Last Saturday evening Mallow Juniors travelled to Ringmahon and came away with all three points after a good 4 - 1 win. Mallow had the better of the early exchanges no clear cut chances resulted but they were thankful for a couple of good saves from Mick Murphy late in the half.

The second half started much the same but on the hour Mallow broke the deadlock when a scramble in the box ended as the ball came to James O'Driscoll who finished to the net. Mallow should have pulled away after this but Ringmahon got themselves back in the game when a corner was not cleared and the ball was headed in from close range. From here to the end Mallow took control of the game when substitute Jay Clow teed up O'Driscoll to finish from six yards. Two minutes later O Driscoll completed his hat trick when he chipped the Ringmahon keeper from the edge of the box. Jay Clow made it four in injury time with O'Driscoll squaring for him to tap in.

Team : M. Murphy, B. Doody, Denis Flynn, K. Aherne, T. Coakley, J. Lehane, K. Curran, M. Buckley, J. O'Driscoll, Derek Flynn, A. Bucke.

Subs : A. Jones for K. Aherne, J. Clow for Derek Flynn, J. McCarthy for M. Buckley

Subs not used : J. Madden, G. Sweeney.

On our long awaited return to action last Saturday the Mallow Juniors played out a 1-1 draw with city side Crofton Celtic. Even up to the kickoff this game looked like it may not go ahead with heavy fog putting it in danger but with the referee and both teams eager for it to happen it got under way. The early exchanges were fairly even with both teams happy to try and get settled into the game. but then the home team began to up the tempo. A few half chances came their way with the best of them falling to right winder Kevin Curran when the ball was laid into his path just inside the box. However his shot was well saved by the Crofton keeper. A few minutes before the break Mallow scored when a free kick from James O'Driscoll was only parried by the keeper. Ken Ahearne followed in to finish from a few yards to give Mallow the half time lead.

Mallow started the second period well and should have added to their one goal lead. They were made to pay for not scoring when a ball from the right was headed in at the back post for Crofton's equaliser. Both teams pushed for the winner to no avail. A draw was probably a fair result for both sides and it was a nice opener for the busy months ahead.

Team : W. Corcoran, B. Doody, Denis Flynn, K. Aherne, T. Coakley, J. Lehane, M. Buckley, A. Bucke, J. O'Driscoll, Derek Flynn, K. Curran.

Subs : J. Clow for K. Curran, J. McCarthy for M. Buckley, G. Sweeney for J. Lehane. Not Used : C. Murphy, R. Downey, M Scanlon, A. Jones.

Mallow United Under 15’s cruised into the next round of the Cork Schoolboys Cup with an emphatic win over Douglas Hall in Mallow last Sunday.

In truth Mallow had the game wrapped up after half an hour during which they scored four goals and the rest of the game was merely a training session. Mallow opened the scoring after five minutes when John Dennehy sent Dave Barrow down the left and his mesmerising run past three players saw him pick out Liam Attridge who volleyed home from ten yards. A couple of minutes later they doubled their lead when John Dennehy’s deep cross from the left found Kieran Walsh who hit an unstoppable shot from twelve yards into the roof of the net. Mallow continued to press and went three up ten minutes later when Liam Attridge’s corner was headed on by John Cosgrove for Harry Cosgrove to react fastest and prod the ball home.

The Douglas Hall defence was working overtime at this stage and only some last ditch defending and good goalkeeping kept the score down. However goal number four arrived ten minutes before the break when Kieran Walsh siezed on a poor clearance and drilled a great shot into the corner of the net from the edge of the box. With the game over as a contest Mallow made a host of substitutions after the break and though the game lost a bit of edge they created numerous chances. The fifth goal arrived when another John Dennehy cross found Harry Cosgrove lurking at the back post and he sidefooted home for his second of the match. The sixth came when Dan O’Callaghan’s great pass found Chris Reilly out wide and he sprinted into the box and hammered a low shot to the back of the net. All in all a good workout after another long break due to the recent bad weather.

Team : Paul O’Connor, Finbarr Carroll, Cian Cronin, John Cosgrove, Dave Barrow, Roy Cranwitch, Liam Attridge, Mark Dinneen, John Dennehy, Harry Cosgrove, Kieran Walsh.

Subs Used : Lorcan Murphy, Dan O’Callaghan, Adam Kerley, Jack Downes, Chris Reilly.

Kevin Taylor (18, 31, 46), Trevor Mc Evoy 36, Tarik Yilmaz 57

On Saturday afternoon Mallow United’s Under 11 Premier team got the new year off to a perfect start with a hard earned 5-0 win over local rivals Blarney United in extremely difficult underfoot conditions at St. Josephs Road.The one o’clock kick-off time for this fixture had to be delayed due to the harsh weather conditions being experienced and at one stage it looked like the game would not be played. However match official Gerry Lynch, after consultations with both management teams, decided to get the game underway.

Both teams started the game off slowly with players taking time to get used to the slippery underfoot conditions. Mallow started to settle first and on 11 minutes had the game's first chance when Keane Buckley broke down the left hand side and his cross found Anthony Bowles who couldn’t get the touch he required to put the ball into the goal and ionstead shot tamely wide. The next 10 minutes or so was all one way traffic with Mallow applying constant pressure on the visitors, and the home side could easily have gone ahead with efforts from Keane Buckley, John Browne and Stephen O’Callaghan. Mallow had to wait until the 18th minute for the breakthrough when another sweeping move found Kevin Taylor in the box and he duely supplied the finishing touch from close range to put Mallow one nil up.

This spurred Blarney United into action and they applied decent pressure on Mallow for the remainder of the half but the back four of Ronan Barrett, Jack Creedon, Trevor McEvoy, and the ever improving Daire Cronin-Jenks kept the Blarney attackers limited to long range efforts which were well handled by goalkeeper James Lowe-Fogarty.

On the resumption of the second half Mallow United hit Blarney with a blitz and effectively killed the game in a ten minute spell. The first emerged from the kickoff when Kevin Taylor received a through ball from Trevor Mc Evoy from that kickoff and duly scored from just outside the penalty area. Then after more Mallow pressure Mallow were awarded a corner and centre half Mc Evoy latched onto Buckley’s corner to slot the ball home from 12 yards. Mallow continued to pile the pressure on Blarney and on 46 minutes Taylor completed his hat-trick when he got the slightest of touches to guide Stephen O’ Callaghan’s long range effort past the Blarney keeper.

Blarney did manage to get in around the Mallow defence and their best chance came from a free kick just outside the box. However good handling yet again from James Lowe-Fogarty eased any pressure being applied. Mallow’s 5th goal came in the closing minutes after good work from Buckley found Tarik Yilmaz in the box and he scored to round off a good second half display from the home team.

This was a good display from the Mallow players in difficult conditions and is ideal preparation for the upcoming fixtures which will see them play in the 5th round of the National Cup, and meet the big teams pushing for the Premier league title. There will be a lot tougher games ahead and the lads will have to draw on all their strengths and skills to continue on their good start to the year.

Team : Lowe-Fogarty, Barrett, Creedon, Mc Evoy (c), Cronin-Jenks, Taylor, Browne, O’Callaghan, Bowles, Sheehan, Buckley.

Subs : McAulliffe for Creedon (30), Yilmaz for Sheehan (42), O’Malley for Barrett (47), Lynes for Bowles (51), Byavu for Cronin-Jenks (57).

Three goals in the final ten minutes ended Mallow United Under 15’s participation in this seasons National Cup in the Town Park last Sunday morning. The game was delayed for an hour due to the heavy overnight frost, but eventually went ahead.

Mallow were slow to settle and found themselves a goal down after ten minutes when the Riverstown centre forward rose unchallenged to head home from a corner. In fairness to Mallow they responded in the right manner and were level five minutes later when Harry Cosgrove’s challange on the Riverstown centre half forced him to make a mistake and John Cosgrove drilled the ball home from the edge of the area.

The lead was short lived when another mistake in defence allowed Riverstown to regain the lead. Mallow again hit back immediatley and a surging run from midfield by Liam Attridge saw him ghost past two defenders and hit an unstoppable shot into the corner of the net. At this stage the game was end to end and it looked like we would have a thrilling second half.

Unfortunatly this never materialised and there was a real lull in the second half proceedings. Mallow just could not get their attack going and when Riverstown took the lead from a free kick with ten minutes remaining the wind was well and truly knocked out of the Mallow boys sails. Two more goals in the closing minutes flattered our visitors as there was not much between the two sides overall.

Best for Mallow : Eoin O’Regan,Liam Attridge, John Cosgrove, Harry Cosgrove, and Dave Barrow.

Team ; Paul O’Connell, Finbarr Carroll, Cian Cronin, Eoin O’Regan, Dave Barrow, John Dennehy, Mark Dinneen, Liam Attridge, Roy Crannitch, Harry Cosgrove, John Cosgrove.

Subs : Kieran Walsh for F.Carroll, Mark Egan for D.Barrow (injured), Dan O’Callaghan for M.Dinneen, and Hugh Barry and Brian Moloney.

Gary O'Keeffe was the star as Mallow United's Under 14 team had a comprehensive win over Kinsale at St. Joseph's Road last Saturday (12th). He was closely followed by Jordon O'Regan who had one of his best games yet and also scored two goals.

This game began tentatively with both sides playing attacking football looking for the first score. During this period Peter Doyle in goal and his last line of defence Billy Hayes, Darren Lynch, Jogn Cosgrave, and Stephen Doyle dealt competently with everything that was thrown at them. Ryan Harkin and John Quinn, who were playing in the middle of the park, began to gain more control and in doing so were bringing Shane McCarthy and Thomas Foody more into the game. The first goal arrived after 15 minutes when, after breaking up an attack by Kinsale, Foody set up a great ball for Jordon O'Regan to run onto. O'Regan then outpaced the defence to pass into Gary O'Keeffe who finished the ball to the back of the net.

After this, Mallow took control and were playing some beautiful football with lots of passing between the backline and midfield. The second goal arrived soon afterwards when Foody passed to O'Regan who shot from outside the box and beat the keeper who stood helplessly as the ball screamed to the roof of the net. Quinn and Harkin continued to work tirelessly in the middle of the pitch and did not let anything get pass them.

In the second half O'Keeffe scored two identical goals where the ball was passed through the defence and he was left one on one with the goalkeeper. On both occasions he slotted the ball low to the keeper's left to score two superb goals. Stephen McEvoy and Barry Healy dominated the right hand side of the pitch and it was hard to believe that this was Barry's first game. The last goal of the day started when Healy won the ball in the middle of the pitch, raced forward, and beat two defenders. He then passed to Brendan Corrigan who crossed the ball for O'Regan to head past the the helpless keeper for a great goal.

This was a great team performance and if they continue to play like this the team will be major contenders for the league title.

Team: Peter Doyle, Billy Hayes, John Cosgrove, Darren Lynch, Stephen Doyle, John Quinn, Ryan Harkin, Shane McCarthy, Thomas Foody, Jordon O'Regan, Gary O'Keeffe, Stephen McEvoy, Barry Healy, Dean McAuliffe, Brendan Corrigan.

Mallow United caused a major upset in the third round of the Under 15 National Cup with a fantastic away win over Mayfield United last Saturday afternoon. Mallow, who ply their trade in the second division, went into the game as complete underdogs as Mayfield are top of the first division and were unbeaten this season. Mallow had not played a competitive game in eight weeks due to the terrible weather, and the only reason last Saturdays match went ahead was that Mayfield have an all weather pitch.

Mallow actually started the game brightly and played the better football with Mark Dinneen and Liam Attridge gaining a foothold in the middle of the pitch, and with Eoin O’Regan and Cian Cronin dominant at the back Mallow looked to be in complete control. The first real chance of the game fell to Kieran Walsh who attempted to chip the ball over the keeper who had just sliced a clearance. However a Mayfield defender headed that effort away for a corner. At this stage Mallow were looking more like a first division outfit than their opponents as they snuffed out the Mayfield attack with full backs Dave Barrow and Finbarr Carroll in top form.

Mallow opened the scoring midway through the first half when a cross from the right just eluded Kieran Walsh only for John Dennehy to arrive at the back post and side foot home. With Harry Cosgrove and Kieran Walsh working their socks off up front, and Roy Crannitch and John Dennehy causing all sorts of problems on the wings it looked like it could be Mallow's day. Disaster struck though right on the stroke of half time when for once Mallow failed to put in a tackle on the edge of the box and Mayfield got in for an equaliser.

This was a real body blow for the Mallow boys and worse was to follow at the start of the second half when a misplaced clearance saw the Mayfield winger chip the ball over keeper Paul O’Connor for the lead goal. Mallow were really facing an uphill battle with the driving wind and rain in their faces. Manager Sean Powell introduced John Cosgrove to the fray at centre forward where his physical presence unsettled the Mayfield defence. Mallow equalised with twenty minutes to go when Liam Attridge put in a great cross and once again John Dennehy volleyed to the net from ten yards. The Mallow lads had their tails up at this stage and attacked in waves with Liam Attridge, Harry Cosgrove and John Cosgrove leading the charge. Those same three players were involved in the build up for the winner. Liam Attridge fired in a cross and once again John Dennehy ghosted in at the back post to complete his hat trick and win the game for Mallow. This has to be the best performance of the season so far.

Team: Paul O’Connor, Finbarr Carroll, Eoin O’Regan, Cian Cronin, Dave Barrow, Roy Crannitch, Liam Attridge, Mark Dinneen, John Dennehy, Harry Cosgrove, Kieran Walsh.

Subs: John Cosgrove, Hugh Barry, Dan O’Callaghan, Mark Egan and Davin O’Regan.

After attending these trials over the past six weeks the squad was announced last Wednesday and the good news for Mallow United was the selection of three of our players, centre half Trevor Mc Evoy and midfielders Keane Buckley and Kevin Taylor.

All three attended there first official Training session on Sunday evening and all settled in with ease with the cream of Under 11 soccer players from throughout the county. The lads will train every Sunday evening with the Cork squad and will play in friendly training matches and inter county games until the season ends in May 2010.

This is a great achievement for the boys and the Club wishes them all the best and are sure they will represent the club and Mallow well, just as they do week in week out as part of the Under 11 Premier squad. The boys selection underlines the hard work that is being carried out by all of the coaches in the club to coach all players to a high standard. Also the club would like to thank Seanie Browne and Darren Browne for their work so far in coaching the Under 11 Premier team.

It is also important to note that while the boys selection is a great personnel achievement it would not have happened without the team mates they play and train with every week. So Trevor, Keane, and Kevin would like to thank each member of the squad for all the hard work they have put into the season thus far.

Mallow United U.11’s travelled to Moneygourney last Saturday morning to take on local team Douglas Hall in the league. During the first half chances were few and far between. It took twenty minutes before Patrick Angland won possession on the wing and played the ball to Joe Lane who took on the home defence to give Mallow the lead goal. There were no more scores before the break.

On the restart Mallow were two up after five minutes when that man again Joe Lane set off on a solo run at the Douglas defence and slotted past the helpless keeper.Mallow were well on top now with David Walsh and Damien Hickey impassable in defence, and the great work done by Jack O’Connor in midfield. This continued pressure paid off when Conor O’Riordan set up Joe Lane to complete his hat trick.

Joe Lane continued to lead the forward line when he sent Conor O’Riordan through to score Mallow's fourth goal. Joe and Conor would combine again soon after when Conor would put James Fitzpatrick in to score goal number five. Time was nearly up at this stage but straight from the kick off Mallow attacked again and after a mighty scramble in the Douglas Hall goal mouth Robbie Walsh got the ball over the line for number six. This was an all round team performance with everyone playing their part and contributing to this victory. Keep it up boys.

Team; Patrick Donoghue, Damien Hickey, James Angland, David Walsh, Jack O’Connor, Marco Fallone, Patrick Angland, Owen Relihan,Robbie Walsh, Joe Lane, Seamus Buckley.

Subs, Conor O’Riordan and James Fitzpatrick both used.

Mallow Juniors had a comfortable 7-0 win over visitors Crosshaven at the Town Park last Saturday evening. With a lot games off at the weekend there was no fear of this game falling foul of the weather with the pitch in perfect condition dispite the heavy rain.

Mallow started brightly and were one up inside ten minutes when a free from the left was headed in by Rory Downey. They extended that lead five minutes later when Denis Flynn found the net with a shot from the edge of the box. The home team continued there early pressure and had a third goal on twenty mins when a good cross field ball found Kevin Curran who from a tight angle finished with a powerful shot to the top corner. Mallow added a fourth when some good play down the left saw Adrian Bucke inside the box and he slipped the ball past the keeper to give Mallow a four nil half time lead.

Mallow had to wait until nearly the hour mark for the fifth goal when second half sub Jay Clow struck with what was to be the first of three for him before the end. A very pleasing result for Mallow but there are sure to be stiffer tests ahead for this team

Team: W Corcoran, B Doody, Denis Flynn, K Aherne, T Coakley, J McCarthy, K. Curran, D O Keeffe, R Downey, Derek Flynn, A Bucke

Subs: J Lehane for D O'Keeffe, J Clow for K Curran, G Breen for Derek O Flynn - subs not used K O'Donovan, S Noonan, R Willis, Murphy.

Mallow United's Under 11 developement squad put in a great recovery on last Saturday morning in their National Cup match away to Ballincollig. Two goals down at half time they fought back to force extra time only to lose out in the dreaded penalty shoot out on a 5-4 scoreline. There is no doubt that this squad is making progress and their management team are doing great work with the squad.

Mallow were under a lot of pressure from the start. The home team took the lead with a fine shot that gave the Mallow defence no chance as the ball rattled the net to give Ballincollig the lead. That lead would soon be doubled as the Mallow defence failed to clear the ball which was eventually scrambled over the goal line by a Ballincollig forward. That goal would see the score 2-0 in favour of Ballincollig at half time.

The second half continued in the same way untill ten minutes from time whern Mallow got a free kick thirty yards out. Joe Lane played the ball to Robbie Walsh who rolled it back to Joe Lane who took on the Ballincollig defence to score with a fine shot. This seemed to raise our boys. With time running out Owen Relihan went down the wing and his pin point cross was met by Damien Hickey who hit a rocket from the edge of the penalty area to the back of the Ballincollig net to tie the match.   

Extra time failed to seperate the sides and so to penalties where we were unlucky to lose on a 5-4 scoreline to a delighted Ballincollig.

Man of the match for Mallow was Marco Fallone who had a great game in midfield.

Team; Patrick Donoghue,James Angland, Damien Hickey, Robbie Walsh, Sean O’Gara, Kevin Sexton, Owen Relihan,Marco Fallone, Eddie O’Riordan, Joe Lane and Pat Angland.

Subs, Paul Sullivan for S.O’Gara, Bill Gaine for P.Angland, Peter O’Connell for E.O’Riordan and Ian McGann for K.Sexton.

Mallow started this match in very solid fashion carving the Passage defence open almost immediately with a fine through ball from Cory Hourigan to Charlie Lillis, which he unfortunately flashed wide of the keeper. Kenny O'Sullivan in the centre of the park made all the running for Mallow, breaking down any attacks from Passage with the support of Daniel Ryan. With a strong wind at their backs Mallow made attack after attack, but all to no avail as they never really troubled the resolute Passage keeper.

At half time it was honours even at nil all but the second half saw Passage pressing hard with the wind behind them, but only (again) for the heroics of Shane O'Connell in goal, and Raymond Walsh and Adrian O'Connell in defense, Passage could have been out of sight after ten minutes of the restart. Mallow made more incursions into the Passage area through some fine running by Ed Walsh who was ruefully denied by a top class save by the Passage keeper. Passage eventually won a corner and some sloppy marking gifted them their first. Dylan Mangan was withdrawn at the back to allow Tom Murphy to be added to the attack,and on his introduction he linked up with Gavin Reidy to force some more errors from the opposition defence. Alas in a Passage counter attack Cian McCarthy was caught out of position and the home side scored their second.

Mallow travelled to UCC last Saturday evening and came away with a very disappointing 2-2 draw. This wasn't one of Mallow's best performances with a bag of chances missed and sloppy goals given away.UCC started well with some nice passing moves but not creating many chances. Mallow came more into the game midway through the first half and had a good chance when a shot from Dave O Keeffe came back off the post and into the keepers hands and with that came half time and no goals.

The second half started with Mallow having two great openings when first James O Driscoll and then Derek Flynn missed one on ones with the UCC keeper. Then came the sucker punch, with the home team taking the lead when one of the UCC midfielders broke through and slipping there striker in who finished well. Mallow got back on level terms five minutes later when a cross from the left was finished to the net by right winger Kevin Curran. UCC regained the lead ten minutes later when some hesitation in the Mallow rearguard left UCC in for what was a soft goal. But again Mallow came back when a ball from the right was well put away by Derek Flynn. From there to the end it was all Mallow who were going for the win and with the last kick of the game Denis Flynn found himself in the box but pulled his shot to the right and wide. So Mallow had to be content with just a point.   

Mallow United 2 - 0 Richmond

Mallow's Under 14s still remain joint top of the Under 14 League after a very mediocre performance last Sunday against a team who are at the bottom of the league. The only positives that can be taken from this performance were a man of the match performance from Dan Sheehan in the middle of the pitch and also from goalkeeper Peter Doyle.

While this was a very mediocre performance it can also be said that five of the team were missing due to the flu. As usual John Cosgrave and Darren Lynch were in the centre of defence playing in front of goalkeeper Peter Doyle. Also playing in defence were Dean Browne and Brendan Corrigan. The Mallow defence were able to keep the Richmond forward line at bay and were able to find their midfield of Ryan Harkin, Dan Sheehan, and Thos Foody with their clearances. They in turn succeeded in finding space for Jordon O’Regan, Kieran Browne, and Gary O’Keeffe who kept the Richmond backs busy.

Everytime Richmond tried to attack Mallow, Dan Sheehan was there, whether it was to chase back and put in tackle or to climb high and head the ball out of the danger zone. Eventually the Mallow pressure told and Jordon finished a great move to slot the ball to the back of the net.

The game became very predictable with the Mallow defence dealing with everything thrown at them and at the same time they were not able to score the insurance goal. At this stage the game could have gone either way but Peter Doyle pulled off two magnificent saves. One in particular was heading for the top left hand post but Peter rose and pulled off a great save.

With the introduction of Solomon Adelabisi, Ray Walsh, and Dean McAuliffe much the same pattern of play continued, that is until Gary O’Keeffe was in the right place to score a great goal which took the pressure off Mallow and they then began to play better football.

Even though Mallow won this game they owe this victory to the Trojan workrate of Dan Sheehan in midfield and Peter Doyle in Goal.

Goals: Jordon O’Regan  and Gary O’Keeffe

Team: Peter Doyle,Dean Browne,Darren Lynch, John Cosgrave, Brendan Corrigan, Dan Sheehan, Ryan Harkin, Thos. Foody, Gary O’Keeffe, Kieran Browne, Jordon O’Regan, Solomon Adelabisi, Ray Walsh, Dean McAuliffe.

Mallow's Juniors travelled to C.I.T. last Sunday morning to play Crofton Celtic and came away with a good three points. This was a great team performance from Mallow with the defence of Aherne, Coakley, Flynn, and Madden dealing with everything that came their way. Even with the introduction of Ken O'Donovan at half time for Coakley, Crofton got little change from the Mallow rearguard. Lehane and O'Keeffe were in control in midfield and were linking well with front men Derek Flynn and O'Driscoll. There wasn't much in the way of chances in the first half but things changed ten minutes into the second when a through ball was chased by Derek Flynn who nipped it away from the Crofton keeper who then pulled Flynn back, the referee awarded a penalty which Flynn duly put away. Tempers began to fray soon after the goal which saw both teams reduced to ten. Mallow should have extended their lead on more than one occasion to make it a bit easier but they held firm for a great win.

Team: W Corcoran, J Madden, Denis Flynn, K Aherne, T Coakley, K Curran, J Lehane, D O'Keeffe, A Bucke, J O'Driscoll, Derek Flynn.

Subs: K O'Donovan for T Coakley, J McCarthy for J O'Driscoll, E McCarthy for A Bucke.

On Sunday last Mallow made the difficult trip to Little Island to take on Leeside. Mallow got off to a dream start when they were awarded a penalty after 5 minutes for Garry Jones to coolly slot home. United could not build on this and midway through the half Leeside made it 1-1. Just before half time Jamie Kelly was unlucky with a very good chance. In the second half Mallow never got going as Leeside dominated the game and scored a deserved goal with 10 minutes left to finish 2-1 winners.

On Saturday morning last Mallow United's Under 11 Premier team entertained Rockmount at St. Joseph's Road. This was an important game for both teams as Mallow were looking to maintain their pressure at the top end of the division and Rockmount needed a win to kick start their season again, after a couple of poor results of the past few weeks.

Both teams start the game in a positive fashion but it was Mallow who carved out the first real opportunity on six minutes when Anthony Bowles came close after good work on the wing from Keane Buckley. Next to create an opening was John Browne who shot narrowly wide. Browne was playing in an unaccustomed role in midfield to nullify the threat from Rockmount's impressive number 6. This tactic was to prove the difference between the two sides. Great credit is due to Browne and Daire Cronin Jenks, who played in Browne's more familiar role at left back and had a very accomplished sixty minutes.

The game was to take an extremely bad turn on ten minutes when Bowles fell awkwardly and in the process suffered a very nasty injury. X-rays were to prove that Anthony had a very bad break of the wrist and he required surgery late on Saturday evening. He will be a huge loss in the short term but all involved in the Under 11 set up wish him a speedy recovery. It has to be mentioned that after he suffered his break he was the coolest man in the ground and calmly went on his way to hospital which helped keep his team mates at ease so they could focus on the task in hand.

When the game got back on track Rockmount came right back into it and while they had the lion's share of possession they did little to trouble Mallow. The back four of Dillon McAuliffe, Jack Creedon, Trevor McEvoy, and Daire Cronin Jenks were rock solid. The game ebbed and flowed but half time saw both teams drawing a blank, so all square at 0-0.

On the resumption the game continued in the same fashion as the first 30 minutes with both teams trying to make that all important breakthrough. It was Mallow who got the break after some half chances. Kevin Taylor broke through the Rockmount rearguard and expertly lobbed the keeper to continue his rich vein of scoring form. This goal seemed to break the spirited Rockmount team but Mallow failed to capitalise and ended the game with the narrowest of wins.

The Under 11 Premiers have an enforced break this week as National Cup games take precedence and Mallow's involvement will only commence when the competition reaches the fourth round. It gives all involved some time to take stock and assess how the first third of the season has gone and see what work needs to be done to improve for the remainder of the season.

Team: James Lowe Fogarty, Jack Creedon, John Browne, Dillon McAuliffe, Trevor McEvoy (c), Stephen O'Callaghan, Ronan Barrett, Kevin Taylor, Keane Buckley, Daire Cronin Jenks, Anthony Bowles, Jamie Lynes, Eoghan Sheehan, Joshua Byavu, Billy O'Malley, Tarik Yilmaz.

United's Under 15s travelled to Youghal last Sunday morning and suffered their worst defeat for a long time, against a very lively local outfit. The morning kick off seemed to affect our boys as they never seemed to get into first gear.

Mallow did start brightly and we unlucky not to take the lead when Cian Cronin's well struck shot hit the post and was scrambled clear. After this effort Youghal completely took over and scored twice in the space of a few minutes to lead at half time. Both goals came as a result of poor play by Mallow who made life far too easy for the local attackers.

The second half wasn't much better with Mallow opened up time and again. The home side added three further goals before the referee called a halt to the proceedings and put the Mallow lads out of their misery. There were very few positives to take from the game and the journey home seemed a lot longer because of the manner of the defeat. The only player to do himself justice was Cian Cronin who never gave up. A bit of soul searching has to be done and a lot of hard work also if progress is to be made.

Team: Paul O'Connor, Mark Dineen, Cian Cronin, Lorcan Murphy, Dave Barrow, Roy Cranitch, Eoin O'Regan, John Dennehy, Liam Attridge, Harry Cosgrove, Kieran Walsh

Subs: Hugh Barry, Finbarr Carroll, Dan O'Callaghan, Adam Kerley, Davin O'Regan

Mallow Under 12s entertained high flying Mayfield United in their Premier League clash last Sunday morning at St. Joseph's Road. The game had been billed by the Cork Schoolboys League as their match of the day. So it proved to be as the parents who were present were treated to an open game of attacking football from both sides. The early stages saw Mayfield United creating the better chances.

The Mallow defence held firm to this early pressure with keeper Brian Guerin marshalling his defence and the elegant Aaron Touhy and the committed Trevor McEvoy outstanding. There were chances for both sides as play swept from end to end with both teams prepared to play football. The first half ended without a goal.

Then second half opened brightly and our boys, who had Craig Lynch dictating play in midfield, were now playing with great confidence and began to create some clear chances. Luke Delany was unlucky not to put the home side ahead on fifteen minutes when he connected with a breaking ball to head into the side netting from six yards. Mallow did take the lead when Gavin Kearney scored with time running out. This set up a hectic end to the game but with victory in sight Mayfield grabbed an equaliser within a minute. Mallow can also look back on what might have been had Dermot Twomey scored from his well struck penalty which came back off the crossbar when the game was scoreless. This was a good performance by our Under 12s and they are now starting to show signs that they will continue to improve over the coming weeks in the Premier League.

Team: Brian Guerin, Dillan Cronin, Aaron Touhy, Trevor McEvoy, Joseph Cronin, Craig Lynch, Dermot Twomey, Ryan O'Mahony, Kevin Leahy, Simon Kerly, Luke Delaney

Subs: Nathan Healy, Gavin Kearney, Patrick O'Callaghan

Mallow United's Under 11s travelled to take on Lakewood Athletic last Saturday morning in this league encounter. The Lakewood boys were well on top in the first half and even though Mallow took the lead when James Fitzpatrick found the back of the net. They could not prevent the home team from taking over for the rest of the first half to make the score 5-1 to Lakewood, even though Mallow could have added to their score with some better finishing from the energetic Liam Dowling and Owen Relihan who tormented the home defence all day.

United made some changes at half time putting Gearoid O'Connell in goal and moving James Angland outfield. This seemed to work as goals from Jack O'Connor and Owen Relihan brought the score to 5-3. Lakewood added a late goal to finish 6-3 winners.

Team: James Angland, David Walsh, Marco Fallone, Robbie Walsh, Conor O'Riordan, Jack O'Connor, Liam Dowling, Eddie O'Riordan, Peter O'Connell, Patrick Angland, James Fitzpatrick

Subs: Gearoid O'Connell, Owen Relihan, Ian McDonnell, Sean O'Gara

Mallow started this match with a lot of possession and some fine footwork by Ryan O'Dwyer had the Bandon defence under pressure from the start. This pressure was duly rewarded when a cut back from Ed Walsh was blasted to the roof of the net by Kieran Willis to give Mallow the lead. It didn't take too long before we were two up with some great runs by William Buckley and Cory Hourigan prising open the Bandon defence once more for Walsh. This seemed to spur Bandon into action and they pressed Mallow hard until they were awarded an innocuous penalty which they converted. They followed this with more pressure and a beautifully finished free kick leveled the score at 2-2 at half time.

The introduction of Charlie Lillis and Gavin Reidy in the second half gave the home side renewed impetus combining with Tom Murphy to torment the Bandon defence. However Bandon were to add two more goals as Mallow heads dropped to leave the final score 4-2 to the visitors.

Team: Shane O'Connell, Cian McCarthy, Ray Walsh, Adrian O'Connell, William Buckley, Cory Hourigan, Ken O'Sullivan, Kieran Willis, Ed Walsh, Ryan O'Dwyer, Tom Murphy

Subs: Dylan Mangan, Gavin Reidy, Charlie Lillis

On Sunday last Mallow were hoping to continue their 100% record when they welcomed Tramore as visitors. This turned out to be a cracking game with Mallow playing some excellent football in the first 25 minutes. They found themselves 4 up with some cracking goals Jamie Kelly (2), P Campion, and Garry Shine on target. After this Mallow took their foot of the pedal and let Tramore back into the game with the visitors scoring a deserved goal to make it 4-1 at the break.

In the second half Mallow began to take control of the game and missed two very good chances to make the game safe. The game turned midway through the half when Tramore were awarded a penalty and Mallow had a player sent off in the same incident. Tramore could sense something from the game and got back to 4-3 with 10 minutes to go. Then in the 88th minute they made it 4-4 to secure a point from the fixture. In truth Mallow had plenty of chances to be out of sight but credit to Tramore for a great comeback.

Mallow must feel it was two points dropped rather than one gained after a 0-0 draw with city side Everton last Sunday morning at the Town Park. Mallow dominated this game for the most part with Mallow keeper Will Corcoran not having much to do in either half. United's centre halves Ken Aherne and Tom Coakley were in full control at the back and both fullbacks Denis Flynn and John Madden were getting up the flanks to provide crosses. It was one of Flynn's crosses which gave Mallow their best chance of the first half with the left back picking out the front man Derek Flynn who somehow managed to miss from less than six yards. The second half continued much the same but Mallow couldn't make the breakthrough and ended up disappointed. However on the plus side it's another point on the board and a cleansheet so onward and upward.

Team: W. Corcoran, J. Madden, Denis Flynn, K. Aherne, T. Coakley, T. Sheehan, D. O'Keeffe, K. Curran, A. Bucke, R. Downey, Derek Flynn.

Subs: J. O'Driscoll for R. Downey, J. Lehane for T. Sheehan, J. McCarthy for J. Madden

Mallow United's Under 11 Premier team put the previous week's disappointment of losing away from home to title favourites Carrigaline United behind them by beating a very under strength and inexperienced Leeds United side at St. Joseph's Road on Saturday morning.

Mallow were determined to make amends for the previous week's disappointing display and calmed any early nerves there may have been when Keane Buckley lost his man after two minutes and bore down on the Leeds United goal, calmly beating the advancing keeper with a well taken shot. Mallow were well on top from the start of this game and on 11 minutes Keane Buckley was on hand again to beat his man and score from just inside the Leeds penalty area. Mallow were never in any danger after that and the feeling now was how many goals they might score.

Stephen O'Callaghan was next to get in on the scoring act, scoring his first of the season when he showed great ability to loop a shot over the Leeds keeper from Keane Buckley's corner kick. Kevin Taylor made it 4-0 to the home side just before half time when he cleverly best two opponents before firing home.

Mallow made two changes at half time with the introduction of Jamie Lynes and Ronan Barrett for Dillon McAuliffe and John Browne. Mallow again dominated and on 35 minutes Kevin Taylor scored his second of the game when he volleyed home a Keane Buckley cross from close range. Anthony Bowles made it six when he finished neatly after sharp passing between Lynes and Taylor. Mallow made three further changes and introduced Joshua Byavu, Eoghan Sheehan and Billy O'Malley. All three slotted in effortlessly and Mallow continued to put Leeds to the sword. Keane Buckley completed his hat trick on 49 minutes and not to be outdone, Kevin Taylor did likewise on 56 minutes.

Although this was a convincing win for the home side, and a good confidence booster for the players, it has to be pointed out that Leeds United were never going to trouble Mallow and it was plain to see why they are bottom of the table. Hopefully Leeds can strengthen their side in the short term and finish the season stronger as nobody can take any pleasure from seeing a team suffer such heavy losses week in and week out.

Next up for United are Rockmount who will be coming to Mallow to show why they have such an outstanding reputation at schoolboy level having produced such talents as Roy Keane. Hopefully Mallow can show our illustrious visitors that they can compete with the best in Cork.

Team: James Lowe Fogarty, Jack Creedon, John Browne, Dillon McAuliffe, Trevor McEvoy (c), Stephen O'Callaghan, Tarik Yalmiz, Kevin Taylor, Keane Buckley, Daire Cronin Jenks, Anthony Bowles.

Subs: James Lynes, Eoghan Sheehan, Joshua Byavu, Billy O'Malley, Ronan Barrett.

Last weekend Mallow United's Under 14 team came up against formidable opposition in the National Cup when they took on St. Mary's away from home.

The game started at a very fast pace and both teams were looking for an early goal to settle the team. The Mallow defence were in control under the leadership of John Cosgrave and Darren Lynch in the centre and they dealt with everything that came their way. On the 10 minute mark Peter Doyle in goal cleared a long ball to Shane McCarthy who found Gordon O'Regan with an incisive pass. Gordon still had a lot to do as he jinked past three of the opposition to place a great ball to the back of the net.

St Mary's reacted immediately and pressurised the Mallow goal but great work by the full backs Billy Hayes and Stephen McEvoy kept them at bay. Tragedy then struck for Mallow when Doyle in goal had to go off due to a leg injury but United had a very capable substitute in Ray Walsh who was making his debut for the squad. St. Mary's kept the pressure on the Mallow goal but Walsh kept them at bay with some great saves. Dan Sheehan and Stephen Doyle in the centre of the pitch were having a great game and kept giving passes out to Thomas Foody and Gary O'Keeffe who were putting the St. Mary's defense under pressure.

St. Mary's then scored a great goal when their central midfielder broke free from a tackle and hit a rocket of a shot to the top corner. This spurred on the Mallow midfield and they were unlucky on a number of occasions before Gordon O'Regan again broke free and scored. Midway through the second half St. Mary's scored an equaliser and both teams played out the remainder of the time to force the game into extra time.

On the resumption both Brendan Corrigan and Andrew Kasparek put in some great tackles to keep the St. Mary's forward line at bay but eventually they scored. Following this the Mallow team tried their best but could not get the equaliser.

Team: Peter Doyle, Billy Hayed, Stephen McEvoy, John Cosgrave, Darren Lynch, Stephen Doyle, Dan Sheehan, Shane McCarthy, Thomas Foody, Gary O'Keeffe, Gordon O'Regan, Ray Walsh, Brendan Corrigan, Andrew Kasparek, Solomon Adelasi

Mallow United took on neighbours Fermoy at a splendid Town Park pitch in Mallow last Saturday. This turned out to be a tight encounter with very little between the teams and chances hard to come by in the first half. The game opened up a lot in the second half with Mallow getting on top. They were rewarded midway through the half when Niall Burke put a great ball in for Anto to finish in style. Mallow were now well on top with Prince and Shane Browne going very close. Just when it looked like Mallow were going to hold out for a deserved victory, Fermoy struck on the counter attack to share the spoils. This was a big disappointment for Mallow as they deserved to get all three points.

The Mallow Under 11s recorded their first win of the season with a very easy victory over a very young Innishvilla side. It was good to see such commitment from both teams. Mallow’s scorers were Joe Doyle (6), Liam Dowling (3), Conor O’Riordan (2) and James Angland (1)

Team: Gearoid O’Connell, David Walsh, Damian Hickey, Sean O’Gara, Conor O’Riordan, Jack O’Connor, Liam Dowling, Dean McDonnell, Patrick Angland, James Angland, Joe Doyle.

Mallow United’s Under 12s got off to the worst possible start when they conceded a goal to the visitors in the very first minute ! It would take some time before the home side settled and gradually they started to gain control of the game but could not find the breakthrough needed. As half time approached Mallow were well in the game.

On the restart, Mallow introduced Luke Delaney and right away he ran on to a through ball to slot the ball under the advancing keeper to level the score. There were chances for both sides but it was Luke Delaney who was to score again near the end when he again took on the Springfield defence and coolly chipped the ball over the keeper.

Team: Brian Guerin, Dillon Cronin, Aaron Touhy, Patrick Murphy, Joseph Cronin, Craig Lynch, Dermot Twomey, Ryan O’Mahoney, Kevin Leahy, Jack Singleton, Gavin Kerney

Subs: Nathan Healy, Luke Delaney, Patrick O’Callaghan.

Mallow United’s Under 15s had a comfortable win over Avondale United in their league match in Mallow last Sunday. Mallow were the stronger team throughout but didn’t finish the game off until near the end when they added two late goals.

They got off to the perfect start when Liam Attridge whipped in a great free kick that Cian Cronin slid in at the far post to score after ten minutes. The good work was undone five minutes later when an Avondale attacker went through the home defence without a tackle coming in on him before being brought down in the penalty area. He duly scored from the resulting penalty.

The home side lost their way for while but then took the lead again ten minutes later from another set piece. Liam Attridge’s corner was flicked on and centre John Cosgrove was on hand to score from close range.

The second half saw Mallow continue to press forward and after fifteen minutes they scored again after a great run down the left by Jack Downes. His fantastic through ball found Liam Attridge who struck a thunderous shot to the roof of the net to make the score 3-1.

Within five minutes it was 4-1 when John Dennehy’s twenty yard free kick found the back of the net. Both sides made a flurry of substitutions which affected the flow of the game. Mallow added a fifth goal when Harry Cosgrove was on hand to tap in from close range after some good build up play. Best for Mallow were Cian Cronin, John Cosgrove, Jack Downes, and Harry Cosgrove.

Team: P. O’Connor, M. Dineen, C. Cronin, J. Cosgrove, D. Barrow, R. Cranwitch, E. O’Regan, J. Dennehy, L. Attridge, H. Cosgrove, J. Downes.

Subs: K. Walsh, H. Barry, M. Egan, L. Murphy, F. Carroll.

The Mallow United Juniors poor start to the season continued last Sunday morning in the Town Park. On what should have been a good day for soccer, Mallow didn’t start the best and found themselves a goal down after 20 minutes to a good free kick from 25 yards. From there to the short whistle Mallow created a couple of half chances but to no avail.

Mallow upped the tempo for the second half and got the equalising goal on the hour, a corner from James O’Driscoll was headed on to the post by Tom Coakley and the rebound was nodded in by Dave O’Keeffe. Mallow pressed on for the winner but got caught with 10 minutes left when a through ball was well finished by a Cobh striker with a chip over the keeper. Willie Corcoran went all out for the second goal but the final whistle came first, so defeat for the home team but they are confident of getting things back on track before long.

Team: W. Corcoran, J. Madden, Denis Flynn, K. Aherne, T. Coakley, D. O’Keeffe, J. McCarthy, J. Lehane, K. Curran, R. Downey, J. O’Driscoll

Subs: Derek Flynn for R. Downey, E. McCarthy for J. McCarthy

Mallow United 2 Castleview 4

Mallow United took on a highly fancied Castleview side in the Town Park last Saturday (19/09 ) Mallow came from behind twice, only to give away some sloppy goals and in truth Mallow didn’t deserve to lose this game. It was a good performance which ended in great disappointment for the team. Goals for Mallow: Prince (2)

Mallow United 4 Buttevant 1

Mallow took on rivals Buttevant in the Town Park last Friday (18/09 ) in front of a good attendance. Mallow, going for four wins in a row, raced out of the blocks and were up two after five minutes with goals from Chris Hallihan and Gary Shine. To Buttevant’s credit they got one back before to break to make it 2-1. In the second half Mallow played some cracking football and scored two fantastic goals through Alan Smith to run out 4-2 winners. This was a good team performance, especially in the second half, to make it a run of four out of four.

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Last Saturday morning Mallow’s Under 14s played thier first game of the new season away from home against a strong Everton side. Mallow started off well with Peter Doyle in goal co-ordinating his defence, making sure that Dean McAuliffe, Darren Lynch, Sebastian Nedzi, and Stephen McEvoy were in full control.

The game started at a slow pace as it was Everton’s season opener as well, and a lot of early ball was wasted. As the game progressed Stephen Doyle and his fellow midfielders Shane McCarthy, Patrick Dietrzak, and in particular Thomas Foody on the wing, began to settle down and they were supplying incisive passes to Gary O’Keeffe and Sulamon Adelasi in the forward line. Everton scored first when their centre forward hit a shot to the bottom of the net. Sebastian and Stephen McEvoy were coming under incresing pressure from Everton’s number 10. Adam O’Neill was receiving a lot of ball but time after time he was stopped by a very determined defence. Stephen Doyle in the middle of the pitch was having a great game and was winning a lot of ball both on the ground and in the air. He gave Gary O’Keffe a great pass which Gary put to the back of the net.

After this Everton came looking for the winner but good work by Thomas Foody, Billy Hayes, and Andrew Kasperek kept them at bay. Dan Ryan, playing as a centre forward instead of his usual role in the back line, was having a great game and he was continually winning great ball against their star centre half Gary O’Sullivan. Dan was unlucky on a few occasions and on another day would have scored but for the condition of the pitch.

Thomas Foody was also having a great game on the wing and even when he did not have the ball he was still chasing back and covering his defence. He went on a run up the wing and passed a great ball to Gary O’Keeffe who scored with a rocket of a shot to the back of the net. Everton continued to press forward but the defence held out and in one of these attacks Stephen McEvoy put in a great tackle but in doing so injured his ankle and had to be taken off. We wish him all the best and a speedy recovery. With minutes to go, thier number 12 scored the equaliser. This was a great test for the team and with the return of a few more players this squad should improve over the season.

Team: P. Doyle, D. McAuliffe, D Lynch, S. McEvoy, P. Dietrzak, S. Doyle, S. Nedzi, S. McCarthy, T. Foody, S. Adelasi, G. O’Keeffe, B. Hayes, B. Array, A. Kasparek, D. Ryan, C. Sheehan.

On Sunday Mallow’s Under 17s were keen to build on their good start to the season when they welcomed Everton as visitors. This turned out to be a good game in difficult conditions. Mallow started well and went in front from the penalty spot when Garry Jones scored after 30 minutes. Mallow got their second with a free kick from well outside the box, James Kelly scoring with an unstoppable shot. This was a good Everton team, and they got back in the game after 35 minutes. The game was on and Mallow went in 2-1 at the break.

In the second half Mallow were playing against the wind but played very well with Garry Shine going very close, and with tem minutes to go mallow’s keeper Evan Horgan made a fantastic saveto secure two wins out of two. This was another good performance and hopefully this team can keep it going.

Last Saturday Mallow played their second game in two days when they entertained Glasheen. This was a tough game with chances hard to come by until the second half. When Glasheen went in front Mallow responded well with four goals to give Mallow a deserved win and put them in good heart for the start of the league next week.

Last Thursday night Mallow played their first competitive game of the season against Midleton. This was always going to be tough and got off to a disastorous start when after eight minutes Mallow gave away a soft goal. Things got worse shortly after whena hand ball in the area and a sending of for the defenders gave away a penalty which gave Midleton a two goal lead. Mallow reorganised after this setback and came more and more into the game and were rewarded in the 55th minute when a deflected shot was put in the net to give Mallow hope. Mallow had Midleton under a lot of pressure after this but were rocked in the 70th minute when Midleton got another penalty to make it 3-1. To Mallow’s credit they never gave up and were rewarded with a penalty with ten minutes to go but unfortunately missed. After this Mallow were down to nine men after two yellow cards and Midleton went on to win 3-1 but credit to Mallow who played a lot better in the secind half, and with a bit of luck might have taken away something from this game.

This was the very first match for the new Under 11 team who are part of the club’s development squad. Though they were outplayed by their city rivals they showed that they will improve with every match and under the guidance of their management team will improve given time.The Mallow goals were scored by Dean McDonnell from a penalty, and Robbie Walsh.

Team: Joe Doyle, Robbie Walsh, David Walsh, Cillian Aherne, Sean O’Gara, Conor O’Riordan, Kevin Sexton, Dillon Cusack, Gerard O’Connell, Billy Gaine, Dean McDonnell.

Subs: Tadhg O’Neill, James Fitzpatrick, Jack O’Connor.

On Sunday morning the Under 12 side played Riverstown at St Joseph’s Road in a game that was full of goals and good play by both teams. The Mallow boys went in front after ten minutes when Kevin Leahy took on the Riverstown defence to score from close range. Riverstown fought back straight away and levelled the score two minutes later. The play moved from end to end until Kevin Leahy again put Mallow ahead. Then as half time approached Riverstown again equalised to see the scores level at half time.

On the restart Keven Leahy scored again to complete his hat trick and put the Mallow boys in front again. This lead was added to when Gavin Carney raced through the Riverstown defence before rounding the advancing keeper to extend the Mallow lead. With time ticking away Craig Lynch added a fifth Mallow goal to secure a good win.

Team: Brian Guerin, Arron Touhy, Dillon Cremin, Luke Delaney, Craig Lynch, Trevor McEvoy, Kevin Leahy, Ryan O’Mahony, Gavin Carney, Killian Murphy, Nathen Healy, Brian Murphy, Ryan Brown.

In this Division 2 encounter in Youghal, the visitors Mallow enjoyed the lion’s share of possession for the first 15 minutes but succumbed to a quick counter attack from the home side to go a goal down. Mallow responded to this setback when Gavin Egan scored an equaliser to tie the score at the break. In the second half Youghal piled on the pressure and with the wind and the rain at their backs they added three more goals. As well as the defensive heroics of keeper Shane O’Connell and the dominant William Buckley, Mallow had tireless workers in Tom Murphy and Kenny O’Sullivan but they coud not breach the Youghal defence.

The season got off to a winning start also for Mallow’s Under 15 team who had a narrow win over visitors Wilton United last Saturday. Both teams attacked from the start but three quickfire goals in a ten minute period midway through the first half gave Mallow a comfortable lead at haf time. Mallow first goal came when a great cross from Jack Downes found Harry Cosgrove who scored from close range. They doubled their advantage when once again Harry Cosgrove proved his worth in the penalty area with another clinical finish.

Wilton looked stunned at this stage and when Dave Barrow scored from the penalty spot after danger man Harry Cosgrove was brought down by the keeper, a comfortable win looked to be on the cards. However the second half saw a complete turnaround with Wilton getting an early goal and Mallow sitting back and letting the visitors dominate. A mistake in defence allowed Wilton in for a second goal with fifteen minute to go. It was touch and go at this stage as to whether Mallow could hold out or not. The final whistle brought a sigh of relief to manager Sean Powell who will have some work to do to get this teamto play for the full eighty minutes.

Team: Paul O’Connor, Finbarr Carroll, Mark Dineen, Eoin O’Regan, Dave Barrow, Roy Crannitch, Liam Attridge, John Dennehy, Jack Downes, Harry Cosgrove, Dan O’Callaghan, Kieran Walsh, Davin O’Regan, Lorcan Murphy, Mark Egan, Hugh Barry.

On Saturday morning, Mallow United’s schoolboys season got under way when the Under 11 Premier team made the short journey to O’Shea Park in Blarney to take on near rivals Blarney United. Mallow won the game 4 – 0 but the scoreline does not reflect what was a somewhat lacklustre performance against an understrength Blarney side.

The game had an early kickoff time of 10.30. Both teams had the nervous and anxious look that you would expect for the first game of the season. The game was played in the superb grounds of O’Shea Park where the artificial pitch was used for this fixture. Both teams took time to settle and the game was into it’s tenth minute before Mallow created their first chance when a Keane Buckley through ball found Kevin Taylor who shot narrowly wide. Blarney offered little in attack in the first half but defended well until the combination of Buckley and Taylorunlocked the defence. Keane Buckley broke down the left and found Kevin Taylor on the back post who finished neatly to put Mallow one up. Mallow’s new midfield partnership of Stephen O’Callaghan and Jack Creedon were effective in stamping out attacks the Blarney tried to launch. Mallow were awarded a penalty midway through the first half when Keane Buckley was tripped up in the penalty area. He picked himself up to take the penalty, but his effort went to the right and wide. Mallow went into the half time break 2-0 up when left back John Browne broke down the left and his cross found new signing Ronan Barrett who found the back of the net from the tighest of angles.

On the resumption, Blarney came more and more into the game and started to cause the Mallow defence of Browne, O’Malley, McAuliffe, and McEvoy some problems. But for the excellent saves produced by keeper Anthony Bowles, and Blarney’s lack of luck when they hit the upright, Mallow could have had a more difficult day. Mallow rode out the intial storm of the second half and started to gain the upper hand. The introduction of Jamie Lynes and Eoghan Sheehan for debutants Tarik Yilmaz and Ronan Barrett gave Mallow a different dimension. Mallow were to turn their new found dominance into goals when Buckley made up for his first half penalty miss by finding the top coner of the net from just inside the penalty area. Mallow made it 4-0 when Taylor scored his second, and the goal of the game, collecting the ball just inside Blarney’s half of the pitch racing clear of the defence and finishing expertly past the advancing keeper. Mallow made two further changes when Joshua Buyavu and Daire Cronin Jenks replaced John Browne and Jack Creedon. Mallow created a couple of chances in the remaining minutes with Sheehan and Lynes both coming close.

This was a good start for the Under 11 Premiers but the season will bring tougher challenges for this team starting with a home game this coming Saturday against Springfield Ramblers. There will have to be an improvement if Mallow are to gain anything from this upcoming fixture. Mallow United manager Seanie Browne was happy with the result and said he was pleased for the boys to get off to a good start. He added that it is important to get something from your away fixtures but it is your home form which wil decide the tone of your season.

Team: Athony Bowles, Billy O’Malley, John Browne, Dillon McAuliffe, Trevor McEvoy (c), Stephen O’Callaghan, Jack Creedon, Ronan Barrett, Tarik Yilmaz, Kevin Taylor, Keane Buckley, Jamie Lynes, Eoghan Sheehan, Joshua Byavu, Daire Cronin Jenks.

Mallow United got their season off to a flying start with goals from Garry Jones, Garry Shine, and Jamie Kelly, securing a good win for this talented team. Well done to the management team and players on a great result.

We wish Ian Carpenter a speedy recovery after he suffered a serious leg injury

On Easter Monday morning the Mallow United Under 11 and Under 14 teams arrived back at their clubrooms at the town park. The group of players, committee members, and parents, though very tired after the hectic weekend were happy in the knowledge that their Easter trip to Southend-On-Sea in Essex to compete in a three team tournament was indeed a huge success. The tournament was hosted by Southend Manor at their home ground Southchurch Arena. Southend Manor had visited Mallow last summer and invited our schoolboys over to their tournament.

Both Mallow teams won their tournaments, as well as the player of the tournament awards. The Under 11 player was Kevin Taylor with some superb wing play, and the the Under 14 player was Cian Cronin with some solid defensive play.

The travelling party was made up of 35 players and 15 adult committee members and parents. We departed the town park at 4 a.m. on board Sheehan's Luxury Coaches to get the Stena Line ferry "Europe" from Rosslare to Fishguard in Wales. We arrived in Fishguard at 12.45 p.m. after a three and a half hour crossing. The mood on the bus was good, everyone in good form, as we embarked on the long journey across Wales and England. The motorway took us over the new Severin Bridge as we entered England. There were stops on the way to eat at the service restaurants on the motorway.

On arrival at the outskirts of Southend we were met by committee members of Southend Manor who directed us to our hotel, the Roslin Beach Hotel which is located on the promenade. We barely had time to book into our rooms when it was off to Southchurch Arena, the home of Southend Manor, where a training session was arranged for both teams under lights which the boys enjoyed. To be honest we all needed to stretch our legs at that time after our seven hour journey from Fishguard in the capable hands of our driver Liam Sheehan.

After the training we stayed at Southend Manor's clubhouse for refreshments which were served to all of our party before we all retired to our hotel beds for a good night's sleep. Another full day was ahead tomorrow !

On Saturday morning we were all up for 9 o'clock and, after breakfast and a short walk along the promenade, we went to the Peter Pan Adventure Park where the boys and the adults in the party enjoyed the various rides. The time passed quickly and at 12.30 p.m. we boarded our bus for the 43 mile journey to London to watch the Coca-Cola Championship match between Charlton Athletic and Birmingham City at The Valley. At half time our presence in the ground was announced over the P.A. system wishing us success at the weekend in the matches at Southend. The club shop at The Valley did a roaring trade in replica jerseys as there was a sale on. Over the coming weeks I am sure you will see many Charlton Athletic jerseys on our young players as they stroll around Mallow.

On arriving back in Southend both teams had a friendly match, played under lights. This was the first time that many of the boys had experienced this and they really enjoyed the games. The first game saw our Under 11 team play local side Trinity F.C. The boys played well and went on to win the game. The Under 14 team then took to the pitch and put up a good show against a Southend Manor selection. That game ended in a draw.

In the clubhouse after the matches, food was served for all of the Mallow party and a fun race night was organised by the host club Southend Manor. There was plenty of fun and enjoyment for all ages due to the relaxed atmosphere created by Southend Manor's M.C. on the night Kevin Curran.

On Sunday morning we all booked out of our hotel but not before having a last walk along the promenade relaxing with friends before heading off to the tournament at the Southchurch Arena, where a full days activity lay ahead.

The tournament was a great success for both of our teams with the Under 14s winning the morning competition as well as team captain Cian Cronin winning the player of the competition, this was followed after lunch by the Under 11 team winning as well. To top it all our player Kevin Taylor won the player of that competition for his tricky wing play.

After the various presentations were completed we boarded our luxury coach to settle in for the long journey home in Liam's capable hands. Before we left Southend, both Southend Manor and Trinity F.C. expressed a wish to visit Mallow next year.

The organising committee can be very proud of organising such a trip. The boys were a credit to their club, the town of Mallow, and themselves. They were a pleasure to be with. We all got home safely, perhaps a little tired, none of the boys got injured and we won ! As a group we got to know one another a little better and even made some new friends. Perfect.

Photographs from the trip can be seen here.

Match Results:

Under 14

Friendly on Saturday:

Southend A 0 - 0 Mallow United.

Tournament on Sunday:

Southend A 1 - 1 Mallow United. Scorer: Liam Attridge

Southend B 0 - 5 Mallow United. Scorers: Dan O'Callaghan, Liam Attridge (2), Patrick Herlihy, Dave Barrow

Under 11

Friendly on Saturday:

Trinity F.C. 0 - 2 Mallow United. Scorer Anthony Bowles (2)

Tournament on Sunday

Southend A 1 - 5 Mallow United. Scorers: Kevin Taylor, Anthony Bowles, Gavin Lehane, Brian Guerin, Dylan Cronin

Southend U12 0 - 5 Mallow United. Scorers: Anthony Bowles, Kevin Taylor, Keane Buckley, Craig Lynch, Luke Delaney

Mallow United’s Under 11s visit to Turner’s Cross ended in heartbreak in the Cork Schoolboys Cup Final last Friday night. Mallow started the game very brightly and kept Ballincollig pinned back for the first fifteen minutes. Keane Buckley and Kevin Taylor were looking dangerous on the wings while up front Anthony Bowles and Luke Delaney were also looking sharp.

Much of the dominance was due to midfielders Craig Lynch and especially Killian Murphy who seemed to cover every blade of grass. Ballincollig weathered the storm and began to threaten the Mallow defense, but some stout defending by Paul Lyons, Aaron Tuohy, Trevor McEvoy, and Dylan Cremin kept them at bay. However after twenty minutes disaster struck for Mallow, when a goal kick was gathered by the Ballincollig centre forward who ran through and beat keeper Brian Guerin with a shot into the corner of the net. This setback seemed to knock Mallow back a little and Ballincollig dominated the remainder of the half.

Some reassuring words from management at the break seemed to settle the Mallow boys and they came out very determined for the second half. They used their wingers a lot more in the opening period with Killian Murphy probing and Kevin Taylor causing havoc for the Ballincollig defense. Once again Ballincollig broke upfield and forced a corner kick.

The corner was only partially cleared and a Balincollig midfielder collected the ball and hit a beauty into the far corner of the net. It looked to be game, set, and match but this Mallow team is made of sterner stuff and sure enough back they came. With five minutes remaining substitute Ross Fitzpatrick scored to ensure a grandstand finish ! Try as they might they just could not conjure up an equaliser and Ballincollig held on to lift the cup.

However, Mallow can be proud of their performance and their season in general. They play another cup final this weekend when they meet Carrigaline in their last league game of the season knowing that a win will clinch the Premier League title. We are sure the crowds will flock to St. Gobnait’s Park to support the boys in their quest for the league just as they did at Turner’s Cross last Friday night. It must also be noted that all substitutes got a run out at the ‘Cross and it was great to see ever present right back Stephen O’Callaghan come on despite a serious injury which he picked up a couple of weeks ago.

A large support is expected in Turner’s Cross for the 1830 kick off. The following week sees the Under 11s play Carrigaline where a win will see them clinch the Premier League. So there is plenty to look forward to for soccer supporters in Mallow. We hope to see local people come out in force to support this exciting team in their quest for glory on Friday night at the Cross.

Mallow United's Under 11 Premier Division side continued their impressive season by beating a well organised Strand United in the semi final of the Cork Schoolboys League Cup at Leemount Park on Monday evening. This sets up a mouth watering clash with Ballincollig F.C. in Turner's Cross next week.

The game started in a very tense manner with both teams sounding each other out in the first five minutes. Mallow were the first to settle and started to impose their passing style of play on Strand United. The first real chance of the game fell to Mallow's Craig Lynch after impressive inter play between emergency right back Paul Lyons, who is filling in for the injured Stephen O'Callaghan, and cup captain Cillian Murphy. Cillian laid the ball back to Craig who shot over from 18 yards. This was to be the first of a number of long range efforts from Mallow in the opening 20 minutes. Mallow also hit the post when a corner from Keane Buckley was headed onto the foot of the post by Cillian Murphy.

It was not all one way traffic and Strand were extremely capable on the counter attack, and showed themselves worthy of this cup tie. However, the back row of Lyons, Touhy, McEvoy, and Cronin, dealt with everything thrown at them by the Strand United attackers.

After 23 minutes of the first half Mallow got the breakthrough their style of play deserved, after some great play from the ever impressive Kevin Taylor. He broke in from the right wing and his inch perfect cross found Luke Delaney who found the back of the net from eight yards. This goal really settled the Mallow boys and they comfortably saw it out to half time with the one goal advantage.

The second half saw a resurgent Strand United try to take hold of the game and in the opening minutes they showed great drive and determination to peg Mallow back in their own half. After ten minutes Strand almost got their just reward when a cross from the right found the big number nine whose header was just inches wide. This spurred Mallow into action and Buckley, Lynch, Murphy, and Taylor, started to boss midfield again. The game ebbed and flowed with entertaining football from both sides. Bowles and Delaney were always busy up top.

The second goal for Mallow came ten minutes from time, and in the style of the Jack Charlton era, it was route one football at it's best. A long kick out from keeper Brian Guerin, who was doubtful before kick off with tonsilitis, was flicked on in the middle of the park by Murphy who found the run of Delaney. Delaney in turn showed both strength and coolness to slot the ball under the advancing keeper and made it 2-0 to Mallow.

Again, to their credit, Strand came back at Mallow but met the guile of Touhy and McEvoy's perfectly timed tackles. It was Mallow who started to catch Strand on the break and with four minutes to go Delaney again picked up the ball, ran at the heart of the Strand United defence, then broke free to score his third goal. This finished the tie as a contest and manager Ken Touhy and assistant manager Derry Buckley could afford to turn their thoughts to Saturday's crucial league game against College Corinthians.

This was an entertaining semi-final clash in which Mallow showed great intelligence and guile to see of their plucky opponents. It would be unfair to single out one player for the man of the match award as this was a squad performance which was the result of a season's hard work. Mallow will now have the chance to show their skills at the home of football in Turner's Cross next week. No matter what happens, the whole squad from 1 to 16 and their management team can be proud of what they have all achieved this season.

Team: Guerin, Lyons, Touhy, McEvoy, Cronin, Taylor, Lynch, Murphy (c), Buckley, Bowles, Delaney.

Subs: Lehane for Bowles 51 mins, Browne for Cronin 51 mins, O'Flynn for Delaney 58 mins.

Mallow United's Under 11s progressed to the semi-final of the Cork Schoolboys Cup with a hard fought win over Carrigaline in Mallow last Saturday. In a tense game played before a large crowd, the Mallow boys deserved their win as they created the better chances over the 70 minutes. Both teams went at it from the start, and with Killian Murphy and Craig Lynch dominating in the middle of the pitch, the home side held the upper hand. They provided good ball to wingers Kevin Taylor and Keane Buckley who in turn gave the Carrigaline full backs a torrid time. When Carrigaline did threaten on the odd occasion, the Mallow defense was in total control with Trevor McEvoy and Stephen O'Callaghan tackling like demons. In goal Brian Guerin did not have a lot to do but when called upon he was in top form. Indeed he pulled off a tremendous save from a free kick that looked to be heading into the top corner but he somehow managed to get a hand to it. At the other end Anthony Bowles was very unlucky not to score on a couple of occasions when first the ball got caught under his feet and then 5 minutes later he was through on goal, only to chip the ball into the keeper's hands. The goal when it did come, was a beauty. A corner kick routine which Mallow have used all season caught the Carrigaline defense napping and Craig Lynch drove his shot into the far corner of the net. The win sets Mallow up for a meeting with the winners of the Midleton/Strand United match.

Team: Brian Guerin, Stephen O'Callaghan, Aaron Tuohy, Trevor McEvoy, Dylan Cronin, Keane Buckley, Craig Lynch, Killian Murphy, Kevin Taylor, Anthony Bowles, Luke Delaney

Subs: Gavin Lehane, John Browne

Mallow United's Under 14s great cup run came to an abrupt end in Leeds Park last Sunday. Leeds, who are top of the Premier Division, got off to an ideal start with a goal in the first minute. A second followed a few minutes later and it was always going to be an uphill battle for the Mallow boys after that. In fairness to Mallow who ply their trade in the Second Division, they tried hard to get back into the game and it was only when tiredness set in that Leeds scored twice again in the last few minutes. The biggest difference between the teams was the pace that the game is played at in the Premier Division and if Mallow hope to progress, they will have to move up a gear or two in the future. A gallant effort but a disappointing result.

Team: Paul O'Connor, Dave Barrow, Cian Cronin (captain), John Cosgrove, Lorcan Murphy, John Dennehy, Mark Dineen, Liam Attridge, Roy Crannitch, Ryan Harkin, Dan O'Callaghan

Subs: Harry Cosgrove, Davin O'Regan, Mark Egan, Eoin Goggin, Brian Moloney, Hugh Barry, Chris Reilly

Mallow United's Under 11's 14 match unbeaten run came to an end last Saturday when they went under to a very determined Kilreen Celtic side. Nothing went right for then Mallow boys on the day, and with two games left, their destiny is in their own hands. Kilreen went for the jugular from the start and before Mallow knew what hit them they found themselves two goals down. Then Stephen O'Callaghan hit the post, and if that had gone in, the game could have been completely different. As it turned out, the home side netted a third just before the break to leave Mallow with a mountain to climb in the second half.

They came out fighting for the second period and Keane Buckley pulled one back to give them some hope, but a fourth goal ten minutes from time for the home side sealed the points. Not one of their best days, but this side showed great character all season and their managers Ken Tuohy and Derry Buckley will have them ready for the final games of the season.

Team: Brian Guerin, Stephen O'Callaghan, Aaron Tuohy, Trevor McEvoy, Dylan Cronin, Keane Buckley, Paul Lyons, Killian Murphy, Kevin Taylor, Luke Delaney, Anthony Bowles

Subs: John Browne, Ross Fitzpatrick, Gavin Lehane

Mallow United's Under 14's qualified for the quarter final of the Cork Schoolboys Cup with a great away win over a very fired up and determined Nufarm side in Cork last Sunday. In a bruising contest Mallow showed great characterands were the better side overall. Nufarm flew out of the traps at the start but the Mallow defence stood up to the challenge. Gradually they came more and more into the gameand Eoin Goggin went close on two occasions after good work by Liam Attridge. They went close again just before half time when Dave Barrow's volley was cleared off the line.

The second half saw Mallow make a few positional changes. Liam Attridge came back into midfield, Harry Cosgrove moved to centre forward, while Roy Crannitch reverted to the right wing. After some excellent football between Harry Cosgrove and Roy Crannitch, Liam Attridge hit an unstoppable shot from the edge of the box to give Mallow a well deserved lead. They doubled their lead ten minutes later when once again Liam Attridge deceived the keeper from the touchline. Nufarm however pulled one back with ten minutes to go, but with time almost up Liam Attridge completed his hat-trick. Davin O'Regan's pass sent Liam sprinting away and he drew the keeper, before slotting the ball into the corner of the net. Nufarm pulled another one backwith the lkast kick of the game.

Best for Mallow: Lorcan Murphy, Dave Barrow, Mark Dineen, Liam Attridge

Team: Paul O'Connor, Lorcan Murphy, Cian Cronin, John Cosgrove, Dave Barrow, John Dennehy, Liam Attridge, Mark Dineen, Roy Crannitch, Eoin Goggin, Harry Cosgrove

Subs: Davin O'Regan, Finnbarr Carroll, Hugh Barry, Brian Moloney, Mark Egan.

Mallow United’s Under 11’s retained their leadership of the Premier Division with a hard earned draw against title challengers Springfield Ramblers in Mallow. In a very tight game, the two teams cancelled each other out with chances few and far between. The first goal was always going to be important, and when it did come it went to the visitors. The goal made Mallow up their game, and after putting a lot of pressure on the Rambler’s defense they equalized when Trevor McEvoy scored a great goal after a corner by Craig Lynch. This was Trevor’s first of the season. Both sides seemed to settle for a point after this, and it still leaves Mallow in pole position with three games to play.

Mallow United cruised into the quarter final of the Under 11 Cup with a comfortable win over Tempe United in Mallow last Saturday. They enjoyed complete control throughout. They took the lead when a great strike by Keane Buckley was saved by the keeper and Kevin Taylor was on hand to score. Ten minutes later Taylor snatched his second after some free flowing football. They piled on the pressure after this, and substitute Luke Delaney scored with his first touch of the ball. Temple were really under the cosh at this stage, and only for some great goalkeeping and defending, the home side could have turned this into a rout. The fourth goal duly arrived, when after a brilliantly worked corner kick between Keane Buckley and Craig Lynch, the latter scored with a terrific shot. Temple pulled one back in the last minute when a penalty was awarded. Goalkeeper Brian Guerin made a great save only for the centre forward to follow up and score from the rebound.

Team: Brian Guerin, Stephen O’Callaghan, Trevor McEvoy, Aaron Touhy, Dylan Cronin, Paul Lyons, Craig Lynch, Killian Murphy, Keane Buckley, Anthony Bowles, Kevin Taylor.

Subs: John Browne, Ross Fitzpatrick, Kevin O’Flynn, Luke Delaney.

Last Sunday morning Mallow United U13 travelled to Ballincollig in search of maximum points against a side languishing at the bottom of the table. In their last match, which was a cup game, Mallow United did everything but score so they were under pressure to perform. The game began with Mallow playing good football but their final touch was not up to scratch and it looked as if we were looking at a repeat of the previous week’s result. The backs led by Peter Doyle in goal, Dean McAuliffee, John Cosgrave (Captain), Darren Lynch and Stephen McEvoy dealt with everything that was put their way and were giving good service to the midfield of Shane McCarthy, Ryan Harkin, Kamil Zieba (who was playing as a defensive midfielder) and Stephen Doyle, who was having a great game breaking up the attacks that came down his wing. Ryan Harkin and Solomon Adebisi had numerous chances to score the opening goal but the Ballincollig goalkeeper was having a great game and kept on frustrating their efforts to score a goal.

On 20 minutes, Ryan Harkin gave a great through ball to Solomon and he turned and placed the ball in the corner of the net to open the scoring. After this, Mallow kept the pressure up and some great runs by Kieran Browne on the wing kept the Ballincollig defence under pressure and they conceded numerous corners. Both Darren Lynch and John Cosgrove went forward for the corners to add to the height advantage and were unlucky not to score. After one corner taken by Shane McCarthy the ball was headed out by the defence when Stephen McEvoy, who had come up from the backline, turned and with a fantastic overhead bicycle kick, hit the back of the net to make it 2-0.

After this the Mallow team settled down and Ryan Harkin then broke forward after receiving a pass from Stephen Doyle which put him on a one to one with the keeper. He calmly slotted the ball to the keeper’s right to claim his first of the day. This was soon followed by a goal from Soloman. After another corner, Shane McCarthy gave a great pass to Darren Lynch who was lurking on the edge of the box and he scored with a rocket of a shot to the back of the net. Ryan was then involved in the next two goals where he gave passes to Soloman and then to John Cosgrave who both scored. The score at halftime was 7-0.

Within two minutes of the restart Shane McCarthy found Soloman with a great through ball from which he scored to claim his hat trick. Kieran Browne then got in on the act with a great run up the wing and scored a goal where the goalkeeper had no chance. Billy Hayes and Thomas Fuohy in the midfield were keeping the Ballincollig midfield quiet and they had opportunities to score but without success. John Cosgrave who had moved to the centre of midfield then gave a pinpoint pass to Shane McCarthy who finished with a rocket of a shot to the roof of the net. As if by way of thank you for the pass Shane then set up John Cosgrave to score his second and Mallow United’s final score.

TEAM: Peter Doyle, Dean McAuliffe, John Cosgrave (Captain), Darren Lynch, Stephen McEvoy, Ryan Harkin, Kamil Zieba, Shane McCarthy, Kieran Browne, Solomon Adebisi, Billy Hayes, Thomas Fuohy.

Ballincollig 1 - 2 Mallow Utd

Mallow Utd U11s moved a step closer to capturing the league title with a hard earned win over Ballincollig last Saturday.  Mallow never really got going in the first half and could count themselves lucky to be the only a goal down at the break.

Whatever managers Ken Tuohy and Derry Buckley said at half time seemed to work wonders as Mallow came out of the blocks at the start of the second period. They equalised shortly after the break with a stunning free kick by Craig Lynch.  They continued to create chances and struck with 10 minutes to go. Some great play involving Cillian Murphy and Kevin Taylor set up Luke Delaney to score the winner. With only 4 day games Mallow have it all in the own hands, knowing that two wins will see them crowned champions. 

Team: Brian Guerin, Stephen O’Callaghan, Aaron Tuohy, Trevor McEvoy, Dylan Cronin, Kevin Taylor, Craig Lynch, Cillian Murphy, Keane Buckley, Luke Delaney, Anthony Bowles

Subs: Ross Fitzpatrick, Kevin O’ Flynn and John Browne.

Buttevant 2 - 0 Mallow Utd

Mallow Utd U-14s suffered only their second league defeat of the season when going under to local rivals Buttevant last Tuesday.  However anyone watching the game will wonder how Mallow failed to win the game. They totally dominated the first half with centre forward Pa Herhily leading the Buttevant defence a merry dance. Chance after chance was created and with any bit of luck Mallow wold have been home and dry by half time. They even missed a penalty after Herlihy was brought down in the penalty area. Ryan Harkin then hit the crossbar with a stunning shot and in all this time Paul O’ Connor did not have a shot to deal with in the Mallow goal. 

Mallow started the second half brightly and a corner by Liam Attridge was headed back by Pa Herlihy and Cian Cronin to score, only for the referee to disallow the “goal” for offside. It looked as if it was going to be one of those days and sure enough Buttevant created their first chance of the half and bang, the ball ended up in the back of the net.  Mallow threw everything forward for the last ten minutes but just could not get a break and the last kick of the game saw Buttevant break forward to score and seal the points. A great display by Mallow but no reward.

Team: Paul O’Connor, Lorcan Murphy, Cian Cronin,  John Cosgrove, Dave Barrow,  Roy Cranitch, Liam Attridge,  Mark Dineen, John Herhily.

Subs: Padraig Buckley, Harry Cosgrove, Finbarr Carroll, Brian Moloney, Hugh Barry, Davin O’Regan, Chris Reilly, Mark Egan, Eoin Goggin.

Mallow Utd 1 - 0 Kilreen Celtic

Mallow U11’s consolidated their place at the top of the table with an impressive win over Kilreen Celtic.  This game had everything and the large crowd were kept on their toes right to the end. Both teams attacked from the start with Mallow  slightly on top. Their passing was slick and incisive with Keane Buckley and Paul Lyons posing plenty of problems for the Kilreen defence. Killian Murphy and Craig Lynch had a foothold in midfield while up front Anthony Bowles and Kevin Taylor looked sharp and incisive. Mallow took the lead after twenty minutes when a Craig Lynch corner was half cleared and a Paul Lyons volley found the back of the net. A well worked free between Aaron Tuohy and Craig Lynch saw the latter's shot hit the post and the scored remained 1-0 at the break. Kilreen began the second half in determined fashion and for a while Mallow were on the back foot. However the Mallow defence comprising the hard tackling Stephen O’ Callaghan, Trevor McEvoy and Dylan Cronin and the majestic Aaron Tuohy stood firm. Behind them the safe hands of Brian Guerin dealt with everything that came his way. This result could be the vital one in the final push for league honours.

Team: Brian Guerin, Stephen O’Callaghan, Aaron Tuohy, Trevor McEvoy, Dylan Cronin, Paul Lyons, Craig Lynch, Killian Murphy, Keane Buckley, Anthony Bowles, Kevin Taylor.

Subs: Luke Delaney, Gavin Lehane, John Browne, Ross Fitzpatrick.

Mallow United 0 - 1 Bandon

Last Sunday in St. Gobnait’s Park Mallow United U13s met Bandon in the second round of the cup.  Bandon, who would have been expected to this comfortably were lucky to escape back to West Cork with a one goal victory over a very dejected Mallow United outfit who realised they left what should have been a comfortable win behind them.  Peter Doyle in goal again commanded the backline of Dean McAuliffe, John Cosgrave, Darren Lynch and Stephen McEvoy to the extent that for the most of the first half he had little to do and what he had to do he was more than capable of dealing with. Across the middle of the park, Kamil Zieba and Stephen Doyle commanded the centre, while Ryan Harkin and Shane McCarthy dealt with everything that came their way and both of them were putting the Bandon defence under severe pressure with their intelligent use of the ball. Time and time again Kieran Browne broke free from the Bandon defence  after receiving some great through balls from the midfield, where he was able to use his speed to outpace the defence but the final shot or pass let him down. Sulamon II Adelasi started at centre forward and he kept two centre halves busy with his physicality and control on the ball and also his shots at goal. Sulamon kept the backline honest by chasing and harassing defenders every chance he got. He was unlucky on a few occassions when his shots on goal went by the post when on another day he would have hit the back of the net. After half time Bandon got a corner with the help of the wind and with a fair bit of luck the ball went directly to the back of the net. This only served to galvanise the Mallow team and midfield, particulary Steven Doyle and Ryan Harkin who kept the Bandon goalkeeper busy with shots on goal and clever passes to their forward line. Our backline also got in on the act in an effort to score and on a few occassions Darren Lynch and John Cosgrave came forward and the entire defence followed him leaving Darren Lynch with a golden opportunity to equalise but his thundering header skimmed the post. John Quinn likewise had his chances but again without success. Billy Hayes and Gary O’ Keeffe made good use of the wings and were able to cross some great balls into the centre but each time the Bandon defence were able to deal with it. Patrick Cremin, who came on as a sub in the second half in defence, had little or nothing to do but he dealt capably with everything he had to do. This basically was a learning process where the team knew that they had victory in their sights if they took their chances and if chances come their way they will have to be more clinical and put the ball in the net.

Team: Peter Doyle, Dean McAuliffe, John Cosgrave, Darren Lynch, Stephen  McEvoy, Kamil Zieba, Stephen Doyle, Ryan Harkin, Shane McCarthy, Kieran Browne, Sulamon II Adelasi, Gary O’ Keeffe, Billy Hayes, Patrick Cremin, Dean Browne, John Quinn.

Mallow United 5 - 2 Evergreen

Mallow Utd U14’s continued their recent good run with an emphatic win overy Evergreen in Mallow last Saturday. They did it the hard way coming from behind twice, but overall they fully deserved their victory.  Mallow dominated the early exchanges and created a host of chances, but failed to take any of them.  Everygreen did look dangerous on the break and against the run of play took the lead midway through the half with a spectacular overhead kick from the centre forward.  Mallow continued to create openings especially down the left hand side with Dave Barrow and John Dennehy in great form.  The second half began with the home side on top and the equaliser arrived when Harry Cosgrove’s shot was saved, only for John Dennehy to follow up with a clinical finish.  Evergreen  came straight back and following a mix up in the Mallow defence they regained the lead.  The response was immediate from the home side and once again John Dennehy was on hand to finish powerfully to the net.  Within five minutes Liam Attridge had given Mallow the lead with a rocket from 12 yards and after this there was going to be only one winner.  Substitutes Dan O’Callaghan and Ryan Harkin followed up with two great goals to seal the points. Mallow have now scored 17 goals in their last three outings.

Team: Paul O’Connor, Dave Barrow, Cian Cronin, John Cosgrove, Lorcan Murphy, John Dennehy, Mark Dineen, Liam Attridge, Harry Cosgrove, Padraig Buckley, Roy Crannitch

Subs: Ryan Harkin, Dan O’Callaghan, Finbarr Carroll, Eoin Goggin, Mark Egan, Davin O’Regan, Brian Maloney, Hugh Barry.

Mallow United 1 - 0 Leeds A.F.C.

Mallow Utd Seniors stretched their unbeaten run to eleven with a 1-0 win over close rivals Leeds A.F.C. in the Town Park last Saturday.  After a slow start to the season, Mallow have more than steadied the ship and are currently lying in second place in a very tight league. On a soft pitch that cut up easily, Mallow settled into the game quickly with the back four of Willie Cunningham,  Dan O’ Connell, Barry Doyle and Derek Madden once again looking secure, allowing Mallow to build from the back.  Niall Bucke continued his run of good form and had what looked like a perfect goal disallowed.  The referee said the ball had crossed the endline before Niall pulled it back to shoot.  Leed’s tough tackling helped to keep this one scoreless for 35 minutes until a lovely run on the right wing by Niall Bucke who put in a superb cross to the head of Derek Flynn who finished well to put Mallow one up just before half time.

Leeds only threat came from set pieces when they sent up their big men from the back but goalkeeper, Alan O’ Mahony, who didn’t have that much to do, commanded his area well and made some vital catches and one outstanding save when he pushed the ball over his crossbar from a close range strike.  Mallow freshened things up with twenty minutes left by bringing in Tom Daly in the centre.  Ronnie Udzenas came in at the back for Willie Cummingham and Prince Amechi was replaced by Jason Flynn.  The fresh legs ensured Mallow saw this one out and they were unlucky not to get a second goad when Shane Browne’s hard work in the middle set Jason Flynn free on the right to send in a superb cross to Shane Walsh coming in from the left.  Shane struck the ball on the volley and was unlucky to see it fly outside the right hand upright of the goal. Leeds had a player sent off for a foul on Niall Bucke, and at this stage Mallow were looking good to take the three points. Overall, another solid, confident performance by a team  who are in the habit of keeping clean sheets.

Best for Mallow: Niall Bucke made one goal and was “robbed” for one himself. The back four deserve praise for another clean sheet, especially Derek Madden who continued playing after receiving a leg injury earlier in the game.

Subs: Tom Daly for Eoin Carroll at 70 mins., Ronnie Udzenas for Willie Cunningham at 80 mins., and Jason Flynn for Prince Amechi at 80 minutes

Mallow United’s Under 11s romped to an easy victory over Kinsale in the Cup last Saturday. With a very important league encounter against Kilreen coming up this weekend, Mallow needed this game for sharpness and they took the chance that came their way. Managers Ken Tuohy and Derry Buckley may not have been happy with the goals they conceded but will iron out the faults in training during the week. Mallow never had to get out of second gear for this one, but the goals were all superbly taken after some great football. They were 3-1 up at the break courtesy of Anthony Bowles, Paul Lyons, and Kevin Taylor. The goals continued to flow in the second period with substitutes Ross Fitzpatrick and Luke Delaney getting two each.

Best for Mallow were Paul Lyons, Killian Murphy, Craig Lynch, and Keane Buckley.

Team : Brian Guerin, Stephen O’Callaghan, Aaron Tuohy, Trevor McEvoy, Dylan Cronin, Keane Buckley, Craig Lynch, Killian Muphy, Paul Lyons, Anthony Bowles, Kevin Taylor.

Subs: Ross Fitzpatrick, Luke Delaney, Kevin O’Flynn, John Browne, Gavin Lehane.

Mallow stretched their unbeaten run to ten games last weekend against a determined Corinthians side in Douglas.

This was always going to be a tight affair with both teams missing some of their starting line up and looking to secure three points in what is turning out to be a very tight league. In windy conditions Mallow started the better and looked the more likely to score especially when Niall Bucke got on the ball up front. Corinthians had to scramble the ball off their goaline on two occasions when Niall went on his customary runs but he was closed down by two defenders. Corinthians did have chances and could have been ahead just before halftime when 6’ 3” defender Eoin Stanton’s headed attempt from a corner just missed the upright.

Mallow upped their game in the second half and were rewarded with a free outside Corinthians box. Barry Doyle stepped up to drive a left footed shot round the wall and into the bottom left corner. Corinthians pushed men forward but failed to break down Mallow’s back four who never looked like conceding from open play. Dan O’Connell and Barry Doyle worked tirelessly to close down any threat from set pieces and with Shane Browne and Shane Walsh controlling the middle of the park for Mallow this looked like another three points in the bag. Alan O’Mahony’s quick thinking led to Mallow’s second goal. He threw a long clearance to Niall Bucke whose first touch gave the ball away but the defender, under pressure, passed the ball beyond his keeper and into his own net. Mallow were two up with twenty minutes left. They brought on John O’Connell and Dave Howell to freshen things up with fifteen minutes left and saw this one out comfortably.

Mallow now have more games played than the chasing pack but the pressure is firmly on them all to knock Mallow out of the top four. Man of the match must go to Dan O’Connell for his last minute tackles in defending Mallow’s early one goal lead.

Mallow United’s Under 14s caused a major shock when they defeated Mayfield in Mallow last Sunday. Mayfield who ply their trade in the Premier Division, came to town as overwhelming favourites against a Mallow side who sit comfortably in the Second Division. However, Cup football is all about shocks, and there can be no doubt but that Mallow looked like the Premier side.

Mallow started the game really well and with Mark Dineen and Liam Attridge well on top in midfield things looked good. Mallow were passing the ball around really well at this stage and John Dennehy and Harry Cosgrave were causing Mayfield plenty of problems on the wings. When Mayfield did threaten , the Mallow defence of Lorcan Murphy, Dave Barrow, John Cosgrove, and the outstanding Cian Cronin stood firm. Goalkeeper Paul O’Connor was called into action on one occassion when he brilliantly tipped over the crossbar after a Mayfield forward struck a crasher from 20 yards. Mallow did create chances with Padraig Buckley and the hardworking Roy Crannitch going close.

Mallow started the second half in similar fashion and as the half wore on they looked the most likely to score. The breakthrough came after 15 minutes when Liam Attridge’s beautifully flighted corner was met by Cian Cronin, who scored from two yards out. The goal seemed to knock the heart out of Mayfield and numbers 2 and 3 came quickly. The second came from another Liam Attridge corner, as this time Padraig Buckley volleyed home from ten yards. Five minutes later it was game, set, and, match when after some great passing between Harry Cosgrove, Liam Attridge, and Roy Crannitch, Padraig Buckley sealed the tie with a tap in. Best for Mallow in a great team performance were Cian Cronin, Mark Dineen, and John Dennehy.

Team: Paul O’Connor, Dave Barrow, Cian Cronin, John Cosgrove, Lorcan Murphy, John Dennehy, Liam Attridge, Mark Dineen, Harry Cosgrove, Padraig Buckley, Roy Crannitch. Subs: Mark Egan, Davin O’Regan, Eoin Goggin, Brian Moloney, Hugh Barry, Finnbar Carroll.

Premier League team Cobh Wanderers travelled to Mallow last Saturday looking to secure a place in the next round of the Senior Cup against an in-form United side who were unbeaten in nine games.

In a free flowing game where both teams played good passing football, Cobh were the first to break the deadlock when Mallow failed to clear from a corner. Cobh’s centre half headed home from close range at the back post after Mallow failed to close him down. Mallow with four clean sheets before this game were not happy and upped their performance. Ten minutes later they were rewarded when Shane Walsh and Shane Browne combined in the middle to put Niall Bucke through and levelled matters with a superb turn and strike which left the Cobh keeper stranded.

The second half saw both teams battle to get the upper hand. Prince Amecchi should have settled the tie when he was one-on-one with their keeper who pulled off an excellent save to keep Cobh in the game. Mallow brought on Tom Daly in the centre and switched Shane Walsh to his favoured left side which seemed to work well and gave Mallow the upper hand going in to extra time. Five minutes into extra time a fresh Ronnie Udenzenas came on for Willie Cunningham at right back which allowed Prince to push forward. This change had the desired effect. Prince was fouled on the halfway line but the referee played advantage and Prince played Niall Bucke in with an inch perfect pass. He rounded the keeper to make it 2-1 with six minutes gone in extra time. With Shane Browne and Tom Daly controlling matters in the centre, and Mallow’s back four looking secure, Cobh did manage a strike on goal. However Alan O’Mahony who hadn’t much to do on the day pulled off a superb save with five minutes left. Niall Bucke secured his hat trick when he crossed the ball in from the right, and a wicked deflection took it past the keeper, off the post, and into the net. Game over.

Best for Mallow: Shane Browne’s work rate and Prince Amecchi for staying on his feet when fouled which led to the second goal. Man of the match Niall Bucke for his hat trick.

Team: Alan O’Mahony, Willie Cunningham, Barry Doyle, Derek Madden, Dan O’Connell, Shane Browne, Shane Walsh, Prince Amecchi, Jason Flynn, Derek Flynn, Niall Bucke, Ronnie Udenzenas, and Dave O’Keeffe.

Balllinhassig 0 5 Mallow United

Mallow Utd. U-11’s cruised into the next round of the Cork Schoolboys Cup with an emphatic win over a gallant Ballinhassig last Saturday. The class of the Mallow boys was evident from the start and the gap in standards showed in the final scene line. Some of the football on display was a joy to watch, and at times, it was hard to believe that these lads were playing in their first year of competitive football. All of the hard work of the manager Ken Tuohy and his assistant, Derry Buckley is really paying off. The goals flowed as freely as the football, and followed some excellent passages of play. Anthony Bowles and Craig Lynch scored 2 apiece, while Aaron Tuohy scored a thunderbolt from a free kick. Best for Mallow in a great team performance were Kevin O Flynn, Ross Fitzpatrick and John Browne.

TEAM: Brian Guerin, Stephen O Callaghan, Aaron Tuohy, Trevor McEvoy, John Browne, Kevin O Flynn, Paul Lyons, Cillian Murphy, Kevin Taylor, Ross Fitzpatrick, Anthony Bowles.

SUBS:  Craig Lynch, Keane Buckley, Dylan Cronin.

Mallow United FC 2   Lakewood 0

Mallow's slow start to the season now looks to be well behind them as they secured an impressive 2 nil win over the early league leaders in the Town Park on Saturday. Mallow's squad was depleted due to suspension and injuries, this made the win all the more impressive against a strong Lakewood side who started much the brighter and opened up Mallow's defence in the first 10 minutes with some lovely one touch football. But for some bad finishing they should have gone one up. Mallow's back four who were looking for their fourth clean sheet settled and never looked like conceding after the initial ten minute spell Lakewood had. With Dan O'Connell back from injury alongside the in form Barry Doyle, Willie Cunningham and Derek Madden are playing their best football in a Mallow jersey seen down the Park for years. With Niall Bucke and Shane Walsh winning most of the possession in the middle of the park Mallow started to control the game. A long clearance from Derek Madden fell to Niall Bucke who beat two defenders and finished off with a well placed low strike across the keeper into the bottom right hand corner of the net. Twenty minutes gone and one up, Shane Sheehan should have made it two when he beat the offside trap five minutes later but the keeper deflected his strike out for a Mallow corner.

The second half kicked off with Mallow resuming control, Barry Doyle barking out orders to his defence ,Shane Walsh securing control in the middle and Niall pushed forward to score again this time coming in from the right and scored a carbon copy of his first driving his shot into the bottom left corner of the net. Two up and comfortable with twenty minutes left Mallow saw this one out by holding the ball for long periods and were good value against a Lakewood side who seemed to run out of idea.

Best for Mallow, Niall Bucke, Shane Walsh, the back four of Dan O Connell Barry Doyle, Willie Cunningham and Derek Madden for a fourth clean sheet in a row.

Mallow United 4 – 3 Kinsale

Last Sunday Mallow United U-13 played a thrilling Cup game in St. Gobnait's Park which was not decided until the last few minutes.  Peter Doyle playing in goal pulled off some brillant saves to keep Mallow in the game and some fantastic defensive work by Dean McAuliffe, Kamil Zieba, Darren Lynch (Capt) and Stephen McEvoy kept the Kinsale forward line quiet.

Mallow should have been 3 or 4 goals up in the first ten minutes as they squandered numerous chances which had been created through the good work of John Quinn and Shane McCarthy.  John Harkin eventually scored after receiving a great ball from Stephen Doyle which he stuck in the back of the net.  The forward line of Kieran Browne and Billy Hayes kept pressing the Kinsale backline and were unlucky not to score.

After half time Kinsale scored and this served to galvanise the Mallow team as Kieran Browne went on one of his fantastic runs up the side line after receiving a great ball from John Quinn.  He struck a hard low shot to the back of the net to put Mallow back on track again.  Mallow then got a corner and Darren Lynch (Capt) and Kamil Ziebo came up from the backline to join the offensive.  John Quinn hit a great ball across the box which was met by Darren Lynch and he hit a rocket of a shot to the back of the net. 

Kinsale came back to level the scores and with 3 minutes to go Kieran Browne again used his blistering pace to outscrip the Kinsale defence and score the winner.

TEAM:  Peter Doyle, Dean McAuliffe, Kamil Zieba, Darren Lynch, Stephen McEvoy, Shane McCarthy, Stephen Doyle, John Quinn, Ryan Harkin, Kieran Browne, Billy Hayes, Ken O’Sullivan, Dean Browne, Brendan Corrigan, Paul Guiney, Soloman Adelasi.