Report on the Paul McGirr u’16 Ulster Semifinal hosted by Dromore between reigning champions St Enda’s, Antrim Champions and Armagh kingpins Crossmaglen Rangers.

Boosted by the return of in form Caolan Dillon after injury, the foundation to this memorable victory was in the ability of the hardworking disciplined Crossmaglen defence to supp…ress the Belfast attack throughout the first half. Time after time the tackling of Fergal Burns, Ruairi O’Neill and Aaron Smylie frustrated the Glengormley boys. Conor Eastwood scored first with a free and added to it with another free before halftime, but the Rangers,with the hardworking half forwards Peter Short and Stephen Morris allied to the strong running of Johnny McKeever meant that the much vaunted Belfast halfback line were curtailed. Oisin O’Neill was prominent especially when moved to full forward and along side Rian O’Neill manufactured a goal chance for the midfielder Daniel Cunningham to finish to the net. After Rian and Eoin Keenen had been fouled, Oisin struck two delightful frees, to leave the halftime score of Rangers 1:2 to St Enda’s 0:2.
Tactically Tim and Cathal rang the changes to great effect with sub Cormac Donnelly finding space with a point and sub Cillian Cumiskey boosting an already fluent attack that had the dominant Oisin scoring with ease adding a further 6 points to his tally, some of his scores were 45 m plus efforts. Miceal McCabe continued in the rich vein of form he displayed for his school by adding his 2 trademark over the shoulder points. Full backs Ryan Mc Keever and Shane Farrelly totally negated the Belfast attack curtailing them to only 2 points. The accuracy of goalkeeper Jamie McEvoy has been a feature of the campaign and his kicking skill gave Stephen Morris the opportunity along with his midfield partner Daniel to dominate their sector, Stephen scoring a fine point. Johnny Mc Keever seemed to be everywhere and coupled with Caolan Dillons tough tackling and Rian and Ruairi O ‘Neills accurate passing meant that the very potent forward line had a platform to showcase their talents. Pearce Martin and Shane McEntegart contributed when they came on. The final score wasRangers 1:12, St Enda’s 0:4. the game was well refereed, played in ideal conditions and in a great spirit, and both teams share in the praise for their disciplined attitude. Next Sunday at 1pm in Dromore is the date for your diary where Watty Graham’s , Maghera will be our final opponents. It should be a great spectacle between the two best U’16 teams in Ulster.