Our U12’s started their Group B Mini League campaign with a fine win over Parke on May13th in Abbey Park. After a slow start from the Gaels in the 1st quarter, where Parke notched up a few early points, the Gaels found their form in the 2nd quarter and banged in a couple of goals to put themselves three points ahead at half time.
It would have been a different story if not for some solid defending from full-backs Brian and Adam Oates in the first half and Ronya and Adam Tolan in the 2nd and in particular, Nathan McGurrin’s heroic performance in goal. Nathan found himself one-on-one on many occasions, even stopping a penalty, and his 1st half clean sheet was the real reason we would go on to secure the win.
Nathan was also well served by his half-backs Miles, Phelim and Rory who, as well as breaking down many of the Parke attacks, were the platform that launched many of the Gaels’ attacking moves.
Sean Keane and Luke worked tirelessly up and down the pitch and linked up well with Alan, Sean Joyce, Cathal and Aaron in the half forwards. This teamwork proved vital in the 3rd and 4th quarters as Parke piled on the pressure and scored a couple of goals to narrow the margin. Our forward line of Jack, Nathan Lavelle, David, Jarlath and Colum pounced on on a few hard-fought balls throughout and their accuracy ensured a winning margin of 5 points.
The final score was Mayo Gaels 3:10, Parke 2:07.
The U12’s are out again next Monday 20th May when they travel to Westport for the 2nd round.
Mayo Gaels team: Nathan McGurrin, Brian Morrin, Adam Oates, Miles Durkin, Phelim Prendergast, Rory Keane, Sean Keane, Luke Gallagher, Alan Brennan, Sean Joyce, Cathal Prendergast, Jack Fallon, Nathan Lavelle, Ronya Benson, Colum Morley, Jarlath Judge, Aaron Moran, David Quinn, Adam Tolan.
