End of Season Trophy & Medal Presentations
Venue: Ratoath Community Centre.
Wednesday, July 26th,
7:00 pm to 8:00 pm: Under 8 & Under 9 Squads
8:30 pm to 9:30 pm: Under 10 Squads
Thursday, July 27th,
7:00 pm to 8:00 pm: Under 11 & Under 12 Squads
8:30 pm to 9:30 pm: Under 13 Squads
Friday, July 28th,
7:00 pm to 8:00 pm: Under 14 & Under 15 Squads
8:30 pm to 9:30 pm: Under 17 Squads
All Players and Managers in Club strip/tracksuits please.
Managers please arrange to have League medals and trophies available on the night for presentation.
Under 8s Real World Cup Soccer Blitz, June 26th.
2 Pitches, 8 Teams, 49 Kids and a whole load of fun
Tired of the lacklustre performance of the teams in Germany, the younger Ratoath Harps players decided they could do better and staged their own world cup in the world famous Neukampf (Ratoath branch) Stadium on the Skryne Road.
(Click to read the full report/view photographs)
June 26th.
Car Parking Arrangements.
Club members, spectators and visitors are asked to please refrain from parking cars in the Steeplechase development. Parking by Club members on the narrow roads in this private development has the potential to seriously inconvenience the residents there. Car parking is available at the Barrack Field (The Coderlios), at Ratoath Park (the all-weather pitches), and at the Pitch & Putt Club, with whom we have reciprocal parking arrangements.
Summer Soccer Camps:
Real Soccer: July 3rd to July 7th
Contact Imelda Gorman at
087 909 6832
FAI/Pepsi: July 24th to July 28th.
Book Online at:
http//www.faibookings.ie/home
.asp?UserId=580&PayType+CC
Annual Golf Classic, Hollystown Golf Club, June 30th, 2006.
Roll up for another great day out at Hollystown Golf Club on Friday, June 30th. Tee times are going fast so contact Mark Flood on 087 237 3244 asap to secure your preferred time.
Teams are only €280 for a four-ball making this absolutely the best value event around. Sponsors €100 as usual. All support gratefully accepted.
Under 12D Squad - NDSL League Winners 2005/2006
Early on Sunday morning the 28th of May, Ratoath Harps under 12D squad finally brought an end to their NDSL season with a five nil win over Ladyswell in Mulhuddart. This clinched the league title for this newly formed team under coach John Kearns. John joined Ratoath in July 2005, having noticed its progressive attitude on their internet site, and found it especially interesting with their Director of Football Coaching, Dave Cullen. On Friday 26th May the team beat Castleknock 4 – 3 in a hugely contested battle which only ended when Chris Kearns blasted the net with a minute to go, after Shane Nolan netted directly from a corner three minutes earlier. “The true spirit of this team came to light being 3 – 2 down with four minutes to go and the title up for grabs” John said, “Having gone unbeaten since October 2nd last, it became apparent in late February that if we won all remaining games, we could win the league, and that’s exactly what happened.” Now a short break for what may be a summer and John and his two assistant coaches Sean McIntyre and Billy Neill will be back with the balls at Ratoath.
Well done guys, more silverware for whats becoming a very crowded display case.
Squad:
Johnathan Fagan, Mark Farrington, Mohamed Saleh, Robert Staunton, Michael Neill, Colm O’Riordan, Shane Nolan, Sean Sweeney, Andrew O’Brien, Chris Kearns, Elliot Gould, Ciaran O’Connor, David Kelly, Gary Flanagan.
May 21st
Under 17s win League. Click to view report (new photos - Pat Naughton gets a mudbath)
May 14th.
Under 12s win the Kevin Moran Cup!
The Under 12 Premier squad completed a red letter weekend for the Club by beating arch-rivals Clontarf F.C 2-0 in the final of the Kevin Moran Cup today.
Double goal scorer Barry Carr was the hero of the hour as this determined and successful squad, under the leadership of Manager Eddie D'Alton and assistants Shay McGill and Richie Byrne, repeated their conquest of the north Dublin team for the second time in a cup final in under a month.
Peter Fogarty kept the Harps in the game in the first half with an outstanding display of goalkeeping ably assisted by a magnificent defensive unit.
Congratulations to everyone involved.
May 13th.
Under 15s win the Ted Behan Cup!
The Under 15c squad played "out of their skins" today to beat Grange Woodbine 2-0 in the final of the Ted Behan Cup.
Goals by Darren Tinnelly and Gary Naughton, and a super performance by goalkeeper Jimmy Kelliher led the way to a magnificent team performance. Congratulations to all the players, to the management team Mark Fagan and Dennis McMullen, and to everyone involved.
May 13th.
The Under 12 Premier squad play Clontarf F.C in the final of the Kevin Moran Cup at the AUL Complex on the Oscar Traynor Road at 12:00 noon on Sunday May 14th.
This cup final will be no doubt be extra keenly contested as Clontarf seek to avenge their defeat by Ratoath in the final of the Netherlands Cup competition last month. Good luck to Manager Eddie D'Alton and all the players on the day. Support needed and welcome.
May 9th.
The Under 15C squad plays in the final of the the Ted Behan Cup next Saturday, May 13th, 16:30, at the AUL complex on the Oscar Traynor Road. Support needed and welcomed on the day.
HARPS IN PORTUGALMay 8th.
Congratulations to the 1st Team squad who played in Portugal over the weekend, beating local Cup winners ACR Alvorese FC 3-1 at Alvor on Sunday.
In a thrilling game, marked by excellent performances by goalkeeper Gary Duff, and goalscorers Damian Lynch (1) and Jordan Lancaster (2), Ratoath maintained an unbeaten record in Europe this year.
Rumour has it that a period of recuperation may be in order for all involved, but Gay and Vinny may have something to say about that!
May 4th.
The Annual General Meeting re-elected outgoing Chairman Martin Edmonds to a second term at a well-attended gathering in the Community Centre. Also returned for more punishment were Secretary Brian Conway, and Treasurers Martin Woods and Paul Harris.
The membership voted in favour of incorporating the Club on the recommendation of the Committee.
Elected to Honorary office were Noel Martin as Honorary Club President, and Noel Conway and Dessie Brady as joint Honorary Club Vice Presidents. All three members honoured in this way have given long and valued service to the Club in their roles as Trustees of the old organisation. Their continued involvement with the new Club structure is a valuable link with the past and means their good counsel will be available to the Committee in the future.
Also elected to the Committee were: Jimmy Colfer, Danny Keenan, Hazel O'Connor, Joan O'Sullivan, Gary O'Connor, Donal Coyne, Joy Tyrrell, Jim Connor, Mark Flood, Paul Conroy and Gerry Doody.
The first meeting of the new Committee takes place in the Community Centre on Monday, May 22nd, at 20:30.
May 5th.
Leydons U-10 Cup Final.
Ratoath Harps V Malahide Utd. at The Oscar Traynor Centre, Sunday May 7th. Kick off 11:00am. All support welcome on the day.
May 5th.
First team squad travel to Portugal.
The first team are "in Europe" this weekend as they will be playing several games in Portugal and also having some rest and relaxation. This squad has exceeded all expectations in their first season with The Harps, and added immeasureably to "the buzz" in the club during the season. Congratulations to the management team Gay Goucher and Vinne Macken and all the players. Give it socks lads!
April 30th
The Under 12 Premier squad, under the direction of Manager Eddie D'Alton, won the The Netherlands Cup today in an international competition in Eindhoven.
The team kept a goal free defensive record throughout the prestigious competition, beating four highly rated English and Dutch squads along the way, and Irish side Clontarf 2-0 in the final.
Congratulations to all the players and management, and the large band of travelling supporters, on this great achievement.
The squad returns home tomorrow evening. Check here over the next few days for more details.
April 24th.
The recent success of the Under 13 Premier side in reaching the quarter finals of the S.F.A.I Cup for the second year running hasn't gone unnoticed with the inclusion of Alan Anderson, Bryan Davis and Darragh Timoney in the Brenfer Leagues Kennedy Cup squad. The Kennedy Cup is a prestigious respresentative tournament involving the best players playing in all leagues throughout Ireland at this age level. Congratulations to the lads involved and to coaches Martin Gillette and Noel Farrelly.
April 23rd.
U-11d’s Back playing Football!!!
Harps 3 Rush Athletic 1 (Friday 21st April)
Portmarnock 1 Harps 1 (Sunday 23rd April)
After what seemed to be the longest break ever we finally got back to playing league football with a double header over last weekend. Missing for the first time ever but in constant touch with developments was Dave, and his charges did not let him down. On Friday night with quite a number of players still on holidays there was a terrific performance with goals coming from Jonathan, Vincent and Stephen. Making his debut on the evening was Luke who was most unlucky to have a “goal” disallowed for offside! Less than 48 hours later our heroes were back in Portmarnock for another battle played on the biggest pitch outside of Croke Park! A lot of tired legs were evident but after a slow start and falling behind things came good and Eoghan rifled a stunning shot high into the net to gain a valuable point. Omar had a great two days in goal with Captain Jonathan always in charge at the back supported by the very consistent Eoin, Jordan (welcome back), Chris W (two great games) and Chris B (ever so solid). In midfield Peter covered every blade of grass and was most unlucky not to score. Both Niall’s made great contributions whilst the ever-dependable Zack was up for everything. Many thanks to Jimmy who double jobbed on Friday night between looking after our team and then answering the call to stand in as referee! He did a great job.
Panel : Chris Brady, Stephen Cooke, Eoghan Gubbins, Ross Moore, Vincent Brown, Conor Crawford, Niall Hayes, Eoin O'Connor, David Byrne, Niall Dougan, Omar Hilal, Zack Skelly, Jordan Carr, Ciaran Gannon, Peter Lonergan, Christopher Waters, Andrew Checkley, Jonathan Grall and Conor Martin.
April 14th.
Travelling Harps!!
The Under 17 and Under 11A1 Squads travel to the UK on Monday and Tuesday next, bearing the Ratoath Harps banner overseas in a tradition dating back to 1972 (See History section). We wish Pat, Shane, Jay and Karl, the players, and the large accompanying band of parents and supporters, Bon Voyage and good hunting in their respective competitions and games. Check the photo gallery in the coming weeks for a pictorial record of their adventures.
April 12th. AGM.
The Annual General Meeting of the Club will be held on Thursday, May 4th, 2006 in Ratoath Community Centre, at 20:30.
The first item of business on the night will be the proposed incorporation of the Club. Please see the proposed Memorandum and Articles of Association of the new organisation at the links below.
It is important that we have a full turnout on the night. Resolutions, and nominations for officers or committee in writing please to the Secretary (see the "Contact Us" section) before April 24th, 2006. Nominations must be by two Senior Club members and accompanied by the written consent of the nominee.
We encourage all members and parents to come along. Unlike some other organisations, you won't be "given a job" on the night!
However, we are always looking for active members who believe they have something to offer, so if you're interested in getting more involved in Ratoath Harps, please send us an email to rhfc@eircom.net or contact a committee member in advance of the AGM.
These files are best viewed using Adobe Acrobat. You can download Acrobat free at this link: http://www.adobe.com/products/acrobat/
Memorandum of Association
Articles of Association
April 12th.
The next Committee meeting will take place in the new Ratoath Community Centre at 21:00 on April 26th.
A Managers Forum meeting will be held on April 27th, at 21:00 in Ratoath Community Centre. It is vital that all Managers attend as registration, squad formation and other arrangements for next season will be discussed. Please confirm attendance to Imelda Gorman.
11-4-06
Harps under 9's Scorch into Solar Cup Final
Ratoath Harps 3 Esker Celtic 1
Harps under 9 DDSL side qualified for the final of The Solar Cup with an emphatic win over Esker Celtic last Sunday in Confey FC's ground in Leixlip. A speculative volley after 4 minutes from Glen O'Reilly caught the Esker keeper off guard and he was left flat footed as the ball sailed into the net. From then on the Harps played confident, passing football with Timmy Lennon, Glen O' Reilly, Evan Kelly and Niall Donnelly always in control. On the occasions that Esker did threaten, Harps keeper Sam O'Connor made a couple of super saves in one against one situations and he is really reaping the benefit of this seasons goalkeeper coaching course. In the second half Harps continued to dominate the game and it wasn't long before Luke Darcy put the Harps 2 up with a cool finish from the edge of the box. Cillian Glynn was a constant thorn in the Esker side with his running and crossing from the left wing while the ever excellent David Caprani and Dylan Williams repelled any worthwhile Esker attacks. With 8 minutes to go Luke Darcy removed any doubt about the result when he latched onto a great through ball from Shane Clayton to make it 3-0. With a minute to go Esker got one back when a corner kick hit a Harps defenders knee and ended up in the net but the final whistle blew just after and the Harps were through to the final where they will meet the winner of The Tolka Rovers v St. Francis semi.
MISSED CHANCES COST HARPS VALUABLE POINTS
Missed chances and a late equaliser prevented Harps under 14 e taking full points in this well contested game at the Coderlios on Sunday. Harps started promisingly and looked menacing in attack with both Cian O'Connor on the left and Darren Beggy on the right providing good through balls only for Shane Rock and David Tobin's efforts to go very narrowly wide.
However, it was Artane who took the lead following a throw-in when slack marking by Harps allowed their striker a little too much room and his rising shot from just inside the box gave stand in keeper Stephen Bruton no chance. Worse was to follow when despite the best efforts of Evan O'Brien ,Aaron Conroy and David Cunnigham Artane slipped through to add a second.
Undaunted Harps rallied and within minutes had pulled one back when a penetrating pass from Shane Rock found Colin Shaw on the right side of the penalty area and his deft first touch possitioned himself perfectly for his low hard drive to find the bottom left corner of the net. Continuing pressure from Harps saw Daniel Eiffe grab a deserved equaliser to leave it 2-2 at the break.
The second half saw Harps increase dominance in midfield with Philip Marlborough, Shane Rock and Evan O'Brien taking almost full control. A fine move down the right wing again involving Cian O'Connor and David Tobin saw Shane Rock whip over a dangerously high cross to the far post and following blocked attempts by Colin Shaw and Stephen Bruton (playing out-field for the second half ) , Darren Beggy was on hand to scoop the ball to the roof of the net with an over head kick and put Harps 3-2 in front.
Harps pressed forward relentlessly and a plethora of chances fell their way that on any other day would have resulted in a cricket score. Ultimately they paid the price for their failure to kill off the game when Artane broke away to steal an unlikely equaliser with only three minutes remaining. The last two minutes saw Harps once again attack with a fierce Shane Rock shot just skimming the cross bar. Unfortunately time was up and Harps had to reluctantly share the points with both a plucky and lucky Artane side.
Final Score Ratoath Harps 3 Artane/Beaumont 3
4-4-06
HARPS 10'S FLY INTO FINAL!
Ratoath Harps 10E2 5 Woodlawn 1
Match report by Harps under 10 player Luke Cahill
Ratoath under 10's showed great skill and great team spirit last weekend to get to the final of the Leydon Cup. From the opening kick off Ratoath showed they were really up for this important game. Aran Kelly was in flying form and scored an early goal after 5 minutes to calm the Ratoath nerves but Woodlawn were quick to fight back and had 3 shots excellently saved by Cillian Gavin who was fantastic in the Harps goal. Luke Mullally and Daniel Fagan played very well in defence and kept Woodlawn at bay 'til half-time while Luke Cahill was most unfortunate to have a goal disallowed. In the second half both teams began well and after 5 minutes Ratoath got a free kick which Jack Tyrrell fired home. Woodlawn were quick to bounce back and scored 1 minute later making it 2-1 to Ratoath. The Harps bounced back and the Woodlawn keeper was kept busy by Luke Cahill and Quincey McNamara. 5 minutes later Aran Kelly got his 2nd and Ratoath's 3rd goal. Woodlawn fought back again but could not score thanks to great defending from Shane McGlynn. Shortly after, captain Ciaran Tierney scored a super goal to put Ratoath 4-1 ahead and they were now firmly in the driving seat. Five minutes beforethe end Lukas Karys played a great pass to Aran who scored another great goal for his hat trick and Ratoath's 5th to ensure their place in next month's final. "Well Played" to everyone involved.
Team: Cillian Gavin, Shane McGlynn,Daniel Fagan,Ciaran Tierney,Jack Tyrrell,Aran Kelly,Luke Cahill.Luke Mulally,Lukas Karys,Quincey MCnamara,Frankie McNamara Managers; Darren Pullen, Lar Fagan
1-4-06
RATOATH HARPS 5 PARKVALE 2
Ratoath Harps started well and took the lead after five minutes when Jordan Lancaster tapped in after a defensive lapse by Parkvale. The Harps were o n the defensive for the next twenty minutes but scored their second against the run of play when Jordan took advantage of a bad goal kick to finish expertly after a thirty metre run. He completed his hat trick with a penalty conversion to leave the half time score at 3-0.
The second half continued in similar fashion with The Harps on top and Steven Hyland finished well to extend Ratoath's lead. Captain Marcus Cowser then made it 5-0 to put the game well beyond Parkvale's reach.
Ratoath conceded two goals towards the end of the game due to lack of concentration and discipline but got a deserved win without playing well.
Best for Ratoath were Jordan Lancaster who scored his second successive hat trick and Derek Kavanagh in defence. Team; Gary Duff, Robbie Kelly, Derek Kavanagh, Joey Burke, Steve Hyland, Barry Maguire, Danny Lonergan, Gareth Wilson, David Hempenstall, Marcus Cowser, Jordan Lancaster. Subs. Damian Lynch for Gareth Wilson (Injured)
Ratoath Harps have some crucial games over the next few weeks as they chase a promotion spot. Next Sunday (9th) they visit second placed U.C.D. and the following Tuesday night (11th) entertain highflying Templeogue (7-45 K.O.) On Good Friday (14th) they have a home game against either Bath Rangers or Lucan. Kick Off time for this match will be decided at a later date.
March 16th.
HARPS HAMMER LEAGUE LEADERS 3-0.
Ratoath Harps Leinster Senior League First Team demolished League Leaders St Francis in a 3-0 massacre under floodlights at an atmospheric Ratoath Park this evening.
RATOATH HARPS 3 ST. FRANCIS 0 (16-3-06, K.O. 7-45)
Ratoath Harps saved their best display of the season for the visit of league leaders St. Francis as they outplayed them in all areas for a thoroughly deserved 3-0 victory last Thursday night. The Harps started with the aid of a strong wind and in freezing conditions dictated play from the kick off, coming close on a few occasions, before Jordan Lancaster beat the offside trap to give Ratoath a 1-0 lead after thirty minutes. St. Francis had a good spell in the last ten minutes of the first half but could not get the better of an outstanding defence expertly marshalled by Derek Kavanagh and Colm Curry. The second half continued with Ratoath getting on top again and continuous pressure, against the wind, was rewarded with a penalty when "Jordy" was fouled but the usually accurate Steven Hyland hit the ball wide for his only mistake of the game. Rather than deflate the home team the response was positive and the outstanding Jordan Lancaster scored two brilliant goals, in the space of five minutes, in the last quarter to complete his hat trick. St. Francis lost all composure then and in the final five minutes had three players sent off in an amazing lack of discipline. This did not detract from a great team performance from Ratoath with Derek Kavanagh, Danny Lonergan and Jordan Lancaster in particular entitled to a man of the match award.
Team: Gary Duff, Joey Burke, Derek Kavanagh, Colm Curry, Steve Hyland, Barry Maguire, Brendan Arthur, Danny Lonergan, Keith Byrne, Marcus Cowser, Jordan Lancaster. Subs: David Hempenstall, Gareth Wilson, Robbie Kelly and Damian Lynch.
March 16th
RATOATH COLLEGE THROUGH TO LEINSTER CUP FINAL.
Congratulations to Ratoath Community College who prevailed against St Fintan's High School, Sutton, today at The Barrack Field, the Coderlios, Ratoath, to go through to the Final of the U-13 Leinster Cup. This is a magnificent achievement for their first year. Match report and details of the final date and venue later.
U13 LEINSTER CUP SEMI FINAL
Ratoath College 2
St Fintans 1
Ratoath College qualified for the final of the under 13 Leinster Cup with a dramatic game at the Coderlios pitch in Ratoath today. (16-3-06. K.O. 1oC)
Ratoath College is only in its first year in existence and with a small pick of players has defied the odds by reaching the decider. St Fintans' of Sutton were their worthy opponents and it was the away side who struck the first blow after only a minute gone. Ratoath failed to clear a corner kick and the St Fintans' centre forward crashed the ball to the net from fifteen yards out giving Ratoath's goalkeeper Eric Lawless no chance. With the wind in their backs, the home side composed themselves and began to play some neat football with Barry Carr and Bryan McMahon creating chances up front and Paddy Flood, Eoin O'Connor and Michael Neill clearing their lines well in defence. Ratoath made the breakthrough after twenty-five minutes when midfielder Paddy Haslam fired in from twenty yards after some good work from Bobby O'Brien. Ratoath finished the half with some fine attacking football with Stephen Keogh and Sean Kennedy doing well down the flanks.
In the second half, Ratoath College faced a strong breeze and it was the visitors who created most of the chances with several shots raining in on Eric Lawless. The home side however held their nerve and with fifteen minutes to go, Cian O'Brien hit a rocket of a free kick into the top corner to give Ratoath College the lead for the first time. I t was a lead that they held on to with some great defending by substitute Colm Nugent and ' Man of the Match ' Cian O'Brien to book a place in the Leinster final to be played in a few weeks time.
March 5th.
LEINSTER JUNIOR CUP
QUARTER FINAL
Ratoath Harps lost 2-1 away to Portmarnock in a Leinster Junior Cup quarter final today in Portmarnock.
HARPS CUP JOURNEY ENDS
Ratoath Harps were knocked out of the Leinster Junior Cup at the quarterfinal stage last Sunday, in Portmarnock, when the hosts scored the winning goal in the last minute of the game. A strong and experienced Portmarnock team did not allow The Harps players much time on the ball which resulted in rushed and wayward passing in the early stages of the game. Portmarnock dominated the first fifteen minutes but were shocked when Ratoath took the lead after twenty minutes when dogged play by Marcus Cowser set up Jordan Lancaster who finished well. Portmarnock levelled after thirty minutes of play when a corner was headed goalwards and confusion between the Harps keeper and a defender allowed the ball to cross the line. Shortly before half time both teams were reduced to ten men when the referee found it necessary to produce the red card after a dispute between two players. Ratoath started the second half with more confidence but the experience of Portmarnock was evident as they patiently played the ball around the back, waiting for openings to develop. None of The Harps players were found wanting as they dug deep, with Derek Kavanagh, Danny Lonergan, Colm Curry and Gareth Wilson to the fore. The loss of the influential Gareth through injury caused a reshuffle, which produced half chances for Matt Conway and Brendan Arthur that were snuffed out by a resolute Portmarnock defence. With time running out it looked like extra time was on the cards but Portmarnock scored the winner in the last minute with an unstoppable left foot volley from the edge of the box which gave Portmarnock a 2-1 win. The large crown of travelling supporters were disappointed with the result but not with the performance, acknowledging that Portmarnock were indeed a very fine side who will take some stopping.
Team; Gary Duff, Joey Burke, Derek Kavanagh, Steve Hyland, Danny Lonergan, Keith Byrne, Gareth Wilson, Brendan Kelly, Colm Curry, Marcus Cowser, Jordan Lancaster. Subs; Matt Conway, Brendan Arthur, Robbie Kelly, and David Hempenstall.
Feb.25th.
Eric the hero
Goalkeeper Eric Lawless was in outstanding form for Ratoath Harps as they advanced to the quarter-final of the u-13 All-Ireland Cup.
OUTSTANDING ERIC CONFOUNDS CONFEY
Ratoath Harps U-13 goalkeeper Eric Lawless was at his brilliant best last Saturday in Ratoath as he defied visitors Confey and helped The Harps into the quarter final of the All Ireland Cup. Top D.D.S.L. Premier side Confey were on the attack immediately and, with the aid of a strong wind, put the Ratoath defence under intense pressure. A strong defensive unit aided by Eric kept Confeys chances to a minimum in the first half and the teams took the break with no goals scored. With the wind in their favour in the second half Ratoath responded and began to threaten the visitors, with Darragh Timoney showing some exquisite touches up front and Alan Anderson giving a masterful display in midfield. Ratoath came close on a couple of occasions but could not get the goal required to win the match. Confey continued to be dangerous and had a good spell towards the end of ordinary time but like Ratoath could not get the decisive goal. Extra time could not separate these two excellent teams and a penalty shootout beckoned to give the large crowd an extra chance to cheer on their players. Eric was the first keeper in and dived full length to his right to the make the vital save. Confey scored their next four penalties but it was all to no avail as The Harps penalty takers converted all five to give them a fabulous victory. Squad: E.Lawless, C.O Brien, M. Wiley, P. Keoghan, P. Kennedy, A. Anderson, B. Davis, L. Tolan, E. O Connor, D. Timoney, F. McManus, S. Gribben, P. Haslem, C. Heines, P. Fox.
Great night at Ratoath Harps Dinner Dance as Benny Brown and Mellor Flood (below) are inducted into The Hall of Fame.
 
Feb.23rd
Ratoath Community College win Leinster Cup Quarter-Final 2-1.
LEINSTER CUP SEMI FINAL AWAITS RATOATH COMMUNITY COLLEGE
Eoin O Connor (Pen) and Barry Carr scored for Ratoath Community College as they defeated Salesian College, Celbridge in the under thirteen Leinster Cup Quarter-Final in Ratoath today. This fledgling team has exceeded all expectations and look forward to the semi-final in two weeks time against St. Fintans High School, Sutton. This has been fixed as a home game for Ratoath and further details will be posted on Ratoath Harps website and The Harp newsletter when available.
Feb. 21st
Great Andrew Salama Hat Trick as U-17's score eight.
U-17's 8 Swords Celtic 1. (Report by Shane Kavanagh)
After the great cup result from last week it was back to the league for the U17's with a home game against Swords Celtic last Sunday. The visitors got off to a flyer with the opening goal inside the first few minutes, it may be that this woke the lads up and they quickly settled in to their game. Within minutes goals from Jordan Finlay and Jason Harte settled everyone down and normal service was resumed. With everyone from Laurence Halpin in goal, right through the side, ensuring that the ball was kept on the ground the lads got their passing game going. It was only a matter of time before the third goal came and Andrew Salama duly obliged with a cracker from outside the box. A penalty to the home side soon afterwards gave Peter Higgins the chance to score his first goal for the team and he made no mistake, just as well Higgy !!!!! The first half ended with the home side in control and with a 4 - 1 lead it was decided to make a couple of changes. Kevin Timoney & Jordan Finlay made way for Robert Foran and Gary Heinz. The second half started well and with a stiff breeze behind them The Harps totally dominated proceedings. Andrew Salama grabbed the fifth and his second when he ensured, that a corner from Brian Snowe, which may have been going directly in, hit the back of the net. More changes were then made with Daniel "Rooney" Kissane replacing Jason Harte and Daragh McGill came on for the penalty king Peter Higgins. Gary Hynes was next to hit the net when he latched on to a great "defence splitting ball" and easily beat the keeper. The last of the five permitted changes was then made with Martin McGuane replacing Kevin Walls. With ten minutes left in the game Brian Colgan was given the OK from the sideline to switch with Ian Davis and push up from defence into midfield and Andrew Salama was pushed on from midfield in the hope that he'd get the elusive Hat Trick. The footballing Gods were really smiling on both lads as "Bull" hit the net with a great effort to make it seven and Andrew got the eight and his Hat Trick to round off the perfect day for a great bunch of lads, the final score of 8 - 1 was hard on "Celtic" but ensured that the 17's remain top of the league. The only sad note on the day was that only five substitutions are allowed and a few others couldn't get involved. With a squad of over 20 players all of whom train twice a week, every week and attend all the matches whether they are getting picked or not it inevitably leads to some disappointment. All the lads are a credit to themselves for sticking at it and deserve great praise.
Feb 19th.
Ratoath Harps first team drew
1-1 away to Dundrum. Mark Hennessy (below left) scored for The Harps. The old fashioned wooden goalposts in the background were one of the major features of the game.
In an incident packed game Ratoath Harps drew 1-1 with Dundrum in a match they should have won but could have lost. Dundrum started well and The Harps were on the defensive with Barry Maguire clearing off the line in the early stages. Ratoath scored against the run of play when Mark Hennessy controlled the ball expertly and rounded the keeper to finish in style. With many Harps players off form it was an error laden first half but Ratoath held their lead to the break. An improved second half performance created many chances but good defence from Dundrum kept The Harps out. Dundrum scored with fifteen minutes left and despite incessant attacks from Ratoath they were denied a winning goal. In the last few minutes keeper Gary Duff produced an outstanding save to prevent an embarrassing defeat. Marcus Cowser played well in midfield with good support from Gareth Wilson and Keith Byrne. Mark Hennessy was always in the thick of the action up front and caused the Dundrum defence many problems.
ACTION FROM RATOATH HARPS V DUNDRUM L.S.L. MAJOR DIV.1 GAME
Feb 18th.
Ratoath Harps O-35 team were knocked out of the Clifford Cup today. A strong Rivermount team won 4-2 despite an impressive performance from former Ratoath Harps Player of the Year Mervyn Ennis (below).
Former League of Ireland star Stephen Geoghan inspired a strong Rivermount team to a 4-2 win in The Clifford Cup today in Ratoath. Rivermount were 2-0 ahead at half time but The Harps fought back to 2-1 when Paudie Fennessy converted a penalty.(below left) Rivermount responded with another goal but a terrific left foot volley from Mervyn Ennis reduced their lead to one again. Ratoath pushed forward seeking an equaliser and despite a great performance from Phil McDermott (below right) Rivermount scored again and proceeded to the next round.
 
Feb. 16th.
Ratoath Harps have been fixed to play Portmarnock A.F.C. in the last sixteen of the Leinster Junior Cup. This game will be played in Portmarnock on the 5th. March. Further details later.
Feb. 13th.
Ratoath Harps fixture next Friday night against Templeogue has been deferred & instead they play Dundrum in a L.S.L. MAJOR DIV. 1 game on Sunday 19th Feb. The match is in Dundrum and K.O. is at 2oC.
Feb. 12th.
Ratoath Harps U-17 team had a great cup win over a Huntstown U-18 side today (Sunday). Brian Snow and Jordan Finlay (goalscorer) pictured below were two of the heros in a very competitive game.
The U17's were given a tough draw in their cup competition when they were pitched against Huntstown Villa's U18's. The Harps were clearly up for the game from the first whistle and got at the opposition with great determination. Both teams played good football with chances going to both sides during the first half but none were taken. The second half started at a blistering pace and early on it was clear that The Harps were getting the upper hand. Huntstown were always dangerous but when called upon The Harps back four were really working well together. On the couple of rare occasions that the visitors did create chances, thanks to great defensive work by in particular Brian Colgan, they came up against Harps Keeper Matthew O Byrne White who was in great form. With a change to the usual formation the lads played with five in midfield which saw them winning most of what happened in that area. Kevin Walls returned to the starting line up after injury and with the usual battling performance from him and midfield partner Andrew Salama the Huntstown players knew they were in a game. Jordan Finlay was left to play up front on his own and with a couple of minutes left in the game got his reward. The Harps were awarded a corner, which was delivered superbly to the back post and put away by Jordan for what was the only goal of the game. This was a great result for the team, who are top of their league and still in their league cup competition. Team, M O'Byrne White, K Timoney (Capt.) P Higgins, B Colgan, S Turley, I Davis, K Walls, A Salama, J Harte, B Snowe, J Finlay, Subs, R Foran, J Fitzgerald, L Halpin, D McGill.
Action from Ratoath Harps U-17 game against Huntstown.
Feb. 11th
MAGNIFICENT DUFF IS
PENALTY KING
Goalkeeper Gary Duff (below) was in outstanding form as Ratoath Harps advanced to the last sixteen in the Leinster Junior Cup last night under lights in Ratoath.
HAPPY HARPS HUMBLE HOWTH
(On the spot report from Danny Keenan)
Friday night under lights in Ratoath and it's the big match between Ratoath Harps and Howth Celtic in the last thirty-two of the Leinster Junior Cup. The Game was played at a cracking pace in front of a big crowd. It did not take Ratoath long to get into their stride and they were awarded a penalty after Keith Byrne skinned the Howth full back and knocked the ball past the keeper, only to be fouled in the process. Defender Steve Hyland converted expertly to give The Harps a 1-0 lead after fifteen minutes. The home side dominated the rest of the half with winger Keith Byrne pumping in crosses, which brought some good saves from the Howth keeper. The second half continued in the same vein but Ratoath failed to capitalise on their possession. After sixty minutes Howth began to come into the game and equalised when a corner kick was headed home. Howth continued to press for a winner but the Harps defence held firm and after a pulsating ninety minutes the match finished 1-1 and the big crowd looked forward to extra time. The pace did not relent as both teams went all out for victory. Howth were attacking in numbers but the Harps defence held firm with Danny Lonergan outstanding at the back, making match saving tackles. In the late stages Ratoath goalkeeper Gary Duff made a world class Gordon Banks style save down to his right and from the resulting passage of play made a quick double save which brought the game to a penalty shoot-out. Ratoath's Steve Hyland was first up and his shot was driven firmly to the keeper's left giving him no chance. Gary Duff then stepped into goal and made a great save from Howth's first penalty taker. Gareth Wilson then drilled his spot kick past the hapless Howth keeper and Gary Duff made a magnificent save, diving full length to his left to make it 2-0 for Ratoath. Keith Byrne then stepped up for The Harps and fooled the keeper to send him the wrong way with a clever penalty. Howth were up again and Gary Duff capped a magnificent man of the match performance with a third penalty save in a row which sent Ratoath through to the last sixteen of a national competition for the first time in their history.
Team: Gary Duff, Robbie Kelly, Derek Kavanagh, Steve Hyland, Danny Lonergan, David Hempenstall, Damian Lynch, Gareth Wilson, Keith Byrne, Marcus Cowser, Jordan Lancaster.
Subs: Mark Hennessy, Joey Burke, Willie Creagh, Colm Curry.
5th February, 2006
Ratoath Harps first team had a great 1-0 win over close rivals Lucan last Sunday to collect three valuable points and another step up the league table. Jordy Lancaster decided the issue with a cracking goal early in the second half.
  
Danny Lonergan, Barry Maguire and Matt Conway helped The Harps to victory against Lucan.
Despite taking the lead with a Willie Creagh goal, Ratoath Harps second team lost 3-1 away to Balbriggan last Saturday in a L.S.L. Premier 1 game.
The O-35's beat Griffith Rovers in a Clifford Cup game.The match finished 2-2 with Tony Lovett and Phil Doran scoring for Ratoath.The resulting penalty shoot-out produced a one hundred percent success rate for The Harps for a deserved victory.
The talented U-13 premier team made the last sixteen of the All-Ireland Cup last Saturday when they defeated Sligo team Rea Tuber 3-2 after extra time. In a tremendous game Ratoath came from behind to record a great victory with goals from Daragh Timoney, Farrel McManus and Alan Anderson.
The D.DS.L. 11A1 team scored their five penalties in a shootout after a 1-1 draw against Drogheda Boys to advance to the next round of the Cup.
Despite a gallant effort the 9B1 team lost 2-0 away to Tolka Rovers.
The 10B1 team had an impressive 6-0 win over Park Celtic.
NOTE TO ALL MANAGERS: WITH THE MANY CHOICES IN COMMUNICATION THERE IS NO REASON WHY YOUR TEAM DOES NOT FEATURE REGULARLY ON OUR WEBSITE OR IN THE HARP NEWSLETTER.
February 1, 2006.
Welcome to our re-launched website. It will be our primary method of communicaton with the membership on an ongoing basis.
Some parts of the site are still under construction but the Lottery Results, News, Schoolboys/Schoolgirls pages, History, Fixtures and Results, and Our Club areas are up and running. Inevitably, there will be some errors and omissions so please let us know if you spot any.
We are still seeking team photos for some squads, so kids, if your squad is not pictured on your squad webpage, get on to your Manager to ask the PRO (Gary O'Connor) for the digital camera so we can see you here as well.
February 1, 2006.
Annual Dinner Dance, Ashbourne House Hotel, February 25th, 2006.
Tickets for this popular event are selling like hot cakes so hurry and book yours today! Numbers are capped at 280 and we're fast approaching that number.
This year, we have both live music and a disco afterwards with a late-nite bar extension until 02:30. Tickets are €50. Contact numbers below.
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