John Lockes Callan GAA

John Lockes 2-7 Thomastown 0-6
The Lockes u-16 footballers captured the clubs first Roinn A trophy in two decades when winning the championship decider in Bennettsbridge on Saturday last. Played in difficult conditions the Callan lads were playing with the aid of a very stiff breeze in the first half, but failed to take full advantage of the elements taking the wrong option at times and a lethargic approach to the game. Still the Lockes held what looked like a precarious two point lead at half time 0-5 to 0-3 with two long range points from Jason Corcoran and J.J.O'Keefe being the highlight.

Thomastown to their credit carried the game to Callan in that first period and their support play was top class. Following a reality check from their mentors at half time the Lockes team came out for the second half a transformed side. There was a greater urgency about their play and they began to use the ball to better effect with Owen McGrath and Matthew Holohan taking a firm grip in the midfield sector. Jamie Bergin who was moved to corner forward in the second half was brought down inside the square and a penalty awarded , J.J.O'Keefe stepped up and expertly placed the spot kick in the corner of the Thomastown net to allow the Callan lads a bit of breathing space. Thomastown did add on two points but could not get through for a major score thanks in no small way to the efforts of captain Tony Delaney at full back with D.J.Bergin , Jack MC Dowell, Damien Roche, Cathal Byrne and Jason Corcoran who was now at centre back in no mood to let this title slip from their grasp. J.J.Corrigan added a point for Callan following an excellent advantage call from referee Sean Brennan before Shane Bergin sent a gilt edged opportunity screaming past the outside of the post with ten minutes left on the clock.

Lee Delaney was causing problems for the Thomastown defence carrying the ball forward at every opportunity and he set up substitute Tomas og Roantree for the match winning score when he found the back of the net with five minutes remaining. Both teams traded points before the finish with Shane Bergin getting the reward for his herculean efforts during the hour and the whistle sounded with John Lockes victorious on a 2-7 to 0-6 scoreline. Jason Foran in goal , Ian MC Loughlin at corner forward all contributed along with those already mentioned in no small way to an historic win for the Lockes club. Well done to all.