Davy Russell’s Best: 18-11 Jim Bolger’s Stars: 11-11
The stars came out in force once again for the annual Hurling for Cancer Research match, supported by Centra and they didn’t disappoint with goals galore at Netwatch Dr Cullen Park on Monday.
The aerial TV shots from TG4 showed Dr Cullen Park looking more like it was on the edge of the Sahara than Carlow, but that made no difference to those taking to the field.
Davy Russell’s squad were fronted by Shane Kingston, Noel McGrath and Patrick Horgan, with Brendan Cummins again holding the back line.
Jim Bolger’s Best had Damian Fitzhenry again in goal with Brian Duignan, Shane O’Brien and Jason Flynn in the front line.
The legendary goalkeepers both were equipped with Go-Pro cameras on their helmets to provide another unique insight into the action on the TV coverage, and they were kept busy with goals coming thick and fast.
Cork’s seven-time All-Ireland senior camogie winner Aishling Thompson and Kilkenny camogie all-star Katie Nolan put in the feminine touches.
While Jim Bolger’s Best hit the first goal, they were quickly overhauled by David Russell’s goal tally and, despite a few late goals going in for the Bolger team, there was no Sparan Nua-like final flourish.
Kingston, Horgan and Dalton helped Russell’s side head down the tunnel with a narrow half-time advantage (8-8 to 8-6) as the masses of children chased autographs and selfies before the second half commenced.
The action on the pitch didn’t disappoint with Offaly star Brian Duignan banging in three early goals for Jim Bolger’s Best.
Davy Russell left with the bragging rights after his side found another gear.
Russell’s squad were the first to hit double figures on the score board when hitting 10 goals by the 36th minute.
Local star James Doyle and Kildare’s Muiris Curtin added further goals to see them home in style with Diarmuid Lyng raising a consolation green flag for Bolger’s side before the final whistle.
Davy Russell’s Best eventually prevailed by 18-11 to 11-11, but the Irish Cancer Society was the real winner once again.
Honour
In the TG4 coverage Irish Cancer Society chief executive officer, Nikki Gallagher, said: “It’s an honour to be here,” and praised those on the night, “the people who really do save lives, community, volunteers, sports stars, corporate partners, come together to raising money and awareness and vital funds.
“The majority comes from generous public donations. One in two of us get a diagnosis but more and more people are surviving.”
Speaking afterwards on RTE, Jim Bolger said: “Thanks to our contributors and the players, and everybody who assists, especially James Dowling and my daughter Una Manning, they do all the work.
“It means a lot to the players as well, they love to come and I’ve no doubt at least a dozen of them will pass me when they are leaving and say “Will you have us back next year.”
Over the last 15 years, it is coming up to €2 million that has been raised from these unique matches.
Well known umpires
Irish champion jumps trainer Willie Mullins was kept busy in his role as umpire with green flags flying from start to finish, Paul Nolan, Kevin Manning, Shane Foley, Shane Byrne (solely representing Wicklow!) and Limerick star Shane O’Brien, a recent All-Ireland SHC winner, were all kept busy, while RTE’s Miriam O’Callaghan and presenter Ursula Jacobs were among those giving support from the sidelines.
From the racing side, Daragh Ó Conchúir caught up with former jockey-now-trainer Mikey Fogarty, still togged out for action for Davy Russells’ Stars after being involved from the early years, while admitting, “there’s not many of the jockeys left doing a little bit of hurling - you have to choose your battles!” Limerick star Kyle Hayes also added: “You have to respect the work that is being done with the money. It’s hard to say no, everyone knows someone who has lost someone to cancer.”
James Dowling also gave a review of the growth in participation and popularity of the annual match. “It’s gone from strength to strength every year. The money is flying in and it’s a great event for a great cause. Since Centra came on board a few years ago, I really appreciate their help. And massive shout out to Una Manning. The guys we have on the field, playing matches during the week, it’s a credit to them to come.”
After the match hundreds of kids took over the pitch and got to spend time with their stars on what is always a great evening in the Irish sporting calendar.
Donations can still be made at www.hurlingforcancer.ie. All proceeds will support the Irish Cancer Society’s vital cancer research.
The Irish Cancer Society is the largest voluntary sector funder of life-saving cancer research in Ireland. It delivers a range of free services to support patients and their families during and beyond cancer, advocates for and raises awareness of cancer issues at government level, and provides up to date resources and accessible cancer information to raise public awareness of cancer at cancer.ie.
Anyone with questions or concerns about cancer can contact the Irish Cancer Society Support Line on Freephone 1800 200 700 or supportline@irishcancer.ie