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Kiskeam

by Alex Carter - Sports Editor July 28, 2025

written by Alex Carter - Sports Editor

Uibh Laoire Dominates Kiskeam in Premier IFC Opener

Jones Shines as Uibh Laoire Sets Early Pace

Cork star Chris Óg Jones was the undisputed catalyst as Uibh Laoire launched their McCarthy Insurance Group Premier IFC campaign with a commanding victory over Kiskeam. The 2-9 tally from Jones underscored Uibh Laoire’s superior performance, securing a fully deserved win for the recently crowned Division 3 league champions.

Uibh Laoire Control from the Off

From the outset, Uibh Laoire demonstrated an assured defensive structure and midfield control, dictating the tempo of the encounter. Despite Kiskeam’s commitment and second-half surge with five two-pointers, they couldn’t counter the fluid attacking verve of their opponents.

The deadlock was broken by a powerful two-pointer from **Barry O’Leary**. Although Kiskeam rallied with scores from **Thomas Casey** and **Seán O’Sullivan**, Uibh Laoire, with contributions from **Timmy Roberts** and **Jones**, quickly re-established their lead.

Mike Casey of Kiskeam challenges Barry O’Leary of Uibh Laoire during the match. Picture: Dan Linehan.

First-Half Blitz Establishes Dominance

Uibh Laoire intensified their pressure in the second quarter, with key players like **Seán O’Leary**, **Cathal Vaughan**, **Barry O’Leary**, and **Jones** instrumental. A turnover from a short restart led to **Jones** setting up **Seán O’Riordan** for a point. The Muskerry side then landed a significant blow in the 20th minute when **Ciaran O’Riordan** and **Sam Pikering** combined to tee up **Jones** for the game’s opening goal.

The momentum shifted decisively as **Jones**, fed by captain **Seán O’Leary**, added a second goal. A subsequent two-pointer from **Vaughan** extended Uibh Laoire’s lead to an imposing 2-11 to 0-2 by halftime, showcasing their first-half dominance.

Second-Half Resilience and a Pickering Goal

Following the interval, **Jones** continued to add to his impressive personal tally. While Kiskeam found some rhythm, sparked by a **Thomas Casey** two-pointer, Uibh Laoire responded emphatically. **Sam Pickering** found the net, extending their advantage.

Kiskeam showed commendable resilience, with **Seán O’Sullivan** and **Michael Herlihy** converting two-pointers, demonstrating their fighting spirit. However, Uibh Laoire managed the remainder of the game comfortably, securing the ideal start to their campaign. Their next fixture is against Castletownbere.

Scorers

Uibh Laoire: C Óg Jones 2-9 (1 2pt f, 0-1 f), S Pickering 1-0, C Vaughan 0-3 (1 2pt, 0-1 f), B O’Leary 0-2 (2pt), T Roberts, S O’Riordan, S O’Leary, C O’Riordan 0-1 each.

Kiskeam: S O’Sullivan 0-9 (2 2pt f, 1 2pt), T Casey 0-4 (1 2pt, 0-1 f), M Herlihy 0-3 (1 2pt), D Fitzgerald, S O’Riordan 0-1 each.

Team Lineups

Uibh Laoire: J Creedon; B Murphy, D O’Donovan, D O’Riordan; C O’Riordan, S O’Leary, C Galvin; T Roberts, C O’Leary; S O’Riordan, C Vaughan, B O’Leary; B Cronin, C Óg Jones, S Pickering. Subs: K Manning for C Galvin (inj 43), A O’Donovan for B Cronin (45).

Kiskeam: B Daly; J O’Connor, S Meehan, J Daly; A J O’Connor, K O’Connor, Mike Casey; G Casey, Maurice Casey; D Fitzgerald, T Casey, P O’Callaghan; S O’Sullivan, D Scannell, A Dennehy. Subs: S O’Riordan for P O’Callaghan (ht), D Murphy for M Casey (ht), M Herlihy for D Fitzgerald (46), R Carroll for A Dennehy (48), M Collins for G Casey (53).

Referee: James Bermingham (Bride Rovers).

July 28, 2025 0 comments

Sport

Bishopstown battle back to secure SAFC victory over Dohenys

by Alex Carter - Sports Editor July 27, 2025

written by Alex Carter - Sports Editor

Bishopstown Stages Stunning Comeback Against Dohenys

Late Surge Secures Crucial SAFC Opening Win

Bishopstown launched their Senior A Football Championship campaign with a thrilling come-from-behind victory, outlasting a resilient Dohenys side in a hard-fought encounter at Enniskeane. The city club’s stirring second-half performance ultimately proved decisive.

Tale of Two Halves

Dohenys, tipped as favourites after reaching the county final last year, started brightly. An early score from Adam O’Donovan, followed by a point from Mark Buckley, set the tone. Fionn Herlihy then extended their lead with a brace of points, including a penalty after he was fouled in the square, to give the West Cork outfit a significant advantage. Despite Bishopstown’s efforts to rally through points from Darragh O’Connor and Conor Dunne, Dohenys maintained a four-point cushion at the interval.

Liam O’Driscoll and Darragh O’Donnor of Bishopstown, alongside Bill Murphy of Dohenys.

The second half saw Bishopstown emerge with renewed purpose. Conor Dunne, accurate from frees, and Simon Collins ignited the comeback, reducing the deficit to a single point. A crucial moment arrived when Odhran Foley palmed the ball to the net, pushing Bishopstown into the lead.

Late Drama Seals Victory

A tense final period saw both sides exchange scores. Mark Buckley converted a free for Dohenys, only for Bishopstown’s Darragh O’Connor, Odhran Foley, and Simon Collins to respond. Fionn Herlihy managed to level the scores once more, but in a frenetic conclusion, late points from Simon Collins and Patrick Casey secured an unexpected but well-earned two-point triumph for Bishopstown.

Bishopstown battle back to secure SAFC victory over Dohenys — Bishopstown’s Michael Murphy, Michael Power, and Nathan Gough engage with Dohenys’ Mark Buckley.

This opening win provides a significant morale boost for Bishopstown’s young squad. In comparison, last year’s finalists, Knocknagree, also faced a tough start, drawing with St. Finbarr’s in their opening fixture, highlighting the competitive nature of the championship. Bishopstown will next face O’Donovan Rossa, while Dohenys are set to play Béal Átha’n Ghaorthaidh.

Scorers for Bishopstown: C Dunne 0-5 (0-3f, 1 2pt), D O’Connor (1 2pt), S Collins 0-4 each, O Foley 1-1, P Casey 0-1.

Dohenys: D Herlihy 1-4 (1-0pen, 1 2pt), M Buckley 0-3 (0-2f), G Farr 0-2f, A O’Donovan, S Barry, S Daly (45), K White 0-1 each.

Bishopstown: C O’Driscoll; M Murphy, N Gough, H Wixted; D O’Donovan, M Power, O Foley; K Murphy, J Murphy; C Dunne, K McFadden, D O’Connor (c); B Cahill, P Honohan, S Collins. Subs: L O’Driscoll for P Honohan (33, inj), P Casey for D O’Donovan (52).

Dohenys: S Daly; D Rice, D Collins, J Farrell; B O’Donovan, B Murphy, C Daly; C Barry, R Coakley; A O’Donovan, F Herlihy, S Barry; K White (c), M Buckley, G Farr. Subs: A Mannix for B O’Donovan (37), K McCarthy for G Farr (38), E Lavers for R Coakley (52).

Referee: Ciarán Murphy.

July 27, 2025 0 comments

Sport

Puckout analysis from Cork’s humiliating All-Ireland defeat to Tipperary

by Alex Carter - Sports Editor July 24, 2025

written by Alex Carter - Sports Editor

Tipp Dominates Cork in Puckout Battle

Rebels’ Strategy Falters in Crucial Moments

A devastating loss continues to sting for Cork, with their puckout strategy proving ineffective against Tipperary’s relentless pressure. The Rebels struggled to retain possession, especially in the second half.

Cork’s Puckout Woes

Cork’s puckout execution was inconsistent throughout the match. While they enjoyed some success from the left flank in the second period, winning seven of ten long deliveries, their overall conversion rate plummeted. They achieved a perfect record, winning all 11 puckouts within their own half, but this offered little solace amid the broader struggle.

Cork’s puckout map from the first half against Tipperary.

Puckout analysis from Cork’s humiliating All-Ireland defeat to Tipperary — Cork’s puckout map from the second half against Tipperary.

Cork's puckout map from their All-Ireland SHC final against Tipperary. — Cork’s puckout map from their All-Ireland SHC final against Tipperary.

Tipperary’s Commanding Possession Game

Tipperary demonstrated superior control, particularly from restarts. Their puckout strategy, a mix of short passes and effective long balls from goalkeeper Rhys Shelly and defenders, repeatedly put Cork under pressure. This dominance was starkly evident in the second half, contributing to key scores, including two goals for John McGrath.

The statistics for the second half are revealing. Tipperary secured only four of seven restarts, with three going long and being claimed by Cork. However, this was a minor blip in an otherwise overwhelming performance. Overall, Tipperary won 23 of their 31 puckouts, showcasing their firm grip on the game.

Tipperary's puckout map from the first half against Cork. — Tipperary’s puckout map from the first half against Cork.

Tipperary's puckout map from the second half against Cork. — Tipperary’s puckout map from the second half against Cork.

Tipperary's puckout map from their All-Ireland SHC final against Cork. — Tipperary’s puckout map from their All-Ireland SHC final against Cork.

Key Individual Battles and Lessons Learned

Despite commendable efforts from players like Seán O’Donoghue on Jason Forde and Niall O’Leary on Darragh McCarthy in the first half, the team’s structure ultimately faltered. The effectiveness of Tipperary’s attacking play, particularly the battles involving Eoin Downey and McGrath, highlighted Cork’s defensive frailties.

Cork’s aerial contestability, specifically from puckouts, was a significant issue. Goalkeeper Collins struggled to impose himself in the air. A disallowed Tipperary goal in the opening period served as an early warning that Cork failed to heed, leading to a second-half collapse where composure and strategy deserted them.

In the recent 2023 All-Ireland Senior Hurling Championship final, Tipperary’s ability to dominate possession from puckouts was a key factor in their victory, a stark contrast to Cork’s struggles. This strategic advantage allowed them to dictate play and create scoring opportunities, ultimately overwhelming their opponents.

July 24, 2025 0 comments

Sport

Cork’s Experience: Seán Óg Ó hAilpín on Navigating All-Ireland Pressure

by Alex Carter - Sports Editor July 19, 2025

written by Alex Carter - Sports Editor

Here’s a rewritten version of the article, aiming for 100% uniqueness while retaining the core message and quotes:

The Mental Game: Seán Óg Ó hAilpín on Pressure and Performance

For former Cork hurler Seán Óg Ó hAilpín, the build-up to major finals presented a unique psychological challenge. While one might assume familiarity with the high-stakes environment would ease the pressure, Ó hAilpín found the opposite to be true. “It was a whole different ball game for me,” he admitted. “You knew what was ahead of you, so in a way, you think that that would help a player. I just found it worse.”

As his career progressed and he experienced more finals, Ó hAilpín realized the danger of becoming overly fixated on the game itself. He emphasized the importance of having “release mechanisms” to manage this intense focus. In his earlier years, he would take a few days off work leading up to the All-Ireland, seeking to distance himself from the impending match. However,towards the latter part of his career,his approach shifted. “Towards the end, I ended up working up to Friday at 5 in the evening, as it took my mind away from the game,” he explained. “I found when you’re on your own for a while, inevitably, you’re just thinking too much about it. So I just did things to take my mind away from the game, and it helped me enormously.”

reflecting on his playing days, Ó hAilpín is frequently enough asked what he misses most. While acknowledging the satisfaction of winning, it’s the intangible moments that he cherishes. “The winning is great and all that,” he stated. “But it’s these moments the build-up to the game, where you have butterflies in your stomach.” These are the moments that truly tested him.

“are you going to do it or not? I always found that it helped me,” he continued. Ó hAilpín thrived under pressure,relishing situations where he was expected to perform and deliver. He contrasted this with scenarios where victory wasn’t anticipated, suggesting that such games lacked the same competitive edge and the same potential for personal growth. “I found myself more times than not in those scenarios, you come home losing as it doesn’t give you the same edge as having to deliver under pressure. If you do deliver, then the growth in your advancement [is huge].”

He drew a parallel to Cork’s current situation, noting their consecutive final appearances without an All-Ireland win in two decades and their recent losing streak in finals. “You know that there were questions asked of us, and we were able to get through it and deliver and hold our own. I see that in the context of the backdrop of this final. Cork are there two years in a row, we haven’t won an All-Ireland in 20 years.The last four finals Cork have played in,we’ve lost.”

The current Cork squad faces a similar test. “Especially for this group of players, they fell short. Agonisingly. The question is going to be put to them, when the pressure comes on, will ye be able to deliver?” Ó hAilpín expressed his hope that the team will rise to the occasion.”I hope it’s the same with the panel that take to the field on Sunday, that question of being asked to deliver – under pressure where it counts most – that our fellas will respond to that in spades.” He pointed to their resilience in the Munster final victory as evidence of their ability to overcome adversity. “They grew together after the Munster final victory and I think the manner in which [they won], they were floored a couple of times but the fact they were able to get off the canvas and eke out a draw.”

Cork has demonstrated a capacity to perform under pressure throughout the season, notably in their penalty shootout success.”You talk about pressure, what about penalties? At the end of the day, they passed it with flying colours. Limerick shrunk in penalties. I think Cork will be asked the same questions that Limerick asked of them in the final. I think we’ll get the same answers as the Munster final.”

July 19, 2025 0 comments

Sport

‘The two of us were in tears. Obviously we’d have loved Dillon to be there’ – The Irish Times

by Alex Carter - Sports Editor July 15, 2025

written by Alex Carter - Sports Editor

Tipp’s Final Run Honours Lost Star, Fuels Lifesaving Legacy

Parents find bittersweet solace in team’s success while championing heart screening

The roar of the crowd after Tipperary’s All-Ireland final victory was met with tears from **Dan** and **Hazel Quirke**, their thoughts naturally turning to their son, **Dillon**. His teammates, his beloved county, were on the cusp of glory, a moment **Dillon**, tragically lost at 24, would have cherished.

A Father’s Reflection Amidst Victory

“The two of us were in tears, to be honest,” **Dan** shared, his voice thick with emotion. “Because obviously we’d have loved **Dillon** to be there. It was great for Tipp to win. And all those young guys in the team are great buddies.” He spoke of the profound difficulty of witnessing the team’s success at Croke Park, especially seeing **Craig Morgan** wear the number five, **Dillon’s** former jersey.

“Life is full of rollercoasters, as we all know. **Hazel** and myself found the day particularly difficult. Because we were in Croke Park and Tipp were going well. I’d spoken to **Craig Morgan** the previous week and **Craig** has been wearing number five now, which **Dillon** had worn. It was beautiful to see that because he’s a lovely young fella.”

—Dan Quirke

The impending third anniversary of **Dillon’s** death hangs heavy. He collapsed during a club match in August 2022 from Sudden Adult Death Syndrome (SADS), a loss that deeply affected the nation. **Dillon**, then 24, was a standout player for Tipperary, a rare bright spark in a challenging season.

“The pain is different as you go along. Maybe it doesn’t come around as often. But then when you go to matches like that semi-final, **Dillon** comes back into it.”

—Dan Quirke

**Dan** cherishes the memories of traveling the world with his son, sharing a passion for sports. “I had a beautiful relationship with **Dillon** because we travelled the world together, watching rugby and soccer and GAA,” he reflected. “We were like brothers.”

The Dillon Quirke Foundation: A Lifesaving Mission

In the wake of their grief, **Dan** and **Hazel** established the Dillon Quirke Foundation. They sold their delicatessen business, channeling their energy into a cause that honors their son’s memory: providing heart screening for anyone playing sport in Ireland. To date, the foundation has raised an impressive €2 million in just over two and a half years.

Clonoulty-Rossmore GAA club in Tipperary.

The foundation’s impact is profound, with **Dan** recounting calls from grateful parents whose children’s lives were saved through screening. “I know that we’ve saved lives in the last 2½ years,” he stated. “I feel he’s pushing me on to make this a success.”

The foundation aims to screen 50,000 young athletes over five years, a critical step in combating SADS. Italy saw a nearly 90% reduction in SADS deaths after implementing similar screening programs, demonstrating its effectiveness. As of 2023, an estimated 300,000 teenagers participate in sports across Ireland, highlighting the urgent need for wider awareness and screening.

Hope and Remembrance in Portrush

Despite the ongoing pain, **Dan** and **Hazel** are finding a measure of peace through their philanthropic work. They are currently in Portrush, taking a brief respite to enjoy golf, a testament to their resilience. Their thoughts remain with the Tipperary team as they prepare for the final, a bittersweet experience for the grieving parents.

“There’s a lovely connection there, still, within the Tipperary set-up. I know they carry a picture of **Dillon** with them when they go to the matches. It would be amazing if we can do it. When you’re in a final, you want to win and I think we’ve a great chance. It’s going to be difficult. But please God we’ll enjoy the match and won’t feel too emotional.”

—Dan Quirke

July 15, 2025 0 comments

Sport

Cork Minor Footballers: Defying the Odds Against Tyrone

by Chief editor of world-today-news.com June 6, 2025

written by Chief editor of world-today-news.com

Cork Minors Confident Ahead of Tyrone Clash

PORTLAOISE – May 17, 2024 – The Cork minor football team prepares for a high-stakes All-Ireland Minor Football Championship (MFC) quarter-final against Tyrone. The match is set for tomorrow, at Laois Hire O’Moore Park, with a 1:45 p.m. throw-in. Despite being considered underdogs, Cork’s manager, Keith ricken, expresses confidence in the team heading into this critically important fixture.

Cork Minors Confident Ahead of All-Ireland Quarter-final Clash with Tyrone

The Cork minor football team is gearing up for a crucial Electric Ireland All-Ireland Minor Football Championship (MFC) quarter-final against Tyrone. The match is set for tomorrow at Laois Hire O’Moore Park in Portlaoise, with the throw-in scheduled for 1:45 p.m. Despite being considered underdogs against the Ulster champions, the Cork camp exudes confidence.

Ricken’s Perspective: Faith in the Team

Cork minor football manager Keith Ricken, of St.Vincent’s club, remains unfazed by the underdog status. He emphasizes the importance of internal belief over external opinions.

Well look, I think it was bob paisley who said one time that if you listen to the fans you’ll become one.

ricken stresses the need to trust in the team’s capabilities. You have to kind of believe in your own team and I would and we’ve played Tyrone already this year. I went up and saw them in the Ulster final against Cavan. They’re a good side, I mean, they’ve won the Ulster league and they’ve won the Ulster championship.

Confidence Despite Munster Final loss

Despite a nine-point defeat to Kerry in the Munster final two weeks prior, Ricken maintains a positive outlook. He believes the team performed well, even tho they lacked the same level of quality as their opponents.He is optimistic about their chances against Tyrone.

But I’d be very confident going into this game. I’m not saying that now becuase this is the thing to say to the press or this is what I want to say to the players, I genuinely would be confident. The lads are playing well. If we go by the stats, if we can sort out our conversion rate a bit, which the lads are trying to, then I think we’ll have a very good chance of winning at the weekend.

Did you know?

Improving conversion rates in Gaelic football involves focusing on shot selection, practicing under pressure, and refining technique. Even small improvements can substantially impact game outcomes.

Previous Encounter and Northern Teams

Cork and tyrone have faced each other earlier in the year, providing Cork with valuable insight into their opponents. We played Tyrone earlier in the year, we played them above in Dublin, it was a very good game. We might have won by a few points, if my memory recalls.We’re looking forward to the game, its a big challenge, of course, Tyrone are good, but cork have a good record against northern teams.

Positive Team Spirit

ricken emphasizes the team’s resilience and positive attitude following the Munster final loss. He notes that the players are enthusiastic and eager to compete.

When we came back to training a few days after the Kerry game, you would have thought we won the Munster. The players were really buzzing. They’re a great bunch, you know, great admiration for the players and their parents and their clubs, really enthusiastic bunch. There’s a great energy about the place, couldn’t ask for a better bunch that way.

Focus on Enjoyment and Advancement

Ricken is keen to ensure the players enjoy the experience and avoid unnecessary pressure. He believes the focus should be on the senior and U20 teams to carry the weight of Cork football.

These young fellas have all been playing football as a young age. they’ve dreamed about days like playing in an All-Ireland quarter-final. The attitude is great and training has been very good, the lads have put in a big shift. It all comes down to what happens on the day. I know it’s an old adage, like, but it is the fact that all matches come down to the day of the game.We have prepared very well.

Pro tip

for young athletes, focusing on enjoyment and skill development can lead to long-term success. Pressure can hinder performance, while a positive mindset fosters growth.

Regardless of the result, I think the weight of Cork football is on the shoulders of the seniors and U20s. We shouldn’t be putting our hopes on adolescents to go up to Portlaoise and put the weight of the world on top of them. These are adolescents, they’re playing for the enjoyment of it, the fun of it. The minors do what minors do, go out and enjoy life and enjoy the football and see what it brings.

frequently Asked Questions

When and where is the game?

The game is tomorrow at 1:45 p.m.at Laois hire O’Moore Park in Portlaoise.

Who are Cork playing against?

Cork is playing against Tyrone in the All-Ireland MFC quarter-final.

Are Cork favored to win?

Cork is considered the underdog in this match.

What was the result of Cork’s Munster final?

Cork lost to Kerry by a score of 0-18 to 0-9.

June 6, 2025 0 comments

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