Sun 25th Sept:

Harps player Colin Holmes helps Tyrone win the Sam Maguire after they defeated Kerry earlier by 3 points....Holmes was introduced at half-time and was inspirational....Congratulations Colin....

Also congratulations to the players and management of the Under 12 squad as they defeated Grange in the championship final last night in Ballymacnab...

.In the SFC Clan na Gael take on Dromintee while Clann Eireann play Crossmaglen....

In Division 1 Mullabawn are champions while Silverbridge, Wolfe Tones and Maghery are in a 3-way play-off to see who joins Pearse Og in Division 2 next year........

Thur 15th Sept:

The Senior Football c'ship continues this weekend....In Abbey Madden play Whitecross (IFC) in the first half of a double bill while in the SFC Carrickcruppin take on Clann Eireann....

other interesting games this weekend include Clans V Mullabawn, Dromintee V Killeavey & Crossmaglen V St.Michaels.....

Abbey Lotto Sun 11th September 2005 - 7, 16, 20, 22 - No Jackpot Winner - next weeks Jackpot £1350..

Tue 23rd August:          Click Here for Match Report (Harps V Clann Eireann)

On Sunday evening past Harps defeated Clann Eireann in the County B Championship Final...Harps ran out convincing 9 point winners....Match report available in latest news section....Final Score: Harps 2-09 Clann eireann 0-06....l

ast night Harps minors lost out to Pearse Og in the quarter final of the c'ship....Harps had a goal chance in the remaining minutes to go a point in front only for the corner forward to blast wide....Final score: Harps 0-07 Pearse Og 2-08....

Mullabawn have now won the First Division, but the scrap for survival will go to the wire with Maghery, Silverbridge & Wolfe Tones all on 14 points at the bottom....Pearse Og are already relegated & Maghery have one final game left this weekend against Crossmaglen with at least a draw needed to pull them away from the bridge & W.Tones....

Abbey Lotto Sun 21st August 2005 - 1, 8, 15, 21 - No Jackpot Winner - next weeks Jackpot £1100..

Thur 4th August:         Click Here for Match Report (Harps V Pearse Og)

last night Harps B Team defeated Killeavey by 3 points in the All-County Championship Semi-Final Replay....John Toner & Gary McKinney grabbed the goals while Benny O'Kane chipped in with a few points....Harps will now play Clann Eireann in the County Final........

Last Sunday Harps seniors were defeated by Pearse Ogs in the league....Final score: Harps 1-10 Pearse Ogs 2-13....Full match report available in latest news section....T

his Sunday (Aug 7th) Harps travel to Dromintee in the League - Throw in 2pm.....

Abbey Lotto Sun 31st July 2005 -5, 7, 17, 20 - No Jackpot Winner - next weeks Jackpot £1350..

Mon 25th July:

An 8 point defeat to Tir na nOg on Friday ended any hopes Harps had of winning division 1 this year after they lost out in Portadown....

This Wednesday night Harps B Team play Killeavey in the All-County Championship Semi-Final.....

On Friday night (July 29th) Harps seniors entertain Pearse Og in the League

Abbey Lotto Sun 24th July 2005 -13, 16, 19, 21 - No Jackpot Winner - next weeks Jackpot £1300..

Fri 22nd July:         Click Here for Match Report (St.Michaels V Harps)

Harps seniors challenge for division 1 honours this year may well be over after they lost away to St.Michaels on Wednesday. & with Mullabawn beating the Ogs on Tuesday night they have extended their lead at the top by 3 points with a game in hand....

Final score: St.Michaels 1-14 Harps 0-11....

A Full match report is available in the latest news section....

Tonight Harps are away to Tir na nOg in the League (Confirmed 8pm).

Wed 20th July:         Click Here for Match Report (Harps V Maghery)

Harps Seniors drew with Maghery at home last Friday night....Joe Quigley was the top marksman with 1-06....Final Score: Harps 1-08 Maghery 1-08....Both teams had chances to win this match but a draw was probably a fair result....

This was a valuable point lost for Harps as they push to win the league....

A Full match report is available in the latest news section....

Tonight Harps are away to St.Michaels in the League and then on Friday night they travel to Tir na nOg...

Both games have an 8pm throw-in.....

Mon 4th July:

The senior league game between Harps & St.Michaels at the weekend was called off....

Harps are at home to Maghery this Friday night (8th July - throw-in 7.30pm)....

Congratulations to the Harps B Team team & their management on defeating Keady in the Mid Championship Final....

Congratulations to senior player Marty Gill who got married last weekend....

Abbey Lotto Sun 3rd July 2005 - 8, 10, 11, 22 - No Jackpot Winner - next weeks Jackpot £1100..

Tue 28th June:

Congratulations to the Harps B Team team & their management on defeating Keady in the Mid Championship Final last Wednesday night in Ballymacnab..Best for Harps were Sean Morrision (!-06) Andrew Clarke, Philip Richards & Kevin Morris...

.Last Tuesday night Harps seniors defeated Crossmaglen in Abbey Park by 1 point in the league...A late Paul Dynes goal clinched the 2 points for the home side....

Final score: Harps 1-09 Crossmaglen 1-08...

Congratulations to senior player Marty Gill who got married last weekend....

Abbey Lotto Sun 26th June 2005 - 1, 4, 8, 22 - No Jackpot Winner - next weeks Jackpot £1050..

Wed 22nd June:

Harps Seniors bounced back from two defeats in a row to defeat Crossmaglen in the League last night....A well taken goal from Harps best player Paul Dynes 2 minutes into injury time secured another 2 points for the Harps....Colin McKee & Philip McKinney also had fine games...Harps showed great determination last night and fought till the end, Well Done!!!!....Final Score: Harps 1-09 Crossmaglen 1-08

Best wishes to senior player Marty Gill who is planning to get married this weekend....

Tonight in Ballymacnab Harps B Team play Keady in the Final of the Mid Championship....

Abbey Lotto Sun 19th June 2005 - 6, 8, 11, 21 - One Jackpot Winner (M.Kelly £2600) - next weeks Jackpot £1000..

Tue 14th June:

Harps seniors suffered a heavy defeat at the hands of Mullabawn on Friday night....Final score: Mullabawn 1-15 Harps 0-02....Harps were missing several players, but they had no answer to a more fitter, stronger & well drilled Mullabawn side....

Harps are now joined at the top of Division 1 by Mullabawn....

On Wednesday (June 5th) Harps B'Team defeated Madden by 4 points in the Championship Semi Final (Former Senior & County player John Toner scored a couple of points)....

Congratulations to Harps U-14s who defeated Ballymacnab in the Championship Final....

Abbey Lotto Sun 12th June 2005 - 6, 10, 13, 15 - No Jackpot Winner next weeks Jackpot £2400..

Sun 5th June:

Harps seniors made up for their championship defeat to Dromintee by beating them by 7 points today in Abbey Park...

Congratulations to the players today who showed a lot of hunger....Gareth Richards was the Star Man with 2 goals in injury time to secure the 2 points....On a sad note today Harps had two players stretchered off today with both players (Collie Holmes & Fergus McAleavey) in severe pain........

Harps sit Top of Division 1 with 14 points from a possible 16....

Next week Harps are away to Mullabawn (Fri night - TBC)....

On Wednesday night past (June 5th) Harps B'Team defeated Madden by 4 points in the Championship (Former Senior & County player John Toner scored a couple of points)....

Congratulations to Harps U-14s who defeated Ballymacnab in the Championship Final today....

Abbey Lotto Sun 5th June 2005 - 2, 3, 4, 12 - No Jackpot Winner next weeks Jackpot £2350..

Wed 1st June:

Harps seniors collected another 2 points at the weekend when Pearse Og did not feild on Friday night....

Harps sit top of Division One with Mullabawn in second....

Next Sunday Harps are at home to Dromintee in the League....

Tonight Harps B'Team play Madden in the Championship........

Abbey Lotto Sun 29th May 2005 - 4, 13, 16, 19 - No Jackpot Winner next weeks Jackpot £2300..

Mon 23rd May:         Click Here for Match Report (Harps V Dromintee)

Harps seniors were knocked out of the SFC on Saturday night when they were well beaten by a more hungrier Dromintee side....

Final score: Harps 1-06 Dromintee 4-10....

This Friday night Harps are away to Pearse Og (who were beaten on Sunday night in the C'ship by Carrickcruppin)

Abbey Lotto Sun 22nd May 2005 - 6, 11, 14, 17 - No Jackpot Winner next weeks Jackpot £2300..

Mon 16th May:          Click Here for Match Report (Harps V Tir na nOg)

Harps continued their good run of form last Friday night with a 1 point victory at home to Tir na nOg, this keeps Harps at the top of Division 1....Full match Report available in Latest News Section....Final score: Harps 0-12 Tir na nOg 1-08....

This Saturday Harps play Dromintee in the Senior Football Championship in Carrickcruppin at 7.30pm....

For the rest of Division 1 results and the League Table click on the appropriate Links on the left hand side....

Sun 8th May:

Harps Sit Top of Division 1....

Harps seniors collected another 2 valuable points today after they came away with a 3-point victory over Maghery at the Lough Shore....Paedar Toal grabbed the only goal of the game as Harps won 1-06 to 0-06....Fergus McAleavey was Man of the Match........

Armagh Harps Golf Classic took place in Loughgall last Friday 6th May and proved another successful day with over 130 golfers taking part....Many thanks to all our sponsors, especially our main Sponsor Armagh Oil....

For the rest of Division 1 results and the League Table click on the appropriate Links on the left hand side....

Abbey Lotto Sun 8th May 2005 - 5, 6, 10, 23 - No Jackpot Winner next weeks Jackpot £2150..

Mon 2nd May:                    Click Here for Match Report (Wolfe Tones V Harps)

 Armagh Harps Golf Classic will take place in Loughgall this Friday 6th May 2005...£120 per team of 4 includes: Green Fees, Prizes, Meals & Drinks....There are still a few time slots left so please click on the link above for more details & an entry form....

Last Friday (April 29th) Harps seniors chalked up their first away win of the Season against newly promoted Wolfe Tones....

Final Score: Wolfe Tones 1-08 Harps 2-06....

For the rest of Division 1 results and the League Table click on the appropriate Links on the left hand side....

Abbey Lotto Sun 1st May 2005 - 8, 13, 20, 24 - No Jackpot Winner next weeks Jackpot £2100..

Sun 24th April:

 Armagh beat Mayo by 3 points to play Wexford in the NFL Final next Sunday...Last night Harps beat St.Michaels by 3 points in the league....Final score: Harps 0-16 St.Michaels 1-10....

Armagh Harps Golf Classic will take place in Loughgall on Friday 6th May 2005...£120 per team of 4 includes: Green Fees, Prizes, Meals & Drinks....There are still a few time slots left so please click on the link above for more details & an entry form....

For the rest of Division 1 results and the League Table click on the appropriate Links on the left hand side....

Abbey Lotto Sun 17th April 2005 - 2, 4, 7, 13 - No Jackpot Winner next weeks Jackpot £2000..

Tue 19th April:                 Click Here for Match Report (Crossmaglen V Harps)

Armagh Harps Golf Classic will take place in Loughgall on Friday 6th May 2005...£120 per team of 4 includes: Green Fees, Prizes, Meals & Drinks....There are still a few time slots left so please click on the link above for more details & an entry form...

.Last Saturday night Harps seniors were beaten by Crossmaglen in the League by 4 points....2 penalty's and several dubious decisions by the Referee didn't help Harps chances, but with a fairly weakened side Harps battled the whole way....

This Weekend Harps are at home to St.Michaels, but with Armagh playing on Sunday it hasn't been confirmed when the fixture will take place, but it will probably be on Saturday Evening..details to be confirmed....Final score: Crossmaglen 2-10 Harps 0-12....

(For the rest of Division 1 results and the League Table click on the appropriate Links on the left hand side....

Abbey Lotto Sun 17th April 2005 - 2, 4, 7, 13 - No Jackpot Winner next weeks Jackpot £2000..

Mon 11th April:                 Click Here for Match Report (Harps V Silverbridge)

Harps opened their league campaign with a 2 point victory yesterday at home to Silverbridge....Harpo McKenna was the star man with (1-01)....For a full match report click on the latest news section...

Final score: Harps 1-09 Silverbridge 1-07....

(For the rest of Division 1 results and the League Table click on the appropriate Links on the left hand side)..

Harps Feile side reached the County Feile Final after they defeated Cullyhanna yesterday by 9 points....

Harps annual Golf classic will take place on Friday 6th May in Loughgall Golf & Country Park....Team of 4 £120 (Price inlcudes - Green fees, meals & drinks)....

Abbey Lotto Sun 10th April 2005 - 2, 4, 17, 22 - No Jackpot Winner next weeks Jackpot £1950..

Tue 5th April: 

The All County League Division 1 football begins this Sunday....

Harps are at home to Silverbridge in their first match this Sunday at 2pm....

Last night (Monday) Harps minors drew with County Champions Granemore in the League....

Harps Feile side ran out comfortable winners against Tullysaran last Sunday (April 3rd) in the Mid Armagh Final....

Harps annual Golf classic will take place on Friday 6th May in Loughgall Golf & Country Park....

Abbey Lotto Sun 3rd April 2005 - 9, 12, 13, 15 - No Jackpot Winner next weeks Jackpot £1900..

Tue 29th March: 

Harps Seniors lost to Granemore by 7 points yesterday in the Final of the Mid-Armagh Cup....Final score: Harps 0-09 Granemore 1-13.... 

Best of luck to Harps players , Kevin Morris, Gareth Swift, Paedar Toal, Charlie Vernon & Joe Quigley who are part of the Armagh U-21 panel who play Cavan on Saturday in the Semi-Final of the Ulster championship in Breffni Park....

Harps Feile side play Tullysaran this Sunday (April 3rd) at 12 noon in Port Mor in the Mid Armagh Final...

.On Monday next (April 4th) Harps minors are at home to Granemore in the Minor League (Throw in 6.45pm)....

Harps annual Golf classic will take place on Friday 6th May in Loughgall Golf & Country Park....

Abbey Lotto Sun 27th March 2005 - 4, 6, 11, 21 - No Jackpot Winner next weeks Jackpot £1850..

Thur 17th March: 

Harps Seniors Play Granemore in the Final of the Mid-Armagh Cup in Ballymacnab on Easter Monday @ 1pm....

A weakened Harps side lost out to Sean McDermots of Monaghan in the Ulster League last Sunday...Final score: Harps 0-04 S.McDermots 2-07....

Armagh U-21s play Donegal on Saturday in the first round of the Ulster championship in Crossmaglen at 2.30pm....

Harps Feile side are through to the Mid Armagh Final after they defeated Ballymacnab in a semi-Final cracker last weekend. They now Face Tullysaran in the Final....

Membership is now due....

Harps annual Golf classic will take place on Friday 6th May in Loughgall Golf & Country Park....

Abbey Lotto Sun 14th March 2005 - 5, 11, 14, 20 - No Jackpot Winner next weeks Jackpot £1800..

Thur 10th March: 

Membership is now due....

Harps annual Golf classic will take place on Friday 6th May in Loughgall Golf & Country Park....

Last Sunday Harps lost out away to former Ulster Kingpins Ballinderry by 8 points in the Ulster league....

This Sunday at 12.30pm in Abbey Pk they face Sean McDermots from Monaghan...

Also this weekend Harps Feile side play Ballymacnab in the Semi-Final.....

Abbey Lotto Sun 7th March 2005 - 1, 10, 11, 20 - No Jackpot Winner next weeks Jackpot £1800..

Wed 23rd February:

 Last Saturday Harps ran a successful fundraiser when they held a Raceday at Fairyhouse Racecourse...Tickets were £100 a touch, and over 500 guests attended the event....Harps would like to thanks all those who attended the event or supported it by purchasing a ticket. they would also like to thank all of their sponsors...

Congratulations to Brendan Oliver (Olivers Fruit Shop) who won the main prize: 2 weeks in Austrailia for the Compromise Rules (October 2005)....The results of the remaining prize winners can be seen in the latest news section or by clicking the link below

Fairyhouse Raceday 2005 Prize Winners

Last friday night (Feb 18th) under lights Harps defeated Cavan outfit Drumgoon 1-16 to 1-07, with Joe Quigley the main marksman scoring 11 points....

This Friday night (Feb 25th) they are at home to Dungannon Clarkes in the Ulster League....

Abbey Lotto Sun 20th Feb 2005 - 3, 13, 16, 19 - No Jackpot Winner next weeks Jackpot £1700..

Sun 13th February: 

There are still a few tickets available for the Raceday this Saturday (feb 19th) at Fairyhouse, contact the social club - 02837 523281 ....Buses will depart between 9.30am - 9.45am from the social club & will return at approx 8.30pm...

Yesterday (Sat 12th feb) Harps seniors lost out by a single point to St.Michaels in the first round of the Ulster club League ....Ebbie Toal scored a fine goal after Joe Quigley hit the crossbar midway through the second half to put Harps 4 points up, but Harps failed to score in the last 12 mins and lost out by one point....Colin McKee at corner back had an excellent game...

Final score: St.Michaels 1-09 Harps 1-08.....

Next Friday night under lights Harps are at home to Drumcoo....

Abbey Lotto Sun 6th Feb 2005 - 1, 4, 7, 13 - No Jackpot Winner next weeks Jackpot £1600..

Sun 30th January: 

Harps Seniors progressed to the next round of the Mid-Armagh Cup today with a 3 point victory over Keady in an entertaining game at Abbey Park....Nippy Swift had an excellent game at midfield scoring 1-05....Ebbie Toal grabbed a fine goal in the first half....

Final Score - Harps 2-06 keady 0-09....

Congratulations to Senior Player JP Donnelly who got married last week to Michelle Hagan....

In the first three league fixtures for the 2005 season Harps are at home to Silverbridge on Sun 10th April followed by an away game to Cross (17th April) and then at home to St.Michaels (24th April) ....

Harps will face Dromintee in the first round of the 2005 SFC....the Full draw is available in the Results/fixtures section....

Harps will play Pearse Og in the U-21 Championship first round...In the minor championship Harps face Shane O'Neills....

Armagh Harps Committee are urging all club members to support the clubs Raceday at Fairyhouse Racecourse on Feb 19th 2005....Tickets are £100 and are available from any committee member or from the social club....Click on the link above for more Raceday details...

Harps play St.Michaels in their first Ulster club League game on 12th feb 2005.....

Fri 21st January: 

Harps will face Dromintee in the first round of the 2005 SFC while Pearse Og got Carrickcruppin & Crossmaglen will play Maghery....the Full draw is available in the Results/fixtures section....

Harps will play Pearse Og in the U-21 Championship first round...

In the minor championship Harps face Shane O'Neills....

Congratulations to Patsy Nugent on scopping the Club Personality of the year award at the County Presentation night last Friday night....

Armagh Harps Committee are urging all club members to support the clubs Raceday at Fairyhouse Racecourse on Feb 19th 2005....

Tickets are £100 and are available from any committee member or from the social club....Click on the link above for more Raceday details....

The draw for the Ulster Club League took place last night (12th Jan) and the Harps' league fixtures will be posted here next week ...Harps play St.Michaels in their first game on Sun 13th Jan 2005

.'Face of the week' : If you have any photographs of present club members please email them to brendan.powell@btinternet.com.....Abbey Lotto Sun 16th Jan 2005 - 4, 6, 9, 21 - No Jackpot Winner next weeks Jackpot £1400..

Thur 13th January: 

Armagh Harps would Like to announce CITY PROPERTY SERVICES ARMAGH as the main Sponsor of their Raceday on Feb 19th 2005....Armagh Harps Committee are urging all club members to support the clubs Raceday at Fairyhouse Racecourse on Feb 19th 2005....Tickets are £100 and are available from any committee member or from the social club....Click on the link above for more Raceday details....

The draw for the Ulster Club League took place last night (12th Jan) and the Harps' league fixtures will be posted here next week ...

.'Face of the week' : If you have any photographs of present club members please email them to brendan.powell@btinternet.com.....

Abbey Lotto Sun 9th Jan 2005 - 3, 9, 10, 20 - No Jackpot Winner next weeks Jackpot £1350..

Thur 6th January: 

Armagh Harps Committee are urging all club members to support the clubs Raceday at Fairyhouse Racecourse on Feb 19th 2005....Tickets are £100 and are available from any committee member or from the social club....Click on the link above for more Raceday details....

'Face of the week' : If you have any photographs of present club members please email them to brendan.powell@btinternet.com.... 

Armagh Harps GFC would like to wish ALL thier members a Happy New Year .........

Abbey Lotto Sun 2nd Jan 2005 - 1,4,7,19 - No Jackpot Winner next weeks Jackpot £1300..

Underage Fixtures & News

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Senior Team News

B Championship Final - Armagh Harps 2-09 Clann Eireann

Clann Eireann played with the wind in the first half and knocked over a couple of early points. Harps though managed to gain a strong foothold around the middle and took a 3-2 lead before Benny O'Kane managed to fist a rebound to the net, via the inside of the post.

Harps in the second half, with wind advantage and four points up were strong favourites. A couple more points were added before the game was sealed by a Declan Coulter goal from thirty yards that deceived the keeper. Harps spurned many opportunities to bury the opposition and to be fair, Clann Eireann rallied briefly to bring the match back to 2-07 to 0-06. Clann Eireann though will regret a missed penalty which they badly needed to get back into the game - the shot being expertly saved by Gareth Richards in the Harps nets.

Play finished with Harps on top to run out nine point winners, 2-09 to 0-06. In a very good overall team performance, best for the Harps were corner backs Liam McAuley and Kevin Daly, Simon Lennon in midfield and Benny O'Kane at full forward. However, Harps man of the match was right half back Declan Coulter who had an excellent hour.

Both Kevin Daly - captain for the day - and Philip Richards, the team captain who was missing through injury, went up to receive the Cup. Well done to all concerned, particularly management trio Brendan "Louden" Kelly, Womble and Egg. This was Louden's sixth B Championship as manager and the Club's third B Title in four years, and fourth since 1998!!

Armagh Harps v Armagh Pearse Og

Harps lost their unbeaten home record in the League this afternoon, when they went under by six points to City rivals Pearse Og. Harps, who have been forced to field under strength sides this season, really were up against it today due to the absence of several senior players who were attending Butler’s stag weekend. As a consequence, three Harps players made their full competitive debuts, namely Bambi McCourt in defence, Simon Lennon in midfield and Kevin Kelly in attack. Kevin was joined in the full forward line by another product of our underage structure, assistant manager Benny O’Kane, playing his first senior match in at least four years.

Pearse Og opened the match in attack and had a number of opportunities that fell wide. When they did take the lead, it was the result of a poor Harps free going directly to an Ogs man. The ball was worked up for a point from play. Harps began to find their feet and Joe Quigley equalised with a point from a free. Benny had a wide before scoring a good point from 30 yards out. Kevin Kelly then added a great point from a sideline free. Kieran Hughes responded with a point from play before Kevin Kelly responded with his second point, again from a free. The Ogs though began to get a foothold in midfield and applied the pressure as a consequence. They scored an excellent point from Moore and followed up almost immediately with a point from a free and a point from play. Joe Quigley stopped the rot, pointing from a forty yard free but Ogs responded with another point from play. Chuckie Morris was struggling for Harps and had to be replaced by Liam McAuley. Harps still kept in touch and Joe Quigley again pointed from a free after Benny was taken down going through. Despite being under a lot of pressure Harps eventually took the lead, again, via a Joe Quigley free kick. It looked as if Harps might go in at half time undeservedly in front. Ogs though were still threatening. Willie McSorley made a great point blank save in a one on one with an inrushing forward. However, he was beaten on the stroke of half time when the Ogs number 13 ran through the centre of the Harps defence before finishing with an excellent shot to the corner of the net. Harps though were annoyed that a free was not given, when Bambi McCourt appeared to have been fouled early in the move.

Half time, Harps 0-07, Pearse Og 1-06.

Harps got off to the best possible start when Kevin Kelly scored a thirty yard free. However the Ogs again started to dominate around the middle of the field and this was refelected in pressure on the Harps goal. The visitors completely dominated the next ten minutes, scoring three points (two excellent points from Moore) and having three bad wides. Kevin Kelly scored another excellent point from a long range free but the Ogs responded in kind. Harps were still in touching distance despite being outplayed and hopes of a steal were increased when Benny O’Kane scored an excellent point from play with the outside of his boot. The Ogs though continued to dominate, scoring a goal (after a brilliant move) and a point to effectively seal the win. Chuckie Morris, despite his injury, was reintroduced for Terry McCarron. The Harps kept battling away and were rewarded when Joe Quigley raced through before finishing with a coolly chipped goal. Wides from Charlie Vernon and Benny O’Kane confirmed that this was not Harps day and it was left for the Ogs to confirm victory with the last two points of the game.

Final score, Harps 1-10, Pearse Og 2-13.

The Harps fielded as follows. Willie McSorley, Ciaran McKenna, Jungle McKee, Bambi McCourt, Chuckie Morris (Liam McAuley), Charlie Vernon, Terry McCarron (Chuckie Morris), Simon Lennon, Philip McKinney, Joe Quigley 1-4 (0-4 frees), Paul Dynes, Gerard McDonagh, Kevin Kelly 0-4 (0-4 frees), Benny O’Kane 0-2 (Philip Richards) and Sting McKinney.

Obviously any loss to Pearse Og is going to be more painful than most. However, the afternoon wasn’t without it’s plus points and it was good to see some of our promising young players getting a run out in a competitive first team match for the first time.Indeed, it was good to see the Harps, with what amounted to a very understrength formation, remaining competitive for so long. Speaking of youngsters, the biggest cheer of the afternoon was for Benny O’Kane, who scored Harps only points from play. Harps Ultras doing there shopping at O’Kanes Superstore tomorrow are not only going to experience quality food at competitive prices, but are also going to have to run the gauntlet of a conversation based on the opening line “ I never lost it you know!” You have been warned!
 

Armagh Harps v St Michaels

Armagh Harps travelled to Newtownhamilton last night to play the local St Michaels side, but were unfortunately on the receiving end of a six point defeat. This defeat has effectively killed off any lingering hopes that the Harps might have had of winning the First Division Title.

The Harps started the match in very positive fashion. Both sides exchanged early wides before Terry McCarron received a brilliant Sting McKinney pass to slot over the bar from thirty yards. Joe Quigley added a point from a free and Ebbie Toal scored the Harps third point expertly finishing off a great Harps move. Harps were playing some impressive football and a dangerous ball into the St Michaels square from Sting McKinney bounced over the bar. Ebbie Toal then scored his second point, finishing well from twenty-five yards out after the ball had been broken down to him by Gareth Richards. Despite this great start, St Michaels were still able to get forward, though there tally of five wides at this stage indicated where their problems lay. All the good work from the Harps though was eventually undone when the home side finally broke their duck. A high ball in caught the Harps defenders ball watching and Denis Hollywood finished to the net in a one on one with Willie McSorley. Butler replied with a point from a sixty yard free before St Michaels notched two points in quick succession. Joe Quigley steadied the Harps nerves with an excellent point from play. St Michaels again notched back to back points before Joe Quigley finished the scoring for the half with a point from a free.

Half Time, Harps 0-08, St Michaels 1-04.

Harps started the second half in positive fashion but could only register a Harpo wide. St Michaels then began to assert themselves throughout the pitch and managed the next four points of the game to take a lead that they would never lose. Harps were in need of a score to stem the tide and Butler pointed from play after good work by Terry McCarron. Kevin Daly replaced Joe Marley in defence, but Newtown’ still held sway adding a further two points. Mickey Donnelly was introduced into the attack with Sting McKinney replacing Ciaran McKenna in defence. Willie McSorley kept Harps in the game with a tremendous point blank save, but St Michaels managed a point from a free soon after. Gary McKinney replaced Butler in the attack and immediately slotted over an excellent point. However, Harps could not maintain the pressure and conceded a needless close in free for a late tackle out the field. This was duly despatched over the bar. Gareth Richards managed an excellent point from play, but this was to be Harps last score. St Michaels applied the pressure to the finish, notching over two late points as Harps finished a match - that had started so promisingly – in something close to disarray.

Final score, Harps 0-11, St Michaels 1-14.

A very disappointing result that probably points to a season that will peter out quietly. Harps had nobody who really stood out, although Willie McSorley, Terry McCarron and Dynesy are worthy of mention. It was good to see Kevin Daly make a well deserved senior appearance after a good run of form with the “B” Team and the return of Gary McKinney to Senior football after a couple of years out was also to be welcomed.

The Harps fielded as follows; Willie McSorley, Joe Marley (Kevin Daly), Jungle McKee, Ciaran McKenna (Mickey Donnelly), Sting McKinney 0-1, Chuckie Morris, Terry McCarron 0-1, Philip McKinney, Charlie Vernon, Joe Quigley 0-3 (0-2 frees), Butler Agnew 0-2 (0-1 free)(Gary McKinney 0-1), Paul Dynes, Harpo McKenna, Gareth Richards 0-1 and Ebbie Toal 0-2.

Harps v Maghery

Harps, still in the hunt for league honours, dropped a valuable league point on Friday Night last when visitors Maghery held them to a draw. As a game it never reached any great heights, although the closeness of the scoring ensured that both sets of supporters were kept on the edge until the final whistle.

Both teams were short several players for a variety of reasons. The tone for the first half was set from the throw in when Maghery sped into attack and registered an excellent point from play within twenty seconds. Play moved from end to end. Charlie Vernon raced through the centre of the Maghery defence on a long solo run, but was denied a goal by a last gasp save by the visiting keeper. Maghery in turn were unlucky not to score a goal when their wing half back had his goal bound shot cleared off the line by Joe Marley, with Willie McSolrey beaten. Harps eventually equalised when Ebbie Toal pointed from thirty yards after good work by Philly McKinney and Paddy Morrison. This score though only heralded a period of Maghery supremacy. Their midfield began to dominate. This, together with many of the Harps old failings like conceding silly frees and getting caught in possession, ensured that the Maghery attack had opportunities to score. They rattled off four points in a row. Harps were indebted though to Joe Quigley for keeping them in the game. He sprinted through the centre of the Maghery defence before crashing a great shot to the net off the inside of the post. Maghery returned to the attack to add two points. The scoring for the half finished when Harpo McKenna won a close in free, which was converted by Joe Quigley.

Half time, Harps 1-02, Maghery 0-07.

Despite having been outplayed for most of opening half, Harps were thankful to come out for the second half only two points down. Harps dominated the third quarter of the game, but both teams were finding scores difficult to come by. Harps added two points - both excellent long range frees from Joe Quigley – to a solitary point from Maghery. Gareth Richards and Dynesy were both beginning to feature more strongly in attack. Some good inter play between Terry McCarron and Joe Quigley saw the latter hit the equalising point. This was followed up by a lovely point from Ebbie Toal as Harps took the lead for the first time in the game. Maghery, sensing the game slipping, replied with pressure of their own. Willie McSorley made a smart save when a goal threatened. Harps returned to the attack. Ebbie Toal was denied what looked like a blatant free kick when he appeared to be tripped. Harps paid the full price for this decision as Maghery moved the ball down the field for Jim Robinson to side foot a vital goal.

Harps now threw everything into attack. With a few minutes left, Dnesy scored an excellent point from out on the right and Terry McCarron, following a strong run, set up Joe Quigley for the equaliser. The final whistle sounded shortly after.

Full time, Harps 1-08, Maghery 1-08.

Despite not playing particularly well, this is a match that the Harps could and should have won. The Maghery goal was surrounded by controversy, but a very lethargic performance in the first half ensured that the Harps were for the most part chasing the game. Best for the Harps were Terry McCarron, Ebbie Toal and man of the match (again) Joe Quigley.

The Harps fielded as follows. Willie McSorley, Joe Marley, Jungle McKee, Ciaran McKenna, Chuckie Morris, Charlie Vernon, Terry McCarron, Philip McKinney, Paddy Morrison, Joe Quigley 1-5 (0-3 frees), Butler Agnew, Paul Dynes 0-1, Harpo McKenna, Gareth Richards and Ebbie Toal 0-2.

Harps travelled to Carrickcruppin on Saturday evening last, and were comprehensively beaten by a Dromintee team who would have to be considered favourites behind Cross to take the County title. Harps went into the match without Collie Holmes, Chuckie and JP Donnelly and the lack of leadership evident on the night showed how badly the Harps missed these players.

The game itself was scrappy enough to start with. From the throw in Nippy found Peadar Toal with a great pass but Peadar’s high shot tailed wide. Dynesy dived to get his hand to a ball into the Dromintee square, but his effort just went wide of the post with the keeper beaten. Dromintee then went looking the opening score and had a couple of bad wides also. Harps appeared to be looking for Dynesy early on and he won a free for the Harps in a very scoreable position. However, Joe Quigley uncharacteristically sent wide. Dromintee then opened the scoring with a point off the post from their number five. Harps returned to the attack but had two further wides, both from Nippy. The Harps was badly caught out when they turned over the ball whilst trying to work it out of defence. A penalty was awarded for a foul by the last defender and Aidan O’Rourke side footed home. Butler eventually opened the Harps account and Peadar Toal followed up with a point from a free. Cathal O’Rourke then added a point for Dromintee before Butler got an excellent point from an acute angle.

This was to be the Harps last score of the half though. In the second quarter, Dromintee stepped on the gas and scored some lovely points, many from long range. Dromintee then added a second goal after a high ball in was broken to an inrushing forward who beat Willie McSorley in a one on one situation. Harps were now living off scraps. Dynesy had a chance for a badly needed goal, but his angled shot went across the face of the goals. The half ended badly when Harps again turned over the ball and conceded another penalty for a foot block by keeper Willie McSorley. Aidan O’Rourke again scored from the spot. The half time whistle sounded and Harps had a mountain to climb.

Half time, Harps 0-03; Dromintee 3-07.

Harps tried to switch things around at the interval. Martin McKenna, Sting McKinney and Paddy Grimes came in for Harpo, Terry McCarron and Ciaran McKenna. Martin went to midfield with Nippy going to full forward and Dynesy appeared to have a roving role. Harps opened the scoring with a point from Ebbie Toal, but spurned other opportunities for points in attempting to get badly needed goals. Dromintee came down the pitch and scored two points from play and had a bad wide from a free. Peadar Toal managed another point for Harps. In a last throw of the dice, Mickey Donnelly and Gerard McDonagh came in for Ebbie and Butler. Harps were tending to dominate play without looking threatening and only had a Nippy point from a free to show. When they did manage a threatening position, a penalty was awarded. However the Dromintee keeper made an excellent save from Peadar Toal’s well hit shot.

From there to the end, play was very scrappy. Dromintee added a point and scored a simple goal after Willie McSorley advanced off his line to meet a high ball – got only minimal contact and the ball was put into the empty net. Harps did manage a consolation goal at the death after Nippy rounded the keeper.

Final Score, Harps 1-06; Dromintee 4-10.

The Harps lined out as follows, Willie McSorley, Fergus McAleavey, Martin Gill, Jungle McKee, Ciaran McKenna (Paddy Grimes), Charlie Vernon, Terry McCarron (Sting McKinney), Nippy Swift 1-1 (0-1 free), Philip McKinney, Joe Quigley, Butler Agnew 0-2 (Mickey Donnelly), Ebbie Toal 0-1 (Gerard McDonagh), Peadar Toal 0-2 (0-1 free), Paul Dynes and Harpo McKenna (Martin McKenna).

As stated, this was always going to be a massive test. What was most annoying though was the manner of the defeat. I felt the team battled well from start to finish. However they were up against a bigger, stronger and more streetwise team who were capable of punishing every mistake made. The Harps in this regard did not help themselves at all with at least three of the goals coming as the result of absolutely basic unforced errors. On top of this, when Harps did have periods in attack, their shooting was very poor. I counted twelve Harps wides whereas the Dromintee shooting, particularly in the second quarter when they effectively killed the game, was top drawer. This match was a harsh lesson. If the lesson is taken on board, then it can be of benefit in the long term to what is still essentially a very young Harps side. Let’s hope though that the lads can regroup from this and give the league a push.
 

Armagh Harps v Tir na nOg

Armagh Harps continued their winning ways last night in Abbey Park with a hard fought victory over Portadown Tir na nOg. As has become the trend recently, it was a match that the Harps dominated for long spells without ever really going clear, and in the end the Ultras in the stand were glad to hear the final whistle from the referee.

In excellent playing conditions, Harps started out defending the dressing room end. From the throw in Tir na nOg worked the ball up the right wing and scored a brilliant long range point from McCann. Harps immediately responded with several attacks of their own but a number of attempts for points fell short. The equaliser when it did come arrived via a Peadar Toal free from forty yards. The resulting kick out went straight to Butler. However Neeson in the Portadown goals recovered his position well to divert the ball out for a fifty. This was coolly slooted over the bar by Peadar Toal. Portadown then responded with an excellent left footed point from play and were unlucky not to take the lead when Willie McSorley dived to make a smart block. They regained the lead when Ebbie Toal’s wayward pass was worked into a shooting position by the opposition. The resultant foul was easily pointed. Harps responded with another Peadar Toal point from a free before a great opportunity for a goal was lost when Ebbie was blown up for over carrying after he was found with a quick free kick.

Portadown then had a wide before Harps began to dominate the rest of the half. Peadar Toal pointed again from a free after his great run was ended with a foul. A bad wide followed before Peadar Toal stretched the lead with a further point from a free after Sean Morrison was fouled. Beefer Junior then had a wide before Butler scored an excellent point from play after good work by Dynesy.

Half time, Harps 0-06; Tir na nOg 0-03.

Any thoughts that the match was already won were quickly dispelled when, as in the first half, Tir na nOg started the second with a brilliant long range point. They followed this up with a bad wide. To the noisy approval of the Harps Ultras, Paddy Grimes came in for Chuckie Morris who looked to have a bad shoulder injury. Harps again began to dominate and scored back to back points through Peadar Toal (free) and Dynesy (after an excellent run and shot). Mickey Donnelly was now in for Butler. Peadar Toal for once had a wide from a free - this from an acute angle. Ciaran McKenna then got in on the act, creating a free after his excellent run was stopped by a foul. Ebbie Toal expertly pointed the kick from out on the right.

Once again though, a Portadown point from play rudely interrupted any thoughts of a Harps victory. This was immediately followed up with a point from a free to leave just the three points in it. Harps next attack should have closed the game entirely, but Neeson on the Portadown goal dived to block bravely at the feet of Harpo McKenna, when a goal looked there for the taking. The resultant fifty drifted wide. Portadown then added to the unease of the home support with a brilliant move out of defence that resulted in an expertly taken point from play. Peadar Toal could not ease the pressure, sending wide from play. Paddy Morrison was now in for Ebbie. The league points then looked to have been sealed when Charlie Vernon’s monstrous point from fifty-five yards out was followed up by another excellent Dynesy point after a great Harps move. Once again though, with victory looking inevitable, Tir na nOg worked the ball into their spare man at the back post who calmly fisted past the advancing Willie McSorley. A Harpo point from play was again cancelled out by a late Portadown point, but thankfully time had just run out on the Ballyoran men as referee Sam McClatchey blew the final whistle.

Final Score, Armagh Harps 0-12; Tir na nOg 1-08.

As already mentioned, this was a match that Harps should have had won long before the final whistle. Whilst this inability to put teams away is a worry, some comfort can be taken from the fact that Harps are winning games without reaching any great heights. With the formidable challenge of Dromintee in the Championship now imminent, the Harps would have some worrying injury concerns. Joe Quigley did not feature last night and Chuckie Morris received what looked like a bad knock to the shoulder. JP Donnelly also continues to have injury concerns. Best wishes for a speedy recovery to all concerned! Best for the Harps on the night were Peadar Toal and Dynesy with honourable mentions to Jungle, Willie, Ciaran McKenna, Philly McKinney and Sean Morrison.

The Harps lined out as follows. Willie McSorley, Fergus McAleavey, Martin Gill, Jungle McKee, Chuckie Morris (Paddy Grimes), Charlie Vernon 0-1, Ciaran McKenna, Philip McKinney, Martin McKenna, Peadar Toal 0-6 (0-5 frees)(0-1 “50”), Butler Agnew 0-1 (Mickey Donnelly), Ebbie Toal 0-1 (0-1 free) (Paddy Morrison), Paul Dynes 0-2, Sean Morrison and Harpo McKenna 0-1.

Lastly, just to mention that the Harps were wearing their new away/B kit for the first time last night. It is a lovely jersey of blue and white hoops, in the style of the Cork hurlers’ goalkeeping jersey. It has the logo of our main sponsor Nugent & Gibney on the front. A top class piece of kit! I hope they do it in XXL!
 

Armagh Harps 2-08, Wolfe Tones 1-06.

Harps travelled to Derrymacash on Friday night last and came away with two hard earned league points from what was a tough, physical confrontation. The match was played in excellent weather conditions, though on an undulating pitch that had a very uneven bounce.

Wolfe Tones had the first opportunity to score but had a wide from a scoreable free. Harps first scoring attempt was also a wide, from Peader Toal. However, in the next attack Ebbie Toal gave Harps the lead with a great point from forty yards. Joe Quigley followed this up with Harps second point following a great move down the pitch. Aidan McGeown then opened the home sides account with an excellent point from out on the wing. Despite this though, it was Harps who were dominating play but they had difficulty making it count with wides from Martin McKenna, Collie Holmes and Butler Agnew. Harps were made to pay for this profligacy as Tones equalised with a point from play. They then had a second wide.

Terry McCarron was helped off with what looked like a hamstring injury - being replaced by Ciaran McKenna. Harps again dominated. A Peadar Toal wide was followed by the opening goal of the game from Joe Quigley after great work by Charlie Vernon and Paul Dynes. Wolfe Tones then conceded a free for an off the ball incident and Joe Quigley again obliged with a point. Tones then responded with some pressure of their own and managed a point from a free after the Harps defence lost the ball through over elaboration. Thankfully though three further attempts all went wide. Before half time, Harps completely upped their game, scoring 0-3 without reply thanks to points from Butler, Joe Quigley (free) and Peadar Toal (free) – all brought about as a result of some incisive forward play.

Half time, Armagh Harps 1-06; Wolfe Tones 0-03.

Harps were caught completely cold on the resumption when Wolfe Tones scored a great goal from a move down the centre of the Harps defence. They followed this up with a superb point from an acute angle. Both sides then had a wide each. Gerard McDonagh was now in for Harpo McKenna. Butler had a wide before Tones scored another point from play after a high centre broke in the Harps goalmouth. The match was now very much up for grabs and the game was becoming tense. Harps had two wides, from Dynesy and Joe Quigley.

Then came the turning point of the game. Harps won a free out on the right wing. The high ball in was broken to Joe Quigley, and his pass, through the eye of a needle to Dynesy left the Harps full forward through on goal. Dynesy calmly took the ball around the keeper before tapping to an empty net. Wolfe Tones responded with a wide before Peadar Toal scored a great point from play after excellent work from the Harps captain Collie Holmes. Peadar Toal was unlucky to see his shot hit the upright. Sensing the game going away from them, the Tones decided to do some hitting of their own, with Martin Gill the unfortunate recipient in an off the ball incident. The offender was duly slapped on the wrists, with a yellow card. Willie McSorley then made a great point blank save as Wolfe Tones sought to pull the game out of the fire. A point from the rebound was too little too late.

Mickey Donnelly came in for the injured Martin McKenna at this late stage. However, Mickey had little time to make a contribution. Joe Quigley wrapped up the scoring with a point from a free with Chuckie Morris closing the game with a wide from play.

Final Score, Armagh Harps 2-08, Wolfe Tones 1-06.
 

Armagh Harps v Crossmaglen Rangers

Harps lost their first league game of the season on Saturday evening last, when they went down by four points to Crossmaglen Rangers at the South Armagh venue. In dry but cold conditions, Harps played with the advantage of the wind in the first half. Cross had the first opportunity to score but the effort went wide. Harps began to assert themselves and opened the scoring with a well taken Peadar Toal point from play. A point from the Rangers number 12 cancelled this out. Harps regained the lead with a well taken Joe Quigley point after good play between Terry McCarron and Mickey Donnelly. Harps had a further two wides (from Mickey Donnelly and Butler Agnew) and paid the penalty for this when Cross equalised from a free in front of the nets. Harps at this stage were very fortunate to not go behind after Colm O’Neill was penalised for fouling Willie McSorley in the Harps goal before crashing to the net. The free appeared dubious to say the least. Harps had a further escape when a Cross forward blazed wide when put through. Peadar Toal had another wide for Harps after an excellent move out of defence. A point from a Peadar Toal free was then cancelled out by a pointed Cross free. Harps then hit a mini purple patch with points from Charlie Vernon (a magnificent 50 yard effort), Joe Qugley (free) and Peadar Toal.

Cross responded with a further point from a free and then won a penalty when some poor Harps defending allowed their forwards to move the ball from deep right into the heart of the square. The resulting foul was penalised to the full with a goal from an excellently taken penalty. Despite going behind for the first time in the match, Harps responded in positive fashion and regained the lead with two points from Peadar Toal (one from a free). Indeed Peadar was unlucky not to add to his and the Harps tally when he saw his excellent run and shot from an acute angle, come back off the post.

Half-time; Harps 0-08; Crossmaglen Rangers 1-04.

Harps made the running from the throw-in at the start off the second half but could not make any of their efforts count. Cross eventually recorded the first score of the half with a point from a free. A third man tackle then upended Chuckie Morris. Peadar Toal pointed the resulting long range free. Chuckie however was forced to go off, replaced by young Ciaran McKenna. Harps followed up with a further wide before Cross themselves began a period of domination that saw them score a point from a free after back to back wides. Smackers McAneney replaced Ciaran Clifford. Smackers went to full forward with Philly McKinney dropping from the edge of the square to midfield.

Smackers started off like a house on fire, collecting a great Joe Quigley pass to score a great point on the turn. Harps were now starting to play with more confidence and were denied a point by a last gasp block after moving the ball the length of the field in a move involving five players. That block though was to prove even more important as Cross moved the ball quickly down the field and score a decisive goal from Close range, only after full back Martin Gill had appeared to thwart the danger. It was all Cross now. They added a great point from Johnny Murtagh and followed this up with a point from a soft enough free. A further Cross wide was followed by a point from a second penalty which – although maybe technically the correct decision, was harsh in the extreme.

To be fair, Harps responded well with two further points from frees (one each from Joe Quigley and Peadar Toal) but time had run out for the team. Cross wrapped up the game with an excellent point from an acute angle to leave the home side winners by four points.

Final score, Harps 0-12; Crossmaglen Rangers 2-10.

The Harps can feel a wee bit unfortunate to end up with nothing from this game. They led for most of the match and indeed played some nice football in patches. A lot of Harps players and supporters were not happy with the performance of the referee, and I have to say that in the last ten minutes or so Cross were the recipients of some soft frees. Harps themselves though benefited from a couple of strange decisions early on. However the match itself was effectively lost by some bad individual errors by the Harps that let in Cross for both goals, and this was the primary reason for the defeat. Indeed, a bit more self-belief from this young Harps might have led to a different outcome. Best for the Harps were Charlie Vernon and Peadar Toal. Honourable mentions also to Terry McCarron, Martin Gill and Jungle McKee.

The Harps lined out as follows. Willie McSorley, Fergus McAleavey, Martin Gill, Jungle McKee, Chuckie Morris (Ciaran McKenna), Charlie Vernon 0-1, Terry McCarron, Ciaran Clifford (Smackers McAneney 0-1), Martin McKenna, Joe Quigley 0-3 (0-2 frees), Butler Agnew, Gerard McDonagh, Mickey Donnelly, Philip McKinney and Peadar Toal 0-7 (0-4 frees).        

Armagh Harps 1-09; Silverbridge 1-07

Harps got their league campaign off to a winning start with a narrow two point victory over Silverbridge, in a game that never reached any great heights. The Harps looked to have a strong line out on paper and they certainly looked the part in their brand new kit, after the sponsorship deal between the Harps and Nugent and Gibney was recently renewed.

In near perfect conditions, a large crowd saw Harps make the early running. Joe Quigley had a Harps wide before a slick Harps move saw Collie Holmes through on goal. However he blasted wide with the goal at his mercy. Harps eventually opened the scoring with a point from a Peadar Toal free, but this was cancelled out by an excellent point from an acute angle by the Silverbridge corner forward Conlon. Harps then suffered an early blow as Paul Dynes had to leave the field due to injury with Gerard McDonagh replacing him. The Bridge then took the lead with a long range point from a free. Harps though had still a lot of the play and Joe Quigley eventually equalised with a point from a free after a couple of efforts went wide. Silverbridge though were able to keep their noses in front from the few attacks they had with another pointed free.

Harps eventually saw some reward for their efforts when Martin McKenna knocked down a high ball to the inrushing Harpo McKenna who goaled from close range. A further Harps wide followed before Peadar Toal extended the lead with a brilliant long-range point. Silverbridge countered with a point from a free before Willie Mc Sorley in the home goal made a smart save from a snap shot. The half ended on a scrappy note with two wides for each side before Peadar Toal added a further point from a free after Chuckie Morris had his excellent run illegally stopped.

Half time; Harps 1-04, Silverbridge 0-04.

Play restarted in the same vain as the first half had finished with both sides exchanging wides. Joe Quigley then pointed a free kick for the opening score of the half but sent a more difficult free wide inside a minute. The Bridge had a bad wide before Gerard McDonagh extended the Harps lead, intercepting a poor free kick and pointing after a penetrating run. Harps were totally in command at this stage and Martin McKenna pointed from close range after Nippy Swifts close range shot hit the post.

A rare Silverbridge attack saw the away side not to score a goal from a high ball into the square. Luckily for the Harps Charlie Vernon was alert and cleared a goalbound attempt off the line. Harpo McKenna extended the Harps lead further with a smart point from thirty yards out before Peadar Toal appeared to sew up the game with an excellent long-range point from a free.

Paddy Morrison replaced the injured Collie Holmes as Harps sought to see out the match without further incident. However Silverbridge suddenly come alive, scoring their first point of the half from a free. They followed this up with a brilliant goal from their number 8, who ran sixty yards through the heart of the home defence before crashing in a great goal from the edge of the large parallelogram. Silverbridge were now in the running to get something from a game that they had appeared out of. They scored a further two points from frees to leave just the two points in it. Luckily though for the Harps, time ran out on Silverbridge and the final whistle was greeted with some relief.

As mentioned earlier, the match itself was quite poor in standard and was dominated by poor shooting from both sides and scores mainly from frees. The Harps will be pleased though to have got off to a winning start and can be pleased with the performances of young Fergus McAleavey, Martin Gill, Charlie Vernon, Chuckie Morris, Peadar Toal and Harpo McKenna.

The Harps lined out as follows. Willie McSorley, Fergus McAleavey, Martin Gill, Sting McKinney, Chickie Morris, Charlie Vernon, Terry McCarron, Martin McKenna 0-1, Collie Holmes (Paddy Morrison), Joe Quigley 0-2 (0-2 frees), Nippy Swift, Peadar Toal 0-4 (0-3 frees), Harpo McKenna 1-1, Paul Dynes (Gerard McDonagh 0-1) and Ebbie Toal.
 

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