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Syls victorius in Croke Park

St. Sylvesters Malahide U-8 Football team showed the Dubs how to do it, beating Kildare team Johnstownbridge in the Go Games Tournament held at Croke Park on 2nd July. This was a day that the 10 players and their families will never forget, from arriving on the team coach, to togging out in the dressing rooms, running out the tunnel, warming up in front of the Hill and going on to give an exhibition of football on the immaculate surface of Croke Park.

It might have been an early start, leaving Malahide at 7.30am, but the team were wide awake right from the off and had 2-4 on the board before our opponents managed to get out of their own half. Goals from Daniel Stone, David Deneher, Daragh McLoughney, Sean Guidan and Matthew Brenner combined with some great points from Guidan,  McLoughney and Jack Boyne stretched our lead coming up to half time and with the defence of Timmy O’Connor, Euan Farquarson, Tom Bennett and Sean Curran not only repelling any danger but counter-attacking with gusto we turned well ahead.
The second half brought a downpour and with the rain, the hot humid conditions and the fact that both teams were not used to 20 minute halves, scores were at a premium. However what scores that came were magnificent with Euan, Timmy, David and Sean Guidan all raising flags. While it was pleasing to see the scores going over it was great to see the blocking, harrying and hassling that never allowed our opponents settle.
At the final whistle the team proudly climbed the famous steps of the Hogan Stand where they were presented with the cup to rousing cheers from their friends and families. The team departed triumphantly for Malahide, stopping off for a meal on the way.
Special thanks must go to the Leinster Council and Croke Park for running the event and Dublin County Board for nominating us to take part. Thanks to all the family and friends who supported us in Croke Park especially our cheerleading section of Aoife, Caitlin and Sarah whose songs and chants were clearly heard above the crowd. While we were only allowed (strictly enforced) to bring 10 players out of a squad of 36, those whose names were lucky enough to come out of the draw will never forget the experience.
Indeed the talk on the bus home was not if they would ever play at Croke Park again but when they would and that while this may be their first time to play on the hallowed turf it will not be their last! Lets hope their dreams are fulfilled but given the skills exhibited today and with continued dedication to training we should expect a few of these lads to be lining out for the Dubs in the coming years or driving Syls on to All-Ireland Senior Club Final glory.

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