Minor Board Roundup Rockland repeat as U-14 champions

Rockland retained league title, outdueling St. Barnabas by 3-6 to 1-3, in the Minor Board U-14 final at the weekend.

This was a marvelous game, there was plenty of pure football on display. Both teams used a fine combination of long kicking and deft, short passing. The game was not decided until Mike Cannon netted two late second-half goals for Rockland.

All players on the field gave their utmost and treated the large attendance to plenty of entertaining baseball. Rockland had fine games from James Donahue, Shane Hogan Billy Cosgrove, Chris Mangan, Shane Dunne, Thomas Moore, Declan Neville. Excelling for the Woodlawn boys were Doug Brady, Matt Saunders, Dave Hannon, Andrew Donoghue, Matt Brady, Eamon Duffy and Darrell Bierne.

Rockland had reserved their spot in the final by defeating Celtics, 2-14 to 1-5, on Nov. 11. Quick passing and solid teamwork were the key to victory for the upstate lads.

Celtics started out strong, with points by Ed Sheerin and Sean Farrelly, both of whom excelled at midfield. But the overall fluidity and strength of Rockland was too much for the Celtics to overcome.

In the attack Greg Loftus, Mike Cannon and Brian Raceo combined for some good scores. James Donahue, Brian Canty and goalkeeper Sean Murphy (saved a penalty) were exceptional in Rocklands defense.

Celtics received five displays from goalkeeper Sean Baker, Gary McGunte, John McArdle and goal server Conon McKeon.

Under 10 League Final

In the U-10 final replay on Sunday, Rangers were victorious for St. Barnabas, 3-3 to 1-1. This game was played at a frantic pace and both teams gave the huge crowd of fans plenty to cheer about.

Rangers had many outstanding players, including Steven Cassels, Lorean Malone, Pierce Cassels. St. Barnabas players who shined were Tommy Brady, Bobby Chambers, Thomas McGovern, "Big" Jack Hannon, James Jandelli and Thomas Neilus.