Tullamore Rovers Registration Night

Tullamore Rovers Registration Night

Tullamore Rovers are inviting all current players and potential new players to a 'registration night' being held in Joe Lee's Bar tommorow (Thursday 27th July) at 8pm. The cost of registration for 2006/7 season is €60 and this fee will also cover the players insurance.
Players should also note that training for the new season has begun and is currently taking place every Wednesday night at 8pm in the Harriers, new players are welcome along also. For more information please call Brendan Kenny on 087 6333248 or Derek Dolan on 086 1772941.

Tullamore Rovers F.C.

Fair Play to Rovers

Tullamore Rovers picked up a 'Fair Play' award at the CCFL 2006 awards night.

The club was also nominated the 'Club of the Year' award which was a great achievement for the management and players in their very first season.

Trumera Rovers B 1, Tullamore Rovers 1.

Rovers Fail to Flourish

Trumera Rovers B 1, Tullamore Rovers 1.

Tullamore Rovers ended their season with a draw and will now have to wait on other fixtures before knowing if they will make promotion. Division 5A has been the most hotly contested in the league with the second promotion spot behind Westend being a three horse race to the very finish. Rovers could have secured at least a play off place with a victory in this fixture but it wsn’t to be. Rovers couldn’t capitalise and despite a numerical advantage they didn’t have the luck this time around. The first half of this match in Mountrath was played at a frantic pace with Rovers looking to get in behind the Trumera defence on every occasion but to their credit the home side defence held the line well and Rovers got frustrated. Despite the Rovers dominating possession they had every little in the way of decent opportunities and could have been behind had it not been for a good stop by Dave Menton in the half hour mark. John Healy was getting forward for Rovers and Ian Harvey venture forward on number of occasion but opportunities still went a begging. The best chances for Rovers in the first half came with Pat Tyrell coming close twice and Derek firing over from close range. The second half seen Rovers up a gear with Pat Tyrell moving up front in search of a goal. Phil Evans and Paul McDonald had more space in the second half as Rovers tried to spread the play wide in an effort to get in behind the Trumera fullbacks. On sixty minutes the goal came, a quick throw by Dolan on the right found Ronan Heffernan who squared the ball to Brendan Kenny on the edge of the box who fired a dipping volley into the top corner. Rovers were on top and manager Lar Byrne brought in Jimmy O’Brien up front to try and seal the victory. Rovers could have made it two on successive occasions when both O’Brien & Heffernan were denied when straight through on goal. Rovers were left to rue those opportunities as the Trumera hit back with a goal on 75 minutes following a corner on the right. It was tough on Rovers but it was always going to be a risk with only the one goal advantage. Rovers pushed all forward for the remainder with Ian Harvey joining the midfield in an effort to get the winner. Trumera looked dangerous on the break as Rovers piled forward and had it not been for some die hard defending by Deano Tyrell once again it could have been worse of the Tullamore men. Tyrell had another great game in the heart of the Rovers defence. Time ran out for Rovers and they now have wait on results elsewhere to see if they have made secured second spot. It would be a fantasist achievement this club in its inaugural year to achieve promotion and after an impressive season the Rovers players will feel that they deserve to be playing in Division 4.
Congratulations to the winners of the s2005/6 season awards – Mick Kilmartin picked up player of the season and top scorer trophies, most improved player went to Derek Dolan and the goal of the season was awarded to Paul McDonald for his strike against Noreside Celtic.
The players would like to thank Joe Lees Bar for their support throughout the year and Ted and Keith Garry for the playing facilities sin Killeigh.
All match reports available at www.tullamorerovers.blogspot.com

Player Awards 2005/6

Player Awardes Night Held in Joe Lees Bar on Saturday 15th April 2006

Player of The Season
Mick Kilmartin

Top Scorer
Mick Kilmartin

Most Improved Player
Derek Dolan

Goal of the Season
Paul McDonald Vs Noreside Celtic

Next Fixture: Trumera Rovers B v Tullamore Rovers

Next Fixture

Sunday 23rd April 2006

KO: 11am

Trumera Rovers B V Tullamore Rovers

Venue:
Clonan Mountrath.

Referee:
M.Clarke

Rathmore Utd. 0, Tullamore Rovers 2.

Rathmore Utd. 0, Tullamore Rovers 2.

Rovers winning streak continues

Tullamore Rovers extended an unbeaten run which now strecthes back to November with a hard fought victory over Rathmore Utd in Divison 5A. It could have been a very different story had Rovers goalkeeper Dave Minton not kept out a penalty in the 14 minute. The penalty was a result of a clumsy challenge from Ian Harvey that left the referee with no choice but to points to the spot. The Rovers defence did well throughout the first half under a lot of pressure which was made worse playing into a stiff breeze. Brendan Kenny and John Healy were called into action a numerous occasions to stem attacks from a Rathmore team determined to get something for their efforts. The tackles were tough but Deano Tyrell was in no mood to get roughed up by the home team and responded with some decisive clearances aided by Ian Harvey who made for early mistake with another powerful display in the centre of defence. The midfield was up against it and Paul McDonald was the only Rovers player to register a shot in the first half but his two efforts were easily gathered by the Rathmore keeper. Pat Tyrell was in good form for Rovers and he had a shot cleared after cutting in from the right. Tyrell was at the centre of most of Rovers attacks in throughout the game. Lar Byrne resisted changing things at half time but was clearly unhappy with the way things were going so the words from the boss weren’t pretty. The second display from Rovers for the most part wasn’t much better but with the aid of the breeze they were starting to create more opportunities. Brian Cosgrave was becoming a bigger influence in the game and Mick Kilmartin was starting to find space around the box. Derek Dolan came on the right as Lar Byrne reshuffled the pack putting Pat Tyrell up front. The move paid dividends shortly after when Phil Evans curled a great cross which was met bravely by Pat Tyrell who headed home in style. The goal lifted rovers who continued to press looking or the all important second. Ronan Heffernan came in to add more attacking option or the blues. Shortly after Mick Kilmartin broke free on the left only for the defender to get ahead of him and put the ball out for a corner. Quick thinking Kilmartin launched an early cross into the box where Brian Cosgrave rose to head home for the blues. The points were in the bag and celebrations from the rover’s players were more of relief than anything else. This marked another important victory for the blues but with Westend and Portlaoise also picking up victories it now seems the promotion places will be decided on the final day of the season.

Tullamore Rovers: Dave Minton, Brendan Kenny, John Healy, Deano Tyrell, Ian Harvey, Paul McDonald, Phil Evans, Pat Tyrell, Brain Cosgrave, Jimmy O’Brien, Mick Kilmartin. Subs: Derek Dolan for Jimmy O’Brien, Ronan Hefferna for Phil Evans.

Tullamore Rovers would like to thank Joe Lee’s Bar on Church Street Tullamore for the continued support and to Ted & Keith Garry or the pitch and training facilities at Fentor in Killeigh.

Tullamore Rovers Easter draw takes place in Joes Lee’s Bar this Saturday 15t April. This season player’s award will also be made on the night.

Next Fixture: Westend Utd. V Tullamore Rovers

Next Fixture

Westend Utd. V Tullamore Rovers

Sunday April 2nd 2006

Venue: Springfield, Tullamore.

Time: 11:00am

Tullamore Rovers 2, Noreside Celtic 1.

Combined Counties League
Canon Division 5A

McDonald Belter Steals Victory.

Tullamore Rovers 2, Noreside Celtic 1.

A stunning second half strike from blues midfielder Paul McDonald was enough to give a hard earned victory to Tullamore Rovers over Noreside at Fentor Park in Killeigh. Both teams came into this game on the back of impressive form which as seen both teams keep pace at the top end of the table. The first half was a rather scrappy affair and the abysmal weather conditions made it extremely hard to for both sides. Both sides had chances throughout the first half and Rovers’ keeper Dave Minton did well on a number of occasions to deal with free kicks that were swirling around on the box under a stiff breeze. The Rovers midfield had to be competitive throughout the game and Brian Cosgrove had a fine game, again his aerial ability was crucial for Rovers. Pat Tyrell was playing wide left for Rovers and he used his pace on two occasions to get in behind the Noreside defence, the game could have been opened up more had Rovers utilised Tyrell’s pace on more occasions. Likewise on the other side of the middle Phil Evans managed to trouble the Noreside backs with some deep crosses and on occasions he used his pace to cut inside trying to carve open an opportunity. The first half seemed to going nowhere until on 43 minutes, Mick Kilmartin was taken down on the edge of the box as he was chasing down the ball; the referee was in doubt when pointing to the spot and leading scorer Kilmartin duly dusted himself down before converting the penalty with clinical precision. The Noreside keeper managed to go the right way but Kilmartin power and accuracy proved too much. The penalty was the last real action of the half and Rovers counted themselves lucky to be in front. The Rovers players were given a dressing down by Manager Lar Byrne at half time due to the basic errors being committed all over the field. It wasn’t long into the second half before Noreside were level, a dangerous free kick whipped from the right caught the Rovers defence out and Minton was left to watch the ball fly into the top right corner. The goal served as a wake up call to rovers who began to scrap that bit harder for the ball. Ian Harvey tightened up the back line and his distribution in the second half enabled Rovers to build once again. Deano Tyrell was once again excellent for Rovers’, getting forward and chasing back with some important challenges in the back line. His counterpart at right back Brendan Kenny was solid again and dealt well with the Noreside wingers, Kenny managed to get the ball forward on a couple of occasions which helped out the midfield greatly. Rover’s second half was more committed and with the aid of the wind behind them Rovers and Dave Sweeney in particular were able to put more pressure on the visitors. The winning goal game on the hour mark for Rovers and it was a goal worth of winning any game. Paul McDonald picked the ball up about thirty five yards out on the right and moved inside with it. McDonald couldn’t find support around home so he unleashed a powerful shot the from outside the box that curled neatly into the top right hand corner of the Noreside net. It was exactly what the Rovers need and the gaol enabled them to dig deeper to seal the victory. Dave Sweeney who had led the line for Rovers, was a constant throne in the side of the Noreside defence before he was forward to retire due to a knee injury after 70 minutes, Ronan Heffernan replaced him upfront. Jimmy O’Brien and Derek Dolan came on for Rovers also as the manger reshuffled the pack with a view to sealing another valuable three points for the Tullamore men. Westend Utd. and Ballybrittass also picked up victories this weekend which means that the promotion hunt is still on for the four teams at the top. Rovers have three games left and you would have to feel all the points from those games are necessary now. The big game for Rovers comes next weekend as the face local rivals and title challengers Westned Utd. The reverse fixture earlier in the year ended in a 2-2 draw.

Tullamore Rovers: Dave Mentin, Deano Tyrell, Ian Harvey, Brendan Kenny, John Healy, Paul McDonald, Brian Cosgrove, Pat Tyrell , Phil Evans, Dave Sweeny, Mick Kilmartin. Subs: Ronan Heffernan for Dave Sweeney, Derek Dolan for Pat Tyrell, Ji8mmy O’Brien for Brendan Kenny.

Tullamore Rovers would like to thank Joe Lees Bar in Church Street Tullamore for Sponsorship. The team would also like to thank Ted and Keith Garry for the playing facilities at Fentor Park in Killeigh.

Ballybrittas B 0, Tullamore Rovers 2; 12/03/2006

Rovers Still in the Hunt.

Division 5A
Ballybrittas B 0, Tullamore Rovers 2.

Tullamore Rovers ensured their promotion hopes are kept very much alive with an impressive victory of Division 5 table topers Ballybrittas B. The Tullamore men put in a spirited performance to claim a victory in a lively and entertaining encounter in Ballybrittas on Sunday morning. Rovers dogged defending was the key to this win with Ian Harvey putting in a sterling performance in the heart of the blues defence. The entire Tullamore backline were the best they’ve been all season with excellent performances from Deano Tyrell, Brendan Kenny an John Healy to ensure the home team couldn’t event get on the score sheet. The clean sheet will be of particularly enjoyed by the Rovers keeper Dave Minton who had a solid game in front of the posts. For a period of the second half Tullamore had to dig deep when a serious of corners from Ballybrittas tested Minton but he stood up to the aerial treat well and was in control of his box on all occasions.
The Rovers players new that this was a pivotal game in the run in this season and those three points were a must if promotion was to be a reality, but they also new that Ballybrittas weren’t top of the league by chance. The Laois side are tough team to beat as Tullamore found out in the reverse fixture earlier in the season in which Ballybrittas picked up all the points thanks to a three one victory. Everyone knew this match would be tighter, there was much more a stake now and games like these are one by the team that sees an opportunity and grads it - that’s exactly what rovers did. After a game that ebbed and flowed throughout the first 45 without any clear cut chances form both sides it was clear that the first goal would be crucial. Five minutes after the restart Tullamore were in front, a free kick inside the rovers half after was thumped forward by Ian Harvey who picked out Paul McDonald just inside the Ballybrittas box and McDonald showed a deft piece of skill to turn and volley home into the top right corner. The midfield battles were important in this game and a lot of the play was coming through the centre, Brian Cosgrove and Paul McDonald were controlling the play and looking to set Dave Sweeny or Mick Kilmartin away on goal and every opportunity. Phil Evans did well on the right wing and Pat Tyrell whose determination to win every ball and get forward which helped the Tullamore forwards. Tullamore second was another opportunist finish, this time a ball played through the centre again seemed to be heading for the safety of the keepers arms but for some reason the Ballybrittas stopper hesitated and let the ball run under his body. Mick Kilmartin took flight, and sensing a goal he out sprinted the keeper to the ball and slid home the all important second goal for rovers. The remaining quarter of the game seen the Tullamore defence become even more resolute under pressure from the home team. The introduction of Derek Dolan, Ronan Heffernan and Jimmy O’Brien late on for Rovers ensured they had the steam to see to see another victory for the blues. The final whistle was greeted by cheers from the Rovers players who know they’ve taken big three points but with four game left its all still to play for. Maximum point’s form the remaining games must still be the blues target to if they are o grad that promotion spot.

Tullamore Rovers: Dave Minton, John Healy, Ian Harvey, Deano Tyrell, Brendan Kenny, Pat Tyrell, Phil Evans, Paul McDonald, Brian Cosgrove, David Sweeny, Mick Kilmartin. Subs: Derek Dolan for Phil Evans, Jimmy O’Brien for Pat Tyrell, Ronan Heffernan for John Healy.

All match reports available at www.tullamorerovers.blogspot.com

Tullamore Rovers would like to thank Joe Lees Bar in Church Street Tullamore for their sponsorship.
The team would also like to thank Ted and Keith Garry for the playing facilities at Fentor Park in Killeigh.

Next Match - Ballybrittas B V Tullamore Rovers

Next Match

OWL League Divison 5A

Sunday 12th MArch 2006

Ballybrittas B V Tullamore Rovers

Venue: Ballybrittas
Kick Off: 11:00am

Tullamore Rovers 4, Shinrone B 1. 05/03/2006

Tullamore Rovers Hit Back

Tullamore Rovers 4, Shinron B 1. 05/03/2006

Cosgrove Double seals victory for blues.

Tullamore Rovers hit back with four goals following conceding of goal against the run of play early in the first half. Rovers put in a solid performance which keeps them in the promotion hunt. Tullamore had been stumbling of late, dropping points at home to Westend and Clara as well as crashing out of the cup, but this was a much better showing and the result will breathe confidence back into the team. The Shinrone goal came after a speculative lob from 30 yards deceived Dave Minton in the Tullamore gaol and sailed into the roof of the net. The goal came on 25 minutes into the first half and it gave Shinrone a boost that seen their best page of play follow suit. Prior to that Tullamroe were well on top and creating plenty of opportunities. Emmet Kenny who was playing on the wide had a shot that narrowly flew over the cross bar, Paul McDonald came close also. Tullamore upped the tempo of the game once gain searching for the equalisers and it wasn’t long coming. The through ball from midfield found Mick Kilmartin in space and he took one touch before firing past the Shinrone keeper. The first half was solid with the Tullamore defence looking particularly good. Brendan Kenny was strong at right full and ventured forward to aid the forwards whenever he could, John Healy at left full had a sound game and wasn’t afraid to play the ball out of when given the chance. Deano Tyrell and Ian Harvey were rock solid at centre back; Tyrell was willing and able to cover all areas as a last man and managed some crunching tackles to keep the Shinrone strikers quiet. Harvey pushed forward whenever he had a chance and crated some good opportunities with some slick passing. Following the half time break Tullamore took complete control. The signs were ominous early on Derek Dolan played in Paul McDonald who fired narrowly wide, then Dolan found Cosgrove whose low drive from 15 yards skimmed the post. Moments later Cosgrove turned up on the opposite side of the 18 yard box, this time he didn’t miss and fired a beauty into the bottom right corner, the ball pinging off the inside of the post for good measure. The goal set Tullamore on their on their way and as Tullamore’s confidence grew Shinrone backed off even more. Dave Sweeny and came in midway through the second half and ran the front line very well. Sweeny providing some nice touches around the box for Mick Kilmartin to latch onto. On the hour Sweeney was reward with a goal after the Shinrone defender struggled to deal with another through ball, the balls seemed to canon off the defenders leg and into the net but it was Sweeny’s persistence in the box that caused the error and no doubt he will claim the plaudits. Pat Tyrell also came on in the second and he was a constant treat. At this stage Phil Evans and Paul McDonald were controlling the middle of the park, Evans was hustling the play as usual, Pat Tyrell came on the right and Ronan Heffernan at right full. Pat Tyrell was immediately in the action with some great runs down the right. It was cross form Tyrell that led to the fourth goal for Tullamore, Cosgrove yet again was ghosting into the box and managed to control the ball and fire into the top corner, the goal completed the rout for Rovers and confidence is back with blues yet again. Rover’s manger Lar Byrne was delighted, he had challenged his players to come up with goals and they did just that. There's five games left for Rovers now and this is just the result that could have them firing toward the finish line on all cylinders. The challenge now from the manager is to win all the remaining games, let’s see how the Rovers players respond to that.

Tullamore Rovers: Dave Minton, Brendan Kenny, Ian Harvey, Deano Tyrell, John Healy, Derek Dolan, Emmet Kenny, Brian Cosgrove, Paul McDonald, Phil Evans, Mick Kilmartin. Subs: Sweeney for Dolan, Tyrell for McDonald and Heffernan for Healy.

Tullamore Rovers would like to thank Joe Lees Bar on Church Street for their sponsorship also thanks to Ted and Keith Garry for the playing facilities in Fentor Park, Killeigh.
All match reports available at www.tullamorerovers.blogspot.com

Next Match - Tullamore Rovers Vs Shinrone B

Tullamore Rovers will play in Shinrone B in the rescheduled OWL League Divison 5A tie on Sunday 5th March

OWL League Divison 5A

Sunday 5th March 2005

Tullamore Rovers Vs Shinrone B

Venue: Fentor Park, Killeigh, Tullamore.

Kick Off: 11:00am

Walkover For Tullamore Rovers 26/2/06

Tullamore Rovers 3, Heyward Celtic B 0.


Tullamore Rovers were awarded a three nil scoreline by the OWL League after Heyward Celtci B failed to travel to Killeigh for for this fixture.

Next Match - Tullamore Rovers Vs Heyward Celtic B

Tullamore Rovers Vs Heyward Celtic B

Sunday 26th February 2006

Venue: Fentor Park, Killeigh, Tullamore.

Kick Off: 11:00am

Tullamore Rovers 2, Clara Town D 2. 19/03/06

OWL League Division 5A - Sunday 19th March 2006

All Square for Local Rivals

Tullamore Rovers 2, Clara Town D 2.

Local rivals Tullamore and Clara played out a lively encounter in Fentor Park, Killeigh on Sunday morning. Tullamore who are chasing promotion needed all three points to keep in the hunt but a much improved Clara side had other ideas. Both sides had chances throughout the first 45 but it was Clara who were who took the initiative just before half time. Rovers will be annoyed at there placid defending as Clara forward managed to slip past two tackles in the box to fire past Dave Minton in the Tullamore goal who had little chance as the Clara man found his way through all too easy. Tullamore came close moments later when Ian Harvey fired a free kick that narrowly missed the target. Tullamore were making good progress down the right with Mick Kilmartin and Emmet Kenny linking up well on a number of occasions but the home side but they couldn’t carve out the equaliser before the break. Lar Byrne decided to bring on Ronan Heffernan after the break as Tullamore chased for the leveller. Midway through the second half Tullamore was denied a goal after the Clara keeper had clearly crossed the goal line with the ball in his hands. Phil Evans and Brian Cosgrove came close on a number of occasions for Rovers but it was Paul McDonald who got Tullamore off the mark. McDonald managed to break through the Clara centre backs and slot the ball home from 10 yards for a deserved equaliser for the men in blue. The frustrating point for Tullamore was that they had to wait so long for the goal as Brian Cosgrove again was winning plenty of the aerial battles in the box yet they were failing to capitalise on this. Later in the half David Sweeny was introduced for Tullamore as manger Lar Byrne went all out for the winner. Things didn’t go to plan straight away as Clara were awarded a penalty and converted the first attempt only to have the referee have it retaken due to encroachment. The second spot kick wasn't as successful as Tullamore breathed sigh of relief the ball shot wide of the upright. The signs were ominous for Tullamore as the Clara were still managing to break through as Rovers were pushing up the field and the second Clara goad came after raid down the right saw a cross coveted form close range. Rovers had to up the pace to get something from the game. John Healy and Deano Tyrell pushed forwarded in an effort to support the midfielders and following a spell of Tullamore pressure the home side were awarded a corner. The ball was launched into the box a Brian Cosgrove was unhand to bundle the ball across the line for a goal for the Tullamore midfielder. The game was up moments later and Tullamore will feel they let more points slip up here. It will need more conviction in future games for the Tullamore men to keep up with the leaders in the hunt for promotion. With so little games left now, Tullamore Rovers must secure full points from those remaining fixtures to have any chance making it.

Tullamore: Dave Minton, Deano Tyrell, Ian Harvey, John Healy, Jimmy O’Brien, Brian Cosgrove, Phil Evans, Paul McDonald, Emmet Kenny, Pat Tyrell, Mick Kilmartin. Subs: Ronan Heffernan (Jimmy O’Brien), Dave Sweeny (Ronan Heffernan), Brendan Kenny, Derek Dolan.

Tullamore Rovers management and players would like to thank Joe Lees Bar on Church Street and for their support and Ted Garry for the facilities at Fentor Park in Killeigh.

Round Tower Rovers 1, Tullamore Rovers 0 12/02/06

Divison 4 & 5 Cup Round 2 12/02/06

Round Tower Rovers 1, Tullamore Rovers 0.

Tullamore Rovers will feel they should have at least brought this up game against Division 4 side Round Tower Rovers to extra time in their Division 4/5 cup game in Timahoe. Tullamore had plenty of possession throughout the game but lacked the decisive finish to trouble the Laois men on Sunday morning. Tullamores best opportunities were coming from Brian Cosgoves aerial treat from set pieces. Rovers had other chances as well but most were squandered by wayward shooting. Rovers will be disappointed with the performance and the manner in which the Round Towers goal was conceded. In difficult conditions the Rovers defence failed to clear their line mid way through the fist half they were duly punished after allowing the Round Towers striker to nip in behind and cut the ball across Dave Menton in the Tullamore goal. Tullamore pushed on throughout the second half and manager Lar Byrne reverted to playing three up front with Captain Ian Harvey pushing into midfield. Rovers grafted away but still couldn’t find the fluidity in their play to cut through the defence. Rovers are out of all cup competition now and their will now turn all their attention to securing promotion from Division 5A. The next step on that road comes on Sunday as they take on Clara Town D in Fentor Park in Killeigh on Sunday. In their last meeting Tullamore went down 2-1 and they will be looking to make amends for that performance.

Tullamore Rovers would like to thank Joe Lee’s Pub in Church Street Tullamore for sponsorship and Ted Garry for excellent condition of the pitch in Killeigh.

Tullamore Rovers 2, Westend Utd. 2 29/01/06

OWL League Divison 5A 29/01/06

Local Derby in Ends in Stalemate

Tullamore Rovers 2, Westend Utd. 2.

Tullamore Rovers and Westend battled out the Division 5 local derby in Killeigh on Sunday with both teams having to settle for a draw in lively encounter. Tullamore took the lead midway through the first half when and corner from Ian Harvey deceived the Westend defence and curled into the net. The perfect start for rovers who were looking to catch Westend at the top of the table. Westend responded quickly when their forward headed home just after the moments after the restart to restore parity. Phil Evans and Brian Cosgrove had good effeorts saved by the Westend keeper. Rover’s manger Lar Byrne brought in Paul McDonald for Derek Dolan at half time and Emmet Kenny moved up front along side Mick Kilmartin for the Tullamore men. It was Kenny who scored Tullamore second just after the break with a shot the seemed to be going wide ended up in the corner of the Westend net. The game opened up a bit in the second half with both sides having opportunities to score but in the end it was a penalty decision that brought Westned Utd level. Stephen Kidney made no mistake from the spot. With 20 minutes to go Tullamore Rovers were down to ten men when Pat Tyrell was harshly sent off by the referee for dissent. Tullamore Rovers reshuffle the pack and still managed to pressurise the Westend defence despite going a man down. The game ended a draw which will be to the advantage to other top of the table sides Ballybrittas and Portlaoise.

Tullamore: Dave Menton, John Healy, Ian Harvey, Deaon Tyrell, Ronan Heffernan, Phil Evans, Brain Cosgrove, Pat Tyrell, Emmet Kenny, Derek Dolan, Mick Kilmartin. Subs: Paul McDonald for Derek Dolan. Brendan Kenny, Jimmy O’Brien

Stradbally Town B 2, Tullamore Rovers 5 11/12/05

OWL League Division 5A 11/12/05

Relief for Rovers

Stradbally Town B 2, Tullamore Rovers 5.

After two consecutive losses Tullamore Rovers bounced back with a good win in Stradbally on Sunday afternoon. It was a relief for rovers who were beginning to feel pressure as losses to Portlaoise and Clara which had left them with a lot of work to do in order to keep in the promotion hunt. Nothing less than a victory would have done for manager Lar Byrne and his team and they duly obliged with a spirited performance that was lacking in the pervious games. Rovers were off to a flier after a calamitous goal within the first ten minutes after an over hit back pass was blundered by the keeper to gift Tullamore the advantage. Tullamore were doing well and using the opportunity to get forward, fullback Ronan Herffernan used every opportunity to forward and the centre backs of Ian Harvey and Deano Tyrell were keeping tight to the Stradbally forwards. Harvey pushed on the help the midfield throughout the game and Deano Tyrell was tiding up anything the got in behind with some decisive tacking in around the box. Jimmy O’Brien at left full had a solid game and made some good tackles through the opening half. The lead Tullamore had achieved was short-lived as Stradbally pulled level five minutes later through a speculative free kick which deceived the rovers defence and nestled in the corner of Dave Mentons goal. Rovers responded well and their intent to win the game was rewarded with another goal on twenty five minutes when Brian Cosgove was upended in the box after bursting through from midfield. The referee pointed to the spot and leading scorer Mick Kilmatin made no mistake with a well taken penalty beyond the reach of the Stradbally stopper. Rovers looked the more likely to score every time they got forward despite some good possession from the home team. Rovers more clinical attacks paid off once again when Pat Tyrell broke free on the right after beating the defender Tyrell sent a cross toward two incoming rovers players but before the ball could reach them the Stradbally defender stuck out a leg to deflect the ball into his own net. That put the visitors 3-1 up, but if Tullamore Rovers have an achilles heel it’s defiantly the concession of soft goals, and with five minutes to go to half time it came back to haunt them. A through ball from the Stradbally men wasn’t dealt with by the Tullamore defence and the Stadbally forward latched on the lose ball to fire home from eight yards. Stradbally were now doing well in the middle at this stage despite good work from Tullamore midfielders Phil Evans and Brain Cosgrove who were doing there best to plug any gaps. The rovers midfielders were also getting some good tackles in as well and a lot of the 50/50 were going to rovers. Derek Dolan and John Healy were playing in the wide midfield positions and the intent was to open up Stradbally on the wings as much as possible.After the break Tullamore dug in order to secure the points. Substitute Mick Daly who came on for Derek Dolan converted excellently from a Pat Tyrell cross to send Tullamore two goals clear and within five minutes the game was over after some brilliant work by Pat Tyrell on the left. Tyrell used his pace to cut inside the box before angling a great effort beyond the Stradbally keeper. Dave Sweeny was brought in for John Healy, Brendan Kenny and Sean Morris came on Jimmy O’Brien and Pat Tyrell as Tullamore held out comfortably for an important victory. Man of the Match goes to Mick Kilmartin who tormented the Stradbally defence all afternoon. Tullamore Rovers are now back to winning ways and they will be looking to round off the year with another victory next week. Should they achieve this then they will well positioned to challenge at the top. T

ullamore Rovers: Dave Menton, Ronan Heffernan, Ian Harvey, Deano Tyrell, Jimmy O’Brien Phil Evans, Brian Cosgrove, Pat Tyrell, John Healy, Derek Dolan Mick Kimartin, Pat Tyrell. Subs; Brendan Kenny (for Jimmy O’Brien), Mick Daly (for Derek Dolan), Dave Sweeny (for John Healy), Sean Morris (for Pat Tryell), Shane Bracken.Tullamore Rovers would like to thank Joe Lees Bar on Church for their support.

Portlaoise C 2, Tullamore Rovers 1 27/11/05

OWL League Division 5A 27/11/05

Unlucky Rovers Punished In The Final Minute

Portlaoise C 2, Tullamore Rovers 1.

Tullamore Rovers will be bitterly disappointed with this result after they dominated long periods of the game and yet came away with nothing. Tullamore went into this game off the back of a defeat to bottom of the table Clara Town D and were looking to bounce back against table toppers Portlaoise C at Roseleign on Sunday morning. Prior to the match, both sides had observed a minute silence in memory of footballing legend George Best who had inspired legions of footballers across this country. The game kicked off after the fitting tribute and from the start it looked like it would be an open game with both sides intent on securing full points. Portloaise were intent on trying to carve Rovers open with a number of through ball in the opening minutes. Rovers centre backs of Deano Tyrell and Brian Cosgrove were doing well to cope under the high balls being launched at the Tullamore defence but after fifteen minutes it was a through ball that caught Rovers out and the Portloaise striker made no mistake firing past Dave Menton. Menton who had a good game for Tullamore could do little with the well taken effort that gave Portlaosie the initiative. Tullamore had to tighten things up and that they did. Full backs Brendan Kenny and John Healy were doing well to help out the centre backs and as the Tullamore began to come to grips with Portlaoise's high ball tactics the game started to favour Tullamore. There was very little happening in the middle of the park for the first twenty minutes but after the Portlaosie goal Tullamore began to take the ball down and start playing some football in order to create a few more chances. As the half went on Phil Evans and Paul McDonald getting on top winning and retaining possession the middle. Ian Harvey was starting to push forward for Tullamore and they started to gain territorial advantage and force Portlaoise in the concession of a number of corners. Brian Cosgrove tested the keeper with a header from corner as Tullamore began creating the chances and after a good spell of pressure the scores were level. The goal came ten minutes before the break when Phil Evans fired a ball into the box to Derek Dolan who laid off to Mick Kilmartin who fired a great volley into the top corner for a well deserved equaliser for Tullamore. At the break Tullamore manger Lar Byrne introduced Ronan Heffernan for Brendan Kenny as Rovers went all out on the attack to get the three points. During the second half Tullamore Stared to dominate and were playing some good football. Ian Harvey went close with a free kick and Derek Dolan had a shot saved by the Portlaoise keep as Tullamore pushed on. At this stage Tullamore were using all opportunities to get forward but their failure to create any clear cut chances was starting to cause frustration. A quick break on the hour mark from the Laois side ended with a shot across the Tullamore goal and this was their best effort of half. Pat Tyrell on the left wing was now causing all sorts of trouble for the Portlaoise defence with his good running and he was unlucky not to be awarded a penalty when upended by the Portlaoise keeper after being straight through on goal. Shane Bracken came on for Derek Dolan and did well on the wing as the game looked destined for a draw. But in a cruel twist in the final minute Portlaosie pounced after a counter attack down the right to score a soft goal after confusion in the Rovers box, the goal condemned the Tullamore team to an undeserved defeat. The final whistle went and Tullamore now have a big task in the coming weeks to pick up points if they are to seriously contend at the top of the table.

Tullamore Rovers: Dave Menton, John Healy, Deano Tyrell, Brian Cosgrove, Brendan Kenny, Ian Harvey, Derek Dolan, Phil Evans, Paul McDonald, Pat Tyrell, Mick Kilmartin. Subs: Ronan Heffernan (Brendan Kenny), Shane Bracken (Derek Dolan), Jimmy O’Brien.

Tullamore Rovers would like to thank their sponors – Joe Lees Pub, Church Street, Tullamore

Clara Town D 2, Tullamore Rovers 1 20/11/05

OWL League Division 5A 20/11/05

ReportClara Town D 2, Tullamore Rovers 1.

Tullamore Rovers had their five match unbeaten league run brought to an end in Clara on Sunday morning. Tullamore who were once again under strength were caught napping in the first 10 minutes when Clara pounced to score two early goals. Tullamore Rovers were too slow out of the blocks and paid dearly for their lack of concentration. The complexion of the game was changed, Clara took the initiative and their goals were giving them some well needed confidence after slow start to their league campaign. As the half went on Tullamore began to liven up and defensively Dean Tyrell and Ian Harvey began to come to terms with the Clara forwards. Brendan Kenny and John Healy were also doing well as Tullamore were starting to put the tackles in and winning possession in some key areas. As the game opened up Tullamore starting pushing forward in search of goals. Phil Evans had a few shots on goal but couldn’t trouble the Clara keeper and Paul McDonald put in a few fine crosses towards the end of the half but there was no one to take advantage for Tullamore. In the final minutes of the first half Pat Tyrell broke through for Tullamore only to be upended in the box and the referee to pointed straight to the spot. Ian Harvey stepped up to convert for Tullamore and bring them right back into contention. Rovers had the better of the second half but just couldn’t convert the chances as they searched desperately for an equaliser to keep the pressure on at the top end of the league. Clara Town dug in well to protect their lead and despite bringing in John Stone and Brian Cosgrove for Maurice Cunningham and Sean Morris, Tullamore still found that second goal elusive. Clara did have a spell in which they managed a few shots at goal but wayward shooting for the Clara forwards didn’t trouble rovers keep Dave Manton. Tullamore up the tempo toward the end and a succession of late corners maintained pressure on Clara. When a last minute free kick from Ian Harvey shaved the post Rovers knew it wasn’t to be their day. A harsh lesson for Tullamore Rovers who probably would have expected to win on Sunday. A frustrating morning for Rovers manager Lar Byrne but there’s still a long way to go in this league and Tullamore are still in a good position toward the top of the league and promotion is still well within their capabilities.

Tullamore Rovers: Dave Menton, Brendan Kenny, Ian Harvey, Deano Tyrell, John Healy, Derek Dolan, Phil Evans, Paul McDonald, Pat Tyrell, Sean Morris, Maurice Cunningham. Subs: John Stone for Sean Morris and Brian Cosgrove Maurice Cunningham.