Latest from the Murphys....

Fr. Murphy's Ladies Football

v Parnells

in the All Britain Championship Final

on Saturday 6th October at 4.30pm

in Pairc na hEireann, Birmingham, B92 0DB.

All support for the girls in purple and gold is welcome.

Fr. Murphy's Abú!

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Clonakilty Blackpudding Co.

are delighted to announce the launch of the

new playing kit for Fr. Murphy's Ladies Football team

at Chiswick Moran Hotel

on Thursday 27th September 2012, 7.30pm.

All players, members, patrons, sponsors and supporters are invited to attend.

Clonakilty Blackpudding canapés will be served on the night.

Fr. Murphy's would like to thank Clonakilty Blackpudding Co for their very generous sponsorship.

For further details please contact:

Larry O'Leary, Chairman, Fr. Murphy's Ladies - 07944178879 / larrygaelic@gmail.com

Brenda Boland, Clonakilty Blackpudding Co. - 00353877382461 / bboland@clonakiltyblackpudding.ie

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The Fr. Murphy's footballers will contest the British Provincial Final on Saturday 6th October after beating John Mitchells (Birmingham) convincingly at the weekend. Full report to follow.

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Football

Having enjoyed being Britain’s top ladies Gaelic football in 2007, 2008 and 2009, quiet years followed in 2010 and 2011. And so 2012 started with a determination to get back into the big time.

As early as the first weekend in January, 20 players travelled to Reading to play an exhibition game against St Anthony’s at the Madejski Stadium. This was followed by a trip to Kerry for the Páidí Ó Sé tournament and then we got down to serious training with new coaches Micheal Hanily and Michael Neary. New players have continued to join since early on, numbers at training have been good and there is a tremendous buzz about the club.

We started well in the league with victories over KKG and Holloway. A trip to the Provincial 9 a side followed and the team won all the group games, but were beaten in the semi final by the narrowest of margins by the eventual winners on a scoreline of 4 points to 3.

Scheduled to open the provincial championship against Oisin’s, this game was called off due to the inclement weather. Instead the difficult task of opening against Parnell’s, last years All Ireland semi finalists and a club with big notions of winning the All Ireland club championship this year. Murphy’s game them a game though and leading by two points with 10 minutes to go, the girls in purple and gold had claims for a penalty turned down and Parnell’s went down the field to convert a penalty of their own and that was that.

The girls picked themselves up and in the next round had a big win over Fulham Irish, followed by equally good wins against KKG and Tara, to leave them nicely placed in the semi final of the Provincial Championship.

This followed good wins against Holloway Gaels and St Anthony’s and Fr Murphy’s now stand in two Finals and two semi finals

Upcoming fixtures:

September 1st Mary Feehan Cup Semi Final v Fulham Irish (at Greenford)
September 9th Provincial Championship v Oisins (at Birmingham)
September 15th Provincial Championship SemiFinalv John Mitchells (at Birmingham )

Camogie

The camogie team started training early as well and had a great start to the season, winning the International Women’s tournament in Birmingham – beating Tara in the semi final and Fullen Gaels in the final. Trainer Sean Howlin was busy putting the girls through their paces for the league opener against Bros Pearse, but this also fell victim to the weather. Training continued without a game for over a month before the girls eventually played a league game against Croydon, which we won after a great struggle at Greenford

The championship has been seriously disrupted due to weather and unavailability of pitches and whilst we still have one group game to play it looks as if we are in a semi final position, which is scheduled to be played on Saturday 8th September.

Upcoming fixures:

September 8th Senior Championship Semi Final (Greenford)
September 22nd Senior League v Fullen Gaels (Birmingham)

September will certainly be a busy month for the girls in purple and gold.

Lorraine O'Malley and Mary Geoghegan under a dropping ball for Fr. Murphy's

Fr. Murphy's footballl team January 2012

Fr. Murphy's sponsor, Clonakilty Blackpudding Co. is currently promoting its products in several Tesco stores throughout London and the South East of England, as well as establishments such as Harrods, Fortnum and Masons and Selfridges in the West End.

Click here for full details of stores stocking products near you.

Fr. Murphy's would like to wish Brenda and Michael all the best with their marketing efforts here in Britain.

Like the Fr. Murphy's, Clonakilty is taking the country by storm!

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At the Taste of London Festival in Regents Park last weekend, the new Fr. Murphy's football jersey was unveiled.

Fr. Murphy's are very grateful to Clonakilty for their support and are looking forward to promoting the brand on the playing fields of Britain.

Pictured above is Louise Murphy, Marketing Executive at Clonakilty Blackpudding Co. and Larry O'Leary admiring the new jersey.

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L-R: Aoife Linnane, Laura Power, President Michael D. Higgins, Eimear McGann, Ruth Foley

L-R: Ruth Foley, Laura Power, Eimear McGann, Aoife Linnane, Larry O'Leary

President of Ireland, Michael D. Higgins, visited London GAA headquarters at Ruislip with his wife Sabina Higgins during his second official visit to London.

Speaking to a crowd which included representatives from London Camogie County Board, President Higgins spoke about what gaelic games have done for the Irish abroad. He congratulated the London hurlers for winning the Christy Ring Cup recently.

President Higgins spoke about the All Britain Championships which will take place in Greenford on the weekend of 21st July. This will comprise over 100 underage teams from all codes including camogie.

Stemming from a great interest in migration, President Higgins said he has always followed the Irish abroad closely and he thanked the assistance that gaelic games clubs give to young Irish people who are away from home. He added that clubs in London work hard to express the Irishness we all want to hold on to and he mentioned the place of camogie especially and pointed out that he hadn’t forgotten it when talking about gaelic games.

The President concluded by wishing all present every success for the future.

He was delighted to meet and be photographed with members of Fr. Murphy's, whom he referred to as the Clonakilty girls!

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Fr Murphy's opened their Senior Camogie League campaign with a 1-08 to 0-03 win against Croydon at Greenford on Sunday last, 10th June.

It was a real battle with scores hard to come by early on and both teams fighting for everything. Gradually the Murphy's girls gained the upper hand, reaching the half way mark with a 0-05 to 0-02 score in their favour following some great scores including two long distance points from Lorraine Dolan, making her first appearance for the Murphy's.

The second half started with the same intensity, Bronagh McLernon was flying at centre back, whilst new captain Zoe Power and Adrienne Cormican were contolling centrefield. Thressa McConnell and Sinead Kirk kept the Croydon backs busy, and another debutant Aisling Chaney fought for a ball in the corner before unleashing a fierce shot into the Croydon net the make the score Fr Murphy's 1-06 to Croydon's 0-03.

Thressa McConnell was then pulled down on her way goalwards. She got up and took the penalty herself and sent it over the bar. Aisling Chaney completed the scoring with a neat point from the right hand side. Michelle Culligan made a return to the Murphys after six years and when introduced showed she had not lost most of her old touches.

Fr Murphy's: Melanie Hogan, Anne Marie Keogh , Liz McGrath, Donna Byrne, Aoibhinn McKenna, Bronagh McLernon, Dearbhaille Heavey, Adrienne Cormican, Zoe Power(capt.), Aisling Chaney, Claire Laverty, Lorraine Dolan, Sinead Kirk, Thressa McConnell, Anna Gibson, Michelle Culligan.

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For the first time in a few years Fr Murphy's participated in the Provincial 9 a side football competition held at Pairc na hEireaann, Birmingham. 14 girls travelled and overall had a great day in the blazing heat.

First up was a rematch of the 2009 All Britain final against John Mitchells from Liverpool. The Murphy's were down three points to one at half time, but a goal from Thressa McConnell after the break and points from Sinead Daly and Claire Maguire, who was making her debut for Fr Murphy's, and a great save from Sarah Burns right at the end sealed a win on a scoreline of 1-03 to John Mitchells 0-05.

Next up were Luton's Claddagh Gaels. The Murphy's girls really started to click and played some great football. Thressa McConnell hit two goals, and points from Sinead Daly, Laura Power, Aoife Linnane, Claire Maguire and restored full forward Sarah Burns saw the Murphy's ran out 3-08 to 1-02 winners against a very sporting Claddagh team.

In the final group game the girls in purple and gold faced Oisins of Manchester and goals from Sinead Daly and Thressa McConnell had them leading 2-03 to 0-01 at the break. In the second half Oisins came out all guns blazing and it was the turn of the Fr Murphy's defenders to show just how good they were, restricting the Manchester side to a point. The game finished 2-06 to 0-02 in favour of the Fr Murphy's. Fr Murphy's had topped a very tough group.

Quarter finals next and John Mitchell's of Birmingham the opposition. This was some performance – an exhibition of all that is good in football. Sinead Daly led the way with 2-02, followed by Claire Maguire on 1-03 , Laura Power on 1-01 whilst Thressa McConnell and Mary Geoghan hit two points a piece as Murphy's entered the Semi Final on a 4-10 to 0-02 scoreline.

The semi final was a big London derby against Parnell's. Disappointingly the Murphy's got drawn into a tough battle down the centre of the field and were 3 points to 1 down at the break. After half time they threw everything at the Parnell's rearguard, who were prepared to concede free after free. Murphy's missed a few but fought back to level at 3 a piece. On a rare journey into the Murphy's half Parnell's were awarded a close in free which was converted, and amazingly after that the referee blew the final whistle, with Fr Murphy's loosing out by the narrowest of margins.

Still it was a great day for the club, amassing 10 goals and 30 points whilst only conceeding 1.15 and now looking forward to the Provincial championship where they face Oisins of Manchester in Birmingham on Saturday June 9th at 11 am.

The panel that traveled to Birmigham was Sarah Burns, Mary Geoghegan, Eileen Rowesome, Sinead White, Laura Power, Eimear McGann, Claire Maguire, Thressa McConnell, Jane O’Connell, Sinead Daly, Mary Bennett, Aoife Linnane, Michelle Richardson, Lorraine O’Malley.

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The club are delighted to recommend The Huntress Group in Hammersmith to anybody looking for a job - temporary or permanent.

Anybody interested should send their CV to Liz Nolan, on liz.nolan@huntressgroup.com. or call her on 0208 742 6100.

Liz, who will shorltly be playing football with us would be delighted to hear from any club members and will do her best to help you. Check out the groups website on www.huntressgroup.com

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Fr Murphy's bounced back after last weekend’s narrow defeat to Tara, in a great game of football against Holloway Gaels at Ruislip on Saturday last, 28th April.

In the wind and rain with slippery underfoot conditions both teams served up good football. Fr Murphy's opened up the scoring with a point from Niamh Keane, but this was soon equalised by Holloway’s Bonny Fleming. Ashling Clifford then had the Holloway Gaels ahead with a point before Murphy's Carol Anne O Kane hit a point to equalise. This was followed by the score of the day – a wonderful long range point from centre forward Mary Geoghegan.

Whilst the Murphy's continued to press, Holloway goaled through Aishling Clifford, but back again came Murphy’s and points from Sarah Burns and Carol Anne O’Kane, and a goal from Niamh Keane saw them 1-05 to 1-03 ahead at half time.

Mary Bennett was introduced after half time and Murphy's continued to press, hitting two quickfire points to increase their lead to 4 points. Holloway were then awarded a penalty, which Aisling Clifford despatched to the net to leave only a point in it. Straight after Holloway moved in on goal but Claire Towey made a blinding save and cleared the ball down the field. Thressa McConnell, now playing further forward, played two return passes with Aoife Linnane before blasting the ball into the Holloway net to secure the points for Fr Murphy's on a scoreline of 2-09 to 2-04.

Congratulations to the Birthday girls Niamh Keane and Eileen Rowesome, who both had outstanding games, and to the whole team on such a display of sheer heart and determination.

Team: Claire Towey, Eimear McGann, Thressa McConnell, Sinead White, Eileen Rowesome, Sinead Daly, Laura Power, Mary Geoghegan, Lorraine O’Malley, Carol Anne O’Kane, Niamh Keane, Mary Geoghan, Michelle Breheney, Sarah Burns, Michelle Richardson

Subs: Mary Bennett, Katie McCormack, Anna Gibson, Zoe Power, Jane O’Connell, Mairead White.

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Fr Murphy's Ladies Footballers played Tara at Greenford on Sunday in their second game in the 2012 Senior League. It was very difficult to pick the Murphy’s team with a panel of 24 – with many new players, getting them in the right positions and their lack of match time together – but there is a lot to work on.

It all started on a high note with Laura Power bursting through for the opening score. Disaster struck then, however, when a vicious shot had Aoife Linnane driving across the goal only for the ball to come back off the crossbar and a Tara forward tapped it into the net. Jackie Shiels regained the lead with a point, but this was soon equalised for Tara by a similar score by Gemma Taylor. Tara then followed up by two quick goals to leave the score 3-03 to 1-03 in their favour.

A few positional switches had the Murphy's firing again, and Carol Anne O’Kane picked up a ball on the wing and floated over a great point. Gemma Taylor replied for Tara before Murphy's took over once again. Maria Keane kicked two points and the score was now 1-07 to 3-04. Murphy's missed a few scoreable chances and Tara in only their third venture into Murphy's half goaled. It looked game over, but back roared the girls in purple and gold and a goal and a point by Jackie Shiels brought them within two points again, but they just could not get the equalising scores.

Next up are Holloway Gaels on Saturday 28th April at Ruislip at 11a.m. in the Senior League.

Team: Aoife Linnane, Eimear McGann, Sinead Daly, Sinead White, Mairead White, Thressa McConnell, Carol Anne O Kane, Niamh Keane, Laura Power, Sarah Burns, Mary Geoghegan, Zoe Power, Michelle Richardson, Jackie Shiels, Michelle Breheney
Subs: Claire Towey, Lorraine O Malley, Maria Keane, Anna Gibson, Katie McCormack, Catherina Mc Sweeney, Mary Bennett, Karen Keating.

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Fr Murphy's ladies lined up for their first football league of the year against Kingdom/Kerry Gaels in Greenford on Sunday, 15th April.
Although short a few requlars and with a few new faces the girls put up a tremendous show.

They bombarded the KKG goal from the throw in, with Sarah Kelly making two smart saves from Michelle Richardson. Points from Thressa McConnell and Jackie Shiels had them in front before Thressa burst through for the opening goal. Niamh Keane and Laura Power controlled centrefield, whilst Zoe Power and Sarah Burns gave the options wide out on the wings. Goals followed from Niamh Keane and centre forward Mary Geoghan and to close the half Laura blasted to the KKG net to leave the score 3-05 to 0-00 in the Murphy's favour.

Jackie Shiels, who had just returned from injury, came off at halftime and was replaced by Anna Gibson, who with here first touch split the posts for a great point. The girls kept the scoreboard ticking over during the second half and played some delightful football along the way. Thressa McConnell scored her second goal, then Mary Geoghan hit a sceamer into the KKG net and the scoring was completed by Anna Gibson, who pounced on a ball at the edge of the square and rifled home a great goal.

Final score was Fr Murphy's 6-09 to KKG's no score.

Team: Aoife Linnane, Eimear McGann, Sinead White, Bronagh McLernon, Mary Dalton, Thressa McConnell, Eileen Rowesome, Laura Power, Niamh Keane,
Sarah Burns, Mary Geoghan, Zoe Power, Jane O Connell, Jackie Shiels, Michelle Richardson, Anna Gibson

Next up for Fr. Murphy's is Tara at Greenford on Sunday 22nd April.

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Anne-Marie Keogh, Fr. Murphy's is pictured presenting the winning prize in the Fr. Murphy's / Clonakilty Plackpudding Co. St. Patrick's Day Raffle

The Fr. Murphy's Ladies Draw at St Gabriel's, South Harrow was a great success. Many thanks to Anne Marie Keogh, Danny Keogh and all at St Gabriels as well as Monahan's Cafe, Northolt Road.

The Prize winners were:

A big thank you from the club to all who supported this raffle

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Fr. Murphy's were out in force on both Saturday and Sunday last to celebrate St. Patrick's Day. The weekend kicked off with a street collection in Twickenham on Saturday, followed by the girls in purple and gold carrying the provincial banners for the parade in London on Sunday.

Above are some pictures of the weekend. For more, visit us on Facebook

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The St. Gabriel's Sports and Social Club, Northolt Road, South Harrow are kindly hosting a raffle on behalf of Fr. Murphy's on Sunday night, 18th March.

First prize is a full breakfast hamper, kindly donated by our sponsor Clonakilty Blackpudding Co. Other prizes available include admission for two to Kempton Park Racecourse, Dinner for 2 at The Crown Hotel, and Dinner for 4 at Waxy O'Connors.

Tickets are on sale now at St. Gabriel's Club and Monaghan's Cafe, both in South Harrow.

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Back L-R: Larry O'Leary, Mel Hogan (captain), Anna Gibson, Mairi Mulveena, Sinead Kirk, Liz McGrath, Sandra Martin, Sinead O'Neill, Thressa McConnell.

Front L-R: Adrianne Cormickan, Anne Marie Keogh, Zoe Power, Aoife Linnane, Moya Maginn, Sean Howlin.

The Birmingham International Womens Camogie Tournament took place last weekend, Saturday 10th March, in Holly Lane, with eight teams competing for the prestigous trophy - Fr Murphy's, Fullen Gaels,Erin go Bragh,Liverpool/Manchester, Croydon,Liverpool University,John Mitchels and Tara.

Anyone watching the first game Fr Murphy's v Fullen Gaels would not have given the girls in purple and gold much hope. They looked lethargic and lost 3 points to 1. They improved throughout the morning though to finish second in the group and reach the semi final.

In the other group, Croydon beat a very strong Liverpool University, who then turned the group upside down by beating Tara. A three way tie followed in the group, with Liverpool losing out on a semi-final spot on score difference

The rivalry between Tara and Fr Murphy's was as fierce as ever and their semi final was competitive and fast-paced. The girls in purple and gold scored in the first minute with a goal from Moya Mcginn, which was soon equalised by Angela Kenneally from Tara. Adrienne Cormican then pointed to restore Murphy's lead and Sandra Martin added another approaching half time, but soon after Bid Grennan goaled for Tara to leave them 2.01 to 1.02 at the break.

Bid Grennan goaled for Tara again straight after half time and Tara were then five points up and cruising. But Fr. Murphy's were not giving up easily and unleashed constant attacks on the Tara's goal. Super sub Mairi Mulvenna added a point for them, followed by another from Adienne Cormican and then a great sweeping move started by Sinead O’Neill and ended with Zoe Power hitting a goal. The scores were tied and Fr Murphy's surged forward. Aoife Linnane had a ball cleared off the line, resulting in a 45 which Sandra Martin pointed. Sinead O’Neill had a great game marking Denise Gilligan and her bursts out of the defence in such a tight match lifted the whole team. Fr Murphy's had dethroned the reigning champions after a breathetaking encounter.

Croydon faced Fullen Gaels in the other semi final and for a long time it was a tight encounter. A very hungry Croydon side were running out of steam, however, and a quick goal by Fullen saw them through to the final.

As a curtain raiser the shield final between Liverpool University and hosts Erin go Bragh took place with the Birmingham side starting well, but Liverpool ran out winners in the end.

The Cup Final was on and Fullen Gaels got off to a flying start against Murphy/s, putting over two long range points. The girls in purple and gold then got tuned in and Zoe Power goaled to leave the half time score Fr Murphy's 1-00 v 0-02 Fullen Gaels.

The second half started with Fullen getting a point immediately to equalise, but Murphy's struck back with a similar score. The Manchester side went ahead but Murphy's fought back and at full time the game was level Fr Murphy's 1-02 v 0-05 Fullen Gaels. Extra time ensued and it was tough and fully committed, both sides clearly wanted that trophy. Fr Murphy's are renowned for never giving up and really had the heart for the battle on Saturday. Sandra Martin gained them the lead with a goal, Sinead O Neill was cleaning up at full back and with ‘keeper Mel Hogan's puck outs were hitting her forwards, Aoife Linnane latched onto one of these and scored her third goal of the afternoon.

Fr Murphy's won the tournament for the third time on a final score of 3-03 to 0-05. Sandra Martin was also named player of the match in the final.

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As announced at the recent AGM, Clonakilty Blackpudding Co. have agreed to sponsor the Fr. Murphy's Ladies for the 2012 season. The club are naturally delighted with this deal and are looking forward to receiving their new playing kit and leisure wear.

The Cork based company are also delighted to have linked up with Fr. Murphy's and both parties are striving for a big impression on the playing fields and markets of the UK in 2012.

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Three Fr. Murphy's players received their All Star awards on Saturday night, 4th February at a function in The Corrib Rest, Kilburn.

Pictured are Jackie Shiels (left) who received a Ladies Football All-Star and Thressa McConnell who received a London Camogie All-Star. Unavoidably absent on the night was Bronagh McLernon (far right) who also received a London Camogie All-Star.

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Fr. Murphy's held a very successful AGM on Thursday last, 19th January. The following officers were elected:

Chairperson - Larry O'Leary
Vice Chairperson - Sinead Daly
Secretary - Thressa McConnell
Asst. Secretary - Liz McGrath
Treasurer - Eileen Rowsome
PRO - Ruth Foley
Registrar - Anne Marie Keogh
Children's Officer - Jane O'Connell

Several events have already been organised for 2012 beginning with a paintballing day out at Brickett Wood on Saturday January 28th, with a social evening afterwards in Waxy O'Connors. Further details are available from Thressa.

Everything is now in place for the trip to Kerry at the end of February. There are still a couple of places left on the flights if anybody else is interested in travelling.

The biggest news of the night was the new sponsorship deal with Clonakilty Black Pudding, which will see a new playing strip and leisure wear arriving soon. The club are very grateful for this and will work tirelessly to promote the product in London for the coming year.

The club is very thankful to everybody to helped during 2011 - players, administrators, especially Sean Howlin for his management of the Camogie team and all the sponsors for the golf evening.

Both Camogie and Ladies Football are geared up for success in 2012.

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Congratulations to Bronagh McLernon and Thressa McConnell who have been honoured with London Camogie All-Stars, and also Jackie Shiels who has been chosen to receive a Ladies Football All-Star.

The joint awards ceremony takes place on Saturday 4th February in The Corrib Rest, Kilburn. Tickets are £35 and available from the club or any member of either County Board.

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Fr. Murphy's Ladies Footballers return to the Madejski Stadium on Sunday 8th January, where they will take on St. Anthony's of Reading

in a half time exhibition game during the London Irish v Sale Aviva Premiership game.

All players are requested to be at the stadium at 2.30pm, where their tickets will await them.

Anybody wishing to follow the two teams and see the rugby game can obtain tickets through www.london-irish.com

Afterwards both teams will meet in The Gateway, Greyfriars Road, Reading, where host Martin O'Sullivan will have a great welcome for all.

Pictured above is action from the last meeting of the two teams at the Madejski.

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Fr. Murphy's Camogie and Ladies Football Club would like to thank all their sponsors and supporters for all their help during the year and would like to wish everyone a happy Christmas.

Nollaig Shona agus Athliain faoi Mhaise Dhaoibh go léir

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Fr. Murphy's Ladies Footballers are due to play at the Madejski Stadium, home of London Irish, on Sunday 8th January 2012.

They will take on St. Anthony's of Reading in a half time exhibition match during the Aviva Premiership game between London Irish and Sale.

Both clubs are most thankful to London Irish for affording them the opportunity to perform there again this year.

Fr. Murphy's would appreciate as much support as possible.

Tickets are available through the London Irish website www.london-irish.com or the ticket office on 0844 249 1871

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Fr. Murphy's Ladies Footballers are making the trip to Dingle in Kerry to participate in the Comórtas Peile Páidí Ó Sé from the 24th to the 27th of February 2012.

The girls in purple and gold are drawn in a group with Drumlane of Cavan, Killeavey of Armagh and our friends St. Anthony's from Reading.

A great weekend of football and craic is assured with many former Murphy's players, now returned to Ireland, due to join the club in West Kerry.

Páidí himself met with representatives of travelling clubs in London recently and is pictured below with Larry O'Leary.

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Larrry O'Leary, Chairman Fr. Murphy's is pictured above making presentations to Amy O'Shea (left) and Ann Marie Walsh, Cork Ladies Footballers who won the Senior All-Ireland Final this year.

The girls brought the Brendan Martin Cup to St. Gabriel's in South Harrow on Friday night last, 2nd December.

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Fr. Murphy's presents:

Golf Evening and Dinner

at

Top Golf Centre,

Bushey Mill Lane, Herts, WD24 7AB

on Friday 25th November 2011 at 6.30pm.

Click on the link to see further details, or contact Larry O'Leary on 07944178879 or larrygaa@gmail.com

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Good luck to Fr. Murphy's footballers in the Provincial Football Plate Final this Saturday, 8th October in Birmingham.

The girls in purple and gold take on KKG.

Thursday 6th October 2011

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Caitriona McKeon, Wicklow captain, pictured in Croke Park on Captains Day

Fr. Murphy's wish their two former players Caitriona McKeon and Lorna Fusciardi the very best when they line out for Wicklow in the All Ireland Ladies Junior Football final replay on Sunday against New York in Croke Park.

Caitriona played with Fr. Murphy's between 2000 and 2005 and actually captained the footballers in their 2004 London Senior Championship Final. She now has the honour of captaining her native county in an All Ireland. Lorna also played with Fr. Murphy's in 2010.

We would also like to wish Bronagh Sheridan the best of luck with Cavan in the Intermediate Final.

20 September 2011

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Fr. Murphy's took on Bros. Pearse in the final round of group games in the 2011 London Senior Camogie Championship on Sunday last, July 17th at Greenford and came away winners on a scoreline of 3-11 to 0-01.

In spite of the final scoreline, Fr. Murphy's struggled to get going in the first half. Sinead O'Neill goaled from a long range free early on but scores were scarce and at the break the girls in purple and gold lead by only 1-02 to 0-01.

The second half saw a much more determined Fr. Murphy's team take to the pitch. Points were put on the scoreboard by Norah Costigan and Sinead O'Neill and then Thressa McConnell, after having two efforts rebound off the crossbar, goaled to put daylight between the sides.

Sinead O'Neill got another point after a fantastic pass from Siobhan O'Neill, and then a brace of points from Thressa McConnell, the second a sublime effort curled over from near the corner flag, had the girls in purple and gold flying.

More scores followed with points from Adrianne Cormickan and Sinead O'Neill, followed by a fantastic goal by Anna Gibson, and the last word was left to Norah Costigan with another point.

Fr. Murphy's now face Croydon in the Senior Championship Semi Final at Greenford on Saturday 23rd July at 10am. Tara face Bros. Pearse in the other semi final at 11.30am. The final takes place in Ruislip on Saturday 30th - time TBC.

Fr. Murphy's: Mel Hogan, Moya Maginn, Anne-Marie Keogh, Liz McGrath, Aoife Waters, Bronagh McLernon, Zoe Power, Adrianne Cormickan, Norah Costigan, Brenda Kerr, Sinead O'Neill, Siobhan O'Neill, Anna Gibson, Thressa McConnell, Laura Tarpey.

Monday 18th July 2011

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Fr. Murphy's Ladies Footballers got a good win in the League on Wednesday night last in Greenford, beating KKG 1-10 v 1-02.

This Fr. Murphy's team are coming together well this year and have gotten a number of comprehensive wins under their belt in the past number of weeks.

It was an all-round strong performance by the girls in purple and gold. Scorers on the night were Jackie Shiels (0-05), Paula Middleton (1-01), Lisa Finnegan (0-02), Aoife Waters (0-01), Lorraine O'Malley (0-01).

Fr. Murphy's: Ruth Foley, Aoife O'Hanlon, Thressa McConnell, Sinead White, Claire Woodhouse, Sinead Daly, Cathy O'Neill, Lorraine O'Malley, Aoife Waters, Liz Breen, Jackie Shiels, Lisa Finnegan, Paula Middleton, Siobhan O'Neill, Michelle Richardson. Subs: Tara Davies, Jane O'Connell.

8 July 2011

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Fr. Murphy's played their second game in the 2011 Provincial Football Championship in Greenford yesterday, the 3rd July. In a re-match of the first round of the London Champioship, the girls in purple and gold took on a Tara side who had beaten them comprehensively in the earlier fixture.

This was to be a different affair, however, and although missing a number of key players, Fr. Murphy's put up a very strong performance. The game was tight throughout, but it was two controversial second half penalties for Tara and a very controversial sin binning for Fr. Murphy's Aoife Waters that turned the game in Tara's favour. They ran out eventual winners by the slightest of margins on a scoreline of 3-07 to 3-06.

The Fr. Murphy's scores came from Jackie Shiels (2-04), Aoife Waters (1-00) and Laura Dunne (0-02).

Fr. Murphy's team: Ruth Foley, Clare Woodhouse, Thressa McConnell (C), Aoife O'Hanlon, Sinead White, Aoife Waters, Cathy O'Neill, Siobhan O'Neill, Lorraine O'Malley, Michelle Richardson, Jackie Shiels, Laura Dunne, Anita Donoghue, Paula Middleton, Eileen Rowsome. Subs: Jane O'Connell, Tara Davies, Caoimhe Cusack Smith.

Next game is Wednesday 6th July v KKG at Greenford at 7.30pm.

Monday 4th July 2011

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Fr. Murphy's got off to a winning start in the 2011 London Senior Camogie Championship with a comprehensive 5-04 to 1-06 win over Croydon at Greenford on Saturday last, 2nd July.

Although it is a year since last year's Senior Championship final, the girls in purple and gold didn't take long to dust off the cobwebs and Catherine Moran opened the scoring with a fine point. Ruth Foley added a further point and Eleanor Hughes got a goal to leave Fr. Murphy's leaving 1-02 to 0-03 at half time.

In the second half, Fr. Murphy's upped a gear and worked tirelessly all over the pitch. Eleanor Huges bagged a second goal, and Sinead O'Neill came forward from full back to take a penalty which was saved but she was alert to pick up the breaking ball and ensure it finished in the back of the net. Laura Tarpey and Niamh Keane added further goals and Catherine Moran added two further points to leave the final score 5-04 to 1-06.

A number of players made their championship debut for Fr. Murphy's on the day - Tyrone's Sinead O'Neill, Moya Maginn of Armagh, Wexford's Aoife Waters, Galway's Catherine Moran, Siobhan O'Neill from Waterford, Laura Tarpey and Caoimhe Cusack Smith. Well done to all of these girls.

Team: Mel Hogan (C), Liz McGrath, Sinead O'Neill, Moya Maginn, Anne-Marie Keogh, Bronagh McLernon, Zoe Power, Ruth Foley, Aoife Waters, Niamh Keane, Catherine Moran, Sue Harding, Anna Gibson, Siobhan O'Neill, Eleanor Hughes. Subs: Laura Tarpey, Caoimhe Cusack-Smith.

Next weekend sees a re-match of last year's final when Fr. Murphy's take on Tara in Greenford on Saturday. Time TBC.

On Sunday, the footballers took on Tara in the Provincial Football Championship. Missing a number of key players, the girls in purple and gold put in an excellent performance and were unlucky to have two controversial penalties given against them in the second half and the game finished with Tara winning by a point.

The next football fixture is this Wednesday 6th July against KKG at Greenford at 7.30pm.

Sunday 3rd July 2011

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Higgins Recruitment Services are now hiring bar and catering staff for Lord's Cricket Ground this summer. Anybody interested should contact Martina Higgins at 07867 540 088.

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At Greenford on Wednesday night 22nd June, the footballers of Fr Murphy’s met Holloway Gaels in the second round of the London Senior Championship. Holloway have been steadily improving, whilst Murphy’s after the glory years of 2007, 2008 and 2009 had been going through a lean time.

The game was only three minutes old when Paula Middleton pointed for the Fr Murphy’s, and this was followed by a monster point by full forward Siobhan O Neill, followed by similar scores from the Meath duo of Lisa Finegan and Jackie Shiels. This had the girls in purple and gold four points ahead when Holloway staged a revival with a point from Helen O Hagan. Then Nicky Fitzgerald, who enjoyed a right battle with fellow Dubliner Tressa McConnell, pointed to make it two for Holloway. The ball was played back up the pitch through a brilliant passing movement between Aoife Waters, Sinead Daly and Lorraine O’Malley before finding Jackie Shiels, who blasted a goal for Fr Murphy’s to leave them 1-04 to O-O3 ahead at the break, after what had been a hard uncompromising half of football.

The Fr Murphy’s mentors made a few positional switches at the break and on the re start debutant Laura Dunne pointed to increase Murphy’s lead and she followed that with a goal, before being brought down for a penalty which Jackie Shiels stuck away. Holloway were finding it very hard to get through the Fr Murphy’s backs, but on the odd occasion they did  they found goalkeeper Ruth Foley in fine form. Laura Dunne then goaled again before Jackie Shiels, hit a rocket into Bridget Browne’s net but the last word was left to Laura Dunne, who  sent a low shot to the left hand corner of the net to leave the final score Fr Murphy’s 6-09 Holloway Gaels 0-06.

All in all it has been a great week for Fr Murphy’s footballers as  last weekend they beat John Mitchells  of Liverpool in the Provincial championship and they now go on to face Tara’s in that competition, on July 3rd at Greenford.

In what was a busy night throughout the county for ladies football, Fulham Irish beat Tara 5.11 to 2.08 in the Mary Feehan Cup Quarter final at Northolt and they go on to meet Fr Murphy’s in the semi final which is scheduled for 20th July.

Fr. Murphy’s wish captain Sinead Daly a speedy recovery from injury sustained during their win over Holloway Gaels.

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Thanks to Ladbrokes

Fr. Murphy's would like to thank Aisling Fennin of Ladbrokes Ireland for giving the club a hospitality package for the recent Cheltenham festival, which was auctioned and raised £500 for the club.

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St. Ibar's / Shelmalier team from Wexford who played Fr. Murphy's

Match report

In freezing temperatures at Colindale last Saturday 29th January, Fr. Murphy's and St. Ibar's / Shelmalier from Wexford served up a great camogie game in front of a sizeable crowd.

St. Ibar's had Kate Kelly, an All Ireland winner and All Star in their ranks, and when she pointed after four minutes it looked like it would be the expected stroll in the park for the Wexford girls. A new look, determined Fr. Murphy's side had other ideas, however, and Antrim girl Mairi Mulveena quickly equalised from a free. Kate Kelly put the visitors ahead with two more points before Sue Harding moved to midfield for the home team and swung over a fine point.

Mel Hogan was in blinding form in goal and newcomer Sinead O'Neill slotted in brilliantly at full back, ably assisted by Liz McGrath and Anne-Marie Keogh on either side. St. Ibar's found goals impossible to come by past this combination but they tacked two more points to lead 0-05 to 0-02. Then a clearance from Sinead O'Neill reached Zoe Power, who picked out Mairi Mulveena, who in turn blasted a goal from an acute angle to leave the half time score reading Fr. Murphy's 1-02 St. Ibar's/Shelmalier 0-06.

The second half got underway with Fr. Murphy's again battling for everything, although the heavy pitch and cold weather began to take its toll. Kate Kelly was the major difference between the two sides and she was able to tap over another point to keep the visitors in the lead. With ten minutes to go, the score read Fr. Murphy's 1-04 St. Ibar's / Shelmalier 0-08. Then the Wexford girls finally got the goal they had been searching for.

Still the girls in purple and gold dug deep, battling for everything, and they hurled with great skill adding another point. With two minutes to go, St. Ibar's rattled in another two goals giving them a flattering winning margin of 3-08 to 1-05.

Sean Howlin has brought a youthful exuberance to this Murphy's team and all are looking forward to the 2011 season.

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.Eimear O'Higgins making a presentation to Cork player Noel O'Leary

Claire Towey making a presentation to Cork player Michael Shields

Fr. Murphy's players and Larry O'Leary, Club Chairman, pictured with Cork footballers Noel O'Leary and Michael Shields

Michael Shields and Noel O'Leary, Cork footballers and Larry O'Leary (centre) pictured with the Sam Maguire cup.

Fr. Murphy's Golf Day and Dinner

Fr. Murphy's Camogie and Ladies Gaelic Football Club, and Fr. Murphy's Juvenile Hurling Club present a fundraising

GOLF DAY AND DINNER

On Friday 3rd December, 2010

At the West Middlesex Golf Club, Greenford Road

Full round of golf, breakfast and evening dinner £60

Sponsor a hole £100

Evening dinner only £25

Special guests members of the All Ireland Football Champions

CORK with the SAM MAGUIRE CUP

Further details contact Larry O'Leary 07944178879

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Fr. Murphy's play at the Madejski

Fr. Murphy's Ladies would like to thank London Irish Rugby Club for inviting us to perform an exhibition game at the Madejski Stadium on Saturday last, 2nd October.

They would also like to thank St. Anthony's for a great match, Catherine Keeley of Butlers Chocolate Cafe, Westfield Shopping Centre for the Player of the Match award, and Martin O'Sullivan for his wonderful hospitality at The Gateway.

The Fr. Murphy's team who performed at the Madejski Stadium

Lorna Fusciardi (centre), Fr. Murphy's receiving her Player of the Match award from Catherine Keeley, Butlers Chocolate Cafe, Westfield Shopping Centre

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Good luck Susan!

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Fr. Murphy's would like to wish their former footballer Susan Byrne luck as she represents Louth in an All Ireland Junior Football Final this weekend. Louth play Limerick in Croke Park on Sunday.

The Fr. Murphy's footballers who won the Plate competition at the Joe Fryday 9-a-side tournament. L-R: Larry O'Leary, Fiona Noone, Liz Breen, Jenny Hannon, Jade O'Neill, Sinead Kirk, Eimear O'Higgins, Eavan McCrudden, Donna McBride, Lisa Finnegan, Conor Coneely

Fr. Murphy's had a busy day on both the camogie and ladies football pitches on Saturday last, September 11th.

The camogie team travelled to Dublin for the All Ireland 7s at Kilmacud Crokes. They were drawn in a very difficult group against St. John's of Belfast, Mullaghbawn of Armagh and Portumna of Galway. Unfortunately the girls didn't qualify from their group but they battled hard, with Melanie Hogan putting in some fine performances between the posts, particularly against her home club Portumna.

The footballers also lined out in the Joe Fryday 9-a-side tournament in Greenford, where they were the winners of the Plate competition. After a disappointing season by their own standards, they were trying to salvage something from 2010. They started the day with only six players and lost to a strong Dulwich side in their first game.

They were up against Holloway Gaels next, when they were joined by Liz Breen and Fiona Noone. Goals from both Breen and Noone had the girls in purple and gold ahead early in the second half, but Holloway hit back to win by a single point. It was now all or nothing for the Murphy's when they faced the selection team. Powerful running from the back by Jenny Hannon, Donna McBride and Jade O'Neill, with Liz Breen and Lisa Finnegan controlling the middle and Fiona Noone, Eimear O'Higgins and Eavan McCrudden causing havoc with their runs up front ensured a win for the girls in purple and gold.

Fr. Murphy's qualified for the plate semi final where they faced St. Anthony's of Reading, a game in which Sinead Kirk had been persuaded to return and play in goal for. Fiona Noone hit a hatrick to take the team through to the final, where they again met the selection team.

The final was very entertaining and Fr. Murphy's were again victorious, this time by a margin of six points, to lift the plate.

Parnells and Fulham Irish fought out the shield final, with Parnells winning 3-07 to 1-03.

Fr. Murphy's wish Laois Rose, Bernadette Ryan the very best of luck in the Rose of Tralee finals!

Bernadette played for Fr. Murphy's in their historic 2008 season. She picked up Camogie Senior Championship and Senior League winners medals, and she was part of the team that made history by beating Donard Glen of Wicklow in the Leinster quarter final.

Former Fr. Murphy's footballers captaining their counties

Three former Fr. Murphy's players are representing their counties this weekend in various competitions in Ireland.

Footballer Susan Byrne (pictured above left) is representing Louth, while dual players Caitriona McKeon (above) is captaining Wicklow in the Leinster Final and Laureena Murphy (above right) is captaining Kilkenny against Longford in the Intermediate All Ireland Championship.

The club wishes the girls every success in their respective competitions.

Fr.Murphy’s 3-08
Tara 1-12

A pulsating game of football in The Mary Feehan Cup saw a Fr. Murphy’s team of 12 players overcome Tara who had 14, in what turned out to be a memorable match.

The match started with Tara, scoring 1-05 without reply from Murphy’s, but the purple and gold brigade got going, rifling over some great points.
Eimear O Higgins was denied a goal by the Tara keeper, but fired the next ball over the bar. This was quickly followed by a point by Linda Tighe, leaving the half time score Tara 1-06 Fr. Murphy’s 0-05.

The second half began with Tara going seven points ahead. Then disaster struck for the Fr.Murphy’s as defender Cathy O’Neill broke her collar bone in an accidental challenge. The girls in purple and gold were now down to 11 players.

However, the sheer determination and refusal to give up that Fr. Murphy’s are renowned for shone through. Sinead Daly ran at the Tara defence at every opportunity, Claire Towey and Orna Tiernan were accurate in their passes, and then Natalie O Connor stormed through and was brought down and a penalty was awarded.

Lisa Finnegan stepped forward and slotted it home. Not satisfied with that, however, she raced to catch the kick out and sent that into the net again, for the sides to be level.

Linda Tighe, having played delightful football all night, then grabbed the ball and sent a blistering shot to the Tara net once again. Lisa Finnegan added a point to leave the score Fr Murphy’s 3-06 Tara 1- 09. Tara did get a bit of momentum going and pegged back the lead to two points, but Murphy’s hit two more.

With time almost up Tara went looking for a goal and a blistering shot was tipped over the bar by Ruth Foley in The Fr.Murphy’s goal. The game finished Fr Murphy’s 3-08 Tara 1-12.

It shows tremendous strength and club spirit that four girls – Eimear O’ Higgins, Bronagh McLernon, Ruth Foley and Claire Towey – after the heartbreak of losing a county Camogie final on Saturday, were there tonight giving everything for the football team.

The Murphy’s send their best wishes to Cathy O Neill for a speedy recovery from injury.