Club News

20/07/03 St. John's beat St. Gall's away in the league

With St. John's not missing nearly as many players as they were the previous game against St. Paul's they found the going somewhat easier against a below par St. Gall's team down at Milltown.

And it was just as well otherwise it would have seemed like a wasted journey for St. John's No.1 supporter, and former player, Sean Greive who made the long trip from the States to see his favourite hurling side in action!

Gerard McFall was very much on song, sending over some 8 points in total (1 from play, not missing any frees) throughout the game, whilst the backline held firm to limit any St. Gall's attacks. On the wings Chris Clarke and Conor Gannon dominated their respective positions, clearing the majority of balls sent in to them and covering the full back Kevin Rafferty well when needed and on the half-back line Mickey O'Neill and Gerard Cunningham played solidly throughout. Ronan Heenan provided plenty of experience and support at centre-half back though, uncharacteristically, received a second yellow card and was sent off mid-way through the second half.

Liam Boyle looked the brightest forward for St. John's on the day as he proceeded to torture his marker with his excellent first touch and turn of speed - his great play rewarded in the second half with a superb goal. He caught a tough high ball just outside a crowded box and rammed the ball into the back of the net with merciless determination. This goal effectively ended the game for St. Gall's who, unable to get a goal of their own at the other end of the field, thanks to tight defending and an in-form Ciaran Cunningham in nets, could only manage a few more points during the rest of the game.

At midfield Neill Reynolds worked industriously and successfully for St. John's scoring a point of his own, hitting great sideline balls and showing his undoubted potential as he continues to improve in both the skilful and mental sides of the game.

Donal O'Hara and Colin Thompson produced a couple of fine catches during the game also.

The match finished up 1-14 to 0-10.

		St. John's
		C. Cunningham
C. Gannon		K. Rafferty	C. Clarke
G. Cunningham		R. Heenan	M. O'Neill
		J. Mead N. Reynolds
G. McFall		L. McCurdy	D. O'Hara
L. Boyle		P. Montgomery	C. Thompson