AGM

The AGM was held on Sunday, 8 January 1950. The secretary, Eugene Conroy, said that “our club was re-organised twelve months ago and we were faced with many obstacles but thanks to our very able chairman and many willing members we surmounted even the greatest and crowned the great year by bringing the minor hurling championship to the town”.

Intermediate team unlucky

Portlaoise were unlucky to lose to Shanahoe by a point, 2-5 to 2-6, thus leading to their elimination from the competition. The sides were level at half-time but Shanahoe edged five points clear in the second-half. Portlaoise clawed themselves back with four points on the trot but could not find their way through for the equaliser in a gripping finish. The Palmers, Oxley and Carroll starred for the winners while Delaney, Coady, Brown, Conroy and Murphy were noted for the “Town”.

Minor Hurling title retained

Portlaoise had a great victory over Castlemore by 9-0 to 3-1 to retain the minor title in November at O’Moore Park. They got into their stride very quickly and scored three goals before the opposition registered a point. At half-time Portlaoise were leading by 4-0 to 0-1. The opposition started the second period well scoring two early goals and putting Portlaoise under pressure. The “Town”, however, regained their composure and they went on to score another handful of goals.

Portlaoise route to the final included a victory over Saint Josephs (Portarlington) by 4-2 to 2-3. They had a bad start and were trailing by 1-1 to 2-3 at the interval. But they had a much improved second half and holding their opponents scoreless, they stormed back with 3-1 to secure victory. Even a hail-storm did not deter their progress.

In the quarter-final Portlaoise drew with Saint Patricks, a Mountmellick Area team, at 2-1 each. The “Town” had a slow start and were in arrears at half time by 2-1 to 0-1. In the replay Portlaoise defeated their opponents by 6-1 to 4-1. The “Town” qualified for the final after defeating Clonaslee by 4-6 to 3-1. Not for the first time they started slowly and were behind by seven points at the interval. Once again they turned in a stormer in the second half to emerge winners.

Midland CBS Football League Final

Portlaoise CBS lost their crown narrowly to St. Mary’s Mullingar, 3-1 to 2-5. Many of the school team were to taste success with the town team in the future.

Controversial finish to Juvenile Football League Semi Final

Portlaoise juveniles found themselves in the headlines for the wrong reasons when they were called off the pitch by officials who were furious over some decisions by the official in charge. They took this action in response to a ruling by an official. There was about three minutes left and Graiguecullen were leading by three points when Portlaoise decided to call it a day.

At a meeting of the Juvenile League Committee the Portlaoise players were suspended for six months. The referee on that occasion was Bro. Noonan of Portarlington who stated in his match report that he urged the players and supporters to play until the end. He also took exception to the language and remarks of some of the “Town” supporters. Bro. Ennis pleaded against the ban to no avail. The chairman of the board, Fr. Kenny, endorsed the ban. Portlaoise appealed to the county board but Lorcan Brady, chairman, said that he had to accept the decision of the juvenile board. He agreed however that the sentence was too severe and suggested on grounds of justice for a mitigation of the punishment. He understood that the juvenile board had to enforce the rules to maintain discipline into the future.

It was later agreed by the Juvenile Board to lift the suspension on the Portlaoise players as it was thought that they had suffered sufficiently.

Kilminchy win first minor football championship

Although the newly revived “Town” club did not yet figure in the football title list, two other town clubs captured titles in 1950, Kilminchy winning the minor football, and St. Fintan’s Hospital capturing the junior crown, both clubs winning these titles for the very first time.

It was a great victory for Kilminchy. In the final they defeated the holders, Graiguecullen by 1-5 to 0-4 at Stradbally. Graiguecullen had been champions for the five previous years and were hotly fancied to make it six-in-a-row. When the Carlow border side led by four points at the break it looked odds on for the favourites but a great second half comeback was capped by a brilliant goal by Billy Bunyan and that helped swing the game in favour of Kilminchy. Finnerty, Roe and Larkin were on top in defence, Sheridan and O’Keeffe got the better at midfield and James (Muddy) Carroll, Liddy and the in- form, Bunyan, were the tops for the worthy winners. It was their first and only minor title and boosted the club’s win in the junior championship a few years earlier.

1950 honours

• Men’s Football – Kilminchy Laois Minor ‘A’ Football Championship (Kilminchy) Kilminchy 1-5 v 0-4 Graiguecullen Captain: Billy Bunyan
• Hurling – Minor Laois Minor ‘A’ Hurling Championship Portlaoise 9-0 v 3-1 Castlemore Captain: Donal Dunne

In the other semi-final on the same programme another Portlaoise team, Mental Hospital, the junior champions from the previous year, set up an appetizing final derby pairing by readily disposing of the Heath by 5-4 to 2-2.

Portlaoise were given little chance against a strong Mental Hospital side in the final on 28 October, 1951, but for most of the hour they led their opponents a merry dance. In heavy conditions, it took a late, late, goal by P. Kavanagh to secure the title on a scoreline of 2-1 to 1-3. Hartford shot a Portlaoise goal in the opening half to give his side a 1- 2 to 1-1 lead at the break. Referee was Willie Brennan.

Minor football glory as both teams reach county finals

Portlaoise enjoyed another strong period at underage level as both the club’s minor footballers and hurlers qualified for county finals, underlining the strength of youth development within the club in the early 1950s.

The footballers booked their place in the delayed 1951 Minor Football Championship Final after defeating Park by 2-3 to 1-3. Christy Reddin, John Hughes, Frank O’Donnell, Rock Scully and the Bracken brothers stood out in an impressive display. Paddy Bracken contributed 0-3 while Frank O’Donnell and Ned Fitzpatrick each found the net.

Their victory set up a local derby against reigning champions Kilminchy, who had defeated Stradbally by 3-3 to 1-1 in their semi-final.

Played on July 13, 1952, the delayed county final proved a tense and fiercely contested encounter. Kilminchy led by 1-2 to 1-1 at half-time, but Portlaoise took control after the restart and kept their rivals scoreless during the second period to secure a hard-earned 1-5 to 1-2 victory.

The physical nature of the game disrupted the flow of play and referee Tony Coleman of Portarlington was even forced to clear spectators back from the sideline during the match.

Paddy Bracken was the leading scorer with all five points, while Ted Fitzpatrick struck the decisive goal.

The club’s minor hurlers also reached another county final and were aiming for a remarkable three in a row of Minor Hurling Championship successes.

Portlaoise had powered into the final with a commanding 7-6 to 0-2 victory over Clonaslee in the semi-final. Hugh Campion struck 3-0 while Rock Scully added 2-1.

In the delayed 1951 Minor Hurling Final played in July 1952, Portlaoise and Abbeyleix served up an exciting draw, Portlaoise finishing with 4-3 to Abbeyleix’s 3-6.

Abbeyleix proved stronger in the replay a few weeks later, however, claiming victory by 4-6 to 3-3. After a level opening quarter, Abbeyleix produced a devastating spell before half-time to lead 3-4 to 0-2 at the interval.

Portlaoise mounted a determined comeback and cut the gap to four points, but Abbeyleix’s defence stood firm before adding a late goal to close out victory.

Portlaoise win Juvenile Hurling League Final

Portlaoise hurling was given a further boost when their juvenile side defeated Durrow by 8-4 to 6-3, to raise the O’Daly Cup. The entire match was played in rainy conditions but this did not deter the players from their efforts. The Portlaoise midfield pair of Donald (Hackey) Dunne and Eugene (Jap) Byrne were dominant and contributed greatly to the town’s victory. At the interval Portlaoise led by 3-2 to 1-2. Their scorers were Mick Fennelly (2-2), Donald Dunne (2-1), Richard Nolan (2-0), Joe Foley (2-0), Brian Stack (1-0) and Noel Graham (0-1).

1951 honours

• Men’s Football – Minor Laois Minor ‘A’ Football Championship Portlaoise 1-5 v 1-2 Kilminchy (Portlaoise) Captain: Jim Hughes

AGM

Club Vice-Chairman, Al Delaney, presiding at the 1952 AGM for chairman, Garda Sgt. Ned Tobin, who was ill, said that 1951 had been “a proud one for Portlaoise for every member played the games in a proper spirit and had not contributed to the ‘scenes’ which were now all too-common”. Secretary, Eugene Conroy, congratulated the Intermediate football team that qualified for the final, also both sets of minors. He criticised the Juvenile League which “was only for the benefit of two clubs whose ambition was to win at all costs”. The club had won the hurling league for the second year in a row only to lose it on a “flimsy objection”, he added. The treasurer’s report of Jimmy Conroy, Dublin Road, showed that the club was in a sound financial position.

Intermediate Hurling Championship

Portlaoise were knocked out of the competition by Slieve Bloom.

Minors win Football Final of 1951

Portlaoise beat Kilminchy in this local derby by 1-5 to 1-2 played on July 13th, 1952. Probably due to the close nature of the contest, the play never flowed freely due to over robust tackles. There was even an encroachment by the crowd who had to be removed from the sidelines by referee Tony Coleman (Portarlington). Portlaoise were behind at the interval by 1-1 to 1-2 but had the better of the second period and kept the opposition scoreless in a tense finish.

Minor Hurling Final Replay 1951

Portlaoise (4-3) and Abbeyleix (3-6) played out an exciting draw in the delayed minor final of 1951 played in July 1952. A few weeks later, Portlaoise, the champions for the previous two years came out second best on a 4-6 to 3-3 score line. After a fairly even start with the scores level at 0-2 each, the opposition had a purple patch and went into the break 3-4 to 0-2 at the break. Portlaoise fought hard in the second half and at one stage reduced the deficit to four points. This was all in vain and Abbeyleix’s defence withstood the pressure, and then moved up field to score the insurance goal.

Portlaoise had scored an easy victory over Clonaslee in the semi-final by 7-6 to 0-2. Hugh Campion returned with a tally of 3-0 and Rock Scully 2-1.

Minor Hurling Championship 1952

Portlaoise won the quarter final, beating Mountmellick by 6-3 to 1-0. The game was not as one sided as the result suggests, Portlaoise only leading at the interval by 2-1 to 1-0. In the second half they proved more clinical on front of goal and were also a physically stronger side.

Portlaoise defeated The Rovers in the semi-final by 6-7 to 2-0. Their success was due to a good start and a strong defence, leading at the break by 2-5 to 0-0.

The delayed final was played in March the 1953.

Under 16

Portlaoise hurlers were defeated in the semi-final by Mountrath, 1-2 to 2-2.

The footballers lost in the final to Portarlington by 5-4 to 0-1.

Senior Hurling County Final

Another Portlaoise side, The Rovers competed in this delayed final played in 1952, but unfortunately were defeated by Kyle, 2-3 to 3-3. It was Kyle’s first and only premier title and avenged a ten year old defeat. The famous Laois hurler of the 1930s and 40s, Harry Grey (Rathdowney) was the man in the middle.

Minor Hurling Final 1952

Portlaoise regained their title when defeating the holders Abbeyleix by 4-5 to 0-2. Despite the score line, the game was evenly contested until the tenth minute of the second half when Portlaoise started to get the better of the exchanges and ended easy winners. The half time score was 0–2 each.

1952 honours

• Hurling – Minor Laois Minor ‘A’ Hurling Championship Portlaoise 4-5 v 0-2 Abbeyleix Captain: John Hughes

AGM

The AGM was held on Sunday, 18 January. Outgoing chairman, Al Delaney warmly welcomed the Kilminchy members into the Portlaoise Club. Treasurer: Jimmy Conroy, said that they would soon have a strong senior club. The secretary, Eugene Conroy, hit out at the level of betting on GAA games and particularly on minor games.

Junior Hurling Championship

Portlaoise were defeated by Clonad, 4-2 to 2-2 but issued an objection on the grounds of the opposition playing ineligible player. In the end Portlaoise were awarded the decision by the Laois Hurling Board with the Chairman, Jack Conroy, ruling that Clonad had played illegal players. Joe Byrne (Rovers) was referee.

Portlaoise then beat Slieve Bloom by 3-5 to 2-0. Best players were Joe Foley, Paddy Bracken and W.Hyland in the attack, John Muldowney and Mick Conroy at midfield and Tom Bracken, John Hughes and Mick Rigney in the backs. They were easily knocked out in the quarter-final by Cill Na Iubhair, 0-4 to 4-7.

Minor Hurling

Portlaoise retained their when they defeated Durrow by 4-6 to 2-3. The game was nip and tuck for forty five minutes before Portlaoise upped their game and finished the stronger team. They only led by 1-2 to 1-1 at the break. Tony Bergin was a tower of strength at full back and Donald Dunne starred at midfield. The win gave the “Town” its fourth title in the grade in five years.

In the semi-final they had defeated Mountrath by 5-5 to 5-0. Described as a game of “quarters”, the Magpies were on top in the first quarter but Mountrath fought back in the second quarter and trailed by only by 2-3 to 2-0 at the break. Hugh Campion shot Portlaoise’s fifth goal to lead by 5-5 to 3-0 but Mountrath hit back with two goals from F. Doheny and were still there with a chance right up to the end.

Minor Football

Portlaoise were knocked out at the semi-final stage by Portarlington, 0-4 to 0-7. It was an uninspiring game with the opponents being the better team. Portlaoise opened well and went two points clear but their opponents were bigger physically and were ahead by half-time. It was tit for tat after that with defences on top but the lack of scoring power up front cost Portlaoise the game.

Juvenile Football Championship

Portlaoise were thrashed by Portarlington, 9-7 to 0-2 in the semi-final.

1953 honours

• Hurling – Minor Laois Minor ‘A’ Hurling Championship Portlaoise 4-6 v 2-3 Durrow Captain: Rocky Scully

AGM

A new committee was formed incorporating both clubs at the AGM.

The amalgamation got away to a flying start when the senior hurling team travelled to Kilkenny and held the local Dicksboro team to a draw scoring 4-1 to Dickboro’s 3-4. Tommy Keenan was the man of the match and others to excel were Jimmy Maher, Paddy Conroy, Paddy Brennan and Laois minor player, Eugene Byrne.

This challenge was followed by successful street leagues for adult players and juveniles. The teams had such striking names as O’Moores, Fintan Lalors, Crokes and Grattans and the games were enthusiastically contested. In the senior final, the New Road side, Fintan Lalors, beat the Dublin Road team, O’Moores with the proceeds going to the Shrine Committee towards the upkeep of the new Marian shrine at Market Square only recently unveiled. J. Conroy, T. Byrne, N. Delaney, Joe Styles, A. Lewis and the Conroys were noted for the winners while, J. Hughes, Bergin, Beeres, Strahan, Bracken and Rigney were best for the losers.

If the combined membership were hoping for instant success they were to be severely frustrated, however. The only title won in the year was the minor football, something achieved in recent years by the three combined clubs as individuals. The return to senior hurling ranks ended disappointingly with a narrow defeat to Mountrath while the Intermediate footballers succumbed to Jamestown in the first round. More worrying still, probably, was the five goal hammering inflicted on the minor hurling side by Mountmellick.

Senior Hurling

On returning to the senior ranks Portlaoise were defeated by Mountrath in the first round, 2-2 to 1-6. Portlaoise missed a free in the final minute that would have earned a replay. Players noted were Jimmy Maher, the Conroys, Peter and Paddy, Tom Bracken, John Hughes, Byrne, Rigney, Horan and Brown and outstanding midfielder, Paddy Brennan. The Portlaoise scorers were Joe Foley (1-0), Peter Conroy (1-1), Tom Byrne (0-1).

Intermediate football

Portlaoise were eliminated from this competition by Jamestown.

Minor Football Final

The minor footballers salvaged something for a year that promised so much and delivered so little. Portlaoise had to fight all the way to dispose of Ballylinan’s challenge for the title, which ensured that Portlaoise maintained its record of winning at least one minor title each year since the club was reformed n 1949. It was not an easy victory by any manner of means and the sides were deadlocked as time ran out and darkness started falling. Fintan Walsh, a name for the future played a dominant role for Ballylinan and his side missed a chance or two in the dying moments to snatch the title. But it was Portlaoise’s Peter Ryan who shot the vital point in the dying seconds to give the Town victory on a 2-5 to 3-1 scoreline.

Portlaoise defeated Portarlington in the semi-final by 1-6 to 0-5. Alfie Lewis was star performer at midfield.

Minor Hurling Championship

Portlaoise lost their minor crown when they were eliminated by Mountmellick, 3-3 to 8-3. Noted players were Donncha Whelan, an outstanding goalie, Noel Delaney, Joe Foley, Eugene Byrne.

Under 16 Hurling

Portlaoise had a walk-over against Mountrath in the final.

Meanwhile the local CBS scored a notable double football win when the junior team beat Kells at Mullingar and senior side defeated Trim at Naas in the Midlands finals. The double success provided the Leinster Express with its lead front page story and the report included photographs of the winning teams.

1954 honours

• Men’s Football – Minor Laois Minor ‘A’ Football Championship Portlaoise 2-5 v 3-1 Ballylinan Captain: Alfie Lewis
• Hurling – Under 16 Laois U-16 ‘A’ Hurling Championship

AGM

Senior Hurling Championship

Portlaoise defeated Abbeyleix in the opening round of this competition by 2-9 to 3-4.

Abbeyleix objected on the grounds that one of the officials, not the referee, was a suspended member, and was not legal to officiate at the game. After a few lengthy hearing, it was decided that Portlaoise were not at fault and their win was confirmed.

In the semi-final, Portlaoise put up a spirited fight in losing to a very experienced Kyle by 2-9 to 3-10. The Leinster Express reported: “Portlaoise need in no way be disappointed by their display. A young, well-trained side battled every inch of the way, and with speed the keynote, almost achieved their objective. Portlaoise led by 1-5 to 1-4 at the interval but on the restart T. Carey shot a goal to put Kyle in the driving seat. With a few minutes left, Portlaoise regained the initiative when full- forward, Mick Twomey, crashed home an equalising goal. Kyle regrouped and managed late scores to survive a rare battle. In a new-look final, Cullohill won their first title defeating Kyle by 5-9 to 3-5.

Intermediate Football Final

Portlaoise were defeated by Portarlington by 0-12 to 0-6. The “Town” had a bad start and were arrears by nine points to zero at half-time. Despite a good start to the second half they were unable to overcome the large deficit. There was a very large crowd present for the double bill with the senior hurling final taking centre-stage with an official attendance of 4,920.

In the opening round they defeated Jamestown by 2-7 to 0-5. Portlaoise showing top form surprised Barrowhouse in the semi-final at Stradbally by 1-5 to 0-5. A goal by Hugh Campion kept Portlaoise in touch and they trailed by a point at the break. The winners had the better of the second half when playing “downhill”. Richard Donoghue made a welcome return to goal, Stack, Brown and Rigney were noted in defence, Eamon Phelan at midfield, and Martin O’Reilly, Paddy Brennan and Hugh Campion in attack. Mick Phelan did “herculean” work for Barrowhouse.

Junior Hurling Championship

Portlaoise were knocked out by Ballypickas, 4-3 to 6-7.

Veteran, Tom Wallace, came on as a sub for Ballypickas after the break and contributed to the scoring. He was their only direct link with the side that captured the Intermediate championship nineteen years previously. There were four other Wallaces on the starting line-out. Ballypickas went on to beat Errill by 5-4 to 2-1 in the final and Tom Wallace had a great game in goal.

Junior footballers unlucky

Portlaoise were unfortunate to lose in a gripping final to Graiguecullen by a single point, 1-6 to 2-4. They had led at the interval by 1-2 to 1-1 and were looking like winners for a vast majority of the second half. But against the run of play, J. Hennessy shot a late point to capture the title. Portlaoise, billed as unlucky losers by the match reporter, missed a chance just before the final whistle. The referee was Tom Walsh of Stradbally.

Portlaoise cleared the first hurdle by beating Killeshin in a replay after initially drawing 2-3 each. Next came Timahoe whom they defeated by 1-3 to 0-1 and then overcome The Heath in the semi-final, 1-9 to 3-0.

Good win for the minor hurlers

Portlaoise reversed the previous year’s result when beating Mountmellick 4-5 to 1-1 at Mountrath. They went on to beat Camross by 6-3 to 5-1 in the final.

Under 16 double

Portlaoise were awarded the delayed 1954 title after Mountrath refused to travel.

The Town completed the juvenile double for 1955 when the hurlers defeated Mountmellick by 4-1 to 1-2 in the final. They led by 3-1 to 1-0 at half-time.

In the Under 16 football final, Portlaoise had the better of Graiguecullen on a 2-5 to 0-4 scoreline.

Under 14 hurlers win title

Portlaoise triumphed over Abbeyleix by 9 – 2 to 8 – 2 in the hurling semi-final. In the final Portlaoise got the better of Clonaslee after a replay by 3-5 to 1-0.

Minor Football

Portlaoise failed in an appeal against the result of their defeat by one point by Ballylinan in an action-packed championship match. As a result the “Town” were relieved of their mantle as champions. In the delayed final, played in 1956, Ballylinan went on to win the title.

1955 honours

• Hurling – Minor Laois Minor ‘A’ Hurling Championship Portlaoise 6-3 v 5-1 Camross Captain: Pat Dalton
• Hurling – Under 14 Laois U-14 ‘A’ Hurling Championship Replay: Portlaoise 3-5 v 1-0 Clonaslee
• Hurling – Under 16 Laois U-16 ‘A’ Hurling Championship

AGM

Senior Hurling Championship 1956

Portlaoise and Cullohill finished level in the opening round of this competition, 3-4 to 4-1. Cullohill were the reigning champions but Portlaoise showed great spirit, skill and speed against their formidable opponents and lack of finish and concession of easy goals cost them dearly.

In the replay Portlaoise performed gallantly but narrowly lost out by two points, 2-5 to 2-7.

Portlaoise win Intermediate football title

Portlaoise defeated Barrowhouse by 3-4 to 3-3 in a memorable final and so earn their stripes for senior competition in the following year. Barrowhouse were widely expected to make their experience count, as they were serious contenders for this title for a number of years without succeeding. But lady luck was once again missing for them and their misfortune was Portlaoise’s good fortune when a last-minute goal by Eamon Phelan gave the “Town” team the title, their first in the grade since 1939.

The winners were behind at the break by 3-2 to 1-1 but fought back with great heart and, in doing so, earned their place in senior ranks – and they have been there ever since. This qualified the victors to enter the senior competition the following year.

At half time Paddy Bracken moved into goal with Brian Stack moving outfield. This was an inspired move that not only had an impact on the game but on Portlaoise and Laois teams in future years as Paddy went on to become arguably the best goalie in Laois history.

Portlaoise had defeated Fairymount in the opening round. In the semi-final, Portlaoise had an easy victory over Park by 4-9 to 1-0.

Juniors beat Clonad

In a thrilling tie at O’Moore Park between these great hurling rivals, Portlaoise scored an impressive win over Clonad in the Junior championship. The winners led by 3-5 to 2-1 at the break but Clonad fought back to lead with seven minutes remaining after a goal by J. Hartford. Back came Portlaoise again and Liam Horan levelled the game with a goal. The same player added a point and Johnny McCormack had another to seal a two point margin of victory.

Minor Hurling Final

Portlaoise defeated Camross by 6-3 to 5-1. Four first half goals by Louis Scully, Tom Lalor and Christy Fitzpatrick set the “Town” up for victory with a 4-1 to 2-1 lead at half-time. The winners extended their lead on the restart but two goals from Jimmy Lyons in the final quarter made it an exciting finish.

Minor Football

Portlaoise reigned supreme in this event by defeating The Heath by 3-6 to 1-6 and so recaptured the title they last held two years previously. It was a superb game from start to finish between these great rivals. The winners led by 0-4 to 0-0 at the interval on a heavy sod. They just managed to keep ahead despite some heavy pressure from their rivals. On route to the final Portlaoise were victorious over Luggacurran by 3-7 to 0-1, Annanough 0-9 to 1-5 and Mountmellick, 2-5 to 1-2.

Minor Hurling Final 1956

Portlaoise completed the minor double by beating Rathdowney by 1-2 to 1-1. This was a super-charged final in which no quarter was asked or given. In one of the lowest scoring finals on record, scores came as a premium. It was J. Ryan’s goal thirteen minutes from time from an Alfie Lewis inspired attack, that proved vital in a ripping game and a tense finish.

On their way to the final Portlaoise had victories over Abbeyleix, 7-6 to 2-1 and Mountrath in the semi-final by 6-2 to 4-2.

Presentation of Juvenile Medals

In April, Portlaoise celebrated their championship victories of 1955 with a grand presentation night in the Macra na Feirme Hall. Bro. O’Brien, CBS Superior, congratulated the players and said that the club was in safe hands. Bro Long exhorted the players to continue playing the games into the higher grades. He encouraged them to play by the rules and reminded them that one unsporting player could bring a whole team into disrepute. Joe Bracken, chairman of the Social Committee, presided.

Under 16 Hurling

Portlaoise defeated Clonaslee 7-7 to 6-4 and so retained the U16 hurling title.

Under 14 Hurling

The U14s were beaten in the Area final by the Pike-of-Rushall

Under 12 Hurling

Portlaoise beat Abbeyleix after a replay in the U12 hurling final.

1956 honours

• Men’s Football – Intermediate Laois Intermediate ‘A’ Football Championship Portlaoise 3-4 v 3-3 Barrowhouse
• Men’s Football – Minor Laois Minor ‘A’ Football Championship Portlaoise 3-6 v 1-6 The Heath Captain: Pat Dalton
• Hurling – Minor Laois Minor ‘A’ Hurling Championship Portlaoise 1-2 v 1-1 Rathdowney Captain: Alfie Lewis
• Hurling – Under 12 Laois U-12 ‘A’ Hurling Championship
• Hurling – Under 16 Laois U-16 ‘A’ Hurling Championship

AGM

Chairman, Al Delaney, summarised the previous year as the best for the club since 1949. “Up to the present, minor and juvenile titles had been our reward and the results of these efforts had led to the winning of the Intermediate football title by a very young team that should be well able to hold their own in senior ranks.” He praised the Social Committee under Joe Bracken or its fund-raising efforts. The treasurer, Jim Sexton reported a good year and that the debt had been cleared. One note of concern was the cost of hurleys that went up from £29 to £36. “Players were giving away hurleys because they got them by asking for them”, complained Dan Kerry, delegate to the County Board.

Joe Fennelly, founder member of the reformed club in 1949, asked who decided that their delegates should not vote for their club member, Jack Conroy, (Chairman of the Hurling Board) in a County Board vote. Secretary, Jim Loughlin, said that just because they nominated a man didn’t mean that they had to vote for him. He said that he voted for him but said there had been nothing but criticism for Mr. Conroy over the past couple of years. The chairman said that he “took full responsibility for the decision”. Ned Harkin asked if any of the delegates were canvassed. The secretary said that two “gentlemen” had called to his door but he did not promise them anything.

Secretary, Jim Loughlin, said that few clubs could boast of five championship wins in the same year and it was his firm conviction that “they would have made it six had they met as legal team in the minor football semi-final played last March”. He claimed that one of the Ballylinan players lived in another county and that the objection was lost, not for want of proof, but “simply because the penalty for playing such a player would have to be severe”.

Mr. Loughlin’s remarks did not stop the Ballylinan club from celebrating the victory in their local school as a report on the same page Leinster Express as the Portlaoise AGM indicates. A presentation of an alarm clock from the minor footballers was presented to the team trainer, Din Murphy. He returned his appreciation of neighbouring club Fairymount for their help

Senior hurlers impress

Portlaoise were defeated by Borris-in-Ossory in the first round of the campaign, 3-3 to 6-1. Portlaoise looked good for most of the game and led going into the final quarter. But typical of the Borris side of the period they swept back with three late goals to win convincingly. Paddy O’Brien and his brother, Christy, showed their class in the Borris defence and Paddy’s goal from a free and Christy’s late major clinched the victory.

Portlaoise entered the losers group and were victorious over Clonaslee by 4-6 to 4-0. The hero of the hour for the “Town” was John Hughes who scored 3-2 of his side’s total. The winners led by 3-2 to 2-0 at half-time but two goals by J. Costello and M. Fitzgerald had Clonaslee ahead going into the final stages. Hughes struck the back of the net again to restore Portlaoise’s lead and they held out for a hard fought win. The “Town” used three different goalies during the hour, Paddy Bracken, Richard Brown and Christy Fitzpatrick.

Portlaoise continued their campaign by defeating Errill, 3-9 to 3-7. They had been in arrears at the interval, 1-4 to 2-6, but recovered well to achieve a narrow victory. Har Walsh made his senior debut in goal and Tom Preston justified his promotion from the junior side by turning in a super performance. In an exciting tie Portlaoise just edged out their opponents with a great second half performance.

It seemed that Portlaoise’s train was building up a head of steam when they defeated Kyle by 6-9 to 3-1 to qualify for the semi-final. Though trailing by 2-1 to 1-1 at the break, goals by Ted Fitzpatrick, Paddy Brennan and Donal Dunne in the second half proved too much for their opponents.

Portlaoise entertained Intermediate champions of 1956, Cuddagh, in the semi-final and the fiercely fought encounter ended in a draw, 2-6 each. The “Town” side relied on craft and speed but were met with a team that were determined to slow their rivals by every means at their disposal and this proved costly to Portlaoise, who were a team of walking wounded after this dour clash. The “Town” led by 2-4 to 1-2 at the break. Cuddagh improved on the restart and the game was level with five minutes remaining. Donald “Hackey” Dunne shot Portlaoise ahead again but Jimmy Lyons sent over the equaliser on the stroke of time.

Portlaoise finally bowed out to Cuddagh in the semi-final replay at O’Moore Park by 1-2 to 2-7. Cuddagh led by 2-2 to 1- 2 at half-time but the “Town” could not find a way through an formidable Cuddagh defence afterwards and failed to register a score. They were unfortunate to carry so many injuries from the drawn tie including Noel Delaney, John Keenan and Ted Fitzpatrick and then lost Alfie Lewis and Richard Brown in the first half due to injury. In the circumstances this was a brave display and Paddy Brennan showed the determination of the losers by putting in a man-of-the-match display.

Senior Footballers lose their first game

Portlaoise, back in senior ranks after a break of many years, were eliminated from the competition by Park, 1-4 to 0-10 in the first round. Park, winners of the title back to back in 1952 and ’53 had a little too much experience for the young Portlaoise side that showed seven changes from the side that won the Intermediate final in the previous year. Park led by 0-5 to 0-2 at the break and were 0-9 to 0-3 entering the closing stages.

Junior Football Championship

Portlaoise departed this competition at the quarter final stage, losing a low scoring match to Timahoe by 0-5 to 0-2. Portlaoise full-back, Tom Phelan, moved into goal and saved a penalty attempt from former county star, Jim Sayers in the opening half after which Timahoe led by 0-2 to 0-1. Similarly in the second half, Noel Ramsbottom saved a penalty from rising county star, Phil O’Keeffe, and this proved vital to the result.

Jimmy Martin (Roscommon) stepped in to referee the game at late notice. The report did not relate as to the circumstances of his attendance at the game. He later refereed the first All- Ireland Under 21 football final at Croke Park in which Kerry defeated Laois.

Minor hurlers overwhelmed

Portlaoise, reigning champions and six time winners since 1949 were defeated by Rathdowney, in the 1957 final on an incredible score of 9-4 to 1-3. The superb midfield play of J. Houlihan and J. Rafter along with T. Hickey and J. Mockler were overpowering and after leading by 4-1 to 0-3 at half-time, they ran out the easiest of winners for their first title in eighteen years. Portlaoise had beaten Derrylamogue by 10-5 to 1-1 in the opening round.

AGM

Jim Loughlin, Secretary, said that though the previous year was the first since 1949 that the club failed to win a title, it had been a successful year for the club nevertheless. He congratulated the players in their sportsmanship and condemned the assaults on three players at different venues by people on the sideline. This would not be tolerated in the future. Jim Sexton, treasurer, reported that expenditure for the year came to £257. 5s. 3d but that there was a small credit balance despite the huge outlay especially on hurleys. Juvenile secretary, Brian Stack, said the fact that all juvenile teams had been beaten by the eventual winners spoke for itself. He congratulated Joe Scully, Pascal Delaney, Teddy Fennelly, and Paddy Bergin in hurling and Jack Delaney, Teddy Fennelly, Joe Ramsbottom and Syd Harkin in football who represented the club on county juvenile teams. Sympathy was extended to the families of P. J. Campion and Eugene Conroy, two club stalwarts, on their sad deaths in the past year.

Senior Football County Final

The encounter between Portlaoise and The Heath ended in a stalemate, 2-5 to 1-8, after what was termed the best final in twenty years. The report added: “When the game was over, County Board chairman, Brady, visited the dressing-rooms of both teams and extended worthy congratulations on a really fine sporting encounter … In the first half, The Heath missed few opportunities thanks to the superb marksmanship of Roe, who gave his finest ever display in a versatile career.” Roe along with Sean Brennan were The Heath’s star players. The report noted that M. Brown was no less effective. Brown came from Cork for the game and was a member of the 1957 team.

The Heath led by 0-7 to 0-2 at half-time but a great second-half goal by Noel Delaney brought the “Town” side back into contention and Eamon Phelan shot another which seemed the winner. But back came The Heath and a brilliant goal by Paddy Crossan levelled the game as time ran out.

Great win in replay

The Leinster Express reported:

“Portlaoise inscribed their name on the Laois senior football role of honour for the first time in forty years by defeating The Heath (holders) 3-7 to 1-4 in Sunday’s replay at O’Moore Park. Greater finals there may have been in the past but for thrilling passages, all-out endeavour, and a high degree of sportsmanship, this could compare favourably with any other final. Long after the talking points of the game are long forgotten, the names of team captain, Alfie Lewis, midfielder, Phil O’Keeffe, and forward, Noel Delaney, will be the toast of Portlaoise for the county town’s return to football fame.”

The winners led by 2-5 to 0-2 at half-time but by the three quarter stage the lead was down to a more manageable 2-6 to 1- 3 margin, after Ollie Fennell goaled for The Heath. But subs Tom Phelan and Richard “Sonny” Brown combined for Brown to crash home the clincher in the closing stages. Sean Brennan was the star performer for The Heath.

In the first round Portlaoise had a narrow victory over Annanough by 0-6 to 0-5. They then had a good victory over O’Dempseys, 5-8 to 1-7. In the semi-final Portlaoise defeated Annanough again in another close encounter, 0-5 to 0-4.

Tom Flynn wrote this poem in praise of the 1958 football team that won the county championship – but the Town lost the title on objection.You can read it here

Senior Hurling Championship

In the Portlaoise were defeated by Borris- in-Ossary in the opening round of the campaign, 4-10 to 3-9.

They were also defeated by Cullohill, 2-8 to 6-2. Unfortunately they had to play most of the second half with only fourteen men.

Junior Hurling Championship

Portlaoise were defeated by Borris-in-Ossory in the quarter final, 4-4 to 4-9.

Junior Football Championship

Portlaoise were eliminated in this competition by Colt, 1-3 to 1-6

Under 16 Hurling Final

Portlaoise had an easy victory over Abbeyleix, beating them by 8-3 to 1-1. The report noted that Portlaoise had won the Perry Cup in 1954, ’55 and ’56 but had lost it to Errill in 1957. Now the Cup was back in Portlaoise again after this very convincing win.

Under 16 Football Final

The Town completed the U16 double by beating Ballyadams 0-12 to 1-1 in the football final.

First Under 12 Football Championship success

The young Portlaoise side defeated Ballyadams in the final to secure a breakthrough title and continue the strong development of underage football that was beginning to emerge within the club during the 1950s.

First Mention of Portlaoise Camogie in Print

The earliest known newspaper reference to Portlaoise Camogie Club appeared in the Nationalist & Leinster Times on 13 September 1958.

Tucked away in the local Portlaoise notes was a short report which read:

“Camogie - Giving their best display to date, Portlaoise Camogie team played a draw with Courtwood in a tournament game at Ballybrittas on Sunday.”

While only a brief mention, it provides valuable evidence of organised camogie activity in Portlaoise during the late 1950s and is currently the earliest known reference to the club's camogie section in the local press.

The report suggests that a Portlaoise camogie team was already active and competing regularly in local tournaments, laying foundations for the generations of players who would follow in the decades ahead.

1958 honours

• Men’s Football – Under 12 Laois U-12 ‘A’ Football Championship Portlaoise v Ballyadams Captain: Mark Carroll
• Hurling – Under 16 Laois U-16 ‘A’ Hurling Championship

AGM

There was great praise for the achievements of 1958, especially the senior footballers who won the county championship for the first time in fifty years as recalled by vice president Joe Bracken. Unfortunately the club subsequently lost the title on an objection by neighbours, the Heath. The AGM were not aware of the result of The Heath objection but they were aware of the consequences of the Rathdowney objection relating to the minor hurling championship win. Secretary, Jim Loughlin, apologised for playing an overage player in the county minor hurling final but said it “was done in good faith”. Jim Sexton presented the Treasurer’s Report and showed an expenditure of £299 with a credit balance of £9 but bills or £40 yet to be paid.

Al Delaney ruled the club as chairman with wisdom and enlightenment during these vital years for a club not that long emerged from its period of extinction during the 1940s. Jim Loughlin had stepped into the busy role of secretary and did a remarkable job of running the administration of the club with at least a half dozen teams involved at adult level and also at juvenile level. He and the outgoing chairman, Al Delaney, paid the price for this error as both were banned for two years which on top of losing the title was a serious blow to the administration of what was now the biggest club in the county. Their work was fully appreciated by members but the club continued under a new administration and neither Al nor Jim was ever again elected to an executive position in the club.

Senior Football

Portlaoise battled their way back to the senior football final of 1959. They qualified to meet Portarlington and were overwhelming favourites to capture the title and so put the reversal of losing the 1958 title on what was considered as a dubious objection behind them. They had played Portarlington in challenge and tournament games in advance of their meeting in the final and had always showed their superiority. But when your luck is down, it is down – and Portlaoise luck in major senior competition games was certainly down. They had very much an off day in this very low scoring game, losing 1-3 to 2-2. They continually attacked throughout the match but had countless wides, seven alone in the first twenty minutes. They failed to score in the first half and were behind 2-2 to 0-0 at the interval.

Portlaoise continued to dominate but still found scoring a tough task. They fought to the finish with John Keenan scoring a goal with three minutes remaining, having moved from defence to the forward line. They attacked again for one last effort but to no avail. Their first score was obtained in the seventeenth minute of the second half by which time they were encamped in the opposition’s territory. It was a disastrous result for the team and for the club. But if they lost they went down in a sporting manner and were quick to congratulate the victorious Portarlington side at the final whistle. This was Portarlington’s seventh title.

Incredibly Portlaoise lost by two points in the most vital game of all, the final, while in the three qualifying games they won each of the games by two points. Portlaoise were victorious over The Heath by 1-6 to 1-4 in this very hard fought first round encounter. The game was spoiled by a huge melee mainly comprised of spectators from both sides. It was an outbreak of madness that could well have been predicted after the sour taste left by The Heath’s objection the previous year after their side had been hammered by a nine point margin in a reply. The referee, Paddy Peacock, was left almost alone in trying to clear the field and it took him thirteen minutes before he managed to restart the game. An enquiry was held into the row at a Football Board meeting but the discussion fizzled out harmlessly without a result, mainly it seems because of the sensitivity of relations between these top two teams in the county and bitter rivals. The report of the game makes a point, however, that both sets of players shook hands after the game and their rivalry had been played out on the field of play. But it was a different story for the rival supporters and officials, among whom the rancour created by the objection lived on for some time.

In the second round Portlaoise had defeated Graiguecullen by 0-8 to 0-6 in a disappointing performance.

Portlaoise had defeated Annanough by two points in the semi- final to reach a second consecutive final by 1-7 to 0-8. An early goal by Donal “Hackey” Dunne helped Poprtlaoise into a 1-6 to 0-5 half-time lead. Annanough rued a great goal by Robert Miller, which was disallowed at a vital stage of the final quarter.

Senior Hurling Championship

Camross defeated Portlaoise by 1-10 to 1-6 in the opening round of the championship. The winners had won the Junior title in 1957 and the Intermediate in 1958. They showed their potential in this their first game at senior level. Although behind by 1-4 to 0-2 at the break, they turned on a super performance in the second half to sweep to a four point victory. Little did the small attendance at Mountrath on that June day that they were witnessing the rise of a club that was to dominate the senior hurling championship for decades. Portlaoise: Joe Lalor, Tom Brown, John Keenan, Mick Flanagan, Tom Bracken, Tom Lalor, Christy Fitzpatrick, Noel Delaney, Pat Dalton, Mick Larkin, Paddy Brennan, Donal Dunne (0-6), Johnny McCormack, Paschal O’Brien (1-0), John Hughes.

Portlaoise went on to lose narrowly to Abbeyleix in the losers group.

Junior Hurling Championship

Portlaoise failed in their attempt to beat Ballyfin in their second round match by 2-3 to 3-4. In the previous round they were victorious over Cullohill, 6-6 to 3-0.

Junior Football Championship

Portlaoise were eliminated by Tolerton in this competition.

Regained the minor hurling crown

Portlaoise made reparation for the disaster of losing the title due to an overage player when they proved too good for a Rathdowney side that had provided eight players on the Laois minor team that played in the Leinster final. This was a completely unexpected result but a sweet one for the “Town” and it was celebrated wildly by the fans. The foundation was set in the opening half when speedy talented Portlaoise attack ripped their much vaunted defence wide open and led by 5-1 to 2-4.

En route to the final they had beaten Lalor’s Mills, Mountmellick and Clonaslee in the semi-final by 6-2 to 5-3, the scorers were Pascal Delaney (1-0), Teddy Fennelly (1-1), T. Molloy (1-0), Frank Lalor (1-0), Mick Earley (1-0), Bill O’Reilly (1-0), Jim O’Shaughnessy (0-1).

Minor Football

Portlaoise were also eliminated by Portarlington at the quarter final stage in the minor football championship, 2-5 to 1-4.

Timahoe won the delayed minor final of 1958 played on August 9, 1959, beating Portarlington by 1-12 to 1-5. Stradbally beat St. Abbans by 1-11 to 0-4 in the 1959 final.

Under 16 Hurling

Portlaoise defeated Portarlington by a big score in the semi- final but had to pull out all the stops to capture the Perry Cup against Mountrath in the final at Mountrath. Portlaoise 4-1 to Mountrath 3-2.

Under 16 Football

Portlaoise were victorious over Ballyadams by 0-12 to 1-1 in a delayed final played in 1960.

Portlaoise and Colt Camogie Join Forces

One of the earliest known references to camogie in Portlaoise appeared in the Leinster Express of 30 May 1959.

A short notice in the local news section reported that the Portlaoise Camogie team had held their first practice session of the year in O'Moore Park and were preparing for the season ahead.

"Portlaoise Camogie team had their first practice of the year on Monday evening at O'Moore Park. They have joined forces with Colt camogie team and, with the fine weather ahead, hope to play, and win, many matches in Laois, in the near future."

The report reveals that Portlaoise and neighbouring Colt had combined resources for the season, reflecting the challenges many developing camogie clubs faced at the time in attracting sufficient numbers and organising regular fixtures.

1959 honours

• Men’s Football – Under 12 Laois U-12 ‘A’ Football Championship Portlaoise 7-6 v 0-1 Ballyadams Captain: Paddy Doyle
• Hurling – Minor Laois Minor ‘A’ Hurling Championship Portlaoise 5-1 v 2-4 Rathdowney Captain: Mickey Earley
• Hurling – Under 16 Laois U-16 ‘A’ Hurling Championship