An interesting point of discussion at the AGM involved the previous year’s minor hurling final and the make-up of the Rathdowney team. The eligibility of the opposing team was questioned and supported by the county board but the appeal was lost at Leinster Council “on a technicality”. Allegations made against Jimmy Cotter at the Football Board Convention were deplored by numerous speakers. Mr. Cotter said the matter was with his solicitor.

Juvenile Secretary, Bill Phelan, said that there was not much point fielding minor teams if they have to meet teams constituted like the Rathdowney team they met in the (1969) final. Portlaoise objected to illegal players and the County Board awarded the game to Portlaoise. The decision was, however, overturned at Leinster Council level. Bill said that the Leinster Council had broken many GAA rules in this instance and he suggested that the club should object to the two men who were sent to the meeting by the County Board who “were ignorant of the case.” “I would have second thoughts on encouraging young boys to join our association”, he said. Jack Delaney said he was very dis-satisfied with the Leinster Council decision.

Senior Hurling

It was a bad year for hurling in the “Town” with the senior team playing second fiddle to Abbeyleix in the championship on a 2-6 to 2-2 scoreline.

Rathdowney then rattled their slender title hopes on a 4-6 to 3-5 scoreline.

But in a quarter-final thriller with old rivals, Clonad, they came ever so close to qualifying for a semi-final clash with Clonaslee. In a tightly fought opening half Portlaoise finished it only one point adrift, 1-3 to 0-5. It was touch and go throughout the second half and three late points by Clonad clinched the tie at 2-11 to 2-8.

Intermediate Hurling

The ‘Town’ gave a walkover to Ballyfin.

Junior Football Championship

Portlaoise were knocked out of this competition by Abbeyleix in the semi-final, 1-9 to 0-3.

Junior Hurling Championship

Portlaoise were narrowly defeated by Ballyfin, 5-2 to 4-4. Portlaoise Scorers: Willie Ging (2-0), Louis McMahon (1-0), Aidan Delaney (1-0), B. Delaney (0-2), Noel Tynan (0-1), S. Kearney (0-1).

Under 21 Football

The “Town” were well beaten in the semi-final by Annanough on a 1-11 to 0-5 scoreline.

Under 21 Hurling

Lost to Abbeyleix.

Minor Football and Hurling

In football, the ‘A’ team were beaten by Stradbally in a replay while the ‘B’ side lost to The Heath. The hurlers also bowed out early after an initial success against Ratheniska.

Under 14 Football

Portarlington defeated Portlaoise in the final.

St. Fintan’s Hospital back in senior ranks

After the lapse of a few years, St. Fintan’s Hospital hammered Ballyroan in a one-sided Intermediate football final by 4-11 to 0-4 and so earned a place in the senior championship of 1971.

1970 honours

• Men’s Football – Senior Laois Senior Football Championship Portlaoise 1-7 v 0-9 St.Joseph’s Captain: Teddy Fennelly
• Men’s Football – Under 12 Laois U-12 ‘A’ Football Championship Portlaoise v Stradbally
• Men’s Football – Under 12 Laois U-12 ‘B’ Football Championship

AGM

There were major changes at the AGM with Paddy Brennan, Chairman, and Jimmy Cotter, Secretary, both stepping down. Teddy Fennelly was elected as chairman and Bill Phelan as secretary.

First ever Leinster Football Championship

Portlaoise were defeated by Gracefield, the Offaly Champions, in the first round, 2-8 to 1-10 in a cracking game at O’Moore Park. Short Tom Walsh, Mick McDonald, Harry Mulhaire, Alfie Lewis and Pascal Delaney, the “Town” pulled out all the stops in this first ever Leinster club championship game and just came up short. What a pity there was such apathy for the new competition which Portlaoise would go on to dominate in the decades ahead. Gracefield went on to win the Leinster final and reached the All-Ireland final.

Senior Football County Championship

Portlaoise opened up their campaign with a victory against 1970 intermediate champions, St. Fintans, 0-18 to 0-5. Despite being short a number of regulars, it was all one way traffic for the “Town”. Tom O’Reilly had a field day scoring twelve points, ten from frees.

They then drew with Timahoe, 0-13 to 2-7 and progressed in the replay by winning 1-9 to 0-9. In the semi-final they defeated Graiguecullen by 2-9 to 1-9.

The Heath provided the opposition in the final and really put it up to the champions. The Heath led by 0-6 to 0-3 at the break and were still three points clear at the three-quarter stage. But experience paid rich dividends once again for the “Town” side when they gradually upped their game and after a point from Tom Walsh, Cyril O’Meara crashed home a great goal to put his side in charge. They were well on top at the finish winning on a 1-7 to 0-7 scoreline.

Leinster Senior Club Championship

On November 20th Portlaoise started their glorious Leinster run by beating Ferbane in the first round, 2-8 to 0-13. Offaly star, Tony McTague proved a sterling opponent and the Grogans too but Portlaoise compensated for their single point defeat in the first Leinster championship by Offaly opposition, Gracefield, in the previous campaign to take this thriller also by a single point.

The “Town” fielded short of Teddy Fennelly, Pascal Delaney and Tom O’Reilly and started nervously. But a goal by corner forward, John Walsh, nicknamed “Forney”, from Grattan Street, a player who had never before played senior championship football with the club, put his name in the history books of the club by scoring the vital goal that put Portlaoise on their way to glory and ultimately the club’s first provincial title.

The remainder of the campaign was played in 1972, resulting in a historic first Leinster club title.

Senior Hurling

Portlaoise were defeated by Borris-in-Ossory in the first round, 4-4 to 2-6. Borris led by 3-0 to 0-4 at the break. Portlaoise scorers were Brian Delaney (1-3), Tom Lalor (1-1), Teddy Fennelly (0-1), John Walsh (0-1).

Junior Football

Portlaoise were defeated by Saint Patricks, Ballyfin, 1-8 to 1-10. Portlaoise led by 1-4 to 0-5 at half-time thanks to a great goal by Kevin Farrell. But Ollie Phelan got through for a decisive goal in the final quarter to snatch it for Ballyfin.

Junior Hurling

Trumera beat Portlaoise 4-10 to 3-3.

Under 21 Football

Portlaoise 2-10 to Mountmellick 0-1.

Graiguecullen 2-8 to Portlaoise 1-7.

Under 21 Hurling

Rathdowney defeated Portlaoise in the final (played in 1972) by 1-7 to 2-1. Portlaoise led by 2-0 to 0-4 at the break but a goal by Pat Ryan swung the game in Rathdowney’s favour.

The ‘Town’ had a good win in the semi-final against Borris-in-Ossory by 5-2 to 1-4. Portlaoise did most of their work in the opening half of the final after which they led by 5-1 to 1-3. In a poor second half the “Town” were never seriously threatened.

Minor Hurling

Portlaoise were defeated by Ballinakill, 7-7 to 0-6.

Minor Football

St. Josephs beat the “B” side by 3-11 to 1-4. The Saints lost the final by 3-10 to 1-2 to Ballyroan.

Under 17 Football

Final: Portlaoise 2-5 to Portarlington 0-5. Scorers: Pat Rogers and Billy Bland (1-0 each) Liam Scully (0-3), George Buggy (0-2).

Other players mentioned were Martin Callaghan (in goal), John Killeen, both Pat Keenans, Jim Griffin. In the semi-final Portlaoise beat St. Michaels by 5-7 to 3-5. Ballygeehan beat the “Town” in the Under 17 hurling competition.

Under 16 Hurling

Errill beat Portlaoise by 6-4 to 3-5 in the final. Players mentioned were Mark Delaney, Liam O’Connell, Billy Bland and W. Tierney.

Under 16 Football

Final: Barrowhouse 2-6 to Portlaoise 0-9. Players noted were Philip Rochford, Jimmy Bergin, Billy Bland, Mark Delaney, Billy Bohane.

Under 14 Football

Barrowhouse defeated Portlaoise in final by 5-3 to 1-2.

Under 12 Football

Portlaoise took the title at the expense of Mountmellick by 2-3 to 1-2. With wind advantage the “Town” led by 2-0 to 0-1 at the break and held out comfortably in the second period. Noted players were John Bohane, J. Conroy, George Phelan, Jimmy Lewis and Francis O’Brien.

1971 honours

• Men’s Football – Senior Laois Senior Football Championship Portlaoise 1-7 v 0-7 The Heath Captain: Michael Murphy
• Men’s Football – Under 12 Laois U-12 ‘A’ Football Championship Portlaoise 2-3 v 1-2 Mountmellick
• Men’s Football – Under 17 Laois U-17 ‘A’ Football Championship Portlaoise 2-5 v 0-5 Portarlington

AGM

Hugh elected Chairman of Kildare County Board

A former Portlaoise player and member of a family strongly associated with the ‘Town’ club for many decades was elected Chairman of Kildare GAA at their County Convention. Hugh Campion worked at the Post Office on the Curragh and was associated with the local Suncroft hurling and football club. He earned his spurs in many positions on the County Board and was very popular among players and officials at club and county level.

First Leinster club title Portlaoise

Portlaoise defeated Athlone by 2-11 to 2-9 in a very hard fought and memorable game played on Easter Sunday, the 2nd of April in Carlow to win a first Leinster club title for the club. Athlone led for long periods of the game, 1-8 to 0-4 at half time and then 2-9 to 0-4 three minutes after the restart.

Having built a formidable reputation of second half fight backs and never-say die spirit, it seemed inevitable that they would rally-but eleven points down and playing second fiddle all over the field, it did not seem possible that they could possibly win from this position. But they did-and the rest is history.

They clawed their back valiantly scoring 1-5 without reply to leave a goal between the sides by the end of the third quarter. Now dominating all over the field they went into attack again and Brian Delaney was dragged down in the square. As cool as ice John Fennell neatly slotted home the penalty and the sides were level. Harry Mulhaire put the icing on the cake with two late points to seal a memorable victory.

The earlier rounds

The route to the final started with victory over Tinryland of Carlow by 1-10 to 0–9, at the Mill Field in Portarlington, having trained by 0-5 to 0-3 at the break.

Portlaoise beat Carbury in the Leinster semi-final by 2-8 to 1-8. The Kildare champions fielded a very strong fifteen that included top county stars, Ollie Crinnigan, Pat Mangan and Kevin Kelly and they set the pace in the opening half and they led by 1-4 to 1-3 at the break with a great goal from Harry Mulhaire keeping the “Town” side in touch. The introduction of Pascal Delaney and Eamon Whelan (carrying an injured arm) at the break changed the course of the game and little by little the “Town” gained control. “Atch” shot a point and then Pascal placed his brother Brian for a super goal which put Portlaoise ahead and they held out showing all their great indomitable qualities in great style.

All Ireland Club Semi-Final

Portlaoise lost narrowly to the Derry champions Bellaghy by 1-11 to 1-10 at Magherafelt in a thriller. Bellaghy had the edge in the opening half and a goal by Hugh Donnelly helped his side into a 1-6 to 0-5 lead. But it was Portlaoise who dictated the second half and, helped by a goal from Cyril O’Meara, led by a point with a minute remaining. Tall rangy Bellaghy midfielder, Frank O’Loane, got possession and sent over a high speculative kick to level. In a carbon copy score, O’Loane sent over the winner seconds later.

It was a heart-breaking defeat for Portlaoise who gave everything for the cause in a sporting game but hostile setting that was characterised by the sound of British Army helicopters flying over the ground. A huge contingent of fans came by car, bus and whatever means possible to support their side. The venue was in the heart of the troubled North, in which violence was at its very worst and danger lurked everywhere. Had Portlaoise held on for the draw it was odds on that the All-Ireland final was theirs for the winning. Bellaghy went on and captured the coveted title. Portlaoise had to wait another twelve years to gain the honour. The scorers were Cyril O’Meara (1-1), John Fennell (0-4), Pascal Delaney (0-4), Harry Mulhare (0-1).

Senior Footballers lose to Emo

Portlaoise, reigning Leinster club champions, bowed out at the semi-final stage to Emo by 1-8 to 1-6. The upset was marked from the early stages when Emo were faster from the traps and John Lalor shot two early points. Former Meath and Laois county star, Tom Browne, made a dream come-back with an overwhelming display at midfield and it was his mighty drive that was parried in the Portlaoise defence and John Lalor was on hand to crash to the net to give his team a 1-6 to 0-3 lead at the interval.

Portlaoise made their expected rally and brought the deficit down to two points but on this occasion time ran for them. The win was as the Leinster Express described as “Emo’s greatest hour”. Emo went on to claim the title by beating Graiguecullen in the final. Gabriel Lalor, Arthur McCluskey, Jimmy Dowling, Brian Lalor as well the aforementioned, John Lalor and Tom Browne, were to the fore for this historic win.

Portlaoise had previously defeated O’Dempseys by 0-13 to 0-12 after getting a walkover in the first round against Mountmellick.

Senior Hurling

Portlaoise failed to qualify for the later stages. They started their campaign on a positive note with a victory over Abbeyleix by 4-6 to 1-8.

Defeats against Colt by 2-5 to 4-2 and Rathdowney by 2-9 to 0-3, however, knocked them out of the championship. The team that played against Rathdowney:

Intermediate footballers capture title

Portlaoise defeated Portarlington 2-10 to 0-7 in the Intermediate Final, having had good wins in the previous rounds over Abbeyleix, St. Patricks and Killeshin (3-5 to 0-2).

Junior Football

The Juniors were knocked out in the first round by Abbeyleix, 3-8 to 1-3.

Under 21 Hurling Final Replay

Borris-in-Ossory defeated Portlaoise by 4-13 to 2-3, a great disappointment for town hurling in the delayed replayed final played in 1973. Portlaoise lost their centre-half back, Louis Duff, in the opening stages through injury and the absence of this pivotal figure had disastrous consequences for his side. They trailed by 2-6 to 0-0 after twenty minutes and the leeway was never going to be reduced.

The first meeting in May 1973 ended in a draw on a scoreline of Borris-in-Ossory 2-8 to Portlaoise’s 3-5. Portlaoise had defeated Abbeyleix in the semi-final by 2-11 to 1-0 and scored a great victory over Camross by 6-11 to 4-2 in an earlier round.

Minor Football Final.

Portlaoise beat Ballylinan, 1-6 to 0-7.

Portlaoise had defeated O’Dempseys, 1-4 to 0-4 in the semi-final.

Minor Hurling Final

Portlaoise beat Ballinakill by 7-5 to 1-4 in a one-sided final. In control all through, the “Town” side led by 3-3 to 0-2 at the break.

Ballinakill: Jim Maher, Eamon Maher, Pat Phelan, Mick Dunphy, John Lowry, Pat Dunphy, Philip Delaney, P.J. O’Meara, Des Garvan, Milo Simms, P.J. Walsh, Peter Hamm, Gerry Dooley, Nicky McGrath, P.J. Garvan

In the semis they overcame Errill by 6-3 to 5-2.

Under 17 Football

Portlaoise were victorious over Portarlington in the delayed Under 17 Football final played in 1973 by 7-8 to 2-3. Players noted were Martin Callaghan, Kieran Daly, Brendan Tynan, Pat Rogers, Tom Prendergast, John Keenan, Gerry Griffin, Colm Brown, Billy Bohane, John Nerney,

In the semi-final Portlaoise beat St. Michaels 1-7 to 0-6 and St. Josephs in an earlier round by 4-10 to1-5.

First Under 17 hurling championship and Under 17 double

Portlaoise captured the club’s first ever Under 17 Hurling Championship in 1972, producing a superb performance to defeat fancied opponents Durrow by 5-8 to 1-0 and secure a landmark juvenile hurling success for The Town.

Writing in its edition of Saturday, August 5, 1972, the Leinster Express described the result as a major upset, noting that Portlaoise played determined and disciplined hurling from the opening whistle and never allowed Durrow establish control of the contest.

The Town’s intensity and workrate proved decisive as Portlaoise powered clear to record an emphatic victory.

Among those singled out for outstanding performances were P. Rochford, K. Daly, M. Delaney, R. Delaney, M. Gilligan, L. Timmons and J. Bergin, who all played key roles in one of the great underage hurling milestones in Portlaoise history.

The footballers followed up that success in style when they defeated Portarlington by 7-8 to 2-3 in the delayed Under 17 Football Final, which was played in 1973.

Portlaoise had shown their championship credentials throughout the campaign. They opened with an emphatic 4-10 to 1-5 victory over St. Joseph’s before overcoming St. Michael’s by 1-7 to 0-6 in the semi-final.

Several players were singled out for praise over the championship run, including Martin Callaghan, Kieran Daly, Brendan Tynan, Pat Rogers, Tom Prendergast, John Keenan, Gerry Griffin, Colm Browne, Billy Bohane and John Nerney.

Under 16 Hurling

Portlaoise scored a surprise win over Camross on a 7-4 to 3-1 scoreline. There were good performances from K. Daly, P. Coss, M. Gilligan, R. Delaney, P. O’Brien, D. Dempsey, P. Carroll and L. Timmons. But Abbeyleix beat them in the final played in 1973.

Under 16 Football

Portlaoise lost to St. Michaels (Arles) by 2-8 to 2-5 in the final. Noted for the “Town” were Billy Bland, Martin Callaghan, Noel Foster and Tom Prendergast. Earlier results: Portlaoise 4-6 to The Heath 0-5. Portlaoise 3-10 to Stradbally 2-4. Other names noted for Portlaoise were B. Bowe, Billy Bohane, T. Keightley, Brendan Tynan (Capt), P. McEvoy, Pat Rogers, J. Maher, M. Sweeney, J. Bergin, L. Connell, M. Lewis, S. Kerry.

Under 14 Football

Portlaoise 2-8 to Stradbally 3-4. Best were S. Plunkett, J. Keenan,

M. Prendergast, S. Bergin, J. Bohan and M. Critchley. In the semi-final the first game ended in a draw, Portlaoise 1-5 to Ballyroan 1-5. Portlaoise won the replay by 1-11 to 2-7.

Best were M. Prendergast, S. Brennan, D. Dunne, S. Plunkett, G. Conroy, G. Browne and T. McEvoy. Portlaoise were beaten by Portarlington in the final by 0-13 to 1-0. Portlaoise 1-0: Players noted were Seamus Brennan, Donal Dunne, Maurice Prendergast, Seamus Plunkett, Ger Conroy, Gerry Browne and Tom McEvoy.

Under 14 Hurling

Portlaoise were defeated by Abbeyleix in the final. They beat Errill by 19-8 to 0-0 in the semi-final and Camross in an earlier round by 4-5 to 4-4.

Under 13 Hurling

Portlaoise won the Under 13 hurling Tourney final beating Abbeyleix by 6-3 to 4-2.

Under 12 Hurling Final

Portlaoise 6-1 to Abbeyleix 3-0. Best for Portlaoise were J. Coughlan, G. O’Brien, P. Critchley, Martin Conroy, M. Bohane and G. Phelan.

Under 12 Football Final

Portlaoise 6-5 to St. Josephs 0-1. Best were P. J. Bunyan, S. Dunne, J. Lewis, P. Roe, S. Smith, J. Carroll and J. Keogh.

The earlier rounds results were: Portlaoise 2-8 to The Heath 0-3. Best were J. Lewis, S. Smith, P. Roe, P. Critchley, J. Carroll, M. Bohane and L. Holland. Portlaoise 1-7 to Ballyroan 1-6. (Area Final). Portlaoise 1-6 to Mountrath 1-2 (semi-final).

Under 10 Football

Portlaoise 3-2 to Graiguecullen 0-2.

James Stephens Under 14 tournament

Glen Rovers were too good for Portlaoise in the James Stephens U14 hurling tournament winning by 7-5 to 3-4. Best for Portlaoise were M. Critchley, J. Conroy, J. Bohane, P. Corcoran, J. Keenan and M. Prendergast.

1972 honours

• Men’s Football – Intermediate Laois Intermediate ‘A’ Football Championship Portlaoise 2-10 v 0-7 Portarlington
• Men’s Football – Minor Laois Minor ‘A’ Football Championship Portlaoise 1-6 v 0-7 Ballylinan Captain: George Plunkett
• Men’s Football – Under 12 Laois U-12 ‘A’ Football Championship Portlaoise 6-5 v 0-1 St Joseph’s
• Men’s Football – Under 17 Laois U-17 ‘A’ Football Championship Portlaoise 7-8 v 2-3 Portarlington
• Hurling – Minor Laois Minor ‘A’ Hurling Championship Portlaoise 7-5 v 1-4 Ballinakill Captain: Philip Rochford
• Hurling – Under 12 Laois U-12 ‘A’ Hurling Championship Portlaoise 6-1 v 3-0 Abbeyleix
• Hurling – Under 17 Laois U-17 ‘A’ Hurling Championship Portlaoise 5-8 v 1-0 Durrow

The Club had mixed fortunes in the year, doing well at underage level but were disappointing at senior. Off the field major strides were made to acquire land for the development of playing fields and facilities. A special fields committee was formed to carry out this task.

The Leinster Express ran the headline (17 February, 1973): “Portlaoise-the club without a ground”. The article stated: “Portlaoise GAA Club, which is one of the oldest in the country, has another distinction all to itself. It is probably the only club with no grounds of its own.” This is an excerpt from the article:

Senior Football

A Portlaoise team in transition were narrowly defeated by Timahoe 0 -15 to 4-2 at Portarlington. Bobby Miller was the star for the winners shooting four points and Tom Joe Bradley deadly accurate from frees with an 0-8 tally. With the wind backing Timahoe raced into a six point lead and it took a goal by Pascal Delaney before halftime to get his side back into the game. It was 0-7 to 1-0 at the break and Timahoe continued to tack on regular points. But goals by Harry Mulhaire, John Fennell and a second one from Pascal kept Portlaoise right there until the end.

Senior Hurling

Portlaoise beat Clonad in the semi-final of the championship (North) by 2-5 to 1-5 The game was a thriller and the “Town” fully deserved this fine victory over their great local rivals. A goal by

Kevin Farrell just before half-time left his side ahead by 1-3 to 1-1 at the break. The prospects were far from bright when Noel Tynan was forced off with a serious finger injury with seven minutes to go and as Portlaoise had already used their three subs they could not replace the injured player. A goal by Brian Delaney, however, gave Portlaoise the edge in an exciting conclusion.

Portlaoise lost the final to Camross, 1-3 to 5-7. Camross led by 2-2 to 1-2 at the break but following the dismissal of a Portlaoise player on the restart, the winners gradually pulled away for an easy win.

Intermediate Hurling

Portlaoise gave Kyle a walkover.

Junior “B” Hurling

Portlaoise lost to Errill in the opening round by 6-5 to 3-2.

Junior Football

Portlaoise drew with Abbeyleix by 0-8 to 1-5 in the final. The “Town” led by 0-4 to 0-3 at the break but slipped behind in the second half. Eamon Whelan shot the equaliser and forced a replay. (See 1974 for replay).

Portlaoise had defeated Pike Of Rushall in the semi-final by 3-8 to 1-6.

Under 21 Hurling

Camross put an end to Portlaoise’s title hopes.

Minor Football

Portlaoise beat Graiguecullen in the final by 1-7 to 0-5 and so retained their title. Fielding no less than ten of the team that drew with Abbeyleix a few Sundays previously in the Junior final, the “Town” side trailed by 0-4 to 0-3 at half-time. Colm Browne was introduced for the second-half and he soon made his presence felt when shooting the equalising point. Then Liam Scully crashed home a goal which clinched the game for the “Town”.

Minor Hurling

Camross defeated Portlaoise.

Under 12 football five in a row and hurling double retained

Portlaoise easily defeated Mountmellick to retain the U12 football title having led by 1-3 to 0-2 at half-time. Best were K. Bunyan in goal, M. Kavanagh, D. Dempsey and J. Carroll in defence, J. Lewis and C. O’Reilly had a big grip on midfield and J. Taylor, S. Keogh and B. Conroy in the forwards.

In the Under 12 hurling, Portlaoise retained the title by beating Errill in the final.

Portlaoise defeated Stradbally in the Under 14 Football final 1-9 to 2-3.

Portlaoise beat Ballyroan 0-11 to 1-5 in the semi-final.

Portlaoise beat Abbeyleix in the Under 14 Hurling Final by 3-5 to 2-3. Noted were S. Smith, in goal, D. Corcoran, J. Bohan (Capt.), S. Brennan, B. Colgan, F. O’Brien, J. Harding, S. Conroy, N. Prendergast, P. Critchley, M. Prendergast, M. Dollard, M. Bohane, G. O’Brien, E. Buggy, M. Keegan.

Portlaoise beat Abbeyleix in the Under 16 hurling final. The panel was:

Portlaoise retained the Under 17 football title with a 7-8 to 2-3 win over Portarlington. Noted for Portlaoise were Martin Callaghan, Kieran Daly, Brendan Tynan, Pat Rogers, Tom Prendergast, John Keenan, Ger Griffin, Colm Brown, Billy Bohane, John Nurney.

Jack Delaney retires

Jack Delaney retired from the position of chairman of the Football Board, a post he had held since its inception in 1944.

Captain Eamon Whelan Leads Laois to Historic All-Ireland Glory

One of the greatest achievements in the history of Laois football came in 1973 when Portlaoise's Eamon "Atch" Whelan captained the county to its first ever All-Ireland football title.

The Junior Football Championship campaign began in May with a 3-10 to 1-10 victory over Kilkenny in O'Moore Park before Laois overcame Meath by 1-9 to 0-9 in the Leinster Final at Newbridge. Denis Booth starred with 1-4 as Laois claimed provincial honours.

Their Leinster success sent Laois directly into the All-Ireland Junior "Home" Final against Sligo in Longford. Laois produced a superb display to win comfortably by 2-13 to 1-5, with Andy Fennell scoring six points and goals coming from Danny Doogue and Tom Dowling.

That victory set up a historic trip to London for the All-Ireland Final against the powerful British champions. It was a landmark occasion, marking the first time a Laois county team travelled by air and only the second time a county team had travelled abroad to fulfil a fixture.

Played in New Eltham on the last Sunday of September, the final attracted huge interest from supporters both at home and in Britain. Laois led 0-10 to 0-5 at half-time and appeared to be heading for a comfortable victory before London mounted a determined second-half comeback.

Showing tremendous courage and resilience, Laois held on to win by the narrowest of margins, 0-12 to 1-8, sparking scenes of celebration as supporters flooded the pitch at the final whistle.

It was a breakthrough victory of enormous significance. After decades of near misses and disappointments, Laois had finally secured their first ever All-Ireland football title and only their second All-Ireland success in either code.

Captain Eamon Whelan played a central role throughout the campaign and scored three points in the final. Fellow Portlaoise clubman Mick Dooley also featured prominently and added a point on the day.

The achievement remains one of the most important moments in Laois GAA history and stands as a source of immense pride for Portlaoise GAA, whose captain led the county to a long-awaited place in the history books.

Camogie Club Dance

From the Leinster Express edition of 18 August 1973.The notice advertised a Portlaoise Camogie Club dance, which was due to take place in St Mary's Assembly Hall, Tower Hill, on Wednesday, 22 August.

Admission was 50p and dancing was scheduled from 9pm to 1am.

While only a small newspaper advertisement, the notice is an important early reference to organised camogie activity in Portlaoise and marks a valuable starting point in tracing the history of the camogie section within the club.

Deaths

The deaths took place of two renowned Laois men, Lar Brady and Jack Conroy, two former County Board Chairmen. Lorcan (Lar) Brady died at the age of eighty two and was from Lalor’s Mills, near Portlaoise. He was president of the Laois County GAA Board from the mid-sixties until his death and had previously been chairman for forty years (1924-1964). Although he had been Chairman of the Clonad club throughout its history, in his playing days he had also participated with both Portlaoise and Ballyroan.

Jack Conroy was from the Ridge Road and died on the 8th of January. He had been chairman of the Hurling Board, the County Board and in 1968 became president of the Leinster Council. He was a renowned referee, taking charge of provincial, All Ireland and Railway Cup Finals.

1973 honours

• Men’s Football – Senior Laois Senior Footballer of the Year Eamon Whelan
• Men’s Football – Junior Laois Junior ‘A’ Football Championship Portlaoise 0-8 v 1-5 Abbeyleix Captain: Peadar Molloy
• Men’s Football – Minor Laois Minor ‘A’ Football Championship Portlaoise 1-7 v 0-5 Graiguecullen Captain: Billy Bland
• Men’s Football – Under 12 Laois U-12 ‘A’ Football Championship Portlaoise v Mountmellick Captain: Jimmy Lewis
• Men’s Football – Under 12 Laois U-12 ‘B’ Football Championship
• Men’s Football – Under 14 Laois U-14 Football Championship Winners Portlaoise 1-9 v 2-3 Stradbally
• Hurling – Under 12 Laois U-12 ‘A’ Hurling Championship Portlaoise v ?
• Hurling – Under 14 Laois U-14 ‘A’ Hurling Championship Portlaoise 3-5 v 2-3 Abbeyleix
• Hurling – Under 16 Laois U-16 ‘A’ Hurling Championship Portlaoise v ?

Senior Football

Portlaoise had another set-back at senior level when just falling short against the 1973 champions St. Josephs by 2-8 to 1-9. St. Josephs had the best of the first half and led by 0-5 to 0-4 after playing against the strong breeze. A goal by Pascal Delaney kept Portlaoise hopes alive but the Saints held on under extreme pressure.

There was some consolation for the team when winning the Senior Football Durrow Tournament Final against Arles, 2-10 to 0-8.

Senior Hurling

Portlaoise were defeated by Borris-in-Ossory in their first round clash, 3-10 to 2-1. The final scoreline did little justice to a game Portlaoise effort and it was only in the closing stages that Borris pulled away. Indeed at half-time Borris led by 1-2 to 1-1 and it was all to play for until the final quarter.

Camross beat Portlaoise by 8-11 to 1-2 in the North semi-final. Camross also had an easy win over the “Town” in the O’Bradaigh Cup semi-final by 4-8 to 1-5.

Junior Football Final Replay 1973

After a close battle the sides again finished level at 1-6 apiece.

Junior Football Final 2nd Replay 1973

The 1973 JFC was finally completed on the 21st of April, Portlaoise winning by 1-10 to 0-11. There were two minutes silence observed before the game for the late Joseph Lalor of Green Mill Lane, Portlaoise, a prominent hurler for club and county and father of Portlaoise hurlers, Jimmy, Tom and Joe. The game was hard-fought and sporting and went down to the wire. Portlaoise laid the foundations in the opening quarter and led by 1-5 to 0-2, with Liam Scully bagging that vital goal.

In the Junior Championship of 1974, Portlaoise lost to Killeshin, 1-9 to 2-4

Junior Hurling

Castletown beat Portlaoise 3-5 to 0-5 in the semi-final of the “A” group qualifiers.

Under 21 Football

Portlaoise defeated the reigning champions O’Dempseys by 1-7 to 1-4 in the final. Playing delightful football a speedy skilful “Town” side caused an upset according to the Leinster Express. Portlaoise dominated the opening half and led by 1-5 to 0-1 at half-time.

En route to the final, Portlaoise had defeated Crettyard 5-11 to 0-7, this included a remarkable 4-3 scored by Tom Prendergast, The Heath by 2-9 to 0-5 and Barrowhouse, 2-16 to 2-4.

Minor Football

Portlaoise won their 3rd title in a row, beating Mountmellick by 1-8 to 0-7 on the 13th of October. Tom Prendergast was team captain and allied to wins in the U21 championship and the delayed Junior final, it all amounted to s super year for the superstar of the near future. The sides were level at 0-3 apiece at the break but Pat O’Brien’s second half goal was a vital breakthrough for the “Town” and put them firmly on the victory road.

Portlaoise’s passage to the final included easy victories against Emo by 9-7 to 2-3 and 4-7 to 0-3 over Graiguecullen.

Minor Hurling

Ballacolla beat Portlaoise 2-6 to 1-4.

Juvenile Championships

Portlaoise won the Under 17 hurling, Under 16 football and hurling, Under 14 hurling, Under 12 'A' in football and hurling and were runners up in the under 12 'B' hurling finals.

Portlaoise defeated Mountmellick in the Under 16 football final. Players noted were Seamus Brennan, Donal Dunne, Maurice Prendergast, Seamus Plunkett, Ger Conroy, Gerry Brown, Tom McEvoy. Portlaoise proved too good for Abbeyleix in both the Under 17 and Under 16 hurling finals.

In the Under 14 hurling Portlaoise beat Rathdowney 2-6 to 1-3.

In the Under 12 hurling, the 'A' team beat the 'B' team in the final played at the St. Brigid’s playing field. Jimmy Harding was referee. The panels were:

In the U12 'A'football final Portlaoise beat Ballyroan.

1974 honours

• Men’s Football – Minor Laois Minor ‘A’ Football Championship Portlaoise 1-8 v 0-7 Mountmellick Captain: Tom Prendergast
• Men’s Football – Under 16 Laois U-16 ‘A’ Football Championship
• Men’s Football – Under 21 Laois U-21 ‘A’ Football Championship Portlaoise 1-7 v 1-4 O’Dempsey’s Captain: Eamon Whelan
• Hurling – Under 12 Laois U-12 ‘A’ Hurling Championship Portlaoise A v Portlaoise B
• Hurling – Under 12 Laois U-12 ‘B’ Hurling Championship
• Hurling – Under 14 Laois U-14 ‘A’ Hurling Championship Portlaoise 2-6 v 1-3 Rathdowney
• Hurling – Under 16 Laois U-16 ‘A’ Hurling Championship Portlaoise v Abbeyleix

AGM

Over one hundred members attended the AGM in the CBS rooms. Jimmy Cotter was unanimously elected Chairman on the stepping down of Teddy Fennelly to the role of Vice-Chairman, after serving four years in the top position.

An historic milestone

The Laois GAA Yearbook for 1975 reported on a very satisfactory year for the “Town”. The article read: Not since the late Fr. Kearney C.C., who was then chairman of club and county, gave a present of the Portlaoise club grounds to the County Committee in the opening decades of the century has the county town club laid claim to a grounds of their own. In the interim years the club has used a number of different locations about the town for the purpose of training their teams but tenancy in any one area was rather tenuous and the lack of a proper and secure base has had a harmful effect on the club as a whole.

“But 1975 changed all that. By coming to an agreement with the VEC to jointly develop a six acre site in the centre of the town, a historic milestone has been reached in the history of the club. A plan has been drafted which sets out in stages a major development project which when finished will give the Portlaoise players and the Vocational schoolboys the most up to date pitch and training facilities.

“Stage one has already been completed at a cost of around £4,000. The field has been drained and levelled and a new sod has been put down. This first class playing pitch will be ready for use in the 1976 season. Stage two will be fencing off the grounds and further stages envisage the building of fully equipped dressing rooms and other facilities. There has been a tremendous response in favour of this long delayed venture and the entire project should be realised in a couple of years. “Without doubt then the highlight in 1975 was the Fields Development undertaking but the year was also notable on a number of other fronts. The Intermediate and Under 21 footballers carried off the double and the minor footballers can make it an unique treble crown.”

The article also praised “the wonderful work of the Juvenile Committee which only came into operation last year. Their fund-raising campaigns not only raised enough funds to pay their own way but they assisted the senior club financially as well. As well as this they won the lion’s share of the juvenile championships.”

The writer then gives a fascinating insight into the work of the Juvenile Committee around this period. “If the emphasis weighs slightly in favour of football in the club at senior level, it is hurling that holds the centre court at juvenile level, especially in the meticulously organised and operated internal club competitions.”

There were other achievements as well. “Tom Flynn, a prominent club member and a former treasurer, won a Leinster title for Recitation. No mean achievement. Eamon “Atch” Whelan was honoured by the provincial selectors. George Plunkett captained the county Under 21 footballers that went so close to winning the Leinster … It was especially nice to see John Joe Ging regaining a regular place on the county senior hurling team. One distinction that could not be let pass was that of Peadar Molloy. Since Portlaoise last won the senior football title in 1971, the Intermediate footballers twice and the Junior footballers have captured county titles-and all three winning teams were captained by Peadar.”

Senior Football

Portlaoise’s poor run in the SFC continued when they fell at the first hurdle, losing to Stradbally by 1-8 to 0-9. The team’s scorers were Tom Prendergast (0-3), Brian Delaney (0-2), Harry Mulhaire, Liam Scully, Mick Dooley and Gerry Griffin (0-1 each). Portlaoise led by 0-8 to 0-3 at the break but, incredibly, were outpaced and outscored in the second half and so exited the championship early for the fourth consecutive year. Sean Delaney, who was to win many championships with the “Town” in hurling in the 1980s, scored the vital goal for Stradbally at the three-quarter stage.

Senior Hurling

It was all too easy for Clonad in this second round tie winning by 2-16 to 0-7. While Portlaoise had a first round bye, Clonad had the benefit of two championship games having beaten Ballinakill in a replay in the opening round. These games stood to them and they put their brand on the game in the opening half leading by 2-7 to 0-4 at the break. Noted for Portlaoise were John Joe Ging, Peadar Molloy, Jack Kavanagh, Brendan Tynan, Ambrose Larkin, Seamus Beere and Mick Mulhall. Clonad beat Colt in the semi-final after a replay but then lost by 0-13 to 0-8 in the final to Clonaslee.

Fourth title in Intermediate Football

Portlaoise won their fourth Intermediate title by beating Barrowhouse, 0-12 to 1-8. Colm Browne was the star of the show scoring a long range point in the opening seconds and showing his class all through. Colm and Bernie Conroy shared 0-8 between them. They were 0-6 to 0-0 up at the end of the first quarter and at half-time still held an 0-8 to 1-0 advantage. Barrowhouse, seeking their first title in the grade, got back within a point of their rivals but missed a few chances any one of which would have forced the game to a replay.

Junior football

In the Junior Football, Portlaoise were eliminated by Portarlington, 1-5 to 0-3.

Junior ‘B’ Hurling

Camross beat Portlaoise by 1-4 to 0-5.

Under 21 Football Final

Portlaoise ruled supreme in this match over Arles by 2-10 to 0-4, scoring an early goal to get off to an ideal start, they were in command throughout. Full-forward, Jim Griffin, shot that early goal and his brother, Gerry, snatched another one before the break to help their side into a 2-3 to 0-3 half-time lead.

Portlaoise’s passage to the final included victories over Portarlington by 2-11 to 2-8, St. Josephs 5-10 to 3-7 and O’Dempseys by 1-10 to 2-5.

Under 21 Hurling

Durrow defeated Portlaoise.

Minor Football Final goes to replay

The first game played in October ended at 2-8 each which according to the newspaper report “may have been overshadowed by the senior final on the same day but for thrills, excitement and brilliant football it proved far superior to its senior counterpart.” The replay took place a month later and it proved an equally thrilling affair ending again in a draw at 1-7 each. Portlaoise were cruising in the early stages and were looking comfortable until Declan O’Loughlin crashed through a tight Portlaoise defence and drove to the net. Sharpshooter, Donie Williams, levelled the match from a free in the closing stages and Mountmelick almost snatched a late winner.

Portlaoise’s run to the final included victories over Arles 1-11 to 1-1, Ballyroan by 1-10 to 0-8 and Courtwood in the semi-final, 2-14 to 0-3.

After two drawn games the previous November, Mountmellick defeated Portlaoise by 1-8 to 0-4 in the delayed second replay played on 7 March 1976. It was a great success for Mountmellick and a rare occasion to beat the “Town” in a final. They proved too strong on the day.

Minor hurling

Portlaoise beat Durrow 4-4 to 2-4 in the opening round but were narrowly defeated by Abbeyleix, the eventual winners of the title in the next round.

Under 16 double

Under 16A Football final: Portlaoise win from Stradbally in the final.

The Under 16 hurlers beat Abbeyleix in the final.

Under 14 Football Final

Portlaoise beat Crettyard 3-8 to 0-8 in the final. Scorers were S. Keogh (1-2), John Taylor (1-0), J. Curtin (1-1), Jimmy Lewis (0-2), N. Conroy and J. Carroll (0-1 each).

U14 Hurling League

Over 200 players and eleven teams from the town took part in the annual John Cole U14 hurling league, which was the biggest and best organised of its kind in the country.

Under 12 Football and Hurling Finals

In football Portlaoise defeated Timahoe and in hurling they defeated Mountrath for a super double.

1975 honours

• Men’s Football – Intermediate Laois Intermediate ‘A’ Football Championship Portlaoise 0-12 v 1-8 Barrowhouse
• Men’s Football – Under 14 Laois U-14 Football Championship Winners Portlaoise 3-8 v 0-8 Crettyard
• Men’s Football – Under 16 Laois U-16 ‘A’ Football Championship
• Men’s Football – Under 21 Laois U-21 ‘A’ Football Championship Portlaoise 2-10 v 0-4 Arles Captain: George Plunkett
• Hurling – Under 12 Laois U-12 ‘A’ Hurling Championship Portlaoise v Mountrath
• Hurling – Under 16 Laois U-16 ‘A’ Hurling Championship Portlaoise v Abbeyleix Captain: Francis O’Brien

AGM

Senior Football County Final

Portlaoise’s young stars showed their paces in the earlier games of the championship but the big question was-were they good enough to win the county title. They were-and better still they went on to win a Leinster title as well. What a team! The first match ended level 0-9 to 1-6, Graiguecullen earning a draw with a last minute goal from Eamon Culleton. There had been rain overnight and before the game but still it did not hamper the skill nor dampen the excitement.

Portlaoise won the replay by 2-10 to 0-10. The youthful “Town” side showed a brand of fast attacking football that had never previously been witnessed in the county. This teed the side up perfectly for a good run in the club championship.

The route to the final included a victory over Mountmellick by 4-12 to 0-6 in the first round.

They also defeated St. Josephs by 2-12 to 4-3 and Courtwood in the semi-final, 1-14 to 1-7.

A second Leinster crown for The Town

Portlaoise started their campaign with an easy victory over Wexford side, Castletown, 5-12 to 0-6. This was followed by a great victory over the reigning All Ireland Champions, St. Vincents of Dublin, 1-7 to 0-9. The only goal was scored by Tom Prendergast who finished with a tally of 1–2. The opponents had magnificent talent in their side including Jimmy Keaveney, Bobby Doyle, Tony Hanahoe, Brian Mullins, Fran Ryder. But Portlaooise were not overawed by this array of All-Ireland stars and staged an heroic showing, one of the best wins in the club’s illustrious history.

The team had another impressive victory in the semi-final over Moate at Tullamore by 3-5 to 1-5.

Senior Hurling Championship

Portlaoise bowed out to Clonad by 2-13 to 2-5 at the quarter-final stage. Portlaoise had beaten Colt 5-10 to 3-7 in an earlier round. Portlaoise trailed by two points, 1-5 to 1-3, at the break but Clonad took control in the second half.

Intermediate Football

Having disposed of Ballyfin by 0-8 to 0-3, the ‘Town’ met The Heath in the semi-final. The teams finished level on the first meeting (Portlaoise 0-8, The Heath 1-5) before The Heath came out on top in the replay by a single point, 2-6 to 0-11. Portlaoise led by 0-7 to 0-2 at the break but a great goal by substitute, Frank Keane, put The Heath in the driving seat in the second half.

Junior Football

St. Patricks, an area team backboned by Ballyfin players, ousted the ‘Town’ in a thriller by 1-10 to 1-8. The match report claimed it was one of the best games played in the grade. Portlaoise led all the way but had victory snatched from their grasp in the dying moments when P. McDonald, who had just come on as a sub scored the all-important goal for the winners.

Junior Hurling

Portlaoise beat Ballyfin 2-5 to 1-6 in the first round.

After beating Ballypickas next by 1-7 to 0-5, Abbeyleix put a stop to their gallop in the semi-final by 4-11 to 0-2.

Under 21 Hurling

Portlaoise came within a whisker of reaching the final when they were just ousted by the minimum of margins by Durrow in the semi-final at Mountrath. It was a cracking game all through. The teams were level at the break but Portlaoise were three points up and only three minutes remaining. Back came Durrow to level and with seconds to go Francis Jacob sent over the winner and heartbreak for the ‘Town’ lads.

Under 21 Football

Portlaoise made it three in a row in the U21 football grade by beating Mountmellick 2-11 to 0-12 in an entertaining delayed final played in 1977. Portlaoise went into the break leading by 1-7 to 0-4 thanks to a goal by big full forward, George Buggy, just before half-time. A second half goal by Liam Scully settled the issue.

Portlaoise beat The Heath 1-16 to 0-1 in an earlier round. Semi-Final: Portlaoise 2-14 to St. Josephs 0-9.

Minor Football

Portlaoise compensated for their defeat in the second replay of the delayed final of the previous year when they outclassed Graiguecullen by 3-12 to 1-6 in the current year’s decider.

Gerry Browne with 1-7 was the star of this runaway win.

Minor Hurling

Semi-Final: Abbeyleix 5-11 to Portlaoise 4-4.

First Féile na nGael title

A landmark achievement arrived in 1976 when Portlaoise captured the club’s first ever Féile na nGael hurling title at Under 14 level.

Portlaoise defeated Rathdowney in the county final to secure Féile honours and earn the right to represent Laois on the national stage.

The young Portlaoise side travelled to Cork for the national Féile na nGael finals, giving players the opportunity to test themselves against some of the strongest juvenile hurling teams in the country.

Under 17 Hurling

Portlaoise won the Under 17 hurling final beating Abbeyleix

Under 14 Football

Under 14 Football Final: Portlaoise beat O'Dempseys, 4-10 to 0-6.

1976 honours

• Men’s Football – Senior Laois Senior Footballer of the Year Eamon Whelan
• Men’s Football – Minor Laois Minor ‘A’ Football Championship Portlaoise 3-12 v 1-6 Graiguecullen Captain: Seamus Plunkett
• Men’s Football – Senior Laois ACFL Div 2 Portlaoise 2-11 v 1-3 Portarlington
• Men’s Football – Senior Laois Senior Football Championship Portlaoise 0-9 v 1-6 Graiguecullen Captain: Mick Dooley
• Men’s Football – Under 14 Laois U-14 Football Championship Winners Portlaoise 4-10 v 0-6 O’Dempsey’s
• Men’s Football – Under 21 Laois U-21 ‘A’ Football Championship Portlaoise 2-11 v 0-12 Mountmellick Captain: Tom Prendergast
• Hurling – Under 14 & Under 15 Laois Féile na nGael Division 1 Portlaoise v Rathdowney
• Hurling – Under 17 Laois U-17 ‘A’ Hurling Championship Portlaoise v Abbeyleix Camross Captain: Ger Rooney

AGM

At the meeting sympathy was expressed to Mrs. Brigid Dowling on the death of her husband Ralph during the year. Ralph had been the social committee chairman and was the inspiration for other club members to plan for the acquisition of a playing field and club centre. Unfortunately Ralph did not live to see the project coming to a successful conclusion within the next five years, but credit must be given to him for pushing ahead with the campaign against great odds.

Sympathy was also extended to the Scully family of the Borris Road on the death of Paddy Scully, a life-long member of the club and a current Vice-President. Paddy was one of the great men who re-established the club in 1949 and helped grow it into a major force in the county.

Leinster Club Final

Portlaoise started off the season successfully with a great victory in the Leinster Club Final over Cooley Kickhams in Croke Park. Not since the glory days of 1972 had Portlaoise lifted this trophy but this time a very young team put in a majestic display to equal this feat. Portlaoise were superior in all aspects of the contest with Eamonn Whelan and Tom Prendergast the most outstanding, the latter unfortunate to be sent off by over fussy refereeing with only five minutes to go. The score was 1-12 to 0-8.

All Ireland Semi-Final

In the semi-final against Austin Stacks, it was the case of what might have been. It was a magnificent match and a glorious defeat if that is not a contradiction but this was certainly no consolation to the players. The game will be remembered for two sublime goals by Tom Prendergast. Portlaoise regained the lead with six minutes to go from a point from Eamonn Whelan. A late Tim Sheehan goal finally finished off the home team.

A crowd of 10,000 turned up at O’Moore Park for this thriller that was universally considered one of the best club games ever played. Austin Stacks had five current All-Stars in their lineout, John O’Keeffe, Ger Power, Ger O’Keeffe, Cork star, Dinny Long, and Mikey Sheehy. The final score was 1-14 to 2-6.

Portlaoise’s worries began prior to the game when their regular strongman centre half back, Jimmy Bergin, was forced to cry off with flu. Colm Browne was drafted back to fill the gap and what a game he played in his new position! But his loss to the forwards and Bergin’s morale loss to the team were undoubtedly factors in this bravest of efforts by one of the youngest senior teams in the country.

Senior Football

Portlaoise bowed out to St. Josephs in the semi-final by 2-7 to 0-10 after a thrilling game. Portlaoise were cruising at half-time when leading by 0-7 to 0-2 but when the Saints got the use of the second half breeze they scored 2-5 of their 2-7 total in the third quarter. This left the reigning Leinster club champions two goals adrift but the “Town” never throws in the towel and fought back in the closing quarter but just failing to get the vital scores.

Senior Hurlers lose final

The Portlaoise senior hurlers did well to qualify for the final for the first time since 1960. But it was fairly one-sided as Camross proved much too strong and won by 2-14 to 0-5. Camross had the main work done by half-time when they led by 2-7 to 0-3.

To qualify for the final Portlaoise had to play Ballyfin twice before getting the ticket for the semi-final against Ballacolla. Portlaoise 1-5 to Ballyfin 1-5. (Draw); Portlaoise 3-8 to Ballyfin 1-10. Two early goals against hot favourites Ballacolla set the pattern for a great result for the town. Pat Critchley whipped in a third goal to leave the “Town” leading by 3-4 to 0-4 at the break.

Portlaoise shot fourteen wides during the hour and this allowed Ballacolla back into the game which was level with only a minute remaining. Up stepped that irrepressible Portlaoise stalwart, Jimmy Keenan, to drive the sliotar between the posts for the winner in the dying seconds to get his team to the final for the first time in 17 years.

Footballers win SFL Div 2 title

Portlaoise had too much firepower in this one sided final. Portlaoise 2-11 to Portarlington 1-3.

Intermediate Football

Timahoe 2-9 to Portlaoise 1-7.

Junior Football

Portlaoise had to fight all the way to dispose of St Manmans by 0-10 to 1-4 under difficult conditions in a thrilling final. It was Portlaoise’s better striking power that earned them the victory. St. Manmans proved fit and eager but, despite having most of the possession went into the break trailing by 0-5 to 0-2.

Earlier results: Portlaoise 2-5 to St. Fintan’s, Colt 0-2. Portlaoise 5-7 to St. Josephs 1-4. Portlaoise 1-13 to The Rock 1-3. Semi-Final: Portlaoise 0-10 to Abbeyleix 0-10 (Draw): Portlaoise 3-14 to Abbeyleix 1-11 (Replay).

Junior and U21 Hurling

Portlaoise did not take part in the championship, nor in the Under 21s, leaving them with only one team, the seniors, contesting the adult competitions in hurling. This was a rare occurrence for the club at this period. It eventually led to a reappraisal of hurling in Portlaoise and the advent of the golden period for Portlaoise hurling in the 1980s.

Under 21 footballers four-in-a-row

Portlaoise won the U21 title for the fourth year in a row by 1-9 to 2-4 but they did not have it all their own way against a very stubborn and talented Mountmellick side. Mountmellick had lost the 1976 final a little earlier in the year and were out for revenge. But they were unfortunate to meet a “Town” squad that was full of superstars in the making. Portlaoise were quicker out of the traps and led by 0-5 to 0-0. Mountmellick were back with some good scores and an in-form Declan O’Loughlin but a goal by Noel Scully proved the killer blow.

In earlier rounds Portlaoise beat St. Fintans, Mountrath 5-6 to 0-6 and O’Dempseys 4-8 to 2-6. Semi-Final: Portlaoise 2-12 to The Heath 0-4.

Minor Football

Stradbally 3-9 to Portlaoise 1-4.

Minor Hurling

Rathdowney 2-13 to Portlaoise 1-5.

Under 17 Football

Stradbally just managed to get over the line against Portlaoise in a tense and exciting final by 1-7 to 1-6. There was never more than a point between the sides and a goal by Noel Prendergast seemed to give the ‘Town’ the advantage but a towering display by midfielder, John Ramsbottom, who scored four points into the bargain, helped give Stradbally the winning edge.

In the semi-final, Portlaoise won on a scoreline of Portlaoise 9-11 to Graiguecullen 1-2.

Under 16 Football

Portlaoise won the title at the expense of Crettyard by 1-8 to 1-5. It was closely fought all the way with Portlaoise, who led by a single point at half-time just managing to keep their rivals at bay.

1977 honours

• Men’s Football – Junior Laois Junior ‘A’ Football Championship Portlaoise 0-10 v 1-4 St. Manman’s Captain: Peadar Molloy
• Men’s Football – Under 14 Laois U-14 Football Championship Winners Portlaoise 2-12 v 0-2 Stradbally
• Men’s Football – Under 16 Laois U-16 ‘A’ Football Championship Portlaoise 1-8 v 1-5 Crettyard
• Men’s Football – Under 21 Laois U-21 ‘A’ Football Championship Portlaoise 1-9 v 2-4 Mountmellick Captain: Kieran Daly

AGM

That the Portlaoise Club was finally getting its own pitch and club centre was the main message of the meeting. The laying of a new field would begin soon and also a sports centre with dressing rooms, a functions hall and indoor sports, kitchen facilities and a bar. The club had failed to field teams in U21 and Junior hurling grades for the first time yet it was a year

the senior team reached the county final for the first time in seventeen years. There was great praise for the social committee who contributed a cheque of £800 to the club treasurer, cleared a hefty debt on the field jointly developed by the club and the VEC and handed over a cheque for £2,500 towards the purchase of the land adjacent to O’Moore Park.

Teddy Fennelly, who had taken over the reins as Chairman early in 1977, due to the resignation of Jimmy Cotter on health grounds, was re-elected to the top position. He set out his stall by telling members that his aims included the provision of top facilities for the club and putting Portlaoise back on top of the hurling world in Laois as well as in football. The vacant position of Vice-Chairman was filled by club hurling supremo, Tom Lalor.

Press Conference

There was a press conference held in the Killeshin Hotel in March 1978 revealing future developments of the club. The main speaker was Con Murphy the President of the GAA. Club chairman, Teddy Fennelly, launched the plan and gave details of what was proposed. He said that Portlaoise was looking confidently to the future and that there would be a continuing concentration on nurturing the games and now the club had plans for first-class facilities as well. He stated that the total cost of the new facilities would cost in excess of fifty thousand pounds and that a lot of the work would be done on a volunteer basis. Many fund raising events were also announced.

Mr. Murphy emphasised that Portlaoise, a town of 8,000 people needed this development and the Association were only too willing to support clubs in playing important roles in their communities and planning for the future. He was pleased to see that the CBS and other schools were deeply involved in the club and that women were also involved in the development.

They have an important role to play, he said. The President appealed for support from the wider public and especially from the business people of the town.

Chairman of the Leinster Council, Paddy Buggy, a president of the Association in the years ahead, said he was impressed by the way the plans and the campaign was being presented and wished the club the best of success into the future. Chairman of the County Board, Sean Ramsbottom, also fully supported the development and reminded listeners of the great work of a former County Board Chairman, Fr. John Kearney, for club and county. It was he, said Mr. Ramsbottom, who acquired the O’Moore Park grounds for the club and transferred them to the county. “Portlaoise it could be said was coming home”, added Mr. Ramsbottom.

Under a banner heading “Portlaoise GAA to invest £50,000 in new facilities” the Leinster Express reported extensively on the press conference.

This is an excerpt:

‘In a comprehensive and wide ranging address at the launching, the Association’s President, Mr Con Murphy said he was highly honoured to be invited to attend such an auspicious occasion for the club. He was doubly pleased to be present he said at a moment in time when the club unit was recognised to be all important to the Association. One of the surest ways to make a club successful he stressed was for it to have its own ground and facilities. He lavishly congratulated the club officers on the amount of work they had put into the planning and forecast that the development when it is completed by the end of 1979 will be a credit to all concerned.’

Club Chairman, Teddy Fennelly, detailed the ambitious fund-raising programme as the Leinster Express reported:

‘1. Direct Appeal for subscriptions to the firms, traders and general public in Portlaoise. 2. Monster Sponsored Walk on Easter Sunday to Mountmellick. 3. Dance in the Club Ossory, Borris in Ossory Easter Saturday night. 4. Monster Field Day on the June Holiday-details later. 5. Juvenile-Ciste Gael. 6. Juvenile-Silver Cirlce. 7. Supper Dances and Cabarets. 8. Festival of Dancing in Club Ossary in September. 9. 500 Club continues. 10. Armchair Horse Racing.’

The GAA President, Con Murphy, praised the role of women in the Association. He urged for the support of all interests in the town for the project. The Leinster Express reported:

The role of women in the Association was highlighted by the President. They give invaluable service he said and he was delighted to see some present. They are now recognised for their valuable contribution to fund-raising, catering and Social Centres generally and were an important part of the GAA movement. Mr Murphy emphasised that Portlaoise needed this development. “It is good for the town and the area. It deserves the support of the people of the area it has served for so long. I appeal also to the business community for your every backing. Portlaoise is a strong virile unit of the Association. I congratulate them once again and I must say that I like their project. I look forward to seeing it completed in the time specified. I wish the project every success and am glad to be here. In 1979 you will see your club one of the greatest in the country.”

One of the major fund-raising events for the year in connection with the big development was a tournament game featuring Laois and Kerry in June. Kerry won by 2-8 to 0-9.

Senior Football

In the opening round Portlaoise defeated The Heath by 0-12 to 0-7.

There was a shock elimination for Portlaoise in the next round, however, when they were defeated by O’Dempseys, 3-9 to 0-11. The sides were level at the break but second half goals from John Nerney and Mick Ahearne put the game beyond fancied Portlaoise. John Costello was a big influence at midfield but the man of the match was the “Town” midfielder, Mick Dooley who player a “stormer” according to the match report.

In the league semi-final (played in 1980) Portlaoise pipped St. Josephs by 2-8 to 1-10. In the final they beat The Heath 6-10 to 1-5 in a lob-sided game.

Senior Hurling

The initial part of this competition was played on a league basis but Portlaoise had a very disappointing campaign, failing to reach the knockout phase. Some of their results included a victory over Colt by 4-14 to 6-3 followed by a heavy defeat by Borris In Ossory, 3-16 to 0-7.

Portlaoise next succumbed to the firepower of the holders, Camross, by 1-9 to 0-3. The “Town” side did not disgrace themselves but lacked a cutting edge in front of goal.

In other games, Ballinakill just had the edge on a 1-11 to 1-7 scoreline and they also suffered a defeat against Cullohill by 2-8 to 5-5 to eliminate them from the championship. Portlaoise faltered in last ten minutes conceding three goals, having done well for most of the hour.

Intermediate Football

Portlaoise 1-11 to Kilcavan 1-3.

Portlaoise 2-7 to O’Dempseys 0-4.

Park 1-5 to Portlaoise 0-7. The team that played Park was:

(Only 14 players listed in newspaper report. Who is the missing player? That is the question!).

Junior hurlers

Portlaoise beat Mountrath by 3-5 to 0-4. Scorers: Jim Griffin (2-0), Jack McDonald (1-1), Brendan Tynan (0-3), Ollie Byrne (0-1).

Junior Football

Portlaoise 0-9 to St. Manmans 0-9. (Draw) St. Manmans 0-14 to Portlaoise 2-3. (Replay)

First ever U21 hurling title

Portlaoise had a seven point victory over Abbeyleix, 2-10 to 1-6 to capture the very first title in the grade for the “Town”. They laid the foundation for this victory in the first half while playing against a strong breeze they went in trailing by a mere point. In the second half it was all one way traffic-and a good omen for the coming years.

It is fascinating to look at the team line up and the important role many of them would play a major part in the successes of the 80’s. In the earlier rounds, Portlaoise impressed greatly with a win over Borris-in-Ossory on a scoreline of 1-22 to 2-1 and Ballacolla by 5-13 to 3-6.

Under 21 Football

Portaoise had an easy victory over Mountmellick by 3 -11 to no score in the final (played in 1980).

Earlier results: Portlaoise 12-9 to Stradbally 1-4. Portlaoise 2-6 to Ballyroan 0-6.

Minor Football

Portlaoise narrowly defeated Ballyroan to regain the title by 1-8 to 1-6. The opposition had the better of the first period, leading 1-5 to 1-1 at half time. After the interval Portlaoise rallied, and putting on a much improved performance, they shot seven points to Ballyroan’s single score.

In the semi-final they had beaten Portarlington 4-15 to 4-4 and they beat Mountmellick by a sixteen point margin and Timahoe by 7-8 to 2-6 in earlier rounds.

Minor Hurling

Portlaoise were narrowly defeated by Rathdowney at the semi-final stage. In an earlier round the result was Portlaoise 7-18 to Clonaslee 0-0.

The team that played Rathdowney was:

Under 17 Football

A cracking final between Portlaoise and Stradbally ended all square, 2-7 to 1-10. Portlaoise scorers were Mark Kavanagh (1-2), Sean Keogh (1-0), Pat Roe (0-2), Martin Conroy (0-2), Jimmy Lewis (0-1).

In the replay, Portlaoise overcame Stradbally in a thriller 2-6 to 2-4. Stradbally led by four points in the second half but were finally overwhelmed in a pulsating finish.

Under 17 Hurling

Camross/Ballyfin beat Portlaoise by six points in a replay and went on to beat Castletown in the final.

Under 16 Hurling

Potlaoise were victorious over Rathdowney by 6-4 to 2-1. Portlaoise players that stood out were Sean Dunne, Pat Roe, John Carroll, Ollie Dunne, Ciaran Conroy and Declan Critchley.

Under 16 Football

Portrlaoise won the final from Stradbally by 2-6 to 2-4.

Under 14 Football

Portlaoise defeated Graiguecullen by 3-6 to 2-2.

Under 12 Football

Portlaoise defeated Portarlington by 2-4 to 1-2 to regain the title. A good second half secured victory, starting with a Liam Duggan goal and then another from Dom Delaney. The opposition were kept scoreless for this period.

Under 12 Hurling

Final: Rathdowney 5-2 to Portlaoise 1-0.

Street League final

St. Brigids won the hurling street league final beating Marian Place 4-6 to 4-1. The losers led by 3-0 to 1-1 at the break but regretted the many opportunities to put them further ahead. St. Brigids bounced back with Jimmy Harding and Billy Bohane taking a firm grip at midfield. Noel Tynan, Mark Kavanagh and Tony Maher were best in the winner’s attack while goalie, Michael Bohane, along with Ollie Byrne, John Bohane and Paddy Harding were to the fore n defence. Most prominent for Marian Place were the Keenans, Jimmy, Pat, Joe and Frank, with Toss Hayes, Philip Rochford, Bernie Conroy, Tom Prendergast, Colm Browne, Matt Keegan and Ambrose Larkin. After the game Bill Phelan presented the cup which he donated himself to the winning captain, Noel Tynan. The losing captain, Jimmy Keenan, was also presented with a trophy.

First Reported Camogie Club AGM

The first known reported mention of a Portlaoise Camogie Club AGM appeared in the Portlaoise District News section of the Leinster Express on 25 March 1978 and the 31 March edition of The Nationalist.

The report noted that the annual general meeting had been held in the County Hotel, Portlaoise, on Wednesday, 8 March, with a good attendance of both old and new members.

The short report also included a welcoming note that new members were always welcome, showing that the camogie club was actively seeking to grow and strengthen its membership at the time.

This notice is an important record in the early history of Portlaoise Camogie, giving the first known details of officers, team leadership and organised club structures within the section.

First Camogie Match Report in Print

The first known newspaper match report involving Portlaoise Camogie Club appeared in the Leinster Express of 29 July 1978.

The report recorded a surprise victory for Portlaoise over one of the county's traditional camogie strongholds, Camross.

Portlaoise emerged victorious on a scoreline of 2-1 to 1-1, a result that would have been regarded as a significant achievement given Camross' long-established reputation within the game.

While only a brief report survives, it provides an important milestone in the history of Portlaoise Camogie as the earliest known match report involving the club to appear in the local press.

1978 honours

• Men’s Football – Minor Laois Minor ‘A’ Football Championship Portlaoise 1-8 v 1-6 Ballyroan Captain: Paddy Dunne
• Men’s Football – Senior Laois ACFL Div 1 Portlaoise 6-10 v 1-5 The Heath
• Men’s Football – Under 12 Laois U-12 ‘A’ Football Championship Portlaoise 2-4 v 1-2 Portarlington
• Men’s Football – Under 14 Laois U-14 Football Championship Winners Portlaoise 3-6 v 2-2 Graiguecullen
• Men’s Football – Under 16 Laois U-16 ‘A’ Football Championship Portlaoise 2-6 v 2-4 Stradbally
• Men’s Football – Under 17 Laois U-17 ‘A’ Football Championship Portlaoise 2-7 v 1-10 Stradbally
• Men’s Football – Under 21 Laois U-21 ‘A’ Football Championship Portlaoise 3-11 v 0-0 Mountmellick Captain: Colm Browne
• Hurling – Under 16 Laois U-16 ‘A’ Hurling Championship Portlaoise 6-4 v 2-1 Rathdowney
• Hurling – Under 21 Laois U-21 ‘A’ Hurling Championship Portlaoise 2-10 v 1-6 Abbeyleix Captain: Sean Bergin

AGM

12th senior football title

Portlaoise secured a narrow victory over St. Josephs 1-10 to 1-9 to clinch their 12th title on the 9th of September and so foil the Saints of a three-in-a-row. It was a real cliff-hanger and the result of the contest was in the balance until the final whistle. The “Town” came from behind in the opening half to lead by 1-6 to 0-6 at the interval. It was a game that yielded three penalty awards to the Saints, one in the opening half that was sent over the bar by P.J. Garvan.

In the third quarter, Tony O’Brien’s spot kick skidded off the upright and over and some minutes later, P.J. Garvan dispatched to the net their third penalty, which levelled matters with ten minutes remaining. Both sides had their chances but it was Billy Bohane, who pointed a free from an acute angle near the end who settled the destination of the title.

The passage to the final included victories at the league stage over Portarlington by 1-13 to 0-4, Graiguecullen 2 -8 to 0-8,

The Heath 1-9 to 1-7, Mountmellick 2-8 to 0-9, and Courtwood. They were defeated by Emo 3-7 to 1-11. In the semi-final Portlaoise got the better of O’Dempseys by 4-9 to 0-7.

Leinster Club Football

In the first round Portlaoise defeated Navan O’Mahoneys by 1-11 to 1-10 in Navan on the 4th of November. This was an immense result for Portlaoise, having to play in the opponent’s home ground for fifty eight minutes with only fourteen men. A free was awarded to the home side which was disputed by left half back George Plunkett, leading to his dismissal for a trivial offence. This only galvanised Portlaoise’s efforts for the remainder of the match. Portlaoise’s response was swift for Tom Prendergast laid on full-forward, Jimmy Harding, who off-loaded to a goal-bound, Gerry Browne, who found the net. It was an heroic effort from the fab fourteen and they held out for victory in a cliff-hanger.

In the second round, Portlaoise had an easy victory over Longford Slashers by 1-12 to 0-5 on the 18th of November. The margin would have been a lot greater but for the brave efforts of the Slashers goalkeeper, Hubert Smith.

In the semi-final, Portlaoise had little trouble in the dispatch of Baltinglass, 2-15 to 0-9. Baltinglass got off to a flying start and stretched the Portlaoise defence but once these early onslaughts were brought under control it was plain sailing for the Laois champions. By the end of the quarter the winners led by six points thanks to a brilliant goal by Tom Prendergast and the game was as good as over when they led by 1-10 to 0- 3 at the break. The match was played in Athy on the 1st of December.

Senior Hurling

The hurlers showed some potential in reaching the quarter final. In the league stages they defeated Durrow by 3-10 to 1-8, Clonad 2-12 to 2-2 and Clonaslee 4-10 to 1-6. They lost to Cullohill 3-8 to 1-6, Ballyfin 4-5 to 2-9, and also to Camross 2-10 to 1-9. In the quarter final they eventually lost to Borris-in-Ossory in a replay having drawn the first encounter 2-11 to 3-8.

Intermediate Football

Ballyroan 3-12 to Portlaoise 1-3.

Junior Football

Portlaoise 4-15 to Kilcotton 0-2. The Rock 2-11 to Portlaoise 2-6.

Junior Hurling

Miltown 2-12 to Portlaoise 2-4.

Under 21 Football

Portlaoise defeated Portarlington by 1-15 to 1-5. This completed the clean sweep for the “Town” having already won the senior and minor titles. The winners led all the way and were 0-8 to 0-1 in front at the interval for a sixth title on the trot.

In the semi-final, Portlaoise trounced Timahoe by 5-16 to 0-2.

Under 21 Hurling

Portlaoise lost to Rathdowney in the semi-final. In an earlier round Portlaoise beat Durrow 1-11 to 0-4.

Minor Football

Portlaoise beat Ballyroan by the closest of margins, 0-11 to 2-4 to win their sixth title in eight years. Ballyroan seemed set to win the title but similar to the previous year, they let it slip in the dying minutes. The hero on this occasion was the free roaming centre-half back, Pat Roe, who kicked over the equaliser from a free two minutes from time and then sent over the winner from play.

Ballyroan: Martin Conroy, Pat O’Connor, Bosco Whelan, Pat Fogarty, Declan Byrne, Declan Horan, Brendan Casserly, Austin Kavanagh, Liam Irwin, Sean Farrell, Sean Murphy, Pat Beale, Martin Barry, Michael Drennan, Anthony Carter.

Results of earlier rounds: Portlaoise 5-9 to Portarlington 0-5. Portlaoise 5-10 to Borris-in-Ossory 0-0.

Minor Hurling

Portlaoise were knocked out in the first round by Ballacolla.

Under 17 Hurling

Ballacolla defeated Portlaoise by a score of 0-9 to 1-4. Ballacolla were joined with Castletown.

Portlaoise defeated St. Fintans (Durrow/Cullohill) in the final 4-2 to 1-2.

Under 14 Hurling - Féile na nGael

Rathdowney 2-4 to Portlaoise 2-2

Under 12 Hurling

Portlaoise defeated St. Fintans (Durrow/Cullohill) in the final 4-2 to 1-2.

Under 12 football

Portlaoise were awarded the title. They lost the final to Graiguecullen, but immediately lodged an objection claiming that Graigue had fielded five over-age players. The objection was upheld by Laois Juvenile Board and an appeal was turned down by Laois County Board on the grounds that it was trivial compared “to the gravity of the offence”.

Ladies Football Club Formed and First Match Report

A significant new chapter in the history of the club began in June 1979 with the formation of Portlaoise Ladies Football Club.

The fledgling club quickly entered competitive action and, within weeks of its formation, was preparing for its first championship campaign.

The earliest known match report involving the club appeared in the Nationalist on Friday, 13 July 1979. The report covered Portlaoise's first championship outing against neighbours The Heath.

Despite a spirited display from the newly formed side, The Heath emerged victorious on a scoreline of 1-5 to 1-3. While defeat was disappointing, the occasion represented an historic milestone as the first recorded championship match played by Portlaoise Ladies Football Club.

1979 honours

• Men’s Football – Senior Laois Senior Footballer of the Year Eamon Whelan
• Men’s Football – Minor Laois Minor ‘A’ Football Championship Portlaoise 0-11 v 2-4 Ballyroan Captain: Mark Kavanagh
• Men’s Football – Senior Laois Senior Football Championship Portlaoise 1-10 v 1-9 St.Joseph’s Captain: Eamon Whelan
• Men’s Football – Under 12 Laois U-12 ‘A’ Football Championship Portlaoise v Graiguecullen
• Men’s Football – Under 21 Laois U-21 ‘A’ Football Championship Portlaoise 1-15 v 1-5 Portarlington Captain: Gerry Browne
• Hurling – Under 12 Laois U-12 ‘A’ Hurling Championship Portlaoise St Fintan’s v 1-2 Durrow Captain: 4-2