Cumann Pheadair Naofa Senior Footballers recorded a 0-14 to 0-12 victory over high-flying Castlewellan in Páirc Liam Ui Ír on Friday 16th September in the backdrop of overcast autumn weather. The Blues started brightly with Ciaran McCartan raiding forward to kick a right-footed score less than a minute into the game. Ross McGarry and Donagh McAleenan nailed splendid scores from play before McGarry finished a free to leave Warrenpoint four points to the good. Castlewellan’s Kevin Duffin hit back with a beautifully-struck forty-five, before Johnny Murchan restored the Blues four-point lead. Castlwellan cut the deficit to just one when they hit three on the bounce, but a determined Warrenpoint side once again stretched their advantage to four when the rampant Ross McGarry seized the initiative to hit three points without reply. The sides exchanged scores before they headed for the dressing rooms with the scoreline reading, Cumann Pheadair Naofa 0-09; Castlewellan 0-05.
Castewellan fired over an early score in the second half, however, the Seasiders showed great character to seize control in the third quarter and scored four consecutive points from Ross McGarry, Ryan Boyle and two from the excellent Johnny Murchan to open up a five-point cushion. Despite this, Castlewellan showed their class and came roaring back at the Cumann Pheadair Naofa rear-guard with vigour. They scored three unanswered points to again cut the margin to four. Ross McGarry added another fine effort to keep the east-Down side at arm’s length. But Castlewellan refused to be beaten and reeled off three more points to leave just two points separating the sides with minutes on the clock. This made for a tense finish and so it proved, however, the Blues’ were able to withstand the late pressure to record an impressive victory. The final score read; Cumann Pheadair Naofa 0-14; Castlwellan 0-12.
Cumann Pheadair Naofa can take great heart and pride from their performance where they showed character, courage and skill to emerge victorious. Indeed, there were some terrific, tenacious displays at the back with Patrick Murdock and Ciaran McCartan playing admirably in what was an excellent defensive performance. Johnny Murchan was outstanding from half-forward while Ross McGarry and Donagh McAleenan were potent inside. The Blues will hope to bring this excellent form to their next fixture when they return to action in Longstone on Saturday 1st October.
