Last Saturday our under 10 hurlers made the short journey to Doneraile for the final game of the year when we were invited to take part in the Michael Davern Snr Memorial Shield. The game was played in sunny dry conditions which led to some fine hurling from both sides which really entertained the big crowd that was present. Doneraile started the game 100 miles an hour when from the throw in they were right in on our goals, for the next few minutes we found it hard to clear our lines. Then our boys and girl settled into the game and enjoyed our own bit of dominance. However, in the run up the short whistle Doneraile rallied again and got some fine scores to leave the minimum between the teams at half time. After the break, our players showed all the hard work they have put in throughout the year since our first training in January, when they put on the best half hours hurling all year. They displayed some brilliant skill, scoring ability, work rate and team work to win this match against a strong Doneraile team. It was a wonderful way to finish the year for this group of players who have shown some tremendous commitment this season.

In goals Lorcan was as solid as ever and has continued to grow as keeper over the last few months. In front of Lorcan was Aine, Daniel and Peter. Ever reliable Aine was again a rock at the back with nothing getting past her, Peter controlled the full back position with plenty of long deliveries out of the back line. Daniel who is one of our most improved players this year again showed the hard work he is putting in both on and off the training field by putting in another top-notch display. In midfield Michael, as ever was up and down the field helping both his backs and forwards, beside him was Cian who got threw a mountain of work and was always on hand to gather up the breaking ball. Our captain on the day Jack Twomey led by example in the middle of the park with some outstanding hurling and fine scores. Up front is where we had the best performances. Nathan led the line by example scoring some brilliant frees and some from play. Will, when introduced set up numerous scores. However best on the day were our two small nippy corner forwards who saved their best performance for the last game of season. Niall Murray was a torn in the Doneraile side throughout and scored three brilliant goals, in the other corner was our scorer in chief for the day Luke Twomey who bagged himself four wonderful goals that rattled the net and left the keeper with no chance.

Panel: Lorcan Murray, Daniel McGuickin, Peter O Keffee, Aine Burke, Cian Looney, Jack Twomey, Michael Hanley Casey, Luke Twomey, Nathan Murray, Will Ladd Finn & Niall Murray.

After the game Michael Davern gave a brief speech on Michael Davern senior and what the GAA meant to him, Michael continued to thank both teams for putting on a fine display of skills. Then the Davern family kindly presented our players with the winning medals and Jack Twomey with the Michael Davern Snr Memorial Shield.

Thanks to Doneraile GAA and the Davern family for a fine sporting occasion for the under 10s and the hospitality shown after the game with teas and coffees and fine spread of food.