shea, Keith Moran, Martin O' Shea.
Subs: Kevin Dwyer for Buddy, Martin Curran for Keith Moran, Paudie Dennehy for Gearóid O' Sullivan.

South Kerry League (Feb 21st 2004)

Waterville 0-12    Dromid Pearses 1-06
On a very cold and windy day in the Waterville sportsfield last Saturday, old rivals Waterville and Dromid Pearses served up a most entertaining game of football. The game itself was very competitive and there were some great scores kicked by both teams. It gave some of the young guns a chance to stake a claim for a place on the teams for the coming year as both teams were short of some of their regulars.
Dromid played with the wind in the first half and should have made better use of it. Maybe players were a bit rusty after a long winter break, but the shooting on both sides left a lot to be desired. Dromid led at half time by 0-4/0-3. This lead did not seem to be enough, as they faced the strong wind in the second half. Waterville felt they were in with a decent chance but Dromid started brightly and carried the game to the Lakesiders. They were awarded a penalty after 10 minutes which put them 4 points up and it looked as if the first victory of the new season was heading Dromid's way.
Waterville however, seemed to shake of the winter cobwebs now, and kicked over some very good long range points and ran out winners by 0-12 /1-06.
This was a good game for the first South Kerry League game of the year. Waterville players to perform well were, Seamus O' Sullivan, Gary Galvin, Alan O' Shea and Shane Coffey
Team: Bernard Murphy, Shane Coffey, Seamus O' Shea, Eoin Moriarty, Buddy O' Shea, Gary Galvin, Aoghán Courtney, Seamus O' Sullivan, Niall Moran, David Daly, Dan Fitzpatrick, Michael Curran, John B O' Shea, Alan O' Shea,, Martin O' Shea.
Scorers: Seamus O' Sullivan 0-5, Alan O' Shea 0-3, John B O' Shea 0-2, Michael Curran 0-1, Martin O' Shea 0-1  .