Our U14 boys had a memorable weekend at National Feile.
The boys set off on Friday by bus to our host club Newtownbutler First Fermanaghs. We could not have wished for better hosts.
Our first game was against Scotstown of Monaghan which we won comfortably.Next up was Cuala Kickhams from Dublin ,current All Ireland Club senior hurling champions.
Despite playing well and on top we found ourselves 2 points down in the last minute but up stepped captain Cormac Niland who took control and drove through the Cuala defence, played some clever patient passes and when the opportunity presented he dispatched superbly to the net.The boys showed great character to dig out the win not showing much regard for the nerves of our large band of supporters.
At this stage Newtownbutler had also inflicted more pain on a deflated Cuala team and we knew we had a show down with our hosts for top spot in the group on Saturday morning.
As previously said our hosts couldn't do enough for the boys , mentors and supporters with a big GAA community effort in making sure everyone settled in well.
On Saturday morning the recent temporary acquaintances were suspended as we took on the hosts. Playing with a good breeze in first half Mary's physically stronger side took control hitting some fine scores but uncharacteristically conceded 2 goals against the run of play before halftime, Newtownbutlers only 2 attacks of the first half .
Marys pushed on again after the break and in control when we found ourselves 1 point down on full time after conceding 3 more goals in the second half. After some blinkered refereeing decisions throughout Marys got a decision and were awarded a penalty.Up stepped Luke Moran with ice in his veins and put the ball in the back of the net. Mary's win by 1 point again but the never say die attitude got them the win and fully justified.
Next up the quarter final against Gaultier of Waterford.
We played our best football of the weekend and found ourselves 3 points up at half time having played against the breeze.
Again in control in the second half going 5 points up we conceded 2 silly goals, traded another couple of points, the scores level with 1 minute to go, Gaultier were awarded a free which they scored.The final whistle sounded ,a horrible way to end the tournament.
Our hosts also lost their quarter final so both teams were in sombre mood but all was forgotten after a swim in Lough Erne.
The hosts again put on a fantastic hot buffet for everyone in the community hall and entertainment for the night.
A fantastic experience for everyone, the disappointment still lingers with what if's etc .
The boys did their themselves, their families and St Mary's proud with their performance and behaviour .
Next up Division 1 league final next Friday 7th July in Markievicz Park at 8.00.