Caulry aim to end long wait for top grade football title

Caurly GAA face one of the club’s biggest ever games as they prepare to meet Coralstown/Kinnegad in the Westmeath U-19 Division 1 football final tomorrow (Sunday) at TEG Cusack Park (throw-in 2pm).

The Mount Temple/Baylin outfit has never won a Division 1 title at any of the underage grades, and will be very determined to alter that situation in their first U-19 final.

Sunday’s decider will be a repeat of last year’s semi-final when Coralstown/Kinnegad eventually came out on top in an absorbing battle which went to extra-time. Callum Cruise excelled for the eventual winners in that semi-final, and the Kinnegad side went on to win the title so they go into Sunday’s final as reigning champions.

With the majority of both sets of players set to do battle again on Sunday next, another epic encounter is in prospect.

To reach the final Caulry had victories over St Loman’s, Mullingar, Tubberclair and Athlone in the group stages, before overcoming Killucan in a titanic semi-final.

The Caulry management team comprises Jody Malynn, TJ Dunning, Ollie Baker and Brian Mullarney, and the club hopes for plenty of support in Sunday’s historic occasion. Player profiles of the Caulry squad follow below.

Caulry player profiles

Conor Hynes: The versatile Marist College student has made the goalkeeping position his own on both U 19 and U17 teams after a series of impressive displays. Cool customer with ‘Cluxton like’ kick outs.

Alan Lynam: This teak tough defender also showed his versality with some fine form in midfield for the junior team this year. The Moate CS student has been part of Westmeath development squads up along.

Tom Cloonan: The no nonsense Tom is one of the most promising defenders in Westmeath having represented his county up to U20 level. Presently studying in the University of Limerick.

Adam Doyle: Adam is a very speedy defender whose late grandfather, Brendan Nally, was a stalwart member of Caulry committees down through the years.

Brendan McCormack: Another MCS pupil, Brendan has established himself on both the U19 and U17 teams with some outstanding performances, due to his unwavering commitment and dedication to training.

Tadhg Baker: He may be the younger of the brothers, but he is unfazed by any challenge. Tadhg’s teak tough defending has made him an indomitable part of Westmeath U17 and Marist College teams. He also finds time to play hurling with Southern Gaels.

Harry Stuart Trainor: This Marist student is the elder of the brothers on the panel and is a stylish half-back whose speedy incisions into attack are a great asset to his teams. Another valued member of the junior and senior squads.

Sean Murphy: Now attending University of Galway, this dual player’s easy-going demeanour means he is unfazed by any fuss going on around and his ability to cover a number of positions is a great asset.

Shane Lawless: University of Limerick student, Shane has been the architect and scorer of many scores for Caulry and has the ability to play in any number of positions. A keen basketballer, he has played senior football for the past two years.

Oisín Shortall: The diminutive all action Oisín is an inspiring figure in any position. A member of the Westmeath U17 team last year.

Senan Baker: Destined for the top for some time now, the DCU student has already represented Westmeath at senior level. Blessed with an ideal temperament, and possessing power and scoring ability, Senan is a handful for any backline.

Tiernan O’Donovan: Another MCS pupil, he has excelled in a number of positions both for the U19 and U17s. A regular on Westmeath underage teams to U17 and looks set to make a big impact on adult football next year.

Alan Malynn: Alan’s last gasp free taking exploits have earned him almost legendary status at this stage. This scoring machine has been on the club senior team for the past two years and also a member of Westmeath U20s.

Paul Hogan: Attending Moate CS, Paul’s dedication to his fitness has really paid off with some superb performances. Another player on the junior and senior squads this year. A Southern Gaels hurler as well.

James Buckley: Jimmy is the prototype corner-forward, classy and nippy and a nightmare for any corner-back.

Ruairi Casey: A fine goalkeeper with a lengthy kickout, Ruairi had been the regular netminder until work commitments curtailed his involvement.

Cormac Murphy: Younger brother of Sean, Cormac is all action defender, with a great ability to turn defence into attack quickly. His leadership qualities have seen him captain his Westmeath underage team.

Aaron Murphy: No relation of the other two Murphys, Aaron is a future star in the making with a great turn of pace and scoring ability.

Adam Dunning: A hard working forward, Adam has been a big contributor to the success of this squad through the years.

Ben Claffey: A big man, Ben has shown his prowess in defence and attack during the year and is a valued member of the squad.

Andrew Stuart Trainor: The younger of the brothers, this Marist student is a key member of both U17 and U19 panels, but has seen his involvement curtailed this season due to soccer commitments.

Joey Berry: Another great contributor to the cause over the years, Joey has played in a variety of forward roles to good effect.

Ian Malone: A passionate Westmeath supporter, Ian’s dedication to training has seen him become a valued member of both U17 and U19 squads.