ARDEE CS SECURE ALL-IRELAND TITLE

THEY were the kings of Leinster and ultimately there was no stopping them when they stood on the edge of glory last Saturday in Newbridge.

Playing in the All-Ireland Schools C final, they faced St Declans of Waterford but when the final whistle blew, Ardee Community School were simply unbeatable.

They secured the historic win on a 1-9 to 0-3 scoreline and Anthony Durnin’s men dominated from start to finish.

The Westerns clubman and teacher has been a huge driving force for a unique group of young players, from St Mary’s John Mitchels, the Westerns and Mattock Rangers.

They have looked the part of champions from early this season, but knew Saturday would be a test of their mental strength as well.

The praise has come from all quarters. All the clubs associated with the players gave them warm congratulations this week, images of their men with a treasured All-Ireland trophy adorned their social media pages. This was a success worth heralding.

Local councillor Dolores Minogue, who also suggested a Civic Reception for the side - remarked, ‘so every so often we have a reason to be proud about our great wee town. Today, that goes to Ardee Community School and Anthony Durnin. For the first time the School won an All Ireland Championship, Great teams got close before ,but this year our young players were outstanding, this did not come easy as many days and hours were spent training and great commitment was given by all, especially those who are getting ready for exams. Delighted that your hard work and commitment paid of for you young lads . Big congrats to Captain Conor Gillespie and Team.’

A very slick and talented side, Ardee led by half time but when Carl Gillespie found the net in the second half the game was truly going their way. St Declan’s had a man sent off on 27 minutes.

Jonathan Commins was masterful, scorimg 0-6, Ciaran Keenan, Tristan Knowles and Conor Gillespie also on target.

To their credit St Declan’s still continued to battle on, holding Ardee scoreless in the final ten minutes.

ARDEE CS: Alan McGauley, Cian Taaffe, Jack Grimes, Andrew Bingham, Cathal Fleming, Donal McKenny, Gavin Kirk, Neil Kerr, Liam Jackson, Trevor Mathews, Conor Gillespie (0- 01), Tristan Knowles (0-01), Ciaran Keenan (0-01), Carl Gillespie (1-00), Jonathan Commins (0-06 frees). Subs: Sean Sweeney for Trevor Matthews, Joe Mullholland for Gavin Kirk, Marc Ward for Cian Taaffe.