Tag Archives: Dingle

Contracts Signed For 34 New Homes In Dingle

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Stephen O’Callaghan and Aidan Drummond (Vision Contracting), pictured with Cathaoirleach of Kerry County Council, Cllr Breandán Fitzgerald, Martin O’Donoghue (Acting CEO Kerry County Council), Rosie Smallwood (KCC Architect) and Michael O’Donoghue (KCC Engineer), signing a contract for the delivery of 34 new homes at Ballybeg, Dingle which will be constructed over the next year and a half. Photo: Michelle Breen Crean Photography

THE Cathaoirleach of Kerry County Council, Cllr Breandán Fitzgerald, has welcomed the signing of contracts for the delivery of 34 new homes at Ballybeg, Dingle which will be constructed over the next year and a half.

The units at Sruthán Sléibhe will comprise 22 one-bed apartments and 12 two-bedroom units.

The contractor for the development is Vision Contracting of Model Farm Road, Cork and the technical advisors for the project are Malachy Walsh and Partners Ltd.

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As well at the construction of the new dwellings, the construction contract includes the provision of landscaping, new vehicular and pedestrian entrances, new bridge structures and road, parking and bin storage facilities, new water and wastewater infrastructure, and all associated site works.

Preparatory works are already underway and with a construction cost of €10.5m, it is expected that the new homes will be completed within 18 months.

Cathaoirleach, Cllr Fitzgerald said: “I warmly welcome this new addition to our housing stock in west Kerry. These modern homes will provide new tenants with high-standard accommodation, and I look forward to their completion over the next year and a half.”

New Dingle Visitor Attraction Making Waves Out West

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Michael Ó Catháin at the Wild Atlantic Virtual Experience in Dingle with his son owen and wife Sonata. Photo By : Domnick Walsh © Eye Focus LTD

A FORMER Dingle fish processing plant is making waves with a new high-tech, virtual marine visitor attraction which is keeping alive the spirit of one of Kerry’s most loved characters, Fungi the Dolphin.

The Wild Atlantic Virtual Experience (WAVE) is offering visitors a unique, immersive ocean experience, telling the story of marine life through the eyes of the men and women who have fished off the Kerry shores for thousands of years using Ireland’s largest 360-degree LED screen.

Wave is the brainchild of the Keane family, well known for their business, Ó Catháin Iasc Teo. One of the star attractions is Fungi, who features through a life size computer-generated image.

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The experience also explores shipwrecks and uncovers the myths and legends of the sea, bringing visitors up close to majestic humpback and orca whales, seals, turtles, and other sea life.

The total project cost over €1,355,000, of which more than €177,000 was grant aided under the Brexit Blue Economy Enterprise Development Scheme recommended by the Seafood Taskforce established by Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine, Charlie McConalogue T.D. and implemented by Bord Iascaigh Mhara (BIM). The scheme is funded by the European Union under the Brexit Adjustment Reserve.

According to Michael Keane climate change has hurt the Ó Catháin fisheries business substantially in recent years.

“We were primarily a herring factory, but they have migrated further north due to climate change. There’s almost no stock of herring down here now. We used to work for eight months of the year, now it’s six weeks,” he said.

“We had to do something to stay in business and we knew the fish business and the culture, so we eventually hit on the idea of developing Wave in the 17,000 sq ft building in which we had our fish processing operations.”

As well as Fungi another highlight is a virtual trip through a sunken Spanish Armada ship and German U-boats.

“The focus is heavily on sea mythology and its influence on Irish culture with an imagined under-water society,” said Michael. “Due to the scaling, people can get a feel for the actual size of the fish that come into Dingle Bay. It is done from the perspective of those working in fishing, telling about their daily life and what they see.”

Said Michael: “Without the support of the Brexit Blue Economy Enterprise Development Scheme and BIM we would not have been in a position to make this investment. Since we opened the reaction has been great. We will keep developing the experience, and aim to create an iconic International and local market attraction that highlights the best of the Dingle Peninsula, accessible all year, and further enhancing Dingle as a year round destination.”

Wave is targeting all demographics, young and old, and according to Michael it’s location is a perfect starting point when visiting Dingle.

“There is a large gap in the market in Dingle for family-based entertainment following the disappearance of Fungi which resulted in a decline of the number families visiting the west Kerry town,” he added.

WAVE can accommodate over two hundred tourists per hour and is laid out in five separate rooms, each with its own experience. It aims for 70,000 visitors annually and 16 full time employees over five years.

“As a company we were determined to continue in the fishing industry, which we have been part of for over fifty years. But we had to look at solutions to sustain the company and its employees going forward. And we have given them the option of a new career in tourism.”

The Keane’s still do fish processing on a much smaller scale, supporting local fisherman with sales through the O’Cathain fish shop to restaurants throughout West Kerry and wholesale around Ireland.

Being environmentally sustainable is a huge part of the approach, and Wave aims to be carbon neutral by 2028.

“We have installed energy efficiency lights and solar panels. There is also a cafe with sustainable packaging and offering locally supplied produce. The building has been designed to easily add further initiatives over the coming years.” See www.wave-dingle.com

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Two Streets In Dingle And Killarney To Close To Traffic For Summer

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Strand Street, Dingle.

STRAND Street in Dingle and Plunkett Street in Killarney will temporarily close to traffic from Wednesday, July 8 until September 2 as part of Kerry County Council’s Safer Streets Programme during the COVID-19 pandemic.

From Wednesday, Strand Street in Dingle will be closed to vehicular traffic each day from 11am to 6pm, from its junction with the ‘Tracks’ to its junction with Green Street. Traffic will be diverted via the Tracks, The Mall, Main Street and Green Street.

In Killarney, Plunkett Street will be closed on a 24-hour basis (from the junction of College Street to Main Street) as will the slip road in front of the International Hotel on Kenmare Place, adjacent to the Hah-Hah (R-876).

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The temporary closures are being put in place to facilitate social distancing and to support adherence to public health guidelines in areas of heavy footfall and form of a series of safety measures being put in place under the ‘Safer Streets’ Programme.

The closures are being made under Section 75 of the Roads Act, 1993, and following a period of public consultation on the matter.

Joe And Friends Enjoy Stag Party In Dingle

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Joe Dillon leaving for Dingle with the rest of the Stag Party. Photo by Lisa O’Mahony.

Joe Dillon and 15 of his best friends lined their stomachs in the Brogue Inn on Saturday morning before heading off for his stag night.

Kevin Reardon, Best Man, revealed the destination for the Stag Party to be Dingle. The guys were excited for the party to get underway and are determined to get Joe elected for president of Kerry judging by those t-shirts!

Joe, who is from Duagh, is set to wed Martina O’Keeffe, from Lixnaw, at Lixnaw Church with the reception taking place afterwards at the Killarney Oaks Hotel. It promised to be a fun weekend for the lads.

PHOTOS/REPORT: Controversial Last Gasp Winning Goal Sends Stacks To Club Final

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Gavin O’Connor reports on the Castleisland Mart Senior Club Championship semi-final  last night in Annascaul, where there was a controversial end to the match…

Austin Stacks 1-9

Dingle 0-11

David Mannix on the attack as Tomas Leo O Suilleabhain prepares to give chase during the Austin Stacks v Dingle match in Annascaul on Saturday evening. Photo by Dermot Crean
David Mannix on the attack as Tomas Leo O Suilleabhain prepares to give chase during the Austin Stacks v Dingle match in Annascaul on Saturday evening. Photo by Dermot Crean

A CONTROVERSIAL Shane O’Callaghan goal, with the last move of the match, put Austin Stacks into the Castleisland Mart Senior Club Championship Final against Dr Crokes last night.

In the dying moments, O’Callaghan’s effort looked as though it was cleared off the line by Dingle’s Paul Devine but the umpires sensationally adjudged it had crossed over and raised the green flag to the delight of the travelling Rockies.

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Greg Horan being stretchered off during the Austin Stacks v Dingle match in Annascaul on Saturday evening. Photo by Dermot Crean
Greg Horan being stretchered off during the Austin Stacks v Dingle match in Annascaul on Saturday evening. Photo by Dermot Crean

At that point, Stacks had been reduced to 13 men after both David Mannix and substitute Alan Nestor received their marching orders.

The goal came through a familiar route. Kieran Donaghy, who came on as a late substitute, caught a ball driven in by Wayne Guthrie, outside the square .

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Conor O Suilleabhain is challenged by Michael O'Donnell during the Austin Stacks v Dingle match in Annascaul on Saturday evening. Photo by Dermot Crean
Conor O Suilleabhain is challenged by Michael O’Donnell during the Austin Stacks v Dingle match in Annascaul on Saturday evening. Photo by Dermot Crean

Donaghy, who was surrounded by half the Dingle defence, hand-passed the ball to the unmarked O’Callaghan who was steaming into the square.

‘Callie’ palmed the ball down behind the line and into Paul Devine’s hands who legged it out as soon as he could with it but unfortunately for him and Dingle, he was hauled back by the referee Padraig O’Sullivan and the goal was given.

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Shane O'Callaghan sees his effort go wide during the Austin Stacks v Dingle match in Annascaul on Saturday evening. Photo by Dermot Crean
Shane O’Callaghan sees his effort go wide during the Austin Stacks v Dingle match in Annascaul on Saturday evening. Photo by Dermot Crean

It was a controversial end to a match where Austin Stacks had the better of the first half and went in a point in front 0-6 to 0-5.

During that period, playing with the wind, they kicked eight wides.

The opening quarter was all Austin Stacks as they raced into a 0-4 to 0-0 lead. Fiachna Mangan, David Mannix, Brian Mangan and Wayne Guthrie the scorers.

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Barra O Suilleabhain lays off a pass during the Austin Stacks v Dingle match in Annascaul on Saturday evening. Photo by Dermot Crean
Barra O Suilleabhain lays off a pass during the Austin Stacks v Dingle match in Annascaul on Saturday evening. Photo by Dermot Crean

The game had barely started before it was stopped for an extended period of time due to an injury to Greg Horan.

The Kerry U21 was stretchered off the pitch and looked to be in a great deal of distress. Horan will undergo a scan on his knee during the week.

The game was 20 minutes old before Dingle got their first score – coming from Mikey Geaney  – and it was followed by two more by Conor Geaney and Matthew Flaherty.

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David Mannix is challenged by Tomas Leo O Suilleabhain during the Austin Stacks v Dingle match in Annascaul on Saturday evening. Photo by Dermot Crean
David Mannix is challenged by Tomas Leo O Suilleabhain during the Austin Stacks v Dingle match in Annascaul on Saturday evening. Photo by Dermot Crean

Despite The Rock’s dominance, Dingle were just a point behind. The half ended with scores by Shane Carroll and Shane O’Callaghan  of Austin Stacks and a pointed free by Mikey Geaney.

It was a different Dingle we saw in the second half, where Mikey Geaney and young Kerry prospect Marc O’Connor saw more of the ball.

However, it was wing back Breandán Kelliher who made the greatest impact scoring 0-4 from play out on the left wing, where Austin Stacks couldn’t seem to plug that hole.

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Shane Carroll has his effort cleared off the line during the Austin Stacks v Dingle match in Annascaul on Saturday evening. Photo by Dermot Crean
Shane Carroll has his effort cleared off the line during the Austin Stacks v Dingle match in Annascaul on Saturday evening. Photo by Dermot Crean

It was these scores that helped Dingle edge in front by two points going into the final ten minutes. Frustration got the better of Alan Nestor who dangerously pulled down the flying Matthew Flaherty as he dashed up the park. The Meath man was rightly sent to the line.

All hope seemed to be fading when Stacks lost one of their main scoring outlets, David Mannix, after a second bookable offence, as we edged into stoppage time.

Kieran Donaghy was now loitering with intent around the goalmouth. In the 15 minutes he was on he caught the two high balls that were sent into him and thankfully for the Rock, the second one counted.

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Tomas Mac A tSithigh has his shot saved during the Austin Stacks v Dingle match in Annascaul on Saturday evening. Photo by Dermot Crean
Tomas Mac A tSithigh has his shot saved during the Austin Stacks v Dingle match in Annascaul on Saturday evening. Photo by Dermot Crean

Donaghy was able to find O’Callaghan to send the Austin Stacks team, management and fans into raptures and Dingle into convulsions.

Many more photos below…

Scorers

Austin Stacks: Shane O’Callaghan (1-1), David Mannix (0-2, 1f), Pa McCarthy, Jack O’Shea, Wayne Guthrie, Brian Mangan, Fiachna Mangan and Shane Carroll (0-1) apiece

Dingle: Breandán Kelliher (0-4), Mikey Geaney (0-3, 2f), Matthew Flaherty (0-2), Conor Geaney (0-2, 1f)

Austin Stacks

1. Darragh O’Brien

2. Colin Griffin
3. Fearghal McNamara
4. Denis McElligott

5. Pa McCarthy
6. Conor Jordan
7. Jack O’Shea

8. Wayne Guthrie
29. Brian Mangan

10. Fiachna Mangan
11. Shane Carroll
12. Michael O’Donnell

13. David Mannix
14. Shane O’Callaghan
15. Greg Horan

Dingle

1. Gavin H O Corrain

2. Tomas Leo O’Suilleabhain
3. Padraig O Conchuir
4. Conor O Suilleabhain

5. Maitiu O Flaitheartaigh
6. Tomas O Suilleabhain
7. Brendan O Ceilleachair

8. Barra O Suilleabhain
9. Dara O Suilleabhain

10. Pol O Dubhain
11. Micheal O Geibheannaigh
12. Conor O Geibheannaigh

13. Tomas Mac a tSithigh
24. Marc O Conchuir
14. Cathay O Bambaire

Referee: Padraig O’Sullivan (Firies)

Jack O'Shea advances with Pol O Dubhain during the Austin Stacks v Dingle match in Annascaul on Saturday evening. Photo by Dermot Crean
Jack O’Shea advances with Pol O Dubhain during the Austin Stacks v Dingle match in Annascaul on Saturday evening. Photo by Dermot Crean
David Mannix launches a shot during the Austin Stacks v Dingle match in Annascaul on Saturday evening. Photo by Dermot Crean
David Mannix launches a shot during the Austin Stacks v Dingle match in Annascaul on Saturday evening. Photo by Dermot Crean
Pa McCarthy in possession during the Austin Stacks v Dingle match in Annascaul on Saturday evening. Photo by Dermot Crean
Pa McCarthy in possession during the Austin Stacks v Dingle match in Annascaul on Saturday evening. Photo by Dermot Crean
High flying action during the Austin Stacks v Dingle match in Annascaul on Saturday evening. Photo by Dermot Crean
High flying action during the Austin Stacks v Dingle match in Annascaul on Saturday evening. Photo by Dermot Crean
Midfield action during the Austin Stacks v Dingle match in Annascaul on Saturday evening. Photo by Dermot Crean
Midfield action during the Austin Stacks v Dingle match in Annascaul on Saturday evening. Photo by Dermot Crean
David Mannix launches a shot at the posts during the Austin Stacks v Dingle match in Annascaul on Saturday evening. Photo by Dermot Crean
David Mannix launches a shot at the posts during the Austin Stacks v Dingle match in Annascaul on Saturday evening. Photo by Dermot Crean
Pa McCarthy goes down under a challenge from Pol O Dubhain during the Austin Stacks v Dingle match in Annascaul on Saturday evening. Photo by Dermot Crean
Pa McCarthy goes down under a challenge from Pol O Dubhain during the Austin Stacks v Dingle match in Annascaul on Saturday evening. Photo by Dermot Crean
Shane O'Callaghan goes past Padraig O Conchuir during the Austin Stacks v Dingle match in Annascaul on Saturday evening. Photo by Dermot Crean
Shane O’Callaghan goes past Padraig O Conchuir during the Austin Stacks v Dingle match in Annascaul on Saturday evening. Photo by Dermot Crean

The Draws Have Been Made For Senior, Intermediate And Junior Club Championship

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Dingle's Gavan Curran is tackled by Shane Carroll of Austin Stacks in last years Senior Club Championship semi-final. Photo by Dermot Crean.
Dingle’s Gavan Curran is tackled by Shane Carroll of Austin Stacks in last year’s Senior Club Championship semi-final. Photo by Dermot Crean.

SOME difficult tests lie ahead for Tralee area clubs in the Senior, Intermediate and Junior championship.

Austin Stacks and Kerins O’Rahillys went into the hat once more after they played their opening round club championship on Saturday evening.

Stacks face champions Dingle in the semi final. Kerins O’Rahillys, who lost to Legion will fight for their senior status when they play Milltown/Castlemaine who The Rock dispatched.

At the same stage last year, The Rock lost to Dingle by eight points.

Ardfert who overcame All-Ireland intermediate champs St Mary at the weekend, have been handed another tricky draw. They will face An Ghaeltacht in Ardfert.

In the Junior competition, Na Gaeil and Ballymacelligott will face off in a local derby. St Pat’s face a tricky encounter against Glenbeigh/Glencar at home and Churchill play an emerging an Ballydonoghue also at home.

It’s worth noting that too that Tarbert take arguably the longest trip for a fixture in Kerry club football when they take the two hour six minute drive to Valentia (according to Google Maps) on Sunday May 1.

Full list of Fixtures below…

Senior Club Championship – S/Finals

Sat April 30 @ 6.30pm – (Extra Time if needed)

Killarney Legion v Dr Crokes in Kilcummin

Dingle v Austin Stacks in Annascaul

Senior Club Championship– Relegation Play-off Rd 1

Sun May 1 @ 2.30pm – (Extra Time if needed)

Rathmore v Kilcummin in Lewis Rd

Kerins O Rahillys v Miltown/C’maine in Farranfore

Castleisland Mart  Intermediate Club Championship – Qtr Finals

Sat April 23 @ 6.30pm – Extra Time – 1st named = home venue

Desmonds v Currow

Sat April 30 @ 6.30pm – Extra Time – 1st named = home venue

Spa v Kenmare

Sun May 1 @ 2.30pm – Extra Time – 1st named = home venue

St Mls/F’more v Templenoe

Date to be Confirmed – 1st named = home venue

Ardfert v An Ghaeltacht

Castleisland Mart Premier Junior Club Championship – 1st Round
Firies v Moyvane
St Senans v Dromid Pearses
Churchill v Ballydonoghue
Listowel Emmets v Beaufort
Annascaul v Renard Sun May 1 @ 2.30pm
St Pats v Glenbeigh/Glencar Sat April 30 @ 6.30pm
Keel v Finuge
Na Gaeil v Ballymacelligott
All games Sat April 23 @ 6.30pm – unless otherwise stated – Extra Time
1st named = home venue

Castleisland Mart Junior Club Championship – 1st Round

Duagh v Asdee
Knocknagoshel v Tuosist
Castlegregory v Cordal Sat April 30 @ 6.30pm
Sneem/Derrynane v Listry
Cromane v Beale Sat April 30 @ 6.30pm
Fossa v Lispole
Ballyduff v Scartaglen
Valentia v Tarbert (2.30pm Sunday May 1)

All games Sat April 23 @ 6.30pm – unless otherwise stated – Extra Time
1st named = home venue

The ‘Top Gear’ Lads Are Going To Take In A West Kerry GAA Derby On Saturday

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So they’re definitely on their way then.

SO the Top Gear boys are definitely going to west Kerry at the weekend and they are looking for spectators to head over to join them watching a football match on Saturday morning over in Gallarus.

Word has it that the crew are already in Killarney filming.

There was speculation that Matt LeBlanc and Chris Evans were heading to the Kingdom earlier this week,  but the Dingle GAA club Facebook page pretty much confirmed it last night when they posted this up:

“Hi all, Top Gear are filming in the Dingle Area on this Saturday. They wish to include a Gaelic Football match in the programme so we in Dingle GAA, have been asked to help out. A game between a Dingle Selection and An Ghaeltacht selection will be played in Gallarus at 10am. (All ages between 18 & 50 ish are welcome to participate in the match).

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Spectators are also required to attend for the filming of The Game. All are welcome. Those who are available to tog out bring Boots & Togs we will have Jerseys. This will promote The Dingle Peninsula so your attendance is very important .

Míle buíochas. Thanks & please respond if you will be available to attend as either a Player or Spectator. Fáilte roimh chichi.”

So that’s settled then! Let’s hope the two Top Gear lads tog out as well. Stay clear of those O Se lads though Matt…

 

Matt LeBlanc Seems To Be Gearing Up For Kerry

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Stig and Matt LeBlanc with (inset) the tweet.

SEEMS like Matt LeBlanc is preparing himself for a ride along the Wild Atlantic Way which could possibly bring him through our neck of the the woods.

The former ‘Friends’ star has posted a video of the Wild Atlantic Way on Twitter with a message attached, reading “Looks like an awesome drive”.

The video shows footage of the drive from Donegal down to West Cork, including footage of Kerry.

LeBlanc, along with BBC broadcasting heavyweight Chris Evans, will co-host the new incarnation of the world’s biggest motor TV show, Top Gear.

Chris Evans on Wednesday dropped a hint on UK radio saying  “Matt and I are going to Ireland on Friday to make a couple of ‘Top Gear’ films that will be combined. We’re thinking of going to the Dingle area.”

An Antique Clock Has Been Stolen From An Iconic Dingle Pub

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Here is what the clock looks like.
Here is what the clock looks like.

A FAMOUS Dingle hostelry is appealing to the public to help retrieve an antique clock that has hung in the bar for years.

The famous Dick Macks pub was the scene of a theft on Saturday night where it’s believed a stag party stole a clock from the pub that dates back to the 1900’s.

Through the pub’s Facebook page they have pleaded for its safe return with allure of alcohol to coax the perpetrators to come to their senses.

“Our original Railway Time keepers clock was stolen Saturday night from the old kitchen room by a stag party,” read a post on the Dick Mack’s facebook page.

“It was last seen in Currans Pub around 10pm, if anyone has any info please contact us as it is a family piece dating back to the early 1900s.If the perpetrators read this, please return and no further action will be taken. We are currently going over cctv and will be forwarding to gardai tomorrow morning”.

And there’s an extra incentive for the person who helps get it back:  “Reward in the form of whiskey and Guinness!”

Lovestruck Teens Ask For Help To ‘Get Shane To America’

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Young love Dingle
Shane Leahy and Madeleine Walsh are looking for help to be together this summer.

AH! Young love.

Here’s a story that will either warm the cockles of your heart or leave you thinking ‘what a cheek!’

A young couple who met and fell in love in Dingle last autumn, have launched a GoFundMe appeal to help keep their romance alive.

Eighteen year old American, Madeleine Walsh met 17-year-old local Shane Leahy from Dingle, while holidaying in the west Kerry town back in September. The couple met over an ice-cream in Garvey’s Supervalu and hit it off immediately.

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Alas, Madeleine had to return to the US with her parents four days after meeting Shane, but has been in touch with the Kerry teenager from her home in Massachussetts ever since.

Shane even travelled to the States last month to meet Madeleine’s family, but with the Leaving Cert on the horizon in June, he had to return home to focus on the exams.

But now, Madeleine is trying to get Shane back to the US by raising $1,000 through a GoFundMe page. They’ve already raised $500 from 19 donors by Thursday morning.

Speaking to Radio Kerry’s TalkAbout programme, Madeline said she’s hoping Kerry people will appreciate a good romantic story and help get Shane over to her on a flight this summer. See the ‘Get Shane To America’ GoFundMe page here.

Local Food Producers Encouraged To Enter Irish Food Awards

 

26-5-2015: REPRO FREE PHOTO: Minister for Agriculture, Food & the Marine Simon Coveney pictured on Tuesday with Artie Clifford, Chairman, and the Canning family, Bernie and Graham of Blast and Wilde, Slane County Meath and their children Roisin, (9), Oliver (13) and Adam (12) who were Supreme Champions for their butter in 2014 pictured at the launch of the Blas na h-Eireann / Irish Food Awards which will take place in Dingle in October.  The Irish Food Awards will see more than 2,000 Irish products blind tasted and scored by over 350 judges who will select the Gold, Silver and Bronze winners in over 90 produce categories. Online entries close on 17th June 2015 and can be completed on www.irishfoodawards.com. Photo by Don MacMonagle Press release: Over 90% of Irish Food Producers Experiencing Growth - but cash flow and financial support among major  A new survey of more than 2,000 Irish food producers across the island of Ireland shows that while they are experiencing substantial growth, issues such as 'cash flow', 'distribution' and 'access to financial advice' are major challenges, particularly for producers ready to develop into national and international markets. These survey results were announced at the launch of the 8th annual Blas na hEireann, The Irish Food Awards by the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine, Simon Coveney on Tuesday 26th May 2015. This year's Irish Food Awards will see more than 2,000 Irish products blind tasted and scored by over 350 judges who will select the Gold, Silver and Bronze winners in over 90 produce categories. The Awards carry with them a huge amount of prestige and winning produce is used as a quality benchmark for Irish products amongst national and international retailers, buyers and distributors alike.  Online entries close on 17th June 2015 and can be completed on www.irishfoodawards.com.  The 'Producer Power Survey' showed that over 90% of producers across the island have seen their operations grow in the past y
Minister for Agriculture, Food the Marine Simon Coveney pictured at the launch of the Blas na h-Eireann / Irish Food Awards which will take place in Dingle in October with the Canning family, Bernie and Graham of Blast and Wilde, Slane County Meath and their children Roisin, (9), Oliver (13) and Adam (12) who were Supreme Champions for their butter in 2014. Photo by MacMonagle

LOCAL food producers are being encouraged to enter their goods in the ‘Blas na h-Eireann-Irish Food Awards’ which will be taking take place in Dingle in October.

They are encouraged to enter their goods for the awards which will see will see more than 2,000 Irish products blind-tasted and scored by over 350 judges who will select the Gold, Silver and Bronze winners in over 90 produce categories.

The Awards carry with them a huge amount of prestige and winning produce is used as a quality benchmark for Irish products amongst national and international retailers, buyers and distributors alike so this is a huge opportunity for any locals that want to get their name out there.

The deadline for entries is June 17 and producers can enter via the ‘Irish Food Awards’ website here.

PHOTOS/VIDEO: Austin Stacks Exit Club Championship At The Hands Of Dingle

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Dingle's, Barry O'Sullivan, celebrates Dingle's third goal against Austin Stacks on Sunday. Photo by Dermot Crean.
Dingle’s, Barry O’Sullivan, celebrates Dingle’s third goal against Austin Stacks on Sunday. Photo by Dermot Crean.

Castleisland Mart Senior Club Championship Semi Final

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AUSTIN STACKS crashed out of the club championship for the second year in a row at the hands of Dingle.

A goal from Paul Geaney with the last kick of the first half set the men from the west up for the second where they would be aided by the breeze.

Two further goals, from midfielder Barry O’Sullivan and once again from Geaney, would seal the deal for Dingle who will now go on to play Dr Crokes in the final.

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Austin Stacks were much the better side in the first 15 minutes of the match and led by five points at one stage. Corner forward, David Mannix was on fire in this period, notching up four scores and looking dangerous.

With Stacks in the lead by four and the first period drawing to a close, Dingle forward Matthew Flaherty made a run at the square. His attempted shot was blocked and fell to Paul Geaney, who showed the aerial ability which bagged him a goal in the All-Ireland Final. The inter-county star turned to knock it under Jonathan Conway in goal.

With that, the sides went at the break Stacks 0-7 Dingle 1-3.

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Austin Stacks, Kieran Donaghy on the ball while Dingle's Mark O'Connor keeps clse watch. Photo by Dermot Crean.
Austin Stacks, Kieran Donaghy on the ball while Dingle’s Mark O’Connor keeps close watch. Photo by Dermot Crean.

Building on that momentum, Dingle came flying out of the traps the second half. After two quick-fire points, they found themselves four points in front three minutes into the half when Paul Geaney hit the net once more. It was a lead they would never relinquish.

For the remainder of the game, Stacks tried to eat into that lead, but never got close, in fact they would only kick two points from play the entire half.

This youthful Dingle side were looking fitter and faster, Kerry minor, Mark O’Connor was entrusted with keeping an eye on Donaghy and did a fine job, although quality ball was at a premium for the 2014 All-Star.

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Dingle's, Barry O'Sullivan, crashes into, Austin Stacks, Ronan Shanahan. Photo by Dermot Crean.
Dingle’s, Barry O’Sullivan crashes into Austin Stacks, Ronan Shanahan. Photo by Dermot Crean.

With 13 minutes left, Dingle scored their third goal to stretch the lead out to seven points. This time it was Kerry minor from last year, Barry  O’Sullivan, doing the damage.

It was  a disappointing display by the Rock, but the defeat to Dingle last year in the club championship proved to be a turning point for a side that went on to win the county championship.

A lot of soul searching will come after a nine point defeat.

Who knows? It could be just what they needed.

Austin Stacks, Pa McCarthy and William Kirby, getting to know Dingle's, Brendan Kelliher. Photo by Gavin O'Connor.
Austin Stacks Pa McCarthy and William Kirby getting to know Dingle’s Brendan Kelliher. Photo by Dermot Crean.

Dingle’s goals against Austin Stacks from ‘Sideline Eye’ Media. (see more action photos below)…

Scorers
Dingle: Paul Geaney 2-3 2f, Barry O’Sullivan 1-0, Mikey Geaney 0-1 1’45’ and Conor Geaney 0-2 2f, Matthew Flaherty, Tom O’Sullivan and Breándán Kelleher 0-1 each.

Austin Stacks: David Mannix 0-6 3f, Shane Carroll 0-1 1f, Kieran Donaghy, Fiachna Mangan and Fearghal MacNamara 0-1 each.

Dingle: Sean Flaherty, Conor O’Sullivan, Brendan Kelliher, Patrick O’Connor, Gavan Curran, Mark O’Connor, Patrick Devane, Dara O’Sullivan, Barry O’Sullivan, Matthew Flaherty, Mikey Geaney, Paul Devane, Tom O’Sullivan, Paul Geaney, Mark Evans

Substitutes: Conor Geaney for Dara O’Sullivan, Tom Leo O’Sullivan for Conor O’Sullivan, Johnny B Brosnan for Paul Devane, Cathal Bambury for Marc Evans

Austin Stacks: Jonathan Conway, Ronan Shanahan, Barry Walsh, Denis McElligott, Ciaran O’Connell, Fearghall McNamara (c), Sean Ryan, Barry Shanahan, Conor Jordan, Mikey Collins, Shane Carroll, Fiachna Managan, David Mannix, Kieran Donaghy, Shane O’Callaghan

Substitutes: William Kirby for Barry Shanahan, Pa McCarthy for Ciaran O’Connell, Colin Griffin for Barry Walsh, Dale Counihan for Fiachna Mangan, Jack Morgan for Mickey Collins

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Paul Geaney scores his second goal for Dingle during the match on Sunday. Photo by Dermot Crean
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Conor Geaney (25) wonders how he missed a gilt-edged goal chance during the second half, while his teammate Mark O’Connor shares his sentiments. Photo by Dermot Crean
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Dingle’s Gavan Curran is tackled by Shane Carroll. Photo by Dermot Crean
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Conor Jordan rises for the ball during the match on Sunday. Photo by Dermot Crean

GAA Preview: Rock To Overcome Western Challenge

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Gavin O’Connor looks ahead to the Austin Stacks v Dingle Senior Football Club Championship, semi-final in Austin Stack Park this Sunday…

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Mikey Collins in action during last October’s county championship clash between Austin Stacks and Dingle. Photo by Dermot Crean

THE year 2014 will live long in the memory in Connolly Park.

County and Munster titles and a county league which was only added last week, made it truly a vintage year.

However, it could have been a perfect year, but for one fly in the ointment.

Last year, there was one competition Austin Stacks didn’t win and one team that beat them in that competition. This Sunday, they face that team, in that same competition.

Continued below…

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Yes, back in May last year, Dingle blitzed a Kieran Donaghy-less Austin Stacks with four goals, to knock them out of the club championship by a scoreline of 4-7 to 1-10.

That was the sole defeat the Rock suffered in 2014.

The two sides would face each other once more, this time in the county championship semi-final, but on this occasion Kieran Donaghy was back in the side. Star gave a man of the match performance and the Stacks cruised to a seven-point victory.

The departures, of Greg Horan, Wayne Guthrie, Pa McCarthy and Darragh O’Brien to the States have been a set back to the Rock.

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High flying action last during October’s county championship clash between Austin Stacks and Dingle. Photo by Dermot Crean

Stacks will be without the services of Shane Guthrie, who gave a fine display against Crokes – he will be on soccer duties with Tralee Dynamos, for their Munster Junior Cup final.

They can also add Daniel Bohane (broken collar-bone) to their list of absentees, an injury putting him out for another 11 weeks.

However, since the departure of those key men to America, Shane Carroll has taken on extra responsibility in the team. He gave a grandstand performance in the Crokes game, kicking six points, giving a man of the match performance.

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Shane O’Callaghan (seen here during October’s county championship clash between Austin Stacks and Dingle) could play an important role for Stacks this Sunday. Photo by Dermot Crean

The opponents, Dingle, really are the coming side in Kerry football. So much so, that it will be surprising if the young talent they’ve got coming through recently, doesn’t harvest them a county title in the next few years.

Along with back to back Hogan Cup titles for Pobalscoil Chorca Dhuibhne, the All-Ireland winning Kerry minor team featured four Dingle men in the starting lineup and three more on the bench.

One of those men, Matthew Flaherty, scored 1-3 in last year’s fixture. He is as adept from corner back to corner forward. On Sunday he will cover every blade of grass and be a real live wire.

Mark O’Connor gave an incredible performance for the Kerry minors on Wednesday night against Cork and I wouldn’t be surprised to see him make an impression on the game despite his age.

He had an awful time last year going up against Donaghy, so it will be interesting if they pin him on Donaghy again.

O’Connor’s midfield partner with the Kerry minors last year, Barry O’Sullivan, was on the losing side against Stacks in the county championship, but had fantastic duel with William Kirby in midfield that day.

Added to the abundance of promising young talent, the Rock will have to contend with Paul Geaney who, on his day at this level, can be unplayable. Though he does seem to keep his powder dry for when he’s wearing green and gold.

Looking at this game, Austin Stacks are a real unit. Stephen Stack has a team working together and on the same wavelength, they are dogged defenders and resolute right to the final whistle.

Last year, Dingle really did not cope well at all with the high ball going into Donaghy (who does?).

They decided to just leave one man on him, it remains to be seen if they’ll do that again. One thing is for sure – the plan will stay the same for Stacks.

Verdict – Austin Stacks by 3 points

Throw-in on Sunday is at 3.30pm

PHOTOS: Beauty Of Kerry Takes A Starring Role In Tim’s Tweets

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Timothy Murphy is spending some quality time at home this week.

OUR very own Hollywood star is certainly doing his bit to help out local tourism this week as he spent some quality time at home with his family.

Timothy V Murphy is definitely no stranger to the glitz and glamour of Hollywood what with having worked on shows such as Sons Of Anarchy, 24, CSI: NY and the soon to be seen second series of True Detective. 

Continued below…

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The Oakpark native still holds a place in his heart for the beauty of Kerry, as demonstrated by his recent activity on his twitter page.

Tim has definitely been doing his bit for tourism here as he tweets about his experiences at home last weekend, back to his 31,ooo twitter followers in what can only be described as dream promotion for some businesses.

Many people from abroad posted replies about how beautiful the county was looking in his photos.

Ardfert and Dingle are the big winners as Tim declares his fondness for all things in those areas.

You can check out his tweets down below…

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VIDEO: Dingle Adventurer Has Close Encounter With Basking Shark

 

The Dingle Basking shark.
The Dingle basking shark who got to know a kayaker.

A KAYAKER off the shores of Dingle had a close encounter with a basking shark on Thursday evening.

John O’Leary of Irish Adventurers based in Dingle, was enjoying the fine weather yesterday, kayaking off the Kerry coast when a mammoth-sized basking shark decided to make itself acquainted with the aquatic thrill-seeker.

Thankfully, John, had a trusty GoPro camera running so was able to film the shark with its mouth agape beneath his kayak.

Basking sharks are the second largest living fish next to a whale shark. Luckily for John, the species, are relatively harmless and are described as a slow moving filter feeder.

Even still, seeing that shark fin eerily glide over the surface is bound to make your heart jump.

 

The Green Outclassed By Experienced Dingle School Side

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Michael Reidy of CBS The Green strides forward watched by Martin O'Gorman of Pobalscoil Chorca Dhuibhne during the Corn Uí Mhuirí Quarter-Final clash on Wednesday at Dr Crokes GAA grounds. Photo by Fergus Dennehy
Michael Reidy of CBS The Green strides forward watched by Martin O Gormain of Pobalscoil Chorca Dhuibhne during the Corn Uí Mhuirí Quarter-Final clash on Wednesday at Dr Crokes GAA grounds. Photo by Fergus Dennehy

CBS The Green 1-3

PS Chorca Dhuibhne 2-10 

THE Green were simply outclassed on Wednesday afternoon when they faced a Dingle side who are in the hunt for four in the row Corn Uí Mhuirí titles.

Indeed, seven of the side that won last year’s Hogan Cup for PS Chorca Dhuibhne were in action bringing with them experience and quality to deal with a Green side who struggled to mount consistent attacks.

Kerry manager, Eamonn Fitzmaurice was in the stands, having vacated his role with the Dingle college and handed over the mantle to a man he soldiered with in green and gold, Tommy Griffin.

Though Dingle were favourites, the Tralee side were still expected to give them a game. CBS had two Kerry minors of last year within their ranks – Jack Morgan and Ivan Parker.

The opening exchanges of the match lacked intensity. After 15 minutes and just a point up from a free, Dingle were awarded a penalty after The Green full-back hauled down Liam O Brosnachain in the square.

Dingle’s top scorer on the day, Cathal O’Bambaire, made no mistake slotting the ball past Eoghan O’Brien in goal to put his side four points up.

Continued below…

 rise for the ball during the Corn Uí Mhuirí Quarter-Final clash on Wednesday at Dr Crokes GAA grounds. Photo by Fergus Dennehy
Aodhan O Conchuir rises for the ball during the Corn Uí Mhuirí Quarter-Final clash on Wednesday at Dr Crokes GAA grounds. Photo by Fergus Dennehy

The Green responded well to the goal and were rewarded for their efforts when Ivan Parker knocked over a free and Jack O’Shea slotted over their first point from play.

The sides went in at half time with Dingle in the driving seat, the scores 0-2 to 1-3.

The game continued in much the same way on resumption of the second half – Dingle were in full control and kicked five unanswered in the second half before The Green were given a lifeline with the scores at 0-2 to 1-8.

Calvin Foley of CBS The Green gets his pass away despite the attention of Pobalscoil Chorca Dhuibhne's Martin O'Gorman during the Corn Uí Mhuirí Quarter-Final clash on Wednesday at Dr Crokes GAA grounds. Photo by Fergus Dennehy
Calvin Foley of CBS The Green gets his pass away despite the attention of Pobalscoil Chorca Dhuibhne’s MMartin O Gormain during the Corn Uí Mhuirí Quarter-Final clash on Wednesday at Dr Crokes GAA grounds. Photo by Fergus Dennehy

A long hopeful ball  found its way into the Dingle square; it was broken and landed to Sean Mortimer who handpassed it to Calvin Foley just outside the square in front of the goals. With  two Dingle men and a goalkeeper hanging off Foley, he eventually bundled the ball into the net.

From that incident, the Dingle keeper received an injury and had to leave the game.

Colin Griffin of CBS under pressure during the Corn Uí Mhuirí Quarter-Final clash on Wednesday at Dr Crokes GAA grounds. Photo by Fergus Dennehy
Colin Griffin of CBS under pressure during the Corn Uí Mhuirí Quarter-Final clash on Wednesday at Dr Crokes GAA grounds. Photo by Fergus Dennehy

Minutes after his introduction, the replacement goalkeeper made a huge impact when he pulled off a terrific double save denying Ivan Parker twice, to the anguish of the travelling Green support. Parker on the third attempt got the ball over the bar, but there was to be no come back.

Dingle saw out the game in style with two terrific scores from Liam O Brosnachain and Cathal O’Bambaire,  highlighting the gulf in quality between the teams. You’d would wonder have they ditched lessons down in Dingle for football from the first bell until last.

Michael Reidy of CBS The Green strides forward watched by Martin O'Gorman of Pobalscoil Chorca Dhuibhne during the Corn Uí Mhuirí Quarter-Final clash on Wednesday at Dr Crokes GAA grounds. Photo by Fergus Dennehy
Michael Reidy of CBS The Green strides forward watched by Martin O’Gorman of Pobalscoil Chorca Dhuibhne during the Corn Uí Mhuirí Quarter-Final clash on Wednesday at Dr Crokes GAA grounds. Photo by Fergus Dennehy

The Green who are the second most successful College side in Munster again miss out on shot at a Corn Ui Mhuiri. 2007 is beginning to look a long time ago as this barren spell will continue again for another year at least.

Scroll down for more images…

Scorers

The Green: Calvin Foley 1-0, Ivan Parker 2, 1f, Jack O’Shea 1p.

PS Chorca Dhuibhne:  Ryan O Mannin, 1-2, 1 penalty, 1p, 1f, Cathal O’Bambaire 1-1, Sean O Gairbhia 0-3, 2f 1p, Barra Sean Mac an Bhradain 2p, Aodhan O Conchuir 2p,

Teams

The Green: Eoghan O’Brien (Churchill), Tommy Lynch (St Pats), Cian Sheridan (John Mitchels), Darragh Ryan (Kerins O’Rahilly’s), Micheal Ready (Ballymaceligott), Jack Morgan (Austin Stacks), Jack O’Shea (Austin Stacks), Tom Hoare (Kerins O’Rahilly’s), Stephane Okunbar (Na Gaeil), Brian Kennedy (Annascaul), Calvin Foley (Austin Stacks), Colin Griffin (Austin Stacks), Christopher Leen (Ballymacelligott), Ivan Parker (c) (Churchill), William Hurley (St Pats)

Substitutes: Ben O’Neil, Dylan Ronan, Tomas O’Connor, Sean Mortimer

PS Chorca Dhuibhne: Lucas de Bhailis, Conchuir O Suilleabhain, Cian O Murchu, Aodhan O Conchuir, Tom O Suilleabhain, Padraig Mc an tSithigh, Sean O Gairbhia, Martin O Gormain, Barra Sean Mac an Bhradain, Gareth O Brosnachain, Ryan O Mannin, Liam O Brosnachain, Cathal O’Bambaire

Substitutes: Sean O Luing, Lucas Mac Giolla Earnain, Ruadhan Mac Carthaigh, PJ Mac laimh, Seamus O Muircheartaigh

Sean Garvey lets fly despite the efforts of a CBS player during the Corn Uí Mhuirí Quarter-Final clash on Wednesday at Dr Crokes GAA grounds. Photo by Fergus Dennehy
Sean O Gairbhia lets fly despite the efforts of a CBS player during the Corn Uí Mhuirí Quarter-Final clash on Wednesday at Dr Crokes GAA grounds. Photo by Fergus Dennehy
Dylan Ronan of CBS and Padriag Sheehy of Pobalscoil Chorca Dhuibhne during the Corn Uí Mhuirí Quarter-Final clash on Wednesday at Dr Crokes GAA grounds. Photo by Fergus Dennehy
Dylan Ronan of CBS and Padraig Mc an tSithigh of Pobalscoil Chorca Dhuibhne during the Corn Uí Mhuirí Quarter-Final clash on Wednesday at Dr Crokes GAA grounds. Photo by Fergus Dennehy
Garret Brosnan of Pobalscoil Chorca Dhuibhne in possession during the Corn Uí Mhuirí Quarter-Final clash on Wednesday at Dr Crokes GAA grounds. Photo by Fergus Dennehy
Gareth O Brosnachain of Pobalscoil Chorca Dhuibhne in possession during the Corn Uí Mhuirí Quarter-Final clash on Wednesday at Dr Crokes GAA grounds. Photo by Fergus Dennehy
Sean Garvey of Pobalscoil Chorca Dhuibhne in full flight during the Corn Uí Mhuirí Quarter-Final clash on Wednesday at Dr Crokes GAA grounds. Photo by Fergus Dennehy
Sean O Gairbhia of Pobalscoil Chorca Dhuibhne in full flight during the Corn Uí Mhuirí Quarter-Final clash on Wednesday at Dr Crokes GAA grounds. Photo by Fergus Dennehy
Cian Sheridan of CBS The Green and Tomas O'Sullivan of Pobalscoil Chorca Dhuibhne during the Corn Uí Mhuirí Quarter-Final clash on Wednesday at Dr Crokes GAA grounds. Photo by Fergus Dennehy
Cian Sheridan of CBS The Green and Tomas O’Sullivan of Pobalscoil Chorca Dhuibhne during the Corn Uí Mhuirí Quarter-Final clash on Wednesday at Dr Crokes GAA grounds. Photo by Fergus Dennehy

SPORT: Stacks To Shade It On Sunday…But Only Just!

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Action from when Austin Stacks faced Dingle in the Club Championship last May. Photo by Adrienne McLoughlin
Action from when Austin Stacks faced Dingle in the Club Championship last May. Photo by Adrienne McLoughlin

Gavin O’Connor looks at the Austin Stacks v Dingle Super Valu Senior County Championship Semi-Final at Austin Stacks Park, this Sunday…

STACKS and Dingle have a few things in common. Firstly – and they won’t like being reminded of this – they have both suffered heavy county final defeats to Crokes in recent years.

Secondly, with Crokes out, both teams will see this year as a golden opportunity to bridge lengthy gaps between county titles – 20 years for Stacks and a whopping 66 for Dingle.

Continued below…

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Thirdly there are some fantastic young players coming through the ranks – from Stacks, Shane O’Callaghan and Greg Horan and for Dingle, Mark O’Connor and Matthew Flaherty.

There is also next year’s captaincy of  the Kerry team up for grabs. No doubt this will be on the minds of Kieran Donaghy and Paul Geaney.

Looking at form coming into this, Austin Stacks, have the edge. The Rock have gone unbeaten in the league this year while Dingle lie in the middle of the pack in Division One.

Both sides have faced each other twice this year. The first game ending in a six point victory for Dingle in the club championship, the second a seven point win for Stacks, with games played in Dingle.

In the first game, Stacks lost without Donaghy and Bohane, while Dingle can point to the absence of five Kerry minors in their defeat.

This all makes Sunday’s game extremely difficult to call. One thing I will call though is, I fancy that this game will not be a pretty affair. This is going on the way both teams have setup at times during the year and the high stakes involved.

Shane O'Callaghan playing in Austin Stacks 7 point victory over West Kerry in the County Championship quarter-final. Photo by Gavin O'Connor.
Shane O’Callaghan playing in Austin Stacks 7 point victory over West Kerry in the County Championship quarter-final. Photo by Dermot Crean.

Dingle were quiet defensive against Legion, but I guess who wouldn’t be when the opposition has the best forward in the country, James O’Donoghue, in the side.

The men from the west did a pretty good job in limiting O’Donoghue’s supply line and ultimately his imprint on the game. If Legion had manged to get the ball to him more often there is no doubt they would have won.

One of the efforts Dingle made in starving him of possession, was moving Mikey Geaney back as a sweeper in front of the half back line.

In this role against Legion, the inter-county man was aggressive. The way he performs will likely have a bearing on how much ball the Stacks forwards will see.

With a massive free count being notched up in the championship this year and it likely to be a tight game, the side that concedes the least frees could well be the deciding factor.

Kerry football has a serious issue with how to tackle without fouling, it has been evident in this year’s county championship and in this year’s All-Ireland final.

Obviously, what way Donaghy performs will have a massive say in this game. When you look at that Stacks forward line, without Donaghy it lacks the fear factor, while Dingle have an ever present menace in Paul Geaney.

I can see Donaghy starting in midfield and moving closer in as the game moves on. Sunday would be a great time for him to strike up a partnership with Shane O’Callaghan, whose good form this year (and ginger hair!) should help Donaghy lock in on the young Kerry panellist as he did so often in the past with the Gooch.

Dingle have a fantastic troupe of young players which will make this game a must watch in itself. My head is finding it difficult to pick a winner so I’ll go with my gut.

Verdict: Austin Stacks by one point

SPORT: Three Key Battles That May Decide Austin Stacks v Dingle

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Austin Stacks manager, Stephen Stack, will have plenty to think about ahead of The Rocks senior football county championship match this Sunday against Dingle. Photo by Dermot Crean.

IF you were going to pick the dream match-up of the round before the semi-final draw was made, it would have been this one.

Both sides have a panel of full of young, quality players and established stars to make it a hotly anticipated encounter.

Dingle remain the only side to have beaten Stacks in 2014 making this county semi-final a very difficult one to call.

Austin Stacks and Dingle have crossed paths twice this season with both games played back west. In the club championship in May, Dingle blitzed Stacks with four goals and won by six points. In the league, Stacks got their own back and won by 0-15 to 0-7.

We look at three battles that could decide which team moves through to this year’s county final.

Continued below…

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Kieran Donaghy v Paul Geaney

In club matches, teams will always look to their county men. Dingle did so last week against Legion in the quarter-final when, two points down, with the last attack of the game, Paul Geaney made a thirty yard run which split open the Legion defence.

The attack ended with ball in the net, saving Dingle when all had looked lost.

Donaghy, didn’t have to dig as deep for the Rock last weekend as his side coasted to victory, but he was a steady influence throughout.

The performance of these two men will be crucial. A moment of magic could be the deciding factor in what could be a tight game. With the Kerry captaincy also up for grabs, these two men will be chomping at the bit for their clubs.

Matthew O'Flaherty in possession against Austin Stacks is one of the four Kerry minors playing with Dingle.  Photo by Adrienne McLoughlin
Matthew O’Flaherty of Dingle and Pa McCarthy of Austin Stacks tussle for possession when the two sides met in the club championship in May. Photo by Adrienne McLoughlin

Conor Jordan v Matthew Flaherty

Make no mistake about it, Matthew Flaherty, is one of the most exciting prospects in Kerry football.

The versatile Dingle player has started to get a taste for victory this year as well having picked up a minor All-Ireland medal with Kerry (along with five of his teammates) and a Hogan Cup with Pobalscoil Chorca Dhuibhne.

Assuming both players start against each other, Conor Jordan, a minor teammate of Flaherty’s last year, will be tasked with following the mobile Dingle man around the park.

Flaherty has proved to be decisive in this year’s championship, Conor Jordan is in fine form  and is looking strong. A match up between these two young talents is something to look forward to.

The Middle Third

In both quarter-finals, the teams enjoyed midfield dominance in their games. Stacks were far too strong for West Kerry, while up against Legion, Dingle were allowed a good proportion of ball around the centre of the park.

Wayne Guthrie is one of the most improved players in the county this year. The former Kerry minor goalkeeper, is looking leaner and meaner and is coming into his own in midfield.

Though selected at full forward against West Kerry, Donaghy roamed around midfield providing a link for attacks. The Rock’s supporting cast in this area will be extremely important.  They hoovered up breaks against West Kerry which was the bedrock of their dominance.

They will be coming up against a greater foe on Sunday. Dingle’s midfield of Mark O’Connor – who bagged himself a terrific solo goal last Saturday – and Darragh O’Sullivan were star men against Legion.

Also, Kingdom star, Mikey Geaney, has been influential as a sweeper in the half back line, something that Rockies boss, Stephen Stack will be well aware of.

Watch both of Dingle’s goals against Legion last Saturday…

Full Match Report And Photos: Austin Stacks v West Kerry

Gavin O’Connor reports on the Garvey’s Supervalu Kerry Senior Football Championship Quarter-Final in Fitzgerald Stadium on Sunday…

AUSTIN STACKS navigated their way safely through to the semi-final of the Super Valu County Senior Football Championship, when they overcame West Kerry in a miserable Fitzgerald Stadium by double scores, 0-14 to 0-7.

In all the quarter-finals played out over the weekend, Austin Stacks were the team that came closest to a complete performance. With a healthy blend of youth and experience, they really are nicely poised to finally bridge that gap of 20 years and lift the Bishop Moynihan Cup.

Before the 3:30pm throw in, it was mild day in Killarney, but as soon as the last strains of the national anthem rang out around Fitzgerald Stadium, a gale kicked up, quickly followed by a torrent of rain which swept across the pitch and was a constant throughout.

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Kieran Donaghy and Shane Carroll contest a kick out with a West Kerry player. Photo by Dermot Crean.

The opening exchanges were spent dealing with the squally conditions with both sides ratcheting up a couple of wides. It was West Kerry who got off the mark first, which was followed by a great goal chance in the 7th minute, when wing back, Nollaig O hUigin, blasted towards goal, but his shot was expertly saved by Stacks keeper, Darragh O’Brien.

After that initial early scare it was pretty much smooth sailing for the rest of the game, West Kerry looking every bit a divisional side that had not played with each other in quite a while.

Kieran Donaghy was selected at full-forward, but spent the game roving the play as a link man to Stacks attacks and covering back.

Stacks first scores came from frees with midfielder, Shane Carroll, who kicked three in quick succession. All frees were won off the back of Stacks dominance – they were dominating kickouts thanks to the Rock’s half back and half forward line hoovering almost every break.

Action from the Austin Stacks v West Kerry game in Killarney. Photo by Dermot Crean.
Action from the Austin Stacks v West Kerry game in Killarney. Photo by Dermot Crean.

After 20 minutes of the match the score was 0-8 to 0-2 when Wayne Guthrie pointed impressively from a 45. Guthrie was having a starring role in the centre of the park. Despite the conditions, he was looking to supply the Stacks forward line with quality kick passes. Moving the ball so quickly that it caused even more trouble for the beleaguered West Kerry rearguard.

Though most of the scores in the first half came from close in frees, there were two scores from play that stood out. The first coming from Shane O’Callaghan on 15 minutes, when he jinked outside a defender and curled it over the bar from 30 yards. Fiachna Mangan, then followed that up with his only point of the game, a fine effort just inside the 45 on the run.

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Wayne Guthrie reaches for Austin Stacks in the senior football county championship match against West Kerry. Photo by Dermot Crean.

At the resumption of the second half, there was to be no let up from Stacks; Guthrie kicking a long range point to quell any thoughts of a West Kerry fight back. Shane Carroll added another free which was followed by a point from centre back, Greg Horan, who was excellent throughout, to put his side nine points ahead, almost a third of the way through the second half.

The game also saw the return of Daniel Bohane from injury who came on to replace Darragh O’Brien in the second half. There was also the appearance of veteran, William Kirby, who has been pitching in as an impact sub this year.

Stacks had a terrific goal chance in the last quarter of the half when Greg Horan broke out of the defence and laid off a perfect pass to Guthrie who was coming up the wing unmarked. He shot straight at the keeper, the ball then fell to Donaghy who tried to layoff a pass, but it was snuffed out just about by the West Kerry defence who managed to get a few bodies back in the nick of time.

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Kieran Donaghy tries to find a teammate to finish off a goal chance. Photo by Dermot Crean.

Dingle rallied in the last ten minutes, kicking three points on the trot to bring them within six. Maybe if they got a goal in this period they could have made it a nervy finish, but really, Stacks had far too much of a hold on this game for it ever to come to that.  The final score 0-14 to 0-7.

Now, The Rockies, look forward to their 28th appearance in a senior county championship  semi-final. They will face a youthful Dingle side in what will be a fascinating encounter.

Austin Stacks: Darragh O’Brien, Fearghal McNamara, Barry Shanahan, Ronan Shanahan, Pa McCarthy, Greg Horan, Conor Jordan, Wayne Guthrie, Shane Carroll, Shane O’Callaghan, Micheal Collins, Fiachna Mangan, David Mannix, Kieran Donaghy, Darragh O’Brien.

Scorers: Shane Carroll (1p 5f), Wayne Guthrie (2p), Shane O’Callaghan (2), Micheal Collins (2) Greg Horan (1)Fiachna Mangan (1).

Substitutes: Daniel Bohane (Darragh O’Brien), Denis McElligott (Fiachna Mangan), Daniel Bohan (David Mannix).

West Kerry: Tomas Mac an tSaoir, Gearoid O’Shea, Caoimhin O Beaglaoich, Cathal O Luing, Padraig O Se, Colm O Gealbhain, Nollaig O hUigin, Alan Fitzgearld, Emmet Kennedy, S.M O Conchubhair, Deaglain O Suilleabhain, Garreth O Nuanain, James Crean, Eanna O’Conchuir, Jason Hickson.

Scorers: Deaglain O Suilleabhain (5f), Colm O Geaibhain (1), Colm O Muircheartaigh (1). 

Substitutes: Colm O Muircheartaigh (Nollaig O hUigin), Shane Foley (Emmet Kennedy), Brian O Raoil (S.M O Conchubhair)

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Mikey Collins shoots for a score in the game on Sunday. Photo by Dermot Crean
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Shane Carroll slot over a point during the first half against West Kerry on Sunday. Photo by Dermot Crean

Sport: St Brendan’s Exit County Championship

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Action from the St Brendan’s v Dingle game in the Super Valu Senior County Championship in Austin Stack Park Saturday evening. Photo by Oscar Brophy.

St Brendan’s 0-9

Dingle 2-9

St Brendan’s were knocked out of the Super Valu Senior Football County Championship last night.

Two goals, one coming right at the finish of the first and the other at the beginning of the second halves were the difference on the scoreboard, but the gulf in quality between the sides was apparent throughout.

St Brendan’s can bemoan losing so many players through a mixture of emigration and injury this year. You would suspect if they could have drawn upon those players they could have really put it up to this Dingle side that contained no fewer then four Kerry minors and one of the form forwards in the country right now, Paul Geaney.

It really was a dour affair. Interest in the game began to fade among the 800 or so who watched on as the Brendan’s wilted after Dingle scored their second goal. It made almost the entire second half a procession of missed chances and poor quality football.

Brendan’s had the benefit of a slight breeze in Austin Stack Park for the first half and they started well going tit for tat with Dingle. After 12 minutes the sides were level with three apiece, the best score coming from John Mitchels’ Alan O’Donoghue who worked tirelessly throughout.

When Churchill’s Micheal Brennan scored a point on 17 minutes this put the Saints one point ahead, but when they lost that lead they never regained it.

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Kieran Hurley shoots for a score against Dingle in the Super Valu Senior County Championship in Austin Stack Park on Saturday evening. Photo by Oscar Brophy.

The game was marked by an incredible amount of wides from Dingle – 10 in the first half alone. Paul Geaney must have left his  shooting boots in Pairc Ui Chaoimh because he was the main culprit.

He even spurned a couple of goal chances that would have put the game beyond his opponents early on.

The first hammer blow for Brendan’s arrived at the end of the first half when Ardfert’s Fionan Horgan pulled down Mark Evans and a penalty was correctly given. Mark Evans converted the spot-kick and the sides went in for the second half 1-6 to 0-6 to Dingle.

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David Culloty looks for options against Dingle in the Super Valu Senior County Championship in Austin Stack Park on Saturday evening. Photo by Oscar Brophy.

At the beginning of the second half the ever industrious Kerry Minor, Matthew Flaherty got the key score of the game when he finished to the net latching onto a long pass from Brendan Kelliher. This put the men from the west six points ahead.

St Brendan’s quite simply did not have the quality to claw that back.

What followed for the remainder of the half is better forgotten – the game being marked by scrappy football and bad wides.

All is not lost for Brendan’s though, they were not expected to get this far and they can rue missing many of their best players. If they can come back on board next year, Aidan Daly’s charges stand a good chance of going a step further again.

St Brendan’s: Paudie Baily, Fionan Horgan, Rory Horgan, Michael Brennan, David Griffin, Sean Moloney, Liam Poff, John Dowling, Kevin Shanahan, Liam O’Sullivan, Brendan Poff, Alan O’Donoghue, Kieran Hurley, Ivan Parker.

Scorers: Kieran Hurley (0-3), Alan O’Donoghue (0-2), Michael Brennan (0-1), David Griffin (0-1), Brian Costello (0-1), John Dowling (0-1).

Substitutes: Brian Costello (Liam Poff), David Culloty (Ivan Parker), Paul McMahon (Kevin Shanahan)

Dingle: Gavin Curran, Conor O’Sullivan, Sean Brosnan, Thomas O’Sullivan, Marc O’Connor, Matthew Flaherty, Brendan Kelliher, Darragh O’Sullivan, Barry O’Sullivan, Gavin Curran, Micheal Geaney, Jack O’Sullivan, Marc Evans, Liam Devane, Paul Geaney.

Scorers: Paul Geaney (1-3), Mathew O’Flaherty (1-1), Mark Evans (0-3), Conor Geaney (0-1), Brendan Kelliher (0-1)

Substitutes: Conor Geaney (Mark Evans), Ryan Begley (Gavin Curran), Brian Devane (Liam Devane), Adrian Devane (Conor O’Sullivan)