The Corkman

Macroom clinch first AOH Cup semi-final spot since 2010

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MACROOM A have qualified for the semi-finals of the AOH Cup having secured a 2-0 win over St John Boscos B at Mayfield.

This was a dangerous game played in difficult conditions as Boscos, who play in the third division had absolutely nothing to lose here.

In fairness to Macroom, they were very workmanlik­e and were in control for much of this game. The opening goal arrived midway through the first half. The referee whistled for a hand ball in the penalty area and Keith Holden made no mistake from the spot.

The Midleton-based opponents increased the pressure in the second period but Macroom were never really threatened. And a quick Macroom counter attack saw Holden through on goal and he duly obliged, making it 2-0.

Best were Holden, Andrew Hegarty, Ian Winters and Caleb Dineen. For the first time since 2010, a place in the last four has been secured.

Village United have also reached the semis while the remaining quarter finals (Coachford v Innishvill­a A and City Wanderers v Temple Utd) were postponed due to bad weather last weekend.

In the Premier A League, Macroom A suffered a setback when they fell to a 3-1 away defeat to fellow title chasers Kanturk. This was a difficult fixture played on a poor pitch, which made passing the ball almost impossible at times.

A hungry Kanturk were 2-0 ahead inside half an hour and Macroom now faced an uphill battle. Andrew Hegarty was getting some joy down the left flank and his low cross from the byline was turned in by the inrushing Michael Browne, 2-1 at half time.

In the second-half Macroom battled on but found it difficult to find any real rhythm. The home side were quite happy to defend deep and play on the counter attack. When a third goal arrived for Kanturk on 70 minutes there was no way back. In truth, it was a frustratin­g afternoon for Macroom but all that can be done is move on and prepare for the remaining games.

The U11 schoolboys, sponsored by Fitzgerald’s, travelled to Ovens and took on Lakewood Athletic in a number of excellent games. At the same time the Advance Pitstop sponsored U11A side entertaine­d Strand Utd and also played a number of top-class fixtures. All players did really well and many thanks to all supporters for coming along and creating a positive atmosphere for the youngsters to play in.

Matt Murphy Pharmacy sponsored Macroom FC U15 schoolgirl­s travelled to Fermoy for their opening league game. Fermoy were victorious on a 3-1 scoreline but it was a decent performanc­e from Macroom who had Leanne Healy on target.

The U11 girls made the trip to Moneygourn­ey to play Douglas Hall. They scored two fine goals and played tremendous­ly well, considerin­g this was their first time operating at nine-a-side.

Race Night: A big club fundraiser will take place on Easter Sunday night April 21. This important event takes place at Murray’s Bar with the first race away at 9pm. Horses will be on sale over the coming weeks from club and committee members, team managers, and at Murray’s Bar.

05/02/19. Jackpot: €3000. Numbers drawn: 14, 27, 32. No Winner. €80: Grace Murray c/o Murray’s. €20 each: Johnny Connors c/o June, Mollie O’ Riordan c/o Noel, Michael Shine c/o Darrin, Mgt Horgan c/o Mary Lynch.

04/03/19. Jackpot: €3,200. Numbers drawn: 4,11, 24. Winners x 2: Gerard Kelleher c/o Murray’s/Margaret Kelleher c/o June’s. €80 Claire Mungovan c/o Evelyn. €20 each: JJ, Claire Dineen c/o Lar’s, Sarah and Dogy c/o Hound, Paddy Murphy c/o Noel.

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