FROM THE ARCHIVES As appeared over a year weekly in local papers.
"
As you may be aware there is a gentleman in Dublin researching through many
sources of archive material in relation to the history of the general
Stradbally area for the past thousand years. In his modern research he has
done much work on acquiring information on Stradbally GAA club over the last
one hundred and fifteen year. You might find that references to names might jog a few memories here and there in the parish. Therefore these extracts are not
just informative, you may have extra information to add to the story.
Please let us know.
MAY 1908 STRADBALLY V BONMAHON
The grounds of the Stradbally Football Cub were well patronised on Sunday
last when Bonmahon senior and junior teams played return matches with the
local teams. In the senior match, Stradbally won the toss and favoured with
sun and wind got first possession but kicked wide. The kick-out gave the
visitors no case, and after a hot scrimmage the ball went over again. The
home team(Stradbally) pressed again and this time with better results,
Crowley sending in a point, followed quickly by another per McGrath. The
kick-out gave Bonmahon posssession, Sarsfield sending to centre where play
continued for a time, Bonmahon getting away through Weldon and Stuart's
efforts looked like scoring, but a giant like fist from Galvin sent the ball
again to Bonmahon ground and after a punt by Crowley a neat goal was sent in
by Morrissey. Half-time left Stradbally leading by one goal and two points
to nil. On resuming, Bonmahon got away quickly but Foran saved finely.
Bonmahon continued to press but Hurley, Foran and Carthy did excellent
defensive work. Fitzgerald getting possession sent to Cunningham and the
latter punting nicely sent to the visitor's "50" line but Power sent back.
Bonmahon got away again and succeeded in bringing the ball to the home posts
but Keane bearing down all opposition, saved grandly amidst wild cheering.
Coffey, intercepting, kicked to Fitzgerald who despite much opposition, went
with a lovely kick to Quealy who added a minor. From the kick-out Crowley
added another point and then Bonmahon rushed again but Grady frustrated and
McGrath, sending to Morrissey, the latter sent the red flag up. When the
whistle sounded Stradbally had registered two goals and three points to no
score.
Stradbally team - E. Morrissey(Capt.), F. Foran(V.O.), P. Keane(goal),
Reardon, Power, Murray, Weldon, Healy.(on the newspaper extract there was
seventeen names appearing on the Stradbally team but only ten names are
mentioned for Bonmahon).
FROM THE ARCHIVES
This piece comes from 5th April 1913. Is the original colour of Stradbally GAA blue or red. It would appear that blue with a white stripe down the front was worn in the
early 1900's and it would appear that blue and white hoops were worn in the
1930's up to 1939 when Fr Cummins bought a kit of red jerseys but as the
following unattributed poem would show red was worn back in 1913. The
difficulty is there are no colour photograths from that era to prove
anything
Up the Reds.
Come along to Stradbally - come, my boys, hurrah!
The Reds are getting ready to go into the fray,
They say they will beat Kilmoleran(sic), and that without a doubt,
They say they will hold their reputation against any club about.
Chorus
Hurrah for the Reds - hurrah, my boys, hurrah!
Hurrah for the Reds - hurrah for the Reds!
Go on, the Reds - hurrah, hurrah!
There in Cunningham and Casey, and Murphy on the wing,
Morrissey and Cummins, they are forwards who will bring,
There in Carthy on the other wing, he'll show them what to do,
He would play a ball with any of them, that ever wore a shoe.
Chorus.
Hurley he played full-back and had nothing there to do,
Galvin, in front of him, a famous footballer too,
Kilmac thought they would win, but their thoughts were all in vain,
The Reds soon showed them what to do and how to play the game.
Chorus.
Connors and O'Grady, they played up in great style,
Denny, he was on the goal and on his face a smile,
And when he thought of Waterford, the day they beat Ballin,
He cheered and cheered and rallied all the men.
Chorus.
Now to conclude and finish, and give praise where 'tis due -
To Paddy Mcgrath of Leamybrien and Thomas Dunford too,
Not forgetting Mickey Keane and Likewise Tony Wall,
And that hero, Tommy Daly, whom sad fate did befall.
Chorus
FROM THE ARCHIVES
This article refers to the Stradbally Races of 1899. Indeed you may
say what has this to do with Stradbally GAA. The answer - a great lot. In
the earlier years of the G.A.A., horse- racing meetings were revived under
GAA auspices. Prominent GAA officials officiated and betting was allowed.
Indeed most sporting events in most villages throughout Ireland came under
GAA auspices.
The following extract was published on Saturday, September 16th, 1899.
"Stewards - Messsrs. M. Cummins, J. Cunningham, M. Coffey, T. Foran, J.
Gleeson, R. Clancy, James Walsh, M. Power, Thomas Walsh, James Cummins.
Judge - A. Hunt, Esquire. Starter - Mr. M. Lennon. Clerk of Course - Mr.
Michael Coffey. Clerks of Seales - Mr. John Cunningham, Mr. Matthew
Cummins. Stakeholder - Mr. J. Whelan. Hon. Sec. - Mr. T.J. Riley.
If the arrangements associated with Thursday's meeting were not perfection,
it must be remembered that it was a first attempt at providing an enjoyable
afternoon's recreation to the hundreds resident in the fine stretch of
country that embraces the Stradbally district, and that the opportunity was
cheerily availed of by those in whose interests the meeting was organised
which was strikingly apparent in the numbers who assembled to participate in
the revelry of the afternoon. The course is situate at a distance of about
four hundred yards from the village, and the access to it is so easy that
the lame, halt and blind can reach it without any difficulty. As regards
the course, it had no ornamatation save the prominent structure erected for
the convenience of the judge and in passing, the gentleman who discharged
that duty is to be congratulated. It is true the number of competitors in
each event were few, but still the judges fiat in a racing event, especially
should the contest be an exciting finish, should at all times carry the
weight of public confidence with it.
There were five events set out on the programme for decision, and, as will
be seen by the details of racing, the number of horses that faced the
starter was not numerous; still the officials, one and all, discharged their
duty well. Mr. A. Hunt as judge had an easy task. Mr M. Lennon as starter
got those in each event under his flag well away; while Mr. Michael Coffey,
as clerk of the course, displayed all that energy that in earlier days
stamped him as active and courageous. Taken all round, the arrangements for
a meeting of the kind and under the circumstances were well carried out. On
the course and in the village enjoyment reigned triumphant, and at sunset
the hundreds who had assembled to enjoy a pleasant afternoon returned to
their homes well pleased with the intercourse that the day's programme had
provided.
Details:-
Farmers' Plate of 5 sovs., of which the second will receive one sov., a flat
race for horses that have never won a race; weight for age, one and a
quarter miles.
Mr. C. McCarthy's Preston Kate (S. Dalton) ...1
Mr. Philip Cullinan's Tomy Flynn (J. Kirwan)..2
Also ran - Mr. N. Moloney's Br. M, Mr. M. Lennon's Wiggler.
No betting. Won easily by five lengths. An objection to the winner on the
ground that the rider dismounted before going to the weighing machine was
overruled.
Stradbally Plate of 5 sovs., of which the second will receive one sov; a
hurdle race, two miles.
Mr. John Power's Shop girl (L. McGrath)...1
Mr. W. Leahy's Vanboy (J. Morrissey)..2
No betting. Won by half a length.
The Woodhouse Plate of 8 sovs., of which the second will receive one sov. A
weight for age hurdle race. Two and a half miles.
Mr. John Power's Shop Girl ( L. McGrath)..1
Mr. M. Lennon's Wiggler (W. brown)..2
Mr. W. Leahy's Vanboy (J. Morrissey)..3
Won by six lengths.
Monavaud Plate of 5 sovs., of which the second will receive one sov. A
hurdle race of two miles.
Mr. W. Leahy's Vanboy (J. Morrissey)...1
Mr. Philip Cullinane's good Bye ...2
Mr. M. Lennon's Wiggler ..3
Won by half a dozen lengths."
FROM THE ARCHIVES
Below is probably the first published material of a competing Stradbally
Football team. This appeared in the press on Saturday, January 13, 1888.
"The Kilmacthomas Tournament came off on Twelfth Day(sic), and was not, in
consequence of the wretched weather, the success the promoters anticipated.
From early morning until mid-day the rain fell in torrents, preventing many,
who would under happier auspices have attended, from putting in an
appearance. However, not-withstanding the unkindness of Jupiter Pluvis, a
large crowd accompanied the Ballinameela team from the West, as did also a
large following come with the Windgap, Rathgormack, and Stradbally teams.
The play-ground was railed around and nothing was left undone by the
Committee to secure a "fair field and no faver"(sic) for the competing
teams. The murkiness of the evening permitted only two matches,
Ballinameela V Newtown, Stradbally V Windgap, being played. Besides, no
team brought a ball and ere the third match had well begun the Newtown ball
burst, therefore nolens volens putting an end to the day's sport.
As regards the play and players, it must be remarked that the only Gaels
who played strictly under the rules were the newtown and Stradbally
teams. ..The Windgap team(against Stradbally) too, though otherwise A1
players, were too much given for wrestling and tripping. I must say,
however, that the Windgap men have improved very much in form and play
during the past twelve months, and will, I have no doubt, make a good fight
the next time for the county championship. Their opponents - Stradbally -
on Friday were chiefly amateurs and lack practice, yet no person but should
admire the pluck and spirit which ( Stradbally's) Tom McCarthy, Perey
Stafford, Maurice Power and Kelly showed..
From the outset it was palpable to all that the Windgap Gaels were too many
for their opponents. The Stradbally men, with the exception of those whom I
have named above, lacked practice. They possess a thorough knowledge of the
rules, and with a good deal more practice, they will, I am confident, yet be
heard of. At the termination of play the score stood:- Windgap : 1 goal and
eight points(4 forfeits), Stradbally : nil.
Stradbally team : Martin Power(Captain), Maurice Power, P. Power, N. Power,
T. McCarthy, Perey Stafford, J. Power, T. Gough, M. Roynane, T. Foley, M.
Kelly, Pat Power, J. Scannell, W. Power, J. Hearn, W. Meara, N. Meara, T
Walsh, D. Keane, P. Rourke, Mr P. Nugent, Newtown, acted as referee in this
match; Mr R.A. Power, Ballylaneen, and Mr. Kennedy, Rathgormack, as
umpires"
Fews and Rathgormack had to abandon their match as the ball burst and the
Butlersown V Clonea match as well as the previous match had to be adjourned
by the Kilmacthomas Tournament Committee until 22nd January 1888 when the
tournament would be concluded.
The Ballinameela team beat Newtown by 1 point(forfeit) to nil.
**************************
FROM THE ARCHIVES
The piece relates to the 1936 Western Senior Final. In that time
the Western champions meet the Eastern champions in the County final. The
relevance of this piece was the emergence of Stradbally as a footballing
force in the county and also it was the lead up to the five in a row County
Champions team. It appears as a match report in the press on Saturday the
4th of July 1936. As it is a very long report, there will be the first half
and the second half. Have you heard that phase before? It's unbelievable.
The extract below is the first half while the second half will appear next
A general meeting was then held on Thursday evening at Whelan's Hotel for
the purpose of presenting the medals, and also for the election of
officers, Mr. John Dalton(Pres.) in presenting the medals, said it afforded
him the greatest possible pleasure to be the medium of presenting the
members of the team with the tournament medals which they had so ably and
deservedly won, and said he heartily congratulated them on the admirable
manner in which they acquitted themselves during the tournament, thereby
gaining such splendid victories and also stated that he wished them every
success in future and hoped that they would decorate themselves with medals
in time to come.
The medals were of a very nice design, the captains being gold, the rest
silver with a gold shield at centre and with each man's name engraved at the
back. They were excellently executed and engraved by Mr. J.J. Hurley,
Dungarvan.
The following are the names of the recipients: J. Morrissey(Captain), P.
Cunningham, M.F. Casey, P. Galvin, P. McCarthy, J. Murphy, M. Hurley, P
McGrath, E. Foran, M. Connors, M. Keane, D. Connors, J. Grady, G Cummins, T.
Dunford, R. Cunningham, T. Daly, D. Keohan.
After the presentation of the medals, the following officers were
elected for the coming year; Messrs. M.F. Casey(President), John
Dalton(Vice-President), James Morrissey(Captain), Patrick
Galvin(Vice-Captain), James Murphy(Hon. Treasurer), D. Keohan(Secretary).
During the course of the meeting Mr. Casey said it was a great drawback
to be at the loss of a suitable field to practice in. Mr.
Whelan(Proprietor) sympathised and very kindly gave the use of one of his
fields for the purpose. This was applauded loudly and a vote of thanks was
unanimously passed for his very great kindness. When all the business of
the blub was transacted, the members spent a most enjoyable time for the
rest of the evening, and at the same time entertained those who gave the
club any assistance or help during the tournament"
FROM THE ARCHIVES
This piece relates to the 1936 Western Senior Final. In that time the Western champions meet the Eastern champions in the County final. The relevance of this piece was the emergence of Stradbally as a footballing force in the county and also it was the lead up to the five in a row County Champions team. It appears as a match report in the press on Saturday the 4,h of July 1936. As it is a very long report, the first half was printed last week while below is the second half. "Stradbally 1-9 Dungarvan 1-4. Stradbally's Sensational Victory.
On the resumption, it is seen that Greaney and Murphy, who had to retire through injuries, are replaced by Moylan and Fitzgerald. Dungarvan are away and Paul Russell raises their first flag, a lovely point from forty yards out on the left. Returning confidently to the attack, Dungarvan are repulsed by the heroic defence of Power and Whelan. Ten minutes incessant assault bring a second Old Boro' minor per Fitzgerald. Their score is long in coming and then the fetes intervene. A loose ground ball, apparently wide, confuses the Stradbally back who leaves it to the goal-keeper to deal with. The latter hesitates, then, an instant too late, he rushes from his net to clear, but Longan, by a superhuman effort gets his boot there first to bee] into the empty net to bring Dungarvan level. A few moments later,
when Russell sends over the bar, it looks all over bar the shouting. But Stradbally fight back doggedly: rcovering from the shock caused by these sudden reverses, and fired by the desparate determination of John Power, they break up-field and forwards sweep all before them. Hurley fields and centres. High into the air springs the full-forward Cummins; fielding cleanly, he eludes Eddie Hayes to send a lovely left foot scorcher into the corner to the net far out of the goalie's reach. It was a glorious goal. The salvo of cheers had hardly died down when Cummins, despite the handicap of having one eye bandaged up(he had got it closed up in a first- half collision) again gets possession and shoots straight between the posts to give Stradbally a clear
lead of three points. With victory within their grasp, they drive borne another point. Dungarvan, now fighting with their backs to the wall, combine beautifully to give their forwards another chance of pulling the game out of the fire. Russell, here, there and everywhere, the inspiration of Dungarvan's last heroic efforts, breaks through in the Stradbally square - a head long Dungarvan charge looks like sweeping the ball and all before it into the net. But John Power, firm as a rock, hugs the ball tight and, breasting that human torrent. Lashes far out to safety. Dungarvan's last effort is spent. Stradbally, taking confident control, score two more points to leave no doubt of their superiority on the day's play. The final score of one gaol and nine points to one goal and four points brought to a close the most sensational Senior football game played in the Waterford Championships for many years. The game cannot but have wide reactions, Dungarvan, of course, naturally disappointed at their surprise defeat, will have learned the lesson that fitness and training are more important than confidence and prestige. They will be all eager to show that the eclipse of Old Boro' football is only temporary. Stradbally, now having found their football feet, will be spurred on to greater deeds. Nothing succeeds like success. 1 can see this victory lighting the fires of football enthusiasm all through Waterford from the Comeraghs to the sea. Would that it opened up a new era of rural superiority with the glorious era when Aglish, Rathgormack, Clashmore and Lismore " Ramblers" shed lustre on Waterford's football history."
FROM THE ARCHIVES
The following extract from the press covers the Minor football Final of 1937 between Stradbally and Mountain rovers at Kill. This appeared on Saturday, the 20th November 1937.
"Dungarvan(Seniors) and Stradbally(Minors) wrest the "double" for West Waterford.
The minors were the first in action and lined out as under:-
STRADBALLY:- K. Whelan(Capt.), J. Morrissey(goal), B. Phelan, J. Power, M. Phelan, T. Clancy, P Skeahan, J. Curran, R. McKeon, J. Kiely, E. Whelan, N. McGrath, T. Veale, N. Connors and T. Dunphy.
MOUNTAIN Rovers:- J. Phelan(Capt), M. Terry(goal), P. Pender, M. Curry, W. Terry, P. McGrath, A. Coughlan, P. Wade, P. Hogan, J. Hennebry, M. Houlihan, T. Brazil, M. Coughlan and R. Power.
The Minor Game.
Stradbally broke away on the throw-in and dominated play for the first quarter. They ran up a lead of 2 Points before the Rovers raised a flag. The Mountain boys launched a series of assaults, but a sparkling Stradbally defence successfully staved off every attack. The Western representatives came along for their third point, and secured a similar score just before the interval-blast.
Half-time :- Stradbally 0-4 Mountain Rovers 0-1
The Rovers raided immediately on the resumption and had matters all their own way for the ensuing ten minutes, hoisting a green flag before Stradbally replied with a point. Fairly even play was the order until Stradbally banged home another goal, succeeded by two points. The Eastern group got going once more but failed to penetrate scorewards. Just on the nick of time Stradbally went through for a great goal, leaving the result: Stradbally 2-7 to Mountain Rovers 1-1.
K. Phelan, N. Connors, J. Curran, T. Dunphy and T. Veale, starred for the winners; while M. Curry, J. Phelan, N. Terry, J. Hennebry and R. Power, were outstanding for the Rovers"
FROM THE ARCHIVES
This piece relates to the 1957 Junior Football Final between Stradbally and Gaultier in the City Sportsfield in Waterford. The following was printed on Saturday the 21st December 1957.
"A WESTERN TRIUMPH, WELCOME BACK, STRADBALLY.
Stradbally delighted a big following with a display of football finery that completely overwhelmed Gaultier in last Sunday's Junior decider at the City Sportsfield. The Reds played devastating football to herald their return to senior ranks in the most impressive manner conceivable. In command from an early stage and making light of every Gaultier challenge, Stradbally looked a side of tremendous potential on the day's play.
Stradbally 2-7 Gaultier 0-5.
No doubt about it, the Reds are on the move again. Stradbally scarcely displayed a weak link. They played confident and constructive football and finished the hour in a manner that was reminiscent of the great Coveside teams of the forties. On this showing Stradbally must be back in the upper grade with a real chance.
And Stradbally realised a long-cherished ambition without the services of Paul Webber who has been one of the big men on the side in recent years. Club mentors, too, deserve a hearty pat on the back.That's the spirit Stradbally.
This was a victory for teamwork. But one must pay tribute especially to the contribution of ken Murphy, Dick Gough, John Cunningham, Billie Barry, mossy Casey, Eddie Dunphy and Tom Walsh to the Red's triumphant return.
The losers played an amount of good football and were still battling gallantly at the call of time, but from an early stage the title was Stradbally-bound. And that was how it went.
Welcome back, Stradbally."
The names of the players on the Stradbally team were not published but there was a team published for the Divisional Championship against Old parish three months previously in September and were as follows.
"P Flynn(goal), P. Galvin, T. Foley, P.J. Power, T Walsh, E Dunphy, T Power, K Murphy, M Casey, J Cunningham, J Barry, P Webber, ??(unidentified), D. Prendergast, ??(unidentified)"
FROM THE ARCHIVES
This week's piece come from 1888 and is in relation to an athlete from Island, Stradbally, Philip Cummins. It was printed in the Waterford Daily mail on the 12th October 1888.
"At Rising Sea, North Philadelphia the Clan-Na-Gael Sports were a brilliant success thoughout. The attendance was large and enthusiastic, and the contests unusually interesting and exciting. Mr. Philip Cummins, who it will be remembered is a son of Mr. Michael Cummins, Island, Stradbally, was a practised athlete at home 'ere he emigrated some years ago, has taken the following prizes:-
Throwing 56lbs, between the Legs: First, Philip Cummins, 26ft. 10in.
Throwing 56lbs, weight for height: First, Philip Cummins, 13ft, 9 in.
Throwing 56 lbs., between the legs(members): First, P. Cummins, 25ft. 9 in.
Throwing 16lb. Hammer: First J.A. McGongall, 100ft. 2 in. Second : P Cummins, 99 ft. 41/2in.
Members 100 yards dash, First, John Flynn, 17 ½ secs., second P. Cummins.
Three standing jumps: Third. P. Cummins. 34 ft. 2 in.
"The wrestling " Cumberland style", between P. Cummins and P. J. Griffin was won by Cummins. He secured the first and third falls. The prizes for each event were: First, 10 dols. second, 3 dols. And third, 1 dol., except the wrestling match, for which 100 dols. Was given"
As you may be aware the GAA was established in 1884 primarily to further the organisation of Irish Athletics and bring it under national auspices. Maurice Davin, the GAA's first president, was a powerful athlete in his day. Football and hurling were part of the reason for establishing the GAA but athletics was the driving force in the early years.
FROM THE ARCHIVES
Last week we were back in 1888, this week we are in 1903-1904 and the following two weeks we will jump forward to 1972. This week's piece relates to a number of articles on Durrow. This is relevent to our club as a big contiguent of our club come from Durrow. The piece is drawn from a few newspaper articles over the two years.
Oct 23rd, 1903 "Sporting, Cycling and Athletics Notes.
At a meeting of the County Board held in Dungarvan on the 17th inst., Mr. D. Fraher presiding, the following were represented Dungarvan, Lismore, Clashmore, Durrow, Rathgormack, Clonea, Waterford Drapers and De La Salle.
Among the fixtures were De La Salle V Durrow, at Newtown, on Sunday, October 25th at 1.20 o'clock, Mr. P. Kirwan referee.
Oct 30th, 1903 "Sporting, Cycling and Athletic Notes.
De La Salle V Durrow.On Sunday last an interesting match was witnessed at Newtown, Kilmacthomas, between the above teams for the semi-final. Although the morning was discouraging, both teams lined up in presence of a large number of spectators at 1.30p.m. When the leather was set rolling by Mr. Kirwan, Durrow, by a splended rush, succeded in securing a major, which they quickly followed up by a minor. The College boys now settled to their play, and by means of a splended combination at centre and forward, succeeded in keeping the ball in their opponents' territory, and now and then had the satisfaction of seeing the white flag raised in their favour. At half time the scores were:-
De La Salle 6 points Durrow 1 goal 1 point.
On resuming play, the Shamrocks literally played round their opponents. Durrow made some splendid rushes, but all in vain. The College made score upon score, and at the final whistle the score stood:-
Durrow 1 goal 1 point Shamrocks(sic) 2 goals 11 points.
The College was declared an easy winner and it is expected will meet Clonea for the final tussle very soon in Waterford City. On the whole the play was not of a very brilliant type, but this could not be expected on account of the nature of the field. No doubt all this brillancy will be reserved for the final, when a real genuine Gaelic match may be expected."
May 20th, 1904. "Sporting, Cycling and Athletic Notes.
Waterford County Board
A meeting of the above was held on Saturday at the Town Hall, Dungarvan: Mr. D. Fraher presiding. The other members present were amongst others M. Keating, J. Connell(Clonea H.C.) and J. Walsh, J. Kiely(Durrow H. C.).
Proposed by T.F. O'Higgins, and seconded by J. Walsh(Durrow)- That this Convention gives its referees discretionary power to award matches to any team where the opposing team is a half hour late, without due casue.
The Championships. Hurling De La Salle V Clonea II; Clonea I V Ballyduff; Dungarvan V Durrow: Gracedieu, a bye"
Aug 12th, 1904. "Sporting, Cycling and Athletic Notes.
County Hurling Championship
The Dungarvan and Durrow teams met last Sunday on the Gaelic grounds, Shandon, to play their tie for this year's championship. At five o'clock Mr. Keating ( Clonea) threw in the ball and owing to the exertions of Dalton, Ducey and Langan, Dungarvan placed a nice score to their credit. At half time the score stood:-
Dungarvan 1 goal 3 points Durrow Nil
On resuming, Dungarvan again attacked, and with their backs playing a grand game, principally Curran, Stack and Noonan, their forwards added more to their score. Full time left them winners. Score:- Dungarvan 2 golas 5 points Durrow 2 points.
Mr. Keating, Clonea, refereed the match very impartially.
FROM THE ARCHIVES
As promised from last week, this week's extract is from the County Senior Final of 1972 and appeared in the press on Saturday, 7th October. As the piece is large, the first half is this week and the second half next week.
"Senior Football County Final Stradbally's Hour of Glory.
Stradbally 3-4 Kill 1-6.
Those who were present at Walsh Park on Sunday last saw a really great County Senior Football Final. Every so often one sees a really great moment in GAA affairs within the County. Well, make no mistake about it, Sunday last was one of those rare moments as a really great hearted Stradbally team played inspired football and, playing into the stiff breeze in the second half, they held the vaunted Kill men scoreless in a spell-binding encounter and when Tom Cunningham fisted home the all important goal with eight minutes remaining to be played Walsh Park erupted. The after match scenes beggared description as the "Reds" delirious supporters chaired their heroes off the pitch. Yes indeed, Sunday 1st October, 1972, was a Red-letter day for Stradbally football as they ended 28 years in the wilderness and brought the Senior Trophy home to the Tayside for the sixth time in all.
To all concerned, players, selectors, trainers and all the other club officials, we say well done, as if ever a club deserved success it was Stradbally who never lost heart through all those frustrating years, and this year's team who battled their way to the final the hard way and deservedly ended the long wait on Sunday last. Needless to say celebrations extraordinary took place on Sunday and Monday nights when it seemed that Stradbally was ablaze with bone fires to prove once again what a County title means to a club and a parish.
Stradbally, full of enthusiasm, were a goal and a point up with in a minute of the game starting. Kill, hardly knowing what had hit them, fought back brilliantly, and within minutes both sides were even. In this half the Villagers gave away many frees and if Kill had availed of all these chances, they could have been a few points ahead at the end of the half. John Power played well for Kill in the first half, while the main instruments for the Kill lead were Michael Lalor who scored the only goal for Kill, Billy Harty and Monty Guiry."
This extract is a continuation of the Senior Football County Final against Kill in 1972. Stradbally 3-4 Kill 1-6.
"Stradbally full of enthusiasm were a goal and a point up within a minute of the game starting. Kill, hardly knowing what had hit them fought back brilliantly, and within minutes both sides were even. In this half the Villagers gave away many frees and if Kill had availed of all these chances, they could have been a few points ahead at the end of the half. John Power played well for Kill in the first half, while the main instruments for the Kill lead were Michael Lalor who scored the only goal for Kill, Bill Harty and Monty Guiry.
Going into the second half it was clear to see that Stradbally were on the road to victory. Many of Kill's short passes were intercepted by the Stradbally men which proved to be the reason for the Kill defeat. Pat Clancy was a tower of strength in the Stradbally defence and, in the second half, when switched from centre to full back, was one of the main instigators of the Reds victory. While J. Kiely, at right full back , made three vital saves and brought down Martin Kennedy in the last few minutes to save a certain goal, at the expense of a free, which McMahon sent wide. Kill seemed to have lost touch with the game in the second half and were unable to stop the onward march of Stradbally towards victory.
Best for Stradbally, even though it was a great team effort, were Pat Clancy, J. Kiely, T. Hearn, M. Coffey, T. Cunningham and R. Dunford. Best for Kill were B. Harty, M. Guiry, P McMahon, J. Power, M. Lalor and G. Guiry.
Scorers:- Stradbally S. Hearn (1-3), J. Keane (0-1), T. Cunningham (1-0), P. Butler (1-0). Kill M. Lalor (1-1), J. Power (0-3), P. McMahon (0-2).
Stradbally W. Dunford, E. Dunphy, R. Aherne, J. Kiely, A. Curran, P. Clancy, L. Carroll, T. Hearne, M. Coffey, P. Butler, T. Cunningham, S. Aherne, J. Keane, Joe Power, J. Curran. Subs., R. Dunford for J. Curran and M. O'Reilly for J. Power.
Kill N. Whelan, K. Casey, G. Mooney, T. Guiry, T. Hennessy, T. Mooney, A. Lannon, G. Guiry, W. Harty, J. Power, M. Guiry, J. Regan, M. Lalor, P. McMahon, M. Kennedy. Subs., D.Kiely for N. Whelan, Tom Murray for John Ryan.
Referee J. Dunphy, Dunhill.
On Sunday Stradbally had three minors playing, L. Carroll, P. Butler, Jas. Keane and only three of the team are 25 years, Ned Dunphy, Tom Cunningham and Pat Clancy.
Congratulations on their victory have arrived from Fr. Tom Halpin in Idaho, U.S.A. and Kevin Whelan in Illinois, U.S. They would really have enjoyed Sunday's game.
Stradbally's supremacy on Sunday reminded us of the great men of the Parish's vintage years 1940-1944. Their names come at once to mind, jimmy Colbert, R.I.P., jimmy Whelan, John Power, R.I.P., Nicky and Mick Connors. John and Tom Veale, J. Orpen, Mick Keane, Percy Kirwan, Kevin Whelan, "Tuddles" Colbert, R.I.P., Dick Hickey, Johnny Cummins, John O'Meara, Mickey Flynn, Paddy "Aeroplane" Kiely, Bob Whelan, R.I.P., etc."
FROM THE ARCHIVES
This weeks extract relates to the Minor Football County Final of 1964.
"Stradbally's Title
Stradbally 2-7 Cnoc Sion 2-4
The County minor football championship final, played at Walsh Park last Sunday, resulted in a narrow victory for Stradbally over Cnoc Sion. That is the result but it does not tell the story of one of the best minor finals seen in the County for years.a game packed with excitement and credit to all connected with it.
It was a thriller all the way, fast, keen, hard, but featured all the way by the highest standards of sportsmanship. This was a great day for Stradbally : it was a good day for Waterford football as well.
The game over, Stradbally followers went wild with joy and excitement. Players and officials were chaired from the field and the cheering went on and on. This hard-won, richly deserved victory must surely herald the long-awaited football resurgence in this once mighty stronghold of the game.
Conditions for the game were far from ideal. Rain had fallen heavily and the pitch was greasy and the ball heavy. In the circumstances we were treated to a remarkable display of fast, clever foot all.
The Play.
Stradbally, the wind behind them, were slow to settle down but Clancy gave the first blood with a point. Jack Byrne levelled for Sion, but Kiely put the champions in front with another point. Dan Mahon squared accounts for the city team and when Galvin(point) gave Mount Sion an interval lead of a single point, it looked ominous for Stradbally.
But the Stradbally boys rose to the occasion in grand style. Rallying their forces and storming the attack, they went through for a goal(Kiely) that set them on the high road. Jack Byrne replied with a point, but, immediately, Whelan replied in kind for Stradbally. Another point to Whelan and Stradbally were a goal in front.
Then Sion struck back and it was level pegging when Fardy crashed to the net. In a flash, Stradbally were back for O'Rourke to finish a great movement to the net. O'Rourke pointed what seemed a clincher, but now it was Sion's turn to fight back.
Stradbally pointed again, but Mahon tore through the defence to notch a Monastery goal. From that to the end, the excitement was almost unbearable, but Stradbally held out to score a great victory over gallant opponents.
It might be invidious to single out Stradbally boys for special mention, for this was essentially a team effort, in which every lad played his part. And the team was right well handled from the sideline. But justice would not be done were tribute not paid to J. Kiely, P. Clancy and N O'Rourke.
For Cnoc Sion, Danny Mahon, S. Hayes, T. Galvin and B. Frisby were best in a Big-hearted team.
Stradbally T. Power, T. Power, J. Power, T. O'Rourke, M. Barry, J. Curran, N. Power, M. Reilly, J. Kiely, T. Hearne, P. Clancy, D. Whelan, T. Flynn, N. O'Rourke.
Cnoc Sion T. Flynn, B. White, J. Byrne, D. Wyse, T. Cullian, P. Kelly, S. Hayes, B. Frisby, J. Power, J. Byrne, N. Kelly, T. Galvin, P. O'Grady, D. Mahon, M. Fardy.
Referee: S. Murphy (Rathgormack)"
FROM THE ARCHIVES
This week's extract relates to the 1974 County Junior Hurling Final and was printed on the 30th November, 1974.
"Stradbally Win Thriller
Stradbally 1-10 Mount Sion 0-9
Early comers to Dungarvan's Fraher Field on Sunday last were well rewarded when Stradbally and Mount Sion hurlers served up a thrilling hour's play in the county junior(hurling) final.
Stradbally had first use of the near gale-force breeze and an early goal from a seventy by Robin Aherne sent their hopes soaring. Sean Aherne and Tom Hearne added points and Paddy Meehan pulled one back for "Sion" who were making Stradbally fight hard for every puck of the ball and even against the breeze the Stradbally defence saw plenty of the ball. Richie Dunford clipped over a point and Frankie Walsh pointed a 21 yard free for mount, before Tom Hearne completed the first half scoring with three points, two from frees to leave the score at 1-6 to 0-2 at half time. The big question now was, could Stradbally hold out against the breeze, and in our discussion group at half time, I was alone in my view that Stradbally would win."
Second half and team lists next week.
This week's extract relates to the 1974 County Junior Hurling Final and was printed on the 30th November, 1974. Continued from last week.
If the first half had been exciting, in truth it was not a patch on the second. From the throw-in Mount Sion swung into action and veteran Frankie Walsh swung over a point and again we had flashed of Frankie's old magic when he pointed two frees. Jim o'Connor and Tommy Sommers added points from play and again it was Frankie Walsh who was on target when he pointed a free in the 40th minute to leave the score 1-7 to 0-8 in Stradbally's favour. Mattie Reilly had scored for Stradbally in the third quarter. Mount Sion had played really grand hurling in keeping with the tradition of their famous club.
HEROES ALL
Every Stradbally player was a hero on Sunday evening as, above all, this was a team effort in which every player displayed wonderful spirit and no mean hurling skill. With Robin Aherne, Pat Power, Sean Aherne, Richie Dunford and Tom Hearne starring, goalkeeper, Bill Dunford kept his net intact in fine style, fronted by a resolute full line in which Pat Fennell, Joe Power and Tom Hickey battled gamely. Liam Carroll also worked hard in defence and up front Mattie Reilly and Tom Cunningham were seen to good effect and both Joe Curran and Tom Halpin, who were recalled for this decider, showed that they have lost none of their old dash. While Ollie Carroll and substitue Alo Curran also contributed their share.
Scorers Stradbally T. Hearne 0-5, R. Aherne 1-0, M. Reilly 0-2, S. Aherne, J. Curran and R. Dunford 0-1 each.
Mount Sion F. Walsh 0-5, J. O'Connor 0-2, P. Meehan and T. Sommers 0-1 each.
Teams: Stradbally B. Dunford, P. Fennell, J. Power, T. Hickey, L. Carroll, R. Aherne, P. Power, T. Halpin, S. Aherne, R. Dunford, T. Hearne, M. Reilly, O. Carroll, T. Cunningham, J. Curran.
Subs. Alo Curran for O. Carroll.
Mount Sion E. Cleary, T. Keane, J. Butler, T. Cusack, J. Goulding, N. Heffernan, P. Burns, T. Hayes, J. Kelly, P. Meehan, J. O'Connor, B. Frisby, F. Walsh, P. Taylor, T. Sommers.
Subs H. Boyle for B. Frisby, P. Coady for P. Burns, P. Fanning for P. Meehan.
Referee Jimmy O'Gorman (Tourin), who was officially at his first ever county final, came through the test with flying colours."
This week's extract relates to the 1974 Under-21 County Final between Stradbally and Tramore which appeared in the media on Saturday the 9th December 1974.
"Stradbally GAA News
Stradbally 0-09 Tramore 1-05
On Sunday last, Stradbally footballers captured the U-21 title when they defeated Tramore. This game will be remembered for the high standard of football and good sportsmanship from both teams. Tramore, as was expected of them, made a great effort to hold on to their title, but in the end they had to bend their knees to the gallant "Reds".
Tramore won the toss and elected to play against a strong wind. A point from Liam Clancy opened the scoring and after this Stradbally piled on the pressure and further points by T. Weldon, Pat Butler and Colm Barnes left the "Reds" in front at halftime. The score was seven points to nil.
Tramore started like a house on fire and pressed for those early scores, but try as they should, they come up against a defence that was like the Rock of Cashel. But it was not until the last fifteen minutes that Tramore started getting those scores, but points by Tony Partridge and a goal from a penalty by John Purcell converted in the 55th minute and, within a minute, Tramore were level with a fine point from Milo Walsh. Just when it seemed that Stradbally were losing their grip, how they reacted with the encouragement from the crowd; and Pat Butler became Stradbally's hero when he pointed that all important point in the very last minute and Stradbally are the U-21 football champions of Waterford for 1974."
On Sunday last an interesting match was witnessed at Newtown, Kilmacthomas, between the above teams for the semi-final. Although the morning was discouraging, both teams lined up in presence of a large number of spectators at 1.30p.m. When the leather was set rolling by Mr. Kirwan, Durrow, by a splended rush, succeded in securing a major, which they quickly followed up by a minor. The College boys now settled to their play, and by means of a splended combination at centre and forward, succeeded in keeping the ball in their opponents' territory, and now and then had the satisfaction of seeing the white flag raised in their favour. At half time the scores were:-
