Grosvenor Recreation Centre was the venue for our inaugural St Patrick’s Day Over 35s against Under 35s hurling and football matches. Over the previous few weeks there had been a lot of banter and idle gossip about who would come out on top and the hurling game was first up to settle the arguments. The U35s played their trump card with special guest appearances from “Mario and Luigi” however, Â the O35s used all their skills, both inside and outside the rules to make the match competitive. Â The game was decided with almost the last puck of the sliotar when the O35s were generously awarded a penalty. Â Playing into the small goals, the referee set the sliotar on an imaginary spot about 8 yards out; how could it be missed, the goal was beckoning which would give the O35s the win. The tension was unbearable as the sliotar was struck goal wards; time appeared to stop as it took an eternity for the sliotar to reach the goals while the keeper had all day to get it under control and clear to safety. The final whistle went and the U35s had just held on for the win and the bragging rights.
Next up was the football encounter. There was no doubt that this had been built up as a 
grudge match, particularly by the younger players who had been strongly voicing their opinion about what they were going to do to the O35 has beens. This time “Mario and Luigi” were joined by  “Where’s Wally” (there was maybe more than one Wally) and a “Rabbit”.
The U35s used their pace and moved the ball quickly but the O35s experience and guile broke down a lot of their attacks cutting down their scoring opportunities.
The U35s held a slight half time lead but the second half saw the O35s put in a concerted effort however, the U35s managed to keep two points in front with the clock running down. The O35s had one final opportunity, a free flowing move saw the ball break loose in the box and it was cracked to the back of the net to put them a point in front. No sooner had this happened when the final whistle went to leave the O35s the victors.
Special mention to Terry Park who organised the day’s events, to everyone who turned up and played or gave much needed support from the sideline. I think everyone would agree that the day was an opportunity to build on the spirit within the club and it’s events like this that promote the valued name of the club.
Well done to all, the craic and banter, leading up to, during and after the games was hilarious and now everyone is looking forward to next year and the opportunity to turn the tables.
