Owen Roes  Senior Fixtures & Results 2008

Scroll to reports at foot of page

Sun 30^th March - Bye - Owen Roe’s

Sun 6^th April - Owen Roe’s v Castlederg

Sun 20^th April - Clogher v Owen Roe’s

Sun 27^th April - Owen Roe’s v Brockagh

Sun 4^th May - Dregish v Owen Roe’s

Sun 11^th May - Owen Roe’s v Drumquin

Sun 18^th May - Drumragh v Owen Roe’s

Fri 23^rd/Sun 25^th May - Strabane v Owen Roe’s

Fri 13^th/Sun 15^th June - Owen Roe’s v Errigal Ciaran 111 (Senior only)

Fri 4^th/Sun 6^th July - Fintona v Owen Roe’s

Owen Roe’s v Glenelly

Newtownstewart v Owen Roe’s

Owen Roe’s v Aghaloo

Augher v Owen Roe’s

Owen Roe’s v Brackaville

Beragh v Owen Roe’s

O'Neill's ACL Division 3 2007

Sun 1st Apr - Dregish 0-10 Owen Roe's 2-10

Sun 15th Apr - Owen Roe's 0-7 Drumragh 0-9

Sun 22nd Apr - Brackaville 0-9 Owen Roe's 1-8

Sun 13th May - Glenelly 0-8 Owen Roe's 1-09

Fri 18th May - Tattyreagh 2-08  Owen Roe's 0-05

Sun 27th May - Rock 2-08 Owen Roe's 0-08

Fri 8th June - Owen Roe's 0-10 Beragh 1-10

Fri 15th June - Owen Roe's 0-9 Newtownstewart 0-10

Sun 24th June - Owen Roe's 0-7 Derrytresk 1-1 (Match abandoned due to injury)

Fri 29th June  - Owen Roe's 1-8 Castlederg 2-7

Fri 6th July - Owen Roe's 2-8 Clogher 1-8

Fri 27th July - Bye

Sun 12th Aug - Drumragh 1-14 Owen Roe's 1-4

Sat 25th Aug - Owen Roe's w/o Derrytresk dnf

Sun 2nd Sept- Errigal Ciaran III 0-13 Owen Roe's 2-05

Sun 9th Sept - Owen Roe's 0-9 Glenelly 1-9

Sat 15th Sept - Owen Roe's 0-9 Tattyreagh 3-10

Sat 22nd Sept - Owen Roe's 1-10 Dregish 0-07

Sun 7th Oct - Derrytresk 0-06 Owen Roe's 3-06

Sat 13th Oct - Beragh 0-13 Owen Roe's 0-10.

Sun 21st Oct - Owen Roe's 1-04 Rock 0-11

Sun 28th Oct - Clogher 1-09 Owen Roe's 1-04

Sun 4th Nov - Newtownstewart 2-7 Owen Roe's 0-8

Sun 11th Nov- Castlederg 3-08 Owen Roe's 3-10

Sat 17th Nov- Owen Roe's 0-9 Errigál Ciaran III 1-6

Dates to be Fixed

Owen Roe's v Brackaville

WJ Dolan Junior Championship

Sat 21st July

Quarter-final - Owen Roe's 1-9 Beragh 2-10

in Newtownstewart 

Click HERE for match report

MATCH REPORTS

Owen Roe’s Made to Fight for Points

Dregish 0-10 Owen Roes 2-10

Owen Roes travelled the short distance to Dregish for a North Tyrone derby and returned with an all but a routine two points. Level at the break, it took an early second half blitz, and a late Declan McCrossan penalty to ensure the points returned home. Gerard Porter’s first game in charge saw him hand a debut to Paddy Corry, with Marcus McGinley and Davy Harte coming from the bench to also earn their first minutes in senior football.

The hosts took the lead with the game’s opening attack via a free kick before the visitors hit back with interest. Half forward Kevin O’Neill burst through a static rear guard to slam the ball to the net. Both sides then exchanged points at the close of the game’s first quarter, with Aidan and Declan McCrossan chalking up for the O’Neills.

However this Dregish side were refusing to be overrun, and would probably feel that they could have yielded more for their first half efforts than the two further scores that they attained. Indeed they probably should’ve earned more when a tame high ball over the Roe’s defence was misjudged by keeper Dylan Early leaving an empty goal at the Dregish’s attackers mercy. However Early recovered well to flick the ball from his toe as he prepared to shoot.

Determined to get the season off on the front foot, the Leckpatrick side came out strong at the beginning of the second half. Declan McCrossan shot over a fine free, before smart fielding and shooting from Sean McBride added to the lead. A massive free kick from Aidan McCrossan was cancelled out as the Dregish wing forward dance through static defending to point.

When Declan McCrossan caressed over with his left point on 41 minutes it was beginning to look like plain sailing for Owen Roe’s, however less than 60 seconds later Aidan McCrossan picked up his second yellow card of the afternoon to reduce his side to 14 men.

Captain Ronan Parker sent over a free shortly after before the hosts edged to within two points with two frees in two minutes. McCrossan got another score to keep noses in front, but this too was quickly cancelled out, before the game’s defining moment. A skirmish in the Dregish area resulted in the outstretched arms of the referee awarding the home side a spot kick. It was left to that man McCrossan to convert to virtually assure the points, and he did with aplomb.

The home side pointed straight away, but it was too little too late, and sub Mickey Dooher, and a late McCrossan free ended the game.

These were two hard earned points for the O’Neill’s, which will stand well going forward, against a Dregish side that fought for everything that was going. There will be no game next weekend before a tricky series of fixtures opens with the visit of Drumragh.

Owen Roes: Dylan Early, Paul Kelly, Aidan Christy, Eamon McBride, Brendan McCrossan, Stephen Dooher, Paddy McNulty, Chris Kelly, Aidan McCrossan (0-2), Mark Kelly, Kevin O’Neill (1-0), Declan McCrossan (1-5), Sean McBride (0-1), Ronan Parker (0-1), Paddy Corry. Subs: Marcus McGinley for Eamon McBride 28 mins, Mickey Dooher (0-1) for Paddy Corry 30 mins, Davy Harte for McGinley 58 mins.

Leckpatrick Floored by Late Rally

Owen Roes 0-7 Drumragh 0-9

Owen Roes hosted their first ACL game of the 2007 season entertaining Drumragh Sarsfields, and despite a battling performance lost out by two late points. In a compelling, yet dogged game the home side were forced to play the entire second half a men less and paid the price.

It took seven minutes for the games first score, which game via Declan McCrossan, his first of five on the day. The away side levelled up with a dead ball, before good work by Aidan McCrossan let Mark Kelly away to clip over the bar.

With never much between the sides, another Sarsfield’s placed ball restored equilibrium before the away side had to thank their keeper. A quickly taken free kick caught the visitor’s defence napping, with wing-back Paddy McNulty bursting forward to shot for goal. However the Drumragh number one dived smartly to deny. McCrossan sent the resulting 45 over to get the lead back.

The Leckpatrick side were now in gear, and straight from the kick out McCrossan punished once more. Chris Kelly, and Aidan McCrossan were getting on top in mid section with the busy McNulty hovering up. Indeed a fine Chris Kelly catch and release, allowed McCrossan to stretch his side’s lead with 23 minutes on the clock.

The 2004 division 3 champions struck back with a late free, before substitute Eamon McBride saw red late in the half to reduce his side to 14 men.

It isn’t unusual to see a side blossom with a man less, and the O’Neills threatened to enforce this adage as Kiernan Kelly swiveled to chalk up the game’s ‘picture book’ score minutes into the second period. However Drumragh slowly got to grips with the situation executing the games next three scores in a 13-minute period to level the contest.

By this stage the home side were on overtime, Ronan Parker operating in mid sector to try and tighten up. Parker’s presence earning his side a free, which the on-song McCrossan converted. None the less, it slowly started to slip from the Leckpatrick grasp, as an equalising score punished squandered possession with five minutes left. As time ticked by two scores in the closing two minutes of the contest gave the Drumragh men points they were made to work hard for.

This will be a disappointing result for the O’Neills, but they can point to the fact that they competed for most of the game against a Drumragh side touted as one of the favourites to get promoted despite a numeric disadvantage. Brackaville host Owen Roes this Sunday.

Owen Roes: Dylan Early, Paul Kelly, Aidan Christy, Willie Doherty, Brendan McCrossan, Stephen Dooher, Paddy McNulty, Chris Kelly, Aidan McCrossan, Mark Kelly (0-1), Kevin O’Neill, Declan McCrossan (0-5), Sean McBride, Ronan Parker, Kiernan Kelly (0-1) Subs: Eamon McBride for Brendan McCrossan 17 mins, Brendan Boggs for Doherty 49 mins, Mark O’Neill for Sean McBride 54 mins.

Drumragh: Martin Taggart (0-4), Paul McGuire (0-3), Gavin Quinn (0-1), Christopher Doherty (0-1)

Leckpatrick Triumph in the War of the ‘Roes’

Brackaville 0-9 Owen Roes 1-8

Owen Roes made the long journey to the East of the county on Sunday to face their namesakes from Brackaville in round 3 of the ACL, and after a highly combative performance emerged with two valuable points.

Already so early in the season, manager Gerard Porter didn’t have his troubles to seek as he was missing several of his first team squad for the trip to Pairc Phadraig O'Brien. However he welcomed back Brendan Boggs, and Kevin Doherty, his first start in over a year after injury. In addition Gerard Devine was given his first senior appearance at wing half.

Playing with a stiff breeze, it was the hosts who started brightest and took charge with a two-point lead, only to be cancelled out by dead balls via Mark Kelly, and Declan McCrossan. McCrossan added another placed ball in reply to a pair from Brackaville’s accurate free taker.

The hosts were keen to chalk up more scores with the wind to face, but were facing an enthusiastic visiting side that were giving nothing away. Paul Kelly, Kevin Doherty and Brendan McCrossan were gallantly protecting Dylan Early’s goal, as the half back line of Brendan Boggs, Stephen Dooher and the solid Gerard Devine provided a resolute double coat.

Aidan McCrossan replied to a Brackaville score with a well taken free, before the home side closed out that half with two scores that gave them a 0-7 to 0-4 advantage.

Declan McCrossan clipped over an early free, followed by a similar hosts’ score. However with 7 minutes of the half elapsed came the game’s turning point. Mark Kelly galloped up from wing-forward to pick up a pass that left him swooping into goal. With the keeper, and defence closing in, Kelly managed to get off a shot that squeezed in at the far post for a Green flag.

Visibly buoyed, Aidan McCrossan and Chris Kelly began to edge a Brackaville midfield housing Tyrone’s Paul Rouse. Good work from Kelly conjured a free that his namesake Mark nipped over.

Kelly added another to his tally, before an Aidan McCrossan 45 with a third of the game remaining opened up a three-point lead. Brackaville were not keen on suffering their first defeat of the season and pushed hard to get back into the game, but came across a spirited Leckpatrick outfit that wouldn’t yield. A difficult task for the Green and Reds was doubled with the sending off of Kevin O’Neill on 46 minutes.

With little time remaining Dylan Early was forced to tip over a well-hit shot to erode the advantage, and was called on again minutes later to make an excellent save to frustrate the hosts. However try as they might, Brackaville couldn’t get the goal they needed and the points made their way to North Tyrone.

Owen Roes: Dylan Early, Paul Kelly, Kevin Doherty, Brendan McCrossan, Gerard Devine, Stephen Dooher, Brendan Boggs, Chris Kelly, Aidan McCrossan (0-2), Mark Kelly (1-3), Kevin O’Neill, Declan McCrossan (0-3), Mark O’Neill, Ronan Parker, Kiernan Kelly. Subs: Mickey Dooher for Mark O’Neill, Barry Porter for Kiernan Kelly.

Porter Delivers for O’Neills

Glenelly 0-8 Owen Roe’s 1-9

A dramatic last third transformation yielded maximum reward for the players of Owen Roe’s on Sunday past as they emerged from their short trip to Plumbridge with both points. 0-6 to 0-2 behind, with 20 minutes left the visitors sprang to life to take the game on a 0-8 to 1-9 scoreline.

Playing with the aid of a difficult but stiff breeze it was the home side that settled quickly and raced into a quick 0-3 to no-score lead with only 5 minutes played. Aidan McCrossan pointed a Roe’s free with 12 minutes gone as despite having large possession, they struggled for accuracy against the swirling wind.

For Glenelly Kieran Kearney was lording the midfield sector, but his passes forward were being quelled by a tight Leckpatrick rearguard led by Kevin Doherty, Willie Doherty and Paul Kelly. However the back line were brutally exposed when Conal McCullough picked up the ball unmarked on the edge of the square. With keeper Dylan Early helpless, the Glenelly number 14 dragged his shot wide. 

The St.Joseph’s added one more point, only to be cancelled out by a stylish Kiernan Kelly effort to leave the hosts 0-4 to 0-2 ahead at the short whistle.

With the difficult wind subsiding it was Glenelly who started the second half on top, with two frees in the opening 8 minutes. However the contest was slowly turning the way of the visitors. Chris Kelly and Aidan McCrossan started to get to grips in midfield, excellently supported by the hard-working Ronan Parker. Indeed a foul on the Roe’s number 11 was the catalyst for the O’Neills to capitalize on some dead ball scores.

Firstly Kiernan Kelly tapped over, followed by Mark Kelly repeating the dose twice in three minutes. Declan McCrossan sent over an equalising kick as the game entered a decisive last ten minutes. Midfielder Kearney nosed the hosts back in front, but the Leckpatrick side started to dig deep.

Kelly again sent over a placed ball, before Aidan McCrossan put Owen Roe’s in front for the first time all afternoon. It just looked like it was to be the visitor’s day when Barry Porter acrobatically retrieved a dead ball to ‘bicycle-kick’ it over the bar to stretch the led to 2 points.

Sub Mickey Dooher was only the field a few minutes when he took a fine field in the half-forward zone to feed Declan McCrossan. The number 12 spotted Porter lurking dangerously and Porter collected the pass, before planting the ball firmly into Tim Harney’s goal to seal the result. The Glenelly men bombed forward late on, but Nicholas' last gasp point was not enough and signaled the end of the contest.

This was not a vintage Owen Roe’s display, however they showed willingness and desire to keep going, and were rewarded with two crucial ACL points. This Friday evening (7:30pm) they travel to early pacesetters Tattyreagh for a key fixture.

Owen Roes: Dylan Early, Paul Kelly, Kevin Doherty, Willie Doherty, Paddy McNulty, Stephen Dooher, Brendan McCrossan, Chris Kelly, Aidan McCrossan (0-2), Kiernan Kelly (0-2), Ronan Parker, Declan McCrossan (0-1), Mark O’Neill, Barry Porter (1-1), John Harper. Subs: Mark Kelly (0-3) for Mark O’Neill 18 mins, Mickey Dooher for Kiernan Kelly 54 mins

Glenelly: Cathal Nicholas (0-4), Seamus Harkin (0-3), Ronan O'Kane (0-1)

Roe’s Washed Away in Tattyreagh

Tattyreagh 2-8 Owen Roe’s 0-5

Owen Roe’s hopes of building on their good start to the 2007 ACL season were washed away in rain soaked Tattyreagh last Friday evening. Ahead early in the game, the away side succumbed to the elements and their stronger opponents to go down on a 2-8 to 0-5 scoreline.

It had started brightly for the O’Neills when Declan McCrossan stroked over early in the contest. The Roe’s half forward added to his tally shortly after from a placed kick in between a pair of Tattyreagh scores.

It looked like Leckpatrick were up for a battle when Ronan Parker gave his side the lead as the rain came down. Clarke Stephenson marked his senior debut when he got on the end of a 45 to fist over, but things were about to go awry for the Green and Reds.

As the half closed out the visiting defence conceded a penalty that was dispatched past Dylan Early in the Owen Roe’s goal, and minutes later the ‘Tatt’s’ got a second major. A high ball in was misjudged by Early, leaving his net exposed to the St.Patrick’s attacker.

Despite the half-time arrears the visiting O’Neills would’ve went in with a degree of confidence knowing that the goals were self-inflicted. However in the second half Tattyreagh showed why they ran Greencastle so close to the Tyrone Junior Championship last year, and why they are the sole Club in Tyrone with a 100% this season to date.

Stronger, and more able to the demands of the elements Tattyreagh clipped over half a dozen unanswered points as they stormed away. The visitors toiled gamely, but their solitary reward was a late, late Declan McCrossan score.

Owen Roes are back on the road this Sunday- their 5^th away game out of 6- as they face Rock. The Roe’s have emerged from Rock with maximum spoils over the last two seasons, a trend they hope to continue.

Tattyreagh: Dermott Armstrong (2-0), Chris McCarroll (0-4), Sean Darcy (0-2), Adrian Harley (0-1), Sean Gormley (0-1).

Rock Too Strong for O’Neills

Rock 2-8 Owen Roe’s 0-8

A six-point victory earned by the use of a stiff first half breeze proved the difference in Rock today, as the home side emerged with a 2-8 to 0-8 victory over their North Tyrone visitors. Fielding a side missing several regulars the O’Neills were little match for the fluid Rock outfit.

Playing into the gale, the Leckpatrick lads would’ve been happy with their early showing restricting the hosts to several half chances that didn’t trouble the scoreboard. Brendan McCrossan was doing a fine job on Ciaran Gourley, and Noel Mullen, making his first start this season, also settling in well.

Rock’s first score of the game came after 12 minutes, and was somewhat self-inflicted as the O’Neills misplaced a short free in their own half. A neat Chris Kelly score in reply, was cancelled out by Rock hitting a couple of efforts from play.

Only two points down with the half closing out, it looked good for the Leckpatrick lads, however disaster was about to strike. Under no pressure possession was again squandered in the last third of the field, with Ciaran Gourley the recipient. The County man bombed through on Dylan Early’s net to smack the ball into the goal. A late free for the East Tyrone men gave them a 1-4 to 0-1 lead at the break.

The early exchanges in the second half were vital, and it was the Green and Reds who settled first, Chris Kelly and Kiernan Kelly executing dead balls in the opening minutes. Rock got another back, before Ronan Parker landed over after a quickly taken free kick.

With 10 minutes of the second half elapsed there was only a goal in it, as Paddy McNulty and Chris Kelly interchanged well to release halfback Stephen Dooher to point. Finely poised the next exchanges were crucial and it was the St.Patricks that nabbed them. Gourley got a got a point from play, followed up by his colleague at centre half forward.

Despite upping the ante the Roe’s couldn’t find a way through to get the goal the probably needed. Declan McCrossan chalked up a nice score, before the Rock’s second goal ended it. The visiting defence shorn of protection in search of a major, only succeeded in conceding one, as Ciaran Mullan clinically dispatched a loose ball to the net.

As time ticked out debutante sub Ryan Logue’s quick free gave Dooher his second point, before Declan McCrossan’s late free ended it.

A disappointing day for the men from North Tyrone who suffered their second defeat in a week. However with 5 out of 6 away games completed, building a strong home record may yet be the catalyst for a productive season.

Owen Roes: Dylan Early, Gerard Devine, Noel Mullen, Willie Doherty, Brendan McCrossan, Stephen Dooher (0-2), Brendan Boggs, Chris Kelly (0-2), Ronan Parker (0-1), Kiernan Kelly (0-1), Declan McCrossan (0-2), Paddy McNulty, Barry Porter, Mickey Dooher, John Harper. Subs: Marcus McGinley for Parker 47 mins, Ryan Logue for Mickey Dooher 52 mins.

Rock: B.Coyle, N.Mullan, S.Mullan, R.Crilly, T.Bloomer, P.Girvan, M.McCourt, J.Mallon, Paul Murphy(0.1), Aidan Girvan(0.1), E.Ward(0.2), Ciaran Gourley(1.0), Declan Mullen, James McCreesh(0.2), J.Ward(0.1) .Subs: Ciaran Mullan(1.1), M.McElduff, P.Crilly.

Beragh Sharp Shooters Gun Down Roe’s

Owen Roe’s 0-10 Beragh 1-10

The footballers of Owen Roe’s and Beragh went head-to-head in the ACL on Friday night past. In what was a dress rehearsal for the two sides forthcoming JFC quarterfinal it was the visitors who took the spoils. However both managers will not read too much into this showing considering how bereft of players they were. The home side in particular missing the likes of Brendan Boggs, Ronan Parker, and the McCrossan brother, Aidan and Declan. The Red Knights could also put to absences but crucially they possessed the firepower of Michael Ward and Tyrone minor star Martin Rodgers.

The early exchanges were somewhat cagey and Mark Kelly fired over an early Roe’s free, before Beragh struck back in style, their wing forward rampaging through to supplant an 8^th minute effort to the net.

Martin Rodgers showed his dead ball skills on 11 minutes, before great work by minors Gerard Devine and Marcus McGinley released John Harper to toe poke over the bar on the quarter hour. Rodgers executed another placed ball, as play ebbed from end to end without too many openings.

However three scores in the closing two minutes of the half signalled an opening. Firstly Rodgers sent another free over, before Chris Kelly and the lively Mark Foley combined for Harper to point. Straight from the kick out, Roe’s won a 45 which Barry Porter worked short to Mark O’Neill to signal another White flag.

The game was tight, and it was apparent there was not going to be much in it. John Harper’s dead ball was cancelled out one minute later by the Beragh number 12, with a Mark Kelly placed kick re-seizing the initiative.

Fine fielding in centre field by Aidan Christy sent Kiernan Kelly clear to point as the Leckpatrick men restored parity. However things were about to go awry for the Green and Reds.

With 20 minutes of the contest to play Rodgers chalked up his first point from play, and his lethal right boot replicated twice in a minute as the contest entered the final quarter. The O’Neills only had a Chris Kelly free in the intervening period to show for their efforts.

A Rodgers’ free and a Mickey Ward point signalled that the game was slowly ebbing away from the home side. It could’ve been so different had Kiernan Kelly’s rapier quick free kick not hit crossbar, and post before being cleared.

Nonetheless the inexperienced O’Neills kept plugging away and frees from Kiernan Kelly and Chris Kelly kept the tie alive, but a late Ward point quashed any hope, as the points went to Beragh.

On the basis of generating ACL points, manager Gerard Porter will be disappointed with this result. However he will be delighted at the performance of several of the youngsters called up to fill the boots of the experienced absentees.

Owen Roes: Dylan Early, Brendan McCrossan, Aidan Christy, Willie Doherty, Gerard Devine, Stephen Dooher, Kevin Doherty, Chris Kelly (0-2), Noel Mullen, Marcus McGinley, Barry Porter, Kiernan Kelly (0-2), John Harper (0-3), Mark O’Neill (0-1), Mark Kelly (0-2). Subs: Mark Foley for Kevin Doherty (16 mins), Paul Devine for Gerard Devine, Clark Stephenson for Mark Kelly (52 mins) and Conor McCay for John Harper (52 mins)

Roe’s Woes Continue

Owen Roes 0-9 Newtownstewart 0-10

The senior footballers of Owen Roe’s experienced another frustrating night, when they went down by the minimum to Newtownstewart on Friday past. Despite a promising opening half, and a late flourish, the O’Neills ended with little to show for their efforts.

As stated it was the home side that started off in fine fettle. With 2 minutes ticked Chris Kelly send over a free kick from the 45-yard line. Newton responded with a free of their own before youngster Conor McCay done well to find range to give the home side the lead again.

The Roe’s forward unit, lead by McCay and Mark Kelly were presenting the visitors with problems, and it was a Kelly dead ball that extended his side’s advantage. Kevin Gallagher replied for the St.Eugene’s before McCay showed his confidence to send a placed ball between the sticks.

Newtownstewart were attempting to build with pace, but the found the Roe’s defence in mean mood- led by the excellent Willie Doherty. Indeed a Doherty challenge, saw the ball worked the length of the field for Mark Kelly to present his side with a 0-5 to 0-2 lead.

With a few minutes of the half remaining, the home side were reduced to 14 men, with Kiernan Kelly shown a red card. However Mark Kelly didn’t let it faze him as his late placed kick left his side four to the good at the short whistle.

The first few minutes of the second period were cagey, as the visitors tried to establish the best mode of exercising their personnel advantage. Brendan Boyle was first in target, before the O’Neills surrendered possession to gift Newtown another point.

Two Newton frees either side of a well-taken Mickey McConomy point saw his side lead for the first time. Chris Kelly struck back with a Roe’s point to level once more, as this game was going the distance.

With a minute to go the game was about to see a flurry of activity. Firstly a short-worked 45 gave Newton the lead, which they extended a few seconds later through Dean Arnold.

There was still a twist and a turn to follow. Sub John Harper burst through to pull one back, before a poor kick out by the Newtown net minder fell straight to Barry Porter to level it once more. 

Deep an injury time, it looked like a draw had being engineered, but as dusk fell sharply, so did the drama. The visitor’s keeper made amends for his error seconds earlier by taking a quick kick out. Within seconds the ball had been worked to the Dean Arnold who sliced through the home defence to sphere the ball over Dylan Early’s crossbar and earn his side both points.

This was another home performance, which was laced with promise, frustration, and bad luck. With the Championship looming, the Leckpatrick lads know that with a bit of good fortune things could start to revolve in their favour.

Owen Roes: Dylan Early, Brendan McCrossan, Aidan Christy, Willie Doherty, Noel Mullen, Brendan Boggs, Paddy McNulty, Chris Kelly (0-2), Ronan Parker, Mark Foley, Barry Porter (0-1), Kiernan Kelly, Mark Kelly (0-3), Paul Kelly, Conor McCay (0-2). Subs: Gerard Devine for Parker (36 mins), John Harper (0-1) for Mark Foley, Marcus McGinley for Paul Kelly (59 mins).

Early End to Senior Game

Owen Roes 0-7 Derrytresk 1-1 (A) 

A nasty injury to Derrytresk corner forward Joe McKee caused an early end to this ACL game on Sunday. Behind by four points the visiting player broke his leg while retrieving the ball on the stroke of half-time. After a 45 minute wait for an ambulance to be dispatched from Fintona, the referee abandoned the game with the visitors not wanting to continue.

For the 30 minutes that was played Mark Kelly was the man on form for the home side. His fifth minute free, followed up an early Mark O'Neill effort to give his side the initiative. However slack Owen Roe's defending gave Derrytresk a route straight back into it. The home defence lost possession straight in front of goal, and the resulting shot through a crowd of legs gave Dylan Early little chance.

Early's goal was living a charmed existence, and twice in as many minute, Aidan Christy and Willie Doherty were on hand to clear efforts off their own line.

Kelly though was in range and a pair of scores, one from play, one from a placed ball, either side of a Brendan Boggs point gave the O'Neills the lead again.

Derrytresk responded with a point of their own, but corner forward Kelly closed out the half with a couple more points, before that unfortunate accident involving McKee. In the greater scheme of things, the result is of little importance, but it'll be left to County officials to decide the outcome.

The Owen Roe's Club would like to extend their best wishes to Joe McKee, and thank Dr.Aidan McMenamin and St.John's ambulance for their help at the scene prior to the ambulance support team's arrival.

Owen Roe's: Dylan Early, Paul Kelly, Aidan Christy, Willie Doherty, Brendan McCrossan, Stephen Dooher, Paddy McNulty, Chris Kelly, Brendan Boggs (0-1), Mark Kelly (0-5), Noel Mullen, Kevin O'Neill, Barry Porter, Mark O'Neill (0-1), Conor McCay.

Frustration Continues for O’Neills

Owen Roe’s 1-8 Castlederg 2-7

It was yet another frustrating night for Owen Roe’s as they lost at home for the fourth game in succession, this time to local rivals Castlederg. The home side in truth only clicked for a quarter of the game, and can have little complaints at the outcome, despite again missing a host of senior players, with Cathal Dooher given a senior debut.

Both sides exchanged converted frees in the opening stages, Chris Kelly on target for the Leckpatrick side, before the St.Eugene’s went on the offensive. Before the opening quarter had ended they had raised the white flag on four further occasions, two of which were from free kicks.

None the less, a productive home spell was about to begin. Barry Porter clipped over, before the same player bagged a major. Chris Kelly took a quick free from the halfway line sending an excellent ball in to Porter, who turned and crashed it home. Kelly gave his side the lead for the first time, and he was central to most of the good work by the hosts.

Porter once more, and a classy Mark O’Neill score added to the advantage before the visitors close the half out with a breakaway point.

Chris Kelly pinged over, continuing where he’d left off the opening half to put a goal in it. However this was to be cancelled out in stunning fashion a few minutes later.

The Castlederg midfielder picked up the ball, and when from 30 yards out he seemed sure to pick off a point, he instead let off an exocet that zipped into the top corner of Dylan Early’s goals. Buoyed by this major the St.Eugene’s repeated the dose moments later. This time slack Roe’s defending let the visitors corner-forward plenty of time to pick his spot in the corner.

Suddenly it was back to the walls time for the Green and Reds, and a Mark Kelly free suggested there was still a battle to be had. With 10 minutes remaining it looked like the hosts had regained the lead. A high ball into the square saw a mix up in the home defence, and the Derg defender fisting the ball past his own keeper. However the referee had adjudged a foul by Barry Porter on the player, and thus overturned the goal.

As the game ticked by the home side pressed, but a late Mark Kelly free was all they had to offer. In injury time, a swift Castlederg break and conversion sealed the points for the visitors.

Another night of frustration for the home side who, despite a litany of absent players, are just falling shy of winning games. On Friday night title chasing Clogher visit Glenmornan providing the Leckpatrick outfit with an opportunity to claim a scalp before the upcoming Junior championship quarterfinal clash with Beragh.

Owen Roes: Dylan Early, Brendan McCrossan, Aidan Christy, Cathal Dooher, Gerard Devine, Stephen Dooher, Paddy McNulty, Chris Kelly (0-3), Brendan Boggs, Mark Kelly (0-2), Noel Mullen, Kevin O’Neill, Barry Porter (1-2), Mark O’Neill (0-1), Conor McCay. Subs: Davy Harte for Kevin O’Neill.

Ref: Kevin Donnelly (Trillick)

Inspired Owen Roe’s Gain Victory

Owen Roe’s 2-8 Clogher 1-8 

Owen Roe’s received a pre-championship fillip with an excellent 2-8 to 1-8 victory over title chasing Clogher on Friday evening. A side that yielded 5 changes from the previous week’s defeat to Castlederg, showed tenacity and skill to come back from a three point half time arrears and claim the spoils.

It was the title chasers that struck first to take a 3^rd minute lead, before the hosts struck their first goal. A high ball into the edge of the square found Barry Porter lurking. The Roe’s front man pounced and turned the ball home to give his side an early boost.

The O’Neills almost threw it away seconds later as possession lost almost resulted in a Clogher goal, however the half forward’s shot whizzed over the bar. Chris Kelly powered through the middle to add to the home lead, before Clogher struck back with an excellent point to end a whirlwind opening 10 minutes.

At this stage the home side were on top, with Chris Kelly, and Aidan McCrossan dictating much of the play around centre field with Ronan Parker in assistance. It was a McCrossan dead ball that added to the home lead before both sides exchanged scores, Mark Kelly from a placed kick the Roe’s scorer.

However despite all the positives from the home side it was about to be untangled prior to the short whistle. Firstly the valley men chalked up a beautifully worked goal. Their midfielder sending an accurate pass into the half forward zone, that was zipped rapidly into the corner forward, who in turn gave Andy Devine little chance. Ahead of the break the Éire Óg’s had added two more points, one from play and one from a dead ball.

As the second half commenced, the Leckpatrick side sought inspiration, and soon they found it. With two minutes gone Mark Kelly collected the ball tight on the sideline, and from 40 yards out turned and converted. Within 60 seconds the same player had replicated from the exact same spot to leave the minimum in it.

Aidan McCrossan then simulated Kelly’s efforts once more to tie the scores at 1-6 apiece. The visitors came back as Shields wiggled free to go back ahead, but a Mark Kelly free kept the lead short lived.

With a quarter remaining, both sides were finding scores hard to come by, with Clogher floundering on a resolute Owen Roe’s full back line led by Willie Doherty, Paul Kelly and Noel Mullen. Indeed the outstanding Mullen was the architect for the night’s key moment.

A ball into the Clogher forward unit was tenaciously won by the number 3 earning his side a free kick. Aidan McCrossan, who in turn sent Paddy McNulty scampering away, collected Gerard Devine’s quick kick. McNulty bore down on goal before fizzing a crisp effort into the top corner of the visitor’s goal.

Buoyed by this, the home side were determined not to let this lead slip. Stubborn defending ensured that chances over the final quarter were kept to a minimum. The Éire Ógs did convert another dead ball, however the last score of the net fell to Barry Porter. The much experienced Charlie McLaughlin, who had been sprung from the bench to add weight to the home attack, set up Porter who with his back to goal split the posts.

This was an excellent, and much welcome performance by the home side. A rigid defensive unit, and a much greater fluidity in attack gelled together to provide the perfect tonic prior to the forthcoming Championship quarterfinal clash with Beragh.

Owen Roes: Andy Devine, Paul Kelly, Noel Mullen, Willie Doherty, Stephen Dooher, Cathal Dooher, Gerard Devine, Chris Kelly (0-1), Aidan McCrossan (0-2), Kevin O’Neill, Ronan Parker, Mark Kelly (0-4), Paddy McNulty (1-0), Mark O’Neill, Barry Porter (1-1) Subs: Davy Harte for Parker 41 mins, Charlie McLaughlin for Mark O’Neill 57 mins, Stephen Kelly for Porter 60 mins.

O'Neills Dismal Form Continues

Drumragh 1-14 Owen Roe’s 1-4

The senior footballers of Owen Roes had another disappointing outing on Sunday past, when a side missing several regulars went down to a heavy defeat to Drumragh. Despite Mickey Dooher getting an early point, the Sarsfields were in the ascendancy all through the opening half, as they
went in 1-7 to 0-1 ahead.

Chris Kelly picked up a second yellow card in the second half to make the visitors side more difficult. However the numerical disadvantage only inspired the O'Neills and points from Ronan Parker, and a pair from Aidan McCrossan put some respectability on the scoreboard. Indeed McCrossan also
chalked off a major as his 45 dipped under the bar late in the day.

Owen Roes: Aidan McCrossan (1-2), Mickey Dooher (0-1), Ronan Parker (0-1)

Errigal IIIs Overcome Young Owen Roe’s Side

Errigal Ciaran IIIs 0-13 Owen Roe’s 2-5

The Owen Roe’s Senior side made the trip to Dunmoyle on Sunday last to take on the newly formed Errigal Ciaran IIIs team. With several key players absent for various reasons, manager Gerard Porter drafted in several Reserve and Minor players for the match, giving debuts to Kevin O’Donnell, Ryan Stewart and Dermot McMenamin. Indeed out of the panel of twenty, half of them last played in Dunmoyle in 2004 when the Club’s U-14 side were competing in the All-Ireland Feile.

The Leckpatrick side got off to a perfect start when makeshift full forward Paul Kelly found the back of the net for the opening score, followed by a point by Mickey Dooher. Errigal hit back with 2 points from frees, but Mark Kelly kept the Roe’s in front with a pointed free of his own.

Nonetheless Errigal weren’t taking the match lying down and hit back with six unanswered points, 4 of which were from frees, leaving them in the driving seat by the half whistle with 0-07 to 1-03 lead.

The second half started with Errigal making all the running picking off an early point. Brendan Boggs returned the favour from a free, before Errigal again restored the 2 point difference before the Roe’s turned the game to their advantage. A right wing ball was sent into Errigal’s large rectangle, where Mickey Dooher rose and met it and flicked into the Ballygawley net, restoring a 1 point lead to the visitors.

However this was to be the last visiting score of the game with Errigal still plugging away and taking their scores, letting them gain a 2-point home victory.

With Gerard Porter utilising 11 minor players over the hour, the Leckpatrick side are already preparing for the 2008 season.

As Gerard said afterwards, although being beaten, this young Roe’s side performed admirably, with many making their Senior team debut, and many should be looking to make their mark on the Senior squad for the rest of the season.

Owen Roe’s: Andy Devine, Gerard Devine, Kevin Doherty, Willie Doherty, Kevin O’Donnell, Cathal Dooher, Ryan Stewart, Marcus McGinley, Brendan Boggs (0-1 free), Kevin O’Neill, Mickey Dooher (1-3), Mark Kelly (0-1 free), Davy Harte, Paul Kelly (1-0), Kiernan Kelly. Subs: Conor Mc Cay for Davy Harte, Ryan Logue for Willie Doherty, Dermot Mc Menamin for Kiernan Kelly.

Ref: Shane Dorrity of Coalisland

Glenelly Take Spoils in Derby Clash

Owen Roes 0-9 Glenelly 1-9 

The senior footballers of Glenelly gained revenge over their close neighbours Owen Roes for their league defeat earlier in the season. The hosts led by a solitary point in a tepid first half, before being dragged back thank in the main to a fortuitous Glenelly free that nestled in the back of the net.

Both sides started slowly and the first score didn’t arrive until the 10^th minute courtesy of a Glenelly free. Mark Kelly replied with his own placed ball a minute later, as the hosts started to dictate the play. Indeed poor shooting sullied all the Leckpatrick good work, and it took forceful play from Cathal Dooher to release Kevin O’Donnell away for a tidy point on the quarter hour.

The visitors equalised via another dead ball before more good work from the industrious O’Donnell gave Mark Kelly a pointing opportunity that was taken. Stephen Dooher clipped a nice ball over to extend the lead, but the St.Josephs, courtesy of their third free, put one in it at the short whistle.

The game’s key score was the first score of the second period. Ronan Parker committed a foul just inside the 45 line, which was sent towards the posts by the Glenelly place kicker. However the ball dipped late, and nestled in the top corner of Andy Devine’s net. Buoyed by this the Blue jersey visitors tagged on another score minutes later.

The game was starting to simmer, and Kiernan Kelly pointed a quick Stephen Dooher free. Within seconds Brendan Boggs weaved through to narrow it to one. At this stage the hosts were dominant, but were not translating their possession into scores, as the Glenelly rear division worked hard to keep space to a minimum. Indeed the men from Plumbridge were able to break at pace, and notched up two points in reply- one from a free. In addition a fine save via Andy Devine’s legs prevented further damage.

Boggs was at it again in the 46^th minute, interchanging with O’Donnell to score, before Kiernan Kelly tapped over a short free. Crucially though the O’Neills could not generate a levelling score. Glenelly went up field to keep their scoreboard ticking over once more.

With 10 minutes left, Kiernan Kelly got another short free, and it seemed as if the host’s pressure would eventually tell. However it was the visitors who broke twice late on to snatch the derby spoils.

This was a decent performance in many departments for the O’Neills, however wayward shooting, and at times complacency, meant that the Glenelly men emerged victorious.

Owen Roes: Andy Devine, Paul Kelly, Kevin Doherty, Brendan McCrossan, Brendan Boggs (0-2), Cathal Dooher, Kevin O’Donnell (0-1), Chris Kelly, Ronan Parker, Kevin O’Neill, Barry Porter, Mark Kelly (0-2), Conor McCay, Stephen Dooher (0-1), Kiernan Kelly (0-3) Subs: Paddy McNulty for Ronan Parker (46 mins), Ryan Logue for Conor McCay (46 mins) Gerard Devine for Kevin O’Neill (49 mins).  

'Tatt' Will Do Nicely for Leaders

Owen Roes 0-9 Tattyreagh 3-10  

Tattyreagh eased to a routine two points following a 3-10 to 0-9 victory over Owen Roes on Saturday past, the catalyst being three first half majors.

Indeed the contests opening score was a goal by the visitor’s Kevin Gallagher. Mark Kelly from play pulled one back, before the visitors chalked off a pair of points to end the opening ten minutes of the contest.

A long range Chris Kelly free, and a Mark Kelly placed balled reduced the arrears, but the slick Tattyreagh outfit replicated with a couple of their own scores to keep the O’Neills at arms length. However Owen Roes were still in the contest, and two placed balls from the Kellys, Mark and Chris and a foray from wing back Brendan Boggs kept the contest boiling.

A whirlwind last few minutes of the half though was about to extinguish the semblance of hope the hosts had. The Tatts struck two quick incisive points, before they closed the half out with two goals in two minutes. Firstly county minor Colin Harkin found the net, followed by the ever-dangerous Chris McCarroll. A Mark Kelly effort on the whistle left the halftime score 0-7 to 3-6 to the visitors.

The league leaders came out of the blocks quickest in the second period also, clipping over a further 3 points to extend their lead. Owen Roes minor player Ryan Logue entered the fray on 45 minutes and almost gave his side a lifeline as his sweetly struck drive rattled the visitors crossbar, with Mark Kelly getting a pointed rebound.

However the game was petering out into a defeat. Logue got his name on the score sheet, before Tattyreagh notched a score to end the contest.

Yet another defeat for Owen Roes in what is becoming a difficult season. However manager Gerard Porter continues to give vital field time to several minor players that will be critical to their development, with seven minors being used over the hour.

Late Surge Wins it for Owen Roe’s

Owen Roe's 1-10 Dregish 0-06

Owen Roe O’Neill’s Senior team were back to League action on Saturday last when Dregish were visitors to the Glenmornan venue. The Leckpatrick side got off to a flying start taking an early 6 point to no score lead by the 15 minute mark with scores from Tyrone Senior panellist, Brendan Boggs, Chris Kelly, Mark Kelly (0-02), and Kevin O’Neill. However, Dregish suddenly found their form and hit back with 3 unanswered points of their own, two of which came from frees from the boot of Johnny Doherty and the thid from Peter Mc Crossan. Paddy Mc Nulty’s late point brought the first half 0-07 to 0-03 half time lead to the Roe’s side.

The second half turned out to be a closely fought, hard hitting affair, with Dregish taking the game by the scruff of the neck to the hosts. Dregish were awarded an early free, duly converted again by Doherty, followed by another from play from Aidan O’Kane and when Doherty knocked over his fourth pointed free of the evening it was game on, with the Leckpatrick side only in front by a point, with just over 10 minutes remaining. The game had swung in Dregish’s favour and the momentum was on their side, holding the Leckpatrick side scoreless for 20 minutes of the half, only for the game to be stopped due to an injury to a Dregish player.

The stoppage seemed to knock Dregish out of their stride and gave their hosts time to regroup. On the restart, Stephen Dooher pointed. It was still all to play but sub Barry Porter was to finally swing the game to the home side’s advantage with a goal. It was the subs introduced in the second half that finally killed the game off as both Kiernan Kelly and Ryan Logue added  appoint apiece to put the game finally ahead of the visitors reach in the last few minutes of the match.

As in recent games, Senior team manager Gerard Porter used a number of the Club’s Minor players and they all gave a good account of themselves in the game. There are no Reserve or Senor games scheduled for this weekend, with other Division 3 Clubs fulfilling refixtures and then the Junior Championship Final on Sunday for Beragh and Rock. The next scheduled game for both Owen Roe’s teams is Sunday week with away games to Newtownstewart, and as always all support for both teams would be most appreciated. All Reserve and Senior players are asked to be at training tomorrow night.

Owen Roe’s: Andy Devine, Paul Kelly, Kevin Doherty, Brendan Mc Crossan, Brendan Boggs (0-01), Cathal Dooher, Gerard Devine, Marcus Mc Ginley, Chris Kelly (0-01), David Harte, Kevin O’Neill (0-01), Mark Kelly(0-02, 0-01 from a free), Stephen Dooher (0-01), Conor Mc Cay, Paddy Mc Nulty (0-02).

Subs: Barry Porter (1-00) for Conor Mc Cay, Kiernan Kelly (0-01) for Marcus Mc Ginley, Ryan Logue (0-01) for Kevin O’Neill, Ryan Stewart for Gerard Devine.

Goals the Difference in the East

Derrytresk 0-06 Owen Roe's 3-06

The Owen Roe O’Neill’s Senior travelled to east Tyrone on Sunday past to take on Derrytresk. A mixture of experience and youth again made up the Leckpatrick side for the day, again utilising a number of up and coming Minor players as, unfortunately, in the last several fixtures there has been no Reserve games for these players, for one reason or another.

It was one of the veterans of the team that opened the scoring for the Leckpatrick side, Barry Porter putting away a sixth minute penalty for the first goal of the game. Owen Roe’s quickly settled after this and stretched their lead to 4 points minutes later with a fine point from one of the younger players, Kevin O’Neill, although they did receive a setback with the withdrawal of County player, Brendan Boggs through injury, replaced by Marcus Mc Ginley.

Derrytresk soon found their rhythm however with a point of their own. However it was the elder statesmen of the Roe’s side who were to continue inflicting damage up front, with Mickey Dooher taking a goal and a point himself from his right corner forward position. Chris Kelly operating from his usual midfield berth picked off two points of his own before Mickey Dooher stretched the advantage further with another point. Derrytresk then added a point of their own deep into first half injury time.

The second half saw Derrytresk coming out the stronger and the Leckpatrick side were punished by 4 unanswered pointed frees on the trot within the first ten minutes of the half, narrowing the visitors lead to 5 points. The middle third of this half turned into a scrappy with neither side seeming to get the upperhand and both sides were to suffer blows when Owen Roe’s lost 2 players through second yellow cards and Derrytresk losing one of their own for the same reason.

 However Mickey Dooher and Barry Porter were to come to the fore again and nullify Derrytresks efforts with a goal from Dooher and a point from Porter, leaving it 3-06 to 0-06 to the Leckpatrick side.

This Saturday both the Reserves and Seniors return to League action with away fixtures to Beragh. Throw-in times are 3.30 and 5pm. As always all support from members would be appreciated.

Owen Roe’s: Charlie Mc Laughlin, Paul Kelly, Kevin Doherty, Brendan Mc Crossan, Brendan Boggs, Cathal Dooher, Gerard Devine, Chris Kelly (0-02), Stephen Dooher, Davy Harte, Kevin O’Neill (0-01), Mark Kelly, Barry Porter (1-01), Kevin O’Donnell and Mickey Dooher (2-02).

Martin Rodgers dashes Owen Roe’s chances.

Beragh 0-13 Owen Roe’s  0-10

Both the Owen Roe’s Reserve and Senior teams were in action on Saturday last when they travelled to Beragh. With an under strength Reserve side on the losing side of their match it was up to the Seniors to try and restore some parity but Beragh’s Martin Rodgers was to prove a thorn in the Roe’s side all day, amassing 10 points over the hour, seven of these from frees. However it was the hosts who were make a start on the score board with an early point. Their lead could have been extended when Leckpatrick keeper Andy Devine was left one on one with a Beragh forward only for him to be side stepped, leaving his opponent an empty net, only for the crossbar to deny him a goal.

This missed opportunity seemed to kick the Roe’s men into action and they soon rattled off 3 unanswered points of their own to take a first quarter lead. Both sides then traded 2 points each only for Beragh to eventually draw level with a pointed free from their Tyrone Minor, Martin Rodgers. Action soon switched to the other end of the pitch however when Davy Harte delivered a nice pass to Mickey Dooher whose shot at goal was blocked, the deflection falling back into his hands only for his second goal bound shot to be cleared by the Beragh defence. Beragh then added on 3 unanswered points of their own to go in half time leaders on a scoreline of 0-07 to 0-04.

Mark Kelly was to get the Owen Roe’s men off to a good start to the second half with a pointed free followed up by Mickey Dooher point, pulling things back to a point. But up stepped young Rodgers again to tap over two frees to restore their half time lead. Chris and Mark Kelly swopped points with Rodgers again before corner forward Kevin O’Donnell pointed to narrow the deficit to the minimum. Within a matter of minutes both sides were level when midfielder Chris Kelly hoisted an almighty effort from the left hand sideline, from all of 45 metres out. However instead of proving an inspiration for the visitors it was to prove to be their last score, with Beragh restoring their lead to 3 points again before referee Kevin Kelly blew matters to a close.

Although defeated this was one of the Leckpatrick sides better performances in recent times and indeed the game could have went either way at one stage but as said earlier it was Martin Rodgers and his free taking which was to prove the Roe’s undoing.

Owen Roe’s: Andy Devine, Paul Kelly, Kevin Doherty, Brendan Mc Crossan, Gerard Devine, Cathal Dooher, Marcus Mc Ginley, Chris Kelly (0-02), Stephen Dooher, Davy Harte (0-01), Kevin O’Neill, Mark Kelly (0-04, 2 from frees), Kevin O’Donnell (0-01), Mickey Dooher (0-02), Charlie Mc Laughlin.

Subs used: Ronan Parker for Charlie Mc Laughlin, Ryan Logue for Marcus Mc Ginley, Stephen Kelly for Gerard Devine.

Rock Forced to Dig Deep

Owen Roes 1-4 Rock 0-11

Recently crowned Junior champions Rock traveled to Glenmornan on Sunday searching for two precious ACL points in their quest to complete a Junior double. After being behind at the break, the greater experience of the visitors allowed them to forge clear late on to take the spoils.

It was the hosts that started brightest, and none more so that the experience of Mickey Dooher. The seasoned campaigner finding the net with only minutes on the clock. Paddy McNulty added to the tally, when a nice move was completed by the corner-forward punching over the bar. The lead though was nearly short lived, as Andy Devine pulled off a stunning stop just prior to McNulty’s point.

Rock came back to it and struck back twice in a five-minute spell, before Chris Kelly’s beautiful struck free split the posts, to maintain the Leckpatrick purple patch. Nonetheless Rock were showing the resolved that saw them pick up that Junior title two weeks back, as they closed the half out with three unanswered scores. However Kelly found distance again to give his side a 1-3 to 0-5 short whistle advantage.

It looked like it could’ve been Owen Roes’ day as Barry Porter showed good technique to get his shot off, to open the second period with a point. This was as good as it was getting for the Green and Reds, as Rock started to apply heavy pressure. Ciaran Gourley broke forward from half back to pull one back, followed by a levelling free from Martin McCreesh.

Rock were now on top, and only stout Owen Roes defending, especially by captain Paul Kelly, were keeping them at bay. However either side of the 45-minute mark Rock pointed twice to take the lead.

Gourley broke forward once more to skilfully point as Rock eked the game away, and the same man sent McCreesh away with two minutes remaining to seal it. Deep in injury time Owen Roes lost midfielder Chris Kelly to a red card, but at that stage it was immaterial to the result.

This was a brave, battling performance by an Owen Roes side that have little to play for as the season ebbs out. However Rock will be relieved to take both points back up the road this evening.

Owen Roes: Andy Devine, Paul Kelly, Kevin Doherty, Brendan McCrossan, Marcus McGinley, Cathal Dooher, Kevin O’Donnell, Chris Kelly (0-2), Stephen Dooher, Davy Harte, Ronan Parker, Kevin O’Neill, Barry Porter (0-1), Mickey Dooher (1-0), Paddy McNulty (0-1) Subs: Mark Kelly for Harte (30 mins), Ryan Logue for Mickey Dooher (40 mins), Mark O’Neill for Porter (46 mins), Harte for McNulty (46 mins), John Harper for Parker (56 mins).

Clogher too Strong for Owen Roes

Clogher 1-9 Owen Roes 1-4

Ryan Logue (1-0), Barry Porter (0-2), Kevin O’Neill (0-1) and Kevin O’Donnell (0-1)

Late Penalty Kills off Young O'Neills

Newtownstewart 2-7 Owen Roes 0-8

With nothing at stake, this Sunday afternoon fixture was expected to be a tame affair. However both Owen Roes and Newtownstewart should be credited for putting in a competitive hour’s football, which was edged by the hosts.

Damien Patton set the hosts in motion with two early efforts, either side Newtownstewart’s minor Turlough McNamee neat score. Ronan Parker dragged his side back into it with two dead ball conversions in the space of three minutes. McNamee from a placed ball, replied to by Owen Roes number 10 Davy Harte left the St.Eugene’s one ahead after 20 minutes, before both sides had goal chances.

Firstly McNamee swooped in on Andy Devine’s goal and looked set to score only for a brave block down by Kevin O’Donnell a la Conor Gormley. At the other end of the pitch a fine scything move involving Ronan Parker and Kevin O’Neill sent the latter through and goal, where Pascal McConnell was relieved to see the ball rebound from his crossbar. A fisted McNamee effort closed the half.

It was Newtownstewart who continued to make the early running in the second half, and Damien Patton hit a 38th minute goal to ebb the confidence away from a young Owen Roe’s side.

Undeterred two Parker scores either side of a Dean Arnold free meant that the Leckpatrick lads were still on the Newtown coat tails, and narrowed the gap further in the 48^th minute. A 45 was palmed away by McConnell, but Willie Doherty half volleyed over the sticks. McNamee added to his tally almost immediately, with Parker getting his fifth score with nine minutes remaining.

With a goal in it, the O’Neills were trying to manifest an opportunity, however the chance was about to appear at the other end. Confusion in the Owen Roe’s area ended in a foul on Dean Arnold. Brendan Boyle stepped up to send Andy Devine the wrong way and seal the points. A late Parker free ending the scoring.

Although disappointed in defeat, manager Gerard Porter was quick to accentuate the positives, ‘I think a 5-point defeat was probably a bit harsh over the hour in truth, but I was happy with the competitiveness of our performance. Over the hour we used 10 of this year’s minor squad, and that can only stand them in good stead in readiness for next season, and that’s what it’s all about at this stage’.

Owen Roes: Andy Devine, Paul Kelly, Kevin Doherty, Brendan McCrossan, Gerard Devine, Stephen Dooher, Kevin O’Donnell, Stephen Kelly, Marcus McGinley, Davy Harte (0-1), Ronan Parker (0-6), Kevin O’Neill, Willie Doherty (0-1), Charlie McLaughlin, Ryan Logue. Subs: Aaron Lynch for Kevin Doherty (39 mins), Dermot McMenamin for McLaughlin (39 mins), Conor McCay for Harte (49 mins), Gerard McShane for O’Neill (52 mins)

Owen Roes end Castlederg Run

Castlederg 3-8 Owen Roes 3-10

An unbeaten run stretching since 24^th June came to a conclusion on Sunday for Castlederg as they fell victim to a determined Owen Roes side aiming to produce momentum for the 2008 season. The O’Neills welcomed back Brendan Boggs from injury, and Noel Mullen, both men fitting into the Roe’s halfback line.

Indeed it was the Tyrone senior player who got the O’Neills in front early on with a free, added to by Barry Porter as the visitors hit the ground first. Boggs converted another placed kick, before the Derg edged back into it with a couple of efforts.

Boggs’ accuracy was causing Castlederg problems, however his next effort fell short but kind for the O’Neills, as corner back come corner forward Willie Doherty was on hand to find the net for a rare goal. The Derg came back with a goal of their own shortly before Kevin O’Neill pointed.

In an entertaining first half, Barry Porter added to the Owen Roes lead picking his spot past the host’s net minder. However this Castlederg side were determined to show they meant business and roared back with 1-1 to put just a couple of kicks in it. However their task became harder when Peter Haughey picked up his second yellow on the verge of half time.

Ronan Parker got the O’Neills account underway at the start of the second half before Doherty was at it again. Without a senior goal in over 5 years, he found his second inside thirty minutes, slotting a neat shot past the despairing Castlederg custodian. 

The men from Páirc Chaisleán na Deirge fought back once more and struck a trio of scores, before Porter slotted over again. This eventful game took then another twist, with the hosts awarded a spot kick on 40 minutes. However the Castlederg spot kicker hit the ball wide of Charlie McLaughlin’s post.

Brendan Boggs continued his fine afternoon, raiding forward to score before the hosts earned another penalty attempt. Incredibly the ball ended up wide of the posts once more! John Lynch’s troops struck two further points, as the game entered the last quarter. However not to be denied Kevin O’Neill and Doherty tagged on insurance scores to make the scoreline secure. With the last kick the hosts clocked up another goal, but this was Owen Roes’ day.

After the game a delighted Gerard Porter expressed his relief, ‘it’s nice to pick up a win to be honest. Castlederg are flying this season, and but for a slow start to the season they could be challenging for the league title. However it shows that with a few players returning today, that we are a decent team too.’

Owen Roes: Charlie McLaughlin, Paul Kelly, Kevin Doherty, Brendan McCrossan, Brendan Boggs (0-4), Noel Mullen, Gerard Devine, Stephen Kelly, Stephen Dooher, Davy Harte, Ronan Parker (0-1), Kevin O’Donnell, Willie Doherty (2-1), Barry Porter (1-2), Kevin O’Neill (0-2).

Roes and Errigal Battle Out Draw

Owen Roes 0-9 Errigal Ciaran 1-6

An end of season meaningless game it may have been, but you wouldn't have known so with the endeavor's from the footballers of both Errigal Ciaran IIIs and Owen Roes in a wet and windy Glenmornan on Saturday afternoon, where no quarter was asked or given.

It was the hosts that made the early running, with Ronan Parker and Aaron Lynch in range. However this was only a prelude to a Errigal purple patch, as they rattled off a goal and three points in the next 8 minutes to ease ahead. Brendan Boggs with a pair of scores either side of another visiting point left a goal in it at the turn.

If Owen Roes were lethargic in the first half they emerged with more commitment in the second period. A fine exchange of passes between Kevin O'Donnell and Brendan Boggs allowed Kevin O'Neill to score. Parker tagged on a free before Errigal's danger corner-forward chalked off a pair in three minutes with the game closing out.

Kevin O'Donnell's instinctive score and a Parker free put the minimum in it, before a last minute placed kick by Parker again levelled the contest to leave the scores tied 0-9 to 1-6.

Owen Roes: Andy Devine, Paul Kelly, Kevin Doherty, Brendan McCrossan, Brendan Boggs (0-2), Marcus McGinley, Gerard Devine, Ronan Parker (0-4), Stephen Dooher, Davy Harte, Aaron Lynch (0-1), Kevin O'Donnell (0-1), Ryan Logue, Kevin O'Neill (0-1), Willie Doherty. Subs: Mickey Dooher for Lynch (34 mins), Ryan Stewart for Brendan McCrossan (38 mins), Gerard McShane for Kevin Doherty (54 mins)

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