“Clans Too Strong for Glen Emmets as McKeever Leads the Charge”

CTI Business Solutions Intermediate Football Championship – Quarter Final

Clan na Gael 1-16 Glen Emmets 0-12

Venue: Protection and Prosperity Louth GAA Training Centre, Darver

Referee: Steven Devlin (Naomh Fionnbarra)

Clan na Gael became the first side to book their place in the semi-finals of the CTI Business Solutions Intermediate Championship after a thoroughly deserved seven-point victory over Glen Emmets in Darver. The Dundalk men produced a performance of real purpose and organisation, and though the Emmets entered the tie as group winners and fancied their chances of progressing further, they were left frustrated by a Clans outfit who combined defensive solidity with attacking flair.

The opening exchanges were closely contested with both sides probing for early scores. Glen Emmets got off the mark on five minutes through an Ian O’Reilly free, but Clan na Gael quickly replied with Liam O’Hanlon converting a free of his own two minutes later.

The Clans began to build momentum and Jack Callan’s superb 2-point free after nine minutes put them into the lead. From there, Conall McKeever began to assert himself on the contest, powering through midfield and clipping over a fine point on 14 minutes.

Moments later, O’Hanlon added another after Ian O’Reilly in the Glen Emmets goal pulled off a brilliant save to deny him. The game’s crucial score arrived on 20 minutes when McKeever tore through the Emmets defence and handpassed across goal for Shane Carroll to palm into the net, giving Clans a four-point cushion.

Although Diarmuid Cullen and Keelan O’Neill added points for Glen Emmets, the Dundalk men kept their opponents at arm’s length with scores from Michael McDonnell, Shay Coleman, and another Liam O’Hanlon free after McKeever was fouled. A late point from Paddy McHugh left the half-time score:

Half-Time: Clan na Gael 1-8 Glen Emmets 0-4

Clan Na Gael struck immediately after the restart, Robbie Curran splitting the posts before Carroll stretched the lead further. Glen Emmets tried to mount a response and showed glimpses of their attacking quality when Conor Grimes and James Butler both kicked brilliant 2-point efforts in a three-minute spell.

However, every time the Emmets threatened a comeback, Clans had an answer. O’Hanlon was ice-cool from frees, landing two superb 2-pointers, while McKeever continued to torment the defence, adding two points of his own in quick succession—one a booming strike, the other a fisted effort after yet another surging run.

Although Emmets kept the scoreboard ticking with late scores from Eoin Maguire, Grimes, and another excellent 2-pointer from Butler, the gap was never closed sufficiently. Clan Na Gael always looked in control, finishing strongly to seal a 1-16 to 0-12 win.

Standout Performances

The star of the show was undoubtedly Conall McKeever, who dictated the game with his power, energy, and creativity. His role in Carroll’s goal epitomised his influence, while his own points were of the highest quality. Young Liam O’Hanlon also impressed, his free-taking and composure marking him as one of the brightest prospects in the county.

With manager Alan O’Neill now close to having a fully fit squad for the first time all year, Clan Na Gael look rejuvenated and ready to pose a serious challenge for championship honours.

Keelan O’Neill (Glen Emmets) – While the Emmets struggled to break down the Clan Na Gael defence, O’Neill worked tirelessly from start to finish. He carried the ball with intent, constantly looked to drive his team forward, and capped his display with a fine point in the first half. His work rate and attitude were a credit on a difficult evening for his side

Man of the Match

Conall McKeever (Clan na Gael) – McKeever was simply unplayable on the night. Time and again he drove at the Glen Emmets defence, carving out opportunities for his teammates and kicking three superb points of his own. His blistering run to set up Carroll’s goal was the game’s defining moment, and his energy levels never dipped. A complete performance from the Clans talisman.

Teams & Scorers

Clan Na Gael:
Sean Smith, Robbie Curran (0-1), Craig Callan, Gavin Gaffney, Paul Crewe, Craig Long, Conall McKeever (0-3), Gerard Curran, Conor Noonan, Michael McDonnell (0-1), Liam O’Hanlon (0-7, 2f, 2x2pf), Jack Callan (0-2, 1x2p), Shane Carroll (1-1), Shay Coleman (0-1), Sean O’Hanlon.
Subs: Aodhan Kirk for Michael McDonnell (43), John Byrne for Conor Noonan (Temp, 49), Mark McGeown for Craig Long (61).

Glen Emmets:
Ian O’Reilly (0-1f), Emmet Delaney, Keith Boylan, Evan English, Cian Talbot, Calum Wogan, Cathal Maguire, Andrew Mooney, Danny Grimes, Paddy McHugh (0-1), Keelan O’Neill (0-1), Conor Grimes (0-3, 1x2p), Jacob Morgan, James Butler (0-4, 2x2p), Diarmuid Cullen (0-1).
Subs: Darragh Russell for Andrew Mooney (41), Shane Curtis for Evan English (43), Eoin Maguire (0-1) for Jacob Morgan (51), Alex Blakeman Fowler for Danny Grimes (55).