ALLIANZ CUMANN Na mBUNSCOL – “BOYS’ INDOOR FOOTBALL” HEAT 2 IN OMAGH

The second heat of the annual Allianz Cumann na mBunscol 5-a-side “Boys’ Indoor Gaelic Football” for primary schools was held today in Omagh’s Station Centre. A total of 8 local schools entered teams for this qualifying heat, which produced a tremendously high level of skill and ability from all involved.
Day 2 of the heats, Tuesday 4th February, saw schools compete for a coveted place in the Tyrone Final. Great credit must go to Tattysallagh PS, Drumduff PS and St. Dympna’s PS, Dromore, all of whom battled bravely in competition, but just fell short of a Semi-final berth despite their valiant efforts. A thrilling play-off between a Stephen O’ Neill inspired Killyclogher team and Master McMullan’s St. Lawrence’s PS, Fintona, saw the Tyrone All-star take his St. Mary’s team through to the last four on a 4:2 score line.
A strong team from Drumlish PS narrowly missed out on a place in the final when Master McElholm’s Tattyreagh PS, got the better of them in an absorbing first semi-final (2:0). The second semi-final was also keenly contested. Indeed, as the game finished 2:2, extra-time was required to separate these two great sides. A late flurry of goals was enough to see Master McGlone’s strong Newtownstewart team through to the final 5:3 (AET).
The Final, as expected, was a tense, closely fought affair. There was never going to be much between these two talented teams. Current Eskra player, Chris Kelly, was hoping to add to his already memorable year with his Tattyreagh PS team. A fantastic match ensued. After some terrific football, it was St. Patrick’s PS, Newtownstewart who won 2:0 and a 100% win record. They now proceed to the Allianz Cumann na mBunscol Tyrone Indoor Football Boys’ Final to be held in March. We congratulate the talented Newtownstewart boys and wish them well as they await the qualifying schools from another Omagh heat, and the winners from our heats in Dungannon, Cookstown and Clonoe.
Our thanks to top Tyrone referee, Stephen McNamee, for his expert officiating, and to Allianz Cumann na mBunscol Tyrone PRO, Eddie Doris, for co-ordinating the day’s matches. Organising secretary, Niall McQuaid, is also acknowledged for arranging these competitions.