U14 boys progress into semis with last-gasp victory

Mr McCormick writes: “Today, our U14 Gaelic footballers travelled to Sally gardens in Belfast for their quarter-final tie with St Patrick's Dungiven.

Initial prospects looked unpromising. As well as the fact our squad was depleted by injuries, the Dungiven team was physically larger and drawing from a bigger pool of players. However, Shimna struck first with two points from midfielder Jack White and captain Dara McGrath. Dungiven responded with a goal against the run of play to leave Shimna down by one.

Now in his second season for the College, Jamie Magee was lively in the half forward line and his runs opened up numerous goal chances. Not to be outdone, Dara's younger brother Jamie stepped in with two goals, including a screamer from 30 yards. The defence held firm for the majority of the half, with a special mention for full-back Leo Jordan, playing very well in an unfamiliar position. Shimna ended the half up by 6.

Dungiven started the second half strongly, putting significant pressure on Brady Donaghy in the Shimna goal. Their pressure paid off with a flurry of goals, putting Shimna two points down in the last minutes.

With the seconds ticking away, a nice move including Fionn Brown, Ryan McCullagh and Jack White resulted in Dara being put through on goal. Dara buried the ball in the net to put Shimna a point up with one minute remaining. The grandstand finish continued when Jack White was black carded with 10 seconds on the clock, leaving a free from 30 yards. The Dungiven free taker went high with his shot, which allowed Jack Walsh, Brady and Leo to combine to get the ball out and get the win for Shimna.

Final score: Shimna 5-7 St Patrick's Dungiven 6-3

The boys can now look forward to a semi-final in the next week or so.