AGM

The big decision at this meeting in 1960 which drew a full house to Bannan’s Hall was the election of Jimmy Cotter as secretary. Jimmy went on to give many years of service to the club as secretary and in other important positions. Joe Bracken was also confirmed as chairman and likewise gave great leadership for many years.

Senior Hurling

Portlaoise hurlers had been sowing signs of a championship winning side in the previous years and in 1960 came within a whisker of bridging the long gap with 1943-their last SH championship success. They forged their way through the championship and in the county final were very unlucky to lose to Borris-in-Ossory by 0-11 to 2-6. In arrears at the break by 0-7 to 2-5, they curtailed the opposition to one point in the second half. There was a controversial moment near the finish when some of the Portlaoise supporters thought the team had equalised with a point from a free. Alas the score was waved wide after a moment’s hesitancy by the umpire to the disgust of the Portlaoise following and the surprise of neutrals. This was a game that should have been put out of reach of the Borris men long before the final whistle but some poor finish in the attack cost them dearly. It was seen as another big one that got away.

Portlaoise had put on a splendid display in the opening round against the side they were to eventually meet again in the final. In the end they lost narrowly to Borris-in-Ossory by 4-13 to 8-3 but it could have easily gone the other way in a free-flowing

high-scoring game. Mick Larkin proved to be a lethal forward and scored three goals for the “Town” who looked like winners with time running out in this spectacular game but Christy O’Brien, as so often before, proved the inspiration and match winner by manufacturing some great late scores to enable his team snatch victory from the jaws of defeat.

On course to the final Portlaoise defeated Abbeyleix by 6-10 to 2-2 in the losers group. They then overcame Camross, 4-6 to 4-2, also part of the losers group.

In the quarter final they originally drew with Cuddagh, 3-6 to 2-9 and were victorious in the replay by 2-10 to 1-6. The fans were getting great value from their hurlers and there was more to come. They had now progressed to the semi-final where they defeated Cullohill by 2-7 to 2-3.

Senior Football

In the first round Portlaoise defeated Portarlington by 1-9 to 1-5. This was a workmanlike display against the side that surprised them in the final of the previous year. Portlaoise led by 0-4 to 0-2 in a poor game that saw the introduction of Meath star, Tom Browne, to the “Town” colours. The winners were only a point ahead at the end of the third quarter but a goal by substitute, Billy Bunyan, sealed the result in the closing stages.

They then qualified for the semi-final by beating Graiguecullen, 1-9 to 0-5.

The semi-final was an uninspiring occasion with Portlaoise losing to The Heath by 0-2 to 0-3. Because of the intense rivalry between these neighbouring clubs, this game was fixed for Graiguecullen. The pitch was waterlogged which contributed to the low scoring and also both teams ended with thirteen men in a bad tempered affair. This was a game between the Laois kingpins that did nothing for Laois football. In truth it was a dour game, on a dour pitch and on a dour day. Yet The Heath came away happiest and went on to beat Annanough readily in the county final.

Junior Hurling Championship

Portlaoise bowed out to a highly-rated Mountrath side in this competition by 2-5 to 4-5.

In the earlier rounds they beat Oldtown and St. Conleths.

Minor Hurling County Final

Portlaoise retained their championship by beating Mountrath, 4-1 to 3-3. This close game was described by many as the best minor final seen in years. There was never a lot between the sides and Portlaoise led by 2-1 to 2-0 at the break. A goal by Donal Lalor six minutes from time restored the lead to Portlaoise who just held on for the narrow win. In the run up to the final Portlaoise had defeated Mountmellick by 10-6 to 0-0 and Clonaslee, 10-2 to 0-1.

Minor Football County Final

Portlaoise failed to rise to the occasion on a treacherous pitch, losing by a goal to a very strong Stradbally, 0-2 to 1-2. Powered by county minors, Danny Delaney and Mark Ramsbotton, the winners shot an early goal and this remained the difference between the sides in this low-scoring final. On route to the final Portlaoise had defeated Abbeyleix by 3-9 to 0-3 and Mountmellick, 5-10 to 0-2.

Under 16 Football

Portlaoise suffered defeat in the final against Ballyadams by 5-5 to 1-3.

Under 16 Hurling

Portlaoise defeated Rathdowney by 13-3 to 3-1 in the final.

Under 14 Hurling Final

Portlaoise went under to Abbeyleix in this decider, 0-3 to 3-4.

Under 12 Football Three in a Row

Portlaoise CBS 4-4 to Ballyadams 1-1.

When the team arrived back in Portlaoise it was met by a bonfire at New Road from where they marched up the town through Main Street and Church Street, led by the CBS Band.

Intermediate Football County Final

Another Portlaoise side won this title when the Mental Hospital defeated Portarlington by 2-9 to 0-3 in the final.

1960 honours

• Men’s Football – Under 12 Laois U-12 ‘A’ Football Championship Portlaoise 4-4 v 1-1 Ballyadams Captain: Pat Dempsey
• Hurling – Minor Laois Minor ‘A’ Hurling Championship Portlaoise 4-1 v 3-3 Mountrath Captain: Teddy Fennelly
• Hurling – Under 16 Laois U-16 ‘A’ Hurling Championship Portlaoise 13-3 v 3-1 Rathdowney Captain: Ollie Byrne
• Hurling – Under 16 Laois U-16 ‘A’ Hurling Shield

AGM

Over one hundred members attended the 1961 AGM. Jimmy Cotter, in his first report as secretary, said that the club had fielded teams in the senior, junior, minor, under 16 and under 14 grades in hurling and football. He said that senior teams were pipped by one point in both codes to the eventual winners and with some excellent minors now coming on to the panel it bore well for the years ahead.

Senior football

The senior footballers had a pre-season boost in the Graiguecullen tournament. The score was 0-6 each and Portlaoise fielded a number of minors in this closely fought Fr. Maher tournament game. Portlaoise won by 1-9 to 0-7 in the replay. With many young players new to senior ranks on duty, the win gave fresh confidence for the future of football in the club.

Portlaoise, so near and yet so far over the previous years, and showing good form early in the year, disappointed their following in the opening round of the championship by losing 2-7 to 0-7 to Rovers, an area team comprising of Ballylinan, Crettyard and Barrowhouse whose most notable players included Ollie Brennan and Fintan Walsh (Ballylinan), Mick Phelan and Willie Malone (Barrowhouse) and E. Wheatley from Crettyard.

The “Town” got back on the winning trail by beating Killeshin 0-13 to 1-4. Liam Doran was Killeshin’s star but Portlaoise proved too strong overall. Next Portlaoise were involved in a game that grabbed the headlines for all the wrong reasons. Portlaoise were leading Annanough at Portarlington by 2-3 to 1-4 in a grim battle that turned into a real battle with ten minutes remaining when the ball was left aside and numerous individual bouts of fisticuffs erupted all over the field. The referee, Jimmy Rankins, tried but failed to restore order and he abandoned the game.

The replay was described in the press as uneventful with the “Town” side winning 0-6 to 0-3 in a game in which defences dominated and scores were at a premium. The Leinster Express reported: “Referee, Bill Bolton, although a little behind the play, made a good job of the game and did not deserve the insulting remarks made by some spectators.”

A feature of the game was the appearance of the hurling maestro from Borris-in-Ossory, Christy O’Brien, a great admirer of Portlaoise club and its sporting ethos, despite the intense rivalry between the clubs in hurling. He lined out at corner back for the “Town” for his one and only outing in the Portlaoise jersey. While he had a good game he decided that Portlaoise had plenty of good young footballers and he did not want to do one of them out of a place on the team. A little later in the year he led his native club to a fourth SHC title in six years.

The semi-final against O’Dempseys was headlined as a “thriller” and “compensation for spectators” presumably a reference to previous games in the championship. While praised for the quality of play the report indicated that “there were also passages of rough play and the amount of punishment which some O’Dempseys players were subjected to, made their win all the more merited. O’Dempseys won by 0-9 to 0-5 and their star player was Tom Browne, who had helped the “Town” in the championship the previous year.

The Heath beat O’Dempseys in the final by 3-6 to 0-10. The crunch moment came ten minutes from time when O’Dempseys star player, Jack Kenna, first forced a penalty and then saw his kick from the spot rebound off the crossbar. O’Dempseys were disappointed but they went on to win their first county title two years later.

Senior hurlers lose to Durrow by one point

Durrow rocked Portlaoise, the 1960 finalists in the opening round of the SHC. The sides were level at the break and the lead changed hands three times in the second half. Portlaoise just managed to edge ahead with minutes remaining thanks to two goals by full-forward, Mick Larkin. But late points from Joe Donohue and sub, Brendan O’Connor, swung the decision Durrow’s way, on a 4-3 to 3-5 scoreline.

The “Town” showed something like their true potential in the loser’s group when easily turning aside a St. Canices challenge by 6-6 to 0-7. The rout could not be forecast at half-time when the winners led by 2-3 to 0-6. Next Portlaoise swept aside the Clonaslee challenge by 6-10 to 3-6 after leading by 2-7 to 0-2 at the break

In the losers group final, however, Camross proved superior on the day and won by 7-4 to 3-4. The damage was done in the opening half at the end of which Camross led by 3-3 to 0-1.

In the Portlaoise CYMS hurling tournament a little later in the year, Camross beat Portlaoise by 5-4 to 1-7.

Juniors lose to Ballypickas - twice

A Portlaoise “A” side took a hammering in this non-contest by 6-4 to 1-0 against Ballypickas.

The junior “B” team, however, were soon to compensate by scoring a 2-9 to 2-2 win over Kilcotton.

But it was Ballypickas, completing what was probably a unique double over the same club in the “A” and “B” championship, proved too good for the “Towns” junior “B” squad in the semi-final by 3-5 to 1-6. The winners finished strongly with two points from Christy Wallace and then a great goal by Seamus Mulhall from an inch-perfect pass from P.J. Cahill settled the issue.

Minor hurling championship

In the first round Portlaoise beat the Rovers by 11-11 to 0-0. Grattan Street man, Jack Delaney’s tally of 8-3 must be in the running for an all-time championship record. It was almost as easy in the second round when the “Town” beat Colt by 9-7 to 1-2

But Durrow proved more competitive opposition in the final and Portlaoise just managed to take the title for the third successive year by 2-4 to 2-3 thanks to two late points from midfielder, Teddy Fennelly. This game provided top quality hurling all through and ended in a gripping finish. Noted for Portlaoise were Pascal Delaney, Joe Ramsbottom and Jim Leonard, who was winning his second medal of the afternoon having helped Ratheniska capture the Intermediate title against Clonaslee a little earlier in the day.

Title for minor footballers

Portlaoise won back the minor football title after a lapse of five years when beating St. Josephs (Ballyadams) by 1-14 to 0-6 in a high standard final. Pascal Delaney gathered a pass from Cyril O’Meara to shoot a Portlaoise goal within thirty seconds to set up the win. The winners had stars all over the pitch while Adrian Carbery, Des Brennan, Tom Quinn and P.J. Delaney were outstanding for a team missing the services of county star, John Meenan.

Under 16 hurling

Portlaoise beat Pike-of-Rushall by 5-3 to 2-4 in the semi-final.

Portlaoise lost in the final 2-6 to 2-1 and so the Perry Cup ended up in Abbeyleix.

First Under 16 football championship

Portlaoise and Portarlington were involved in an unfinished game when Bro. Darcy decided to take his team off the field with Portlaoise leading and only minutes remaining. Portlaoise were awarded the game and so qualified for the final. The final was a non-event as Graiguecullen should hardly have bothered to even turn up. Portlaoise won by the incredible score of 14-13 to 0-1.

First Under 14 football championship success

Portlaoise captured the club’s first Under 14 Football Championship in 1961, securing an important milestone in the continued growth of juvenile football within The Town.

The county final took place in Timahoe where Portlaoise produced a superb attacking display to defeat St Michael’s of Ballylinan by 4-11 to 2-5 and lift the Fr Kearney Cup.

Tom Walsh delivered one of the great individual performances in an underage county final, scoring an extraordinary personal tally of 4-6 to help drive Portlaoise to victory.

Under 14 hurling

Camross defeated Portlaoise, and thus progressed to the next round courtesy of a last minute goal by Tim Keenan on a 4-2 to 3-3 score line.

The Rovers AGM

Held in Bannon’s Hall. Chairman, Dan Kerry, said that he hoped within the coming year that the club would have its own clubrooms. It had been a good year for the club both socially and on the field of play said the secretary, Jack Cleary. He thanked the Maher family for putting a playing field at the club’s disposal. The treasurer, Brendan Delaney, gave a satisfactory report. Chairman of the Hurling Board, Jack Conroy, said that he hoped to be presenting some trophies to the club in the coming year.

Rovers beaten in junior football

Rovers were beaten 3-4 to 1-2 by Barrowhouse in the JFC. Noted players were Dan Marum, John Carroll, Joe Styles, Ned Brown, Brendan Delaney and John Wall.

St. Fintan’s Hospital beat Stradbally

The Mental Hospital side, now known as St. Fintan’s Hospital, and Intermediate champions of 1960, squeezed Stradbally from the championship in this loser’s first round tie by 1-5 to 0-7.

Annanough put an end to St. Fintan’s hopes by 2-4 to 1-4 in the next round.

1961 honours

• Men’s Football – Minor Laois Minor ‘A’ Football Championship Portlaoise 1-14 v 0-6 St Joseph’s Captain: Teddy Fennelly
• Men’s Football – Under 14 Laois U-14 Football Championship Winners Portlaoise 4-11 v 2-5 Ballylinan (St Michael’s)
• Men’s Football – Under 16 Laois U-16 ‘A’ Football Championship Portlaoise 14-13 v 0-1 Graiguecullen
• Hurling – Minor Laois Minor ‘A’ Hurling Championship Portlaoise 2-4 v 2-3 Durrow Captain: Jim O’Shaughnessy

AGM

The outgoing officers were elected en bloc.

Senior football final defeat to The Heath

The Heath proved too strong for the “Town” in the county final and so recorded their three-in-a-row. Ollie Fennell played a star role at midfield for the winners who led by 0-4 to 0-3 at the break. Whatever the result, there was always going to be a medal from this game going to the Fennell household in Grattan Street. At right half forward on the Portlaoise side was Ollie’s younger brother, John, who had already that day helped his club’s minor team win the county title.

The decisive score came ten minutes after the break when Portlaoise goalie, Paddy Bracken, was deceived by a 30 yard pile-driver from Peter Keenan to put daylight between the sides. The final scoreline of 1-10 to 0-3 probably reflected the winners’ superiority. It was a disappointing result for Portlaoise but with a lot of youth in their side their run of defeats in bigger games was soon to come to an end.

In the quarter-final Portlaoise had reversed the result of the previous year against O’Dempseys when they won 2-8 to 1-6 at O’Moore Park. It was an exciting game and the issue was in doubt right up to the final minutes when Jim (Jas.) O’Reilly and Mick Dalton shot home two goals which were vital to the outcome. Alfie Lewis had a great game at full-back and Pat Dalton did a great job in marking the O’Dempseys ace, Jack Kenna.

In the semi-final Portlaoise beat Portarlington by 0-6 to 0-3. When Portlaoise led by 0-4 to 0-0 at the break it looked as if Portarlington had a good chance because they had played against a very strong breeze in the opening half. But the Portlaoise defence was watertight and the winners held out for a workmanlike victory.

Clonad win easily

In this eagerly awaited senior hurling championship tie with neighbours and rivals, Clonad, the game turned out to be something of a damp squib. After a reasonably evenly contested first half, Clonad led by 2-5 to 2-1 at the break. Portlaoise managed to get back on level terms on the restart but an Ollie Fennell free led to a goal and Clonad never looked like being beaten afterwards and went through to the semi-final.

In the opening round Portlaoise ran riot against a weak Rathdowney side by 9-4 to 1-3. The runaway win was not on the cards at half-time when Portlaoise led by 1-1 to 0-2. Three goals in quick succession on the restart gave this game the unexpected twist after the break.

Emo win first junior title at Portlaoise’s expense

Emo captured their first Junior football title when they finished two points clear of Portlaoise in an exciting final. The winners led by 3-5 to 2-0 at the interval but Portlaoise came storming back and just failed on a 3-5 to 2-6 scoreline. The game was won and lost at midfield where Arthur McCluskey and Tom Dowling gave the winners the edge.

In the quarter-final Portlaoise beat Jamestown by 2-10 to 0-0.

Kilcotton too good for the juniors

Kilcotton won ten senior championships between 1904 and 1929 but this was the first time since then that they were in contention for further honours. Ahead by 1-6 to 0-3 at the interval they went on to win by 2-11 to 2-4 and so qualify for a final tilt with Mountmellick. Left half forward, John Fitzpatrick, scored 2-8 of the winner’s total.

Minor footballers retain title

In the opening game on football final day, Portlaoise made a good start to the day for the club by winning by 0-11 to 0-2 against Crettyard in a one sided final.

The minor footballers had beaten Portarlington in an earlier round by 6-12 to 1-3 and then easily set aside the Ballyroan challenge by 4-7 to 1-3 in the semi-final.

Minor hurlers-another double

Portlaoise won their tenth county minor hurling title in fourteen years in a disappointing final (for neutrals) by beating Camross 8-9 to 2-3. Brian Delaney placed John Fennell for an early goal and then shot another himself to set up the “Town” for a big win. Backed by the breeze they led by 6-6 to 0-0 at the break and from that position there was never going to be any significant threat from Camross in the second period. The minors had beaten Cuddagh by 6-5 to 3-2 in an earlier round.

Under 16 Football

Portlaoise had a convincing win over Emo in the final by 5-13 to 2-3. It was close up to half-time when the winners led by 2-6 to 2-2. Portlaoise had beaten Timahoe in the semi-final by 5-13 to 1-1.

Juvenile hurling

The U16 hurlers beat Pike-of-Rushall 11-3 to 1-1 in the quarter-final. Portlaoise beat Kyle 3-7 to 2-3 in the final.

Under 14 Hurling

The U14 hurlers had a big win over Mountrath. Mountmellick beat Durrow in the final by 6-7 to 3-3.

Town football tournament

In a Town Tournament fund-raiser the teams were as follows:

Rovers into Junior Hurling semi-final

A fine display by full-forward, Brendan Delaney, who had a personal tally of 4-2, paved the way for the Rovers passage to the Junior Hurling semi-final by defeating Arles 6-2 to 3-2. Mountmellick stopped their gallop in the semi-final.

1962 honours

• Men’s Football – Minor Laois Minor ‘A’ Football Championship Portlaoise 0-11 v 0-2 Crettyard Captain: Syd Harkin
• Men’s Football – Under 16 Laois U-16 ‘A’ Football Championship Portlaoise 5-13 v 2-3 Emo
• Hurling – Minor Laois Minor ‘A’ Hurling Championship Portlaoise 8-9 v 2-3 Camross Captain: Tom Byrne
• Hurling – Under 16 Laois U-16 ‘A’ Hurling Championship Portlaoise 3-7 v 2-3 Kyle

AGM

This meeting did not lack ambition and a major topic of conversation centred on the fitness of the previous year’s teams, particularly the senior football team. There was also criticism of the way the senior football team was selected for the final in which they were beaten by the Heath. It was proposed to employ a professional trainer “irrespective of cost”. The Chairman, Joe Bracken, said that he believed that the club could win both senior football and hurling titles if the effort was made. The treasurer, Tom Flynn, presented a balance sheet showing an expenditure of £261-9-6 and a surplus balance for the year of £6.

Senior footballers ousted by Graiguecullen

In the opening round Portlaoise defeated Park by 1-8 to 0-8. The winners led by 1-7 to 0-2 at half-time but Park came bouncing back and, after a dull game, there was an exciting finish. It was a good win for the “Town” as it overturned the result of a Portarlington tournament game between the side a little earlier which Park won by 1-6 to 0-3.

Park: E. Mansworth, G. Kelly, J. Fingleton, Joe Ramsbottom, Tony Maher, John Ramsbottom, P. Fingleton, P. Ramsbottom, G. Rankin, N. Whelan, S. Maher, H. Ramsbottom, M. Fingleton, Paddy Critchley, H. Ramsbottom.

In the quarter final Portlaoise lost narrowly to Graiguecullen by 1-7 to 3-2. Behind by 2-2 to 1-2 at the break, Portlaoise went six points down in the third quarter. They bravely fought back and cut the leeway point by point but finished just short at the end.

Senior hurlers brave performance

Portlaoise lost narrowly to the holders Clonad by 4-3 to 5-3 in a really exciting game played in Rathdowney. Clonad were raging favourites littered with inter-county men while Portlaoise had difficulty in making up the numbers for their team. Some of their players came back from retirement, a few others had to play out of usual positions and social club member, Mick O’Dwyer, was drafted in at the deep end to make up the fifteen.

But what a fantastic game it turned out to be! There was never more than a puck of the ball between the sides and Portlaoise just failed in the end to pull off a sensational win. Paddy Coss shot an early goal for Portlaoise but Mick Fitzpatrick and Jack Conroy lashed in goals before half-time at which stage Clonad led by 2-1 to 1-3. Six goals were shared in the second half with Pascal Delaney, Paddy Coss and Paddy Brennan obliging while Tom Lalor had a brilliant game at midfield and Mick O’Dwyer and Mick Twomey were inspirational.

Portlaoise, who missed many scoring chances, were denied a place in the losers group final by Rathdowney 4-8 to 2-9. The “Town” led at the break by 1-7 to 1-4 but two goals by Rathdowney full-forward, Frank Scott, in the final quarter sealed the game.

Great rally by junior hurlers just fail

Ballypickas overcame Portlaoise’s challenge to win this trophy for the fourth time by 6-10 to 5-3. Defensive lapses left the “Town” sixteen points adrift at the break on a 6-3 to 1-2 scoreline. After some half-time changes, including Donald Dunne falling back into goal, Jack Kavanagh coming on in attack and Martin O’Sullivan coming on in defence, it was a different ball game on the restart. Portlaoise swung back and with ten minutes remaining, they had cut the deficit to six points and on the offensive. Ballypickas steadied the ship, however, and held on for the title. Brian Delaney, still a minor, was involved in most of Portlaoise scores. Portlaoise had defeated Arles by 6-3 to 5-0, Shanahoe 7-6 to 4-6 and in the semi-final, Ballyfin 5-3 to 4-4 in a thriller. John Fennell starred while Brian Delaney and Jack Kavanagh shared four goals.

In an early round Rovers were trailing by 3-2 to 2-3 when the game came to an abrupt end some minutes from the end. Rovers protested that Shanahoe had sixteen players on the pitch and refused to continue. Sonny Ging, Brendan Delaney, Paddy Ging, Larry Carey, Joe McCormack and Tom Doheny were their best players.

Junior football

Portlaoise defeated Mountmellick by 2-5 to 1-4 in the opening round of the J.F. championship.

The Rovers put up a great show before going under by 1-9 to 1-7 to Courtwood in the same grade. Best players were T. Preston, J. Martley, J. McCormack and T. Swayne. Ballyroan won the title.

Minor Footballers win final

Portlaoise had an easy victory over Stradbally to retain their title, 4-12 to 1-2. The big win was not on the cards at half-time when Stradbally led by 1-2 to 0-4. But Oliver Phelan and Paddy Doyle dominated midfield in the second half and the “Town” side scored at will.

On their way to the final their victories included that over Portarlington, 3-14 to 0-1, and in the semi-final against Emo by 2-9 to 0-6.

Minor hurlers lose

Portlaoise were defeated by Abbeyleix, 6-6 to 3-1 and so were relieved of their title. Abbeyleix laid the foundations in a good first half after which they led by 3-4 to 2-1. In the semi-final Portlaoise had beaten Mountmellick by 5-5 to 1-10.

Under 16s complete double

Portlaoise scored a great double at Under 16 level by defeating Ballacolla by 5-1 to 2-0 in the hurling decider and proving too good for Graiguecullen in the football final. Portlaoise scored a great double at Under 16 level by defeating St. Canices, Ballacolla, by 5-1 to 2-0 in the hurling decider and proving too good for Graiguecullen by 2-4 to 2-1 in the football final.

U14 hurlers lose

The Pike-of-Rushall beat Portlaoise in the area final by 9-2 to 5-1 at Mountrath. Sean Delaney had a great game in goal with M. Byrne, P. Conroy, L. Breen and J. Harding also shining.

Under 12 Hurling

Abbeyleix beat Portlaoise in a replay in the final.

Laois just fails in Leinster Senior Football Final

The scoreline was: Laois 2-8 to Dublin 2-11. In the semi-final, Laois had beaten Offaly by 2-7 to 0-9.

1963 honours

• Men’s Football – Minor Laois Minor ‘A’ Football Championship Portlaoise 4-12 v 1-2 Stradbally Captain: John O’Shaughnessy
• Men’s Football – Under 16 Laois U-16 ‘A’ Football Championship Portlaoise 2-4 v 2-1 Graiguecullen
• Hurling – Under 16 Laois U-16 ‘A’ Hurling Championship Portlaoise 5-1 v 2-0 St Canices

AGM

Chairman, Joe Bracken, said there was sufficient material in the club to win a senior title. Secretary, Jimmy Cotter, and Rev. Bro. O’Mahoney were among a number of other members who agreed. Little did they know that after so many years of frustration the ambitions of so many were soon to be realised.

The game that changed history

Portlaoise wins senior football title after fifty seven years

After fifty seven years, Portlaoise finally regained the championship trophy with a narrow victory over Graiguecullen, 1-5 to 0-7, the first title in the grade since 1907. The half forward line registered all the team’s scores, with James (Jas.) O’Reilly scoring the vital goal. The score line remained low due to the solidity of both defences. There was great praise for John Fennell, who played despite having sustained a leg injury in a recent hurling match. Inevitably he scored the winning point. His total tally in the earlier rounds came to 6-3. What a performance!

This was Portlaoise’s year. Frustrated in recent years by the hand of fate, there was no way the “Town” was coming out of this one empty-handed as had happened so often in grim encounters on and off the field, They had an incredible 12-20 to spare over their opponents in the three qualifying games and simply oozed class all through the team. But was the dreaded “hoodoo” to strike again.

When that great warrior, Pascal Delaney, was the recipient of an undeserved red card the previous Sunday in the All-Ireland Under 21 football final at Croke Park, it ruled him out of the final he did not want to miss. The club and the team were rightly upset that they had been denied his services for what everyone knew was the biggest day in the club’s history.

But each player gave that little extra and every effort was needed to subdue this powerful squad from the Carlow borders. Jim Hughes was a tower of strength at midfield and played a captain’s role. Teddy Fennelly, at centre-half back, was pitted against Dinny Byrne and later Mick Fennell, and cut out Graigue’s main threats while the mighty Alfie Lewis was invincible at full back and Paddy Bracken unbeatable in goal.

It was a game full of grit and determination all over the park and right through the exciting hour. It went one way and then the other before the referee finally called it a day – Portlaoise’s day-the day that changed the history of Portlaoise GAA club. Ever since that fateful day the “Town” has dominated the county football scene and captured seven Leinster club titles into the bargain.

Portlaoise was first to score with a point from a free from Fennell. Graigue led by 0-3 to 0-1 at the end of the first quarter. But then Jas. O’Reilly’s goal had the “Town” leading at half-time by 1-3 to 0-4. Graigue, however, were back in the driving seat at the end of the third quarter but back came Portlaoise again to pip their brave opponents by a single point.

The match was played on the 25th of October before 4,000 attendance.

In the opening round, Portlaoise defeated Killeshin in a stroll by 4-9 to 0-1. The quarter-final was another walk in the park, resulting in victory over Annanough by 4-8 to 0-1. In the semi-final Portlaoise had a comfortable victory over Ballylinan by 5-9 to 1-6 after leading 2-6 to 1-4 at half-time.

Presentation of medals

The senior footballers and minor hurlers were presented with their championship medals at a gala function in Kelly’s Hotel. Jack Conroy, county chairman, Billie Brennan, county secretary, Jack Delaney, chairman of the football board (and, of course, team mentor and father of Pascal and Brian), Tony Byrne, secretary, and Willie Flanagan, secretary of the hurling board were among the guests. Club chairman, Joe Bracken, presided. After receiving his medal, senior team captain, Jim Hughes, presented the football used in the final to Portlaoise CBS. Bro. O’Mahoney received the ball which was autographed by all the players.

Apart from Jack Delaney, the other selectors were Ned Harkin, Billy Bunyan, Jimmy Cotter (Club Sec.) and Joe Bracken (Club Chairman).

Senior Hurling Championship

Portlaoise, short a number of their regular players, lost to St. Canices in the first round by 4-7 to 4-6. The “Town” led by 3-5 to 3-3 at the break but were just pipped at the post. J. Cashin shot two late points to seal victory.

Portlaoise were victorious over Kilcotton 5-7 to 1-2 but were defeated by Borris In Ossory 1-6 to 2-10 in the other group games.

Junior Football Championship

Portlaoise won the quarter final by beating Mountmellick, 3-11 to 0-10 and then lost to Kilcavan in the semi-final by a last minute point. The team that played Mountmellick was:

Junior Hurling

Rosenallis 6-2 to Portlaoise 3-4.

Minor Hurlers regain title

Portlaoise regained this title with a narrow victory over Abbeyleix by 4-3 to 3-4 in a rip-roaring final. The teams finished level at 1-2 apiece at half-time but Portlaoise took command with a two goal lead on the restart. Abbeyleix were back in from by the end of the third quarter. Just when it seemed that the 1963 champions were about to retain their title, Brian Delaney placed Paddy Doyle for the winning goal.

On the road to success the team had defeated Castletown in the quarter final, 7-8 to 3-6 and in the semi-final, Mountmellick by 11-6 to 1-4. (Mountmellick had beaten Portarlington by 21-12 to 0-1 in an earlier round).

Minor footballers surprised

Portlaoise, the holders, were knocked out at the semi-final stages by Emo, 2-6 to 1-8. With no less than five county minors who had played with Laois in the Leinster final, the “Town” squad was expected to coast home but, in one of the best games of the year, Emo provided a shock result. Portlaoise led by 1-5 to 1-1 at the break but a goal by John Lawlor and a point on the call of time by his brother,

Brian, won the day. Portlaoise had defeated Portarlington in the quarter final by 1-11 to 0-2 and before this Ballyroan, 4-6 to 1-5.

Disgraceful end to Under 16 Hurling Final

Portlaoise were leading against Pike-of-Rushall, 6-3 to 2-5, when the match had to be abandoned. It was a disgraceful scene as first the Portlaoise full-back, Seamus Doran, was attacked by a man wielding a hurley, who run in off the sideline. When one of the Portlaoise mentors went to the aid of the player a huge crowd ascended and mayhem followed. The Portlaoise team had to be escorted from the pitch under Garda protection. It was a brutal affair and yet the authorities seemed to try and made Portlaoise as culpable as their aggressors.

Portlaoise beat Borris-in-Ossory 4-2 to 3-1 in the semi-final for which the team was:

Under 16 Football Final

Portlaoise were victorious over Portarlington, 4-13 to 1-5.

Under 14 Football Final

Portlaoise were defeated by Portarlington, 5-13 to 3-4. The winners led by 1-8 to 0-3 at the interval. John Joe Critchley, Tommy Coughlan and Henry Carroll were noted for Portlaoise.

Steve Allen was Port’s main man and scored 2-6. Their captain, D.Murphy, was presented with the Fr. Kearney Cup by Chairman of Laois Juvenile Board, Rev. J. Hayden, after the game at Emo.

Under 12 Football Final

Portlaoise were beaten by Portarlington, 6-4 to 3-4 in the final.

All-Ireland Under 21 Final

Laois had a great run in winning the Leinster title and in reaching the final, the first ever played in the grade, but unfortunately lost to Kerry by 1-10 to 1-3. There was a single point between the sides midway through the second half when a melee took place and for some reason only known to the referee, Laois star, Pascal Delaney, who was not instrumental in causing the disturbance was sent off while Kerry aggressors escaped scot free. This opened the door for the Kingdom to gain the distinction of winning the first title played in the grade.

The Leinster campaign had begun with a draw against Carlow, 0-7 to 1-4, in the replay victory by 3-4 to 0-5, the next round they defeated Wexford by 3-5 to 0-7, in the Leinster Final they overcame Offaly, 1-8 to 0-8 and in the All Ireland Semi Final they beat Donegal by 1-11 to 0-10. The club was admirably represented by team members Teddy Fennelly, John Fennell, Syd Harkin, Pascal and Brian Delaney. Tony Maher also played on this side but he was a member of the Park club at the time.

Under 21 Leinster Hurling Final

Laois were defeated by Wexford, 4-7 to 2-2.

Leinster Minor Football Final

Laois lost to Offaly in the final, having defeated Dublin in the semis by 3-7 to 2-5.

Minor Hurling All Ireland Final

Laois were defeated by Cork, 10-7 to 1-4. They had reached the final by beating Roscommon, Kilkenny in the Leinster Final, Carlow, Offaly and Dublin. The club was valiantly represented by Frank Byrne, Brian Delaney, Jack Kavanagh, Tom Walsh and Barney Dunne.

JFKs routed

The recently formed Portlaoise based club, John F. Kennedys, were hammered 11-4 to 0-0 by Arles in the first round of the junior football championship.

St. Fintan’s win junior

St. Fintan’s Hospital defeated Kilcavan in the junior football final.

1964 honours

• Men’s Football – Senior Laois Senior Football Championship Portlaoise 1-5 v 0-7 Graiguecullen Captain: Jim Hughes
• Men’s Football – Under 16 Laois U-16 ‘A’ Football Championship Portlaoise 4-13 v 1-5 Portarlington
• Hurling – Minor Laois Minor ‘A’ Hurling Championship Portlaoise 4-3 v 3-4 Abbeyleix Captain: Brian Delaney
• Hurling – Under 16 Laois U-16 ‘A’ Hurling Championship Portlaoise 6-3 v 2-5 Pike of Rushall

AGM

County Chairman, Portlaoise native, Jack Conroy,was present at the meeting and congratulated the club on its great successes in 1964. Secretary, Jimmy Cotter, reported that the club had fielded ten teams in the county championships, U14, U16, minor, junior and senior, in both codes. Pride of place in achievements was the winning of the senior football title. Treasurer, Teddy Fennelly, reported that receipts for the year amounted to £360-10-6 and expenses totalled £286.7.5 leaving a substantial credit. Having stepped down from the position, he was replaced by Dick Sydes, who was to hold the role for many years.

Graiguecullen gain revenge in SFC

In the first round Portlaoise defeated Annanough by 0-5 to 0-2 in a disappointing game. It was far removed from the vintage display against the same opponents in the previous year’s= championship. Now, as champions, the ‘Town’ probably felt a little extra pressure and had little to spare in the end. Portlaoise cleared the next hurdle by defeating Emo, 1-7 to 1-4 in another unconvincing win.

Portlaoise were eliminated at the semi-final stage by Graiguecullen, 0-8 to 1-4. It was sweet revenge for Graiguecullen, who had been denied the title in the previous year by a similar single point margin. Graiguecullen went on to win the title.

Senior hurlers knocked out in semi-final Portlaoise defeated Ballypickas by 7-8 to 3-10 in the first round. The “Town” then beat Clonaslee by 5-5 to 3-4 to qualify for the semi-final. Portlaoise were knocked out by Cullohill at the semi-final stage by 2-7 to 8-5.

Junior hurlers lead the way

Portlaoise defeated Camross in the final by 4-3 to 2-5 and the team was captained by Ned Murphy. This was a marvellous win for the club and was celebrated in style. It was a magnificent team performance with the Murphy brothers, Bill, Mick, Jim and the lion-hearted Ned, proving to be men of steel. It was great also to see long serving players like Mick Twomey, Joe Styles and Charlie Clarke all figuring in the action with a lot of younger players and budding stars.

On route to the final they had beaten another Portlaoise team, De Montforts, by 10-7 to 2-1, then drew with Ballypickas, 3-2 to 1-8 and won the replay easily 3-6 to 1-2. They also beat Slieve Bloom by 2-6 to 0-2 and Ballygeehan, 14-6 to 3-3.

Junior Football Championship

Portlaoise were victorious over Mountmellick, 2-7 to 1-3 and Courtwood by 4-7 to 1-4. The delayed final was played on June 19, 1966. Arles proved superior and won by 3-8 to 3-3 after leading by 2-6 to 1-2 at half-time. The “Town” had their chances but the woodwork and some poor finish cost them the verdict. This was the second attempt to complete the match after the first occasion in March ended prematurely with a melee. With Portlaoise losing by three points and four minutes to go, a brawl occurred in the Arles goalmouth resulting in the referee, Tony Coleman (Portarlington) ending proceedings. Arles were leading by 2-3 to 2-0 when matters were called to a halt.

The “Town” win first-ever Under 21 Football Final

This was an inaugural event at this level and it ended in a draw Portlaoise 2-10 to Timahoe 3-7. The delayed final was played on Saturday, September 3, 1966. It proved a hugely entertaining affair. Backed by the breeze Timahoe built up a 3-5 to 0-3 interval lead. The “Town” battled back bravely and some points and a goal by Paddy Doyle brought them back in touch. Oliver Phelan lashed home another goal to equalize before Brian Delaney sent them ahead with a point to the delight of the big Portlaoise following. Timahoe hit back with two points and it took a John Fennell equalising point in the dying seconds to rescue his side.

Portlaoise built on their growing reputation of being almost unbeatable in a replay when dismissing Timahoe at the second attempt by 2-7 to 0-5 on October 23, 1966. The “Town” were always in command and led by 0-6 to 0-1 at the break. A goal from a “melee” and another from John Joe Ging in the second half clinched a comfortable victory.

Portlaoise defeated Portarlington by 4-11 to 0-3 in an earlier round and in the semi-final they were victorious over Emo, 2-9 to 1-7.

Under 21 Hurling Championship

Portlaoise were eliminated by Camross, 3-7 to 2-5.

Another minor hurling win

Portlaoise were triumphant in retaining their title by defeating Durrow, 8-5 to 3-3. The winners led by a single point, 3-1 to 2-3 at the break but took firm command in the second half to capture another minor hurling title.

On their way to the final Portlaoise beat Mountmellick 4-6 to 2-4.

Minor Football Championship

Portlaoise were eliminated by Emo in the semi-final by 1-7 to 1-9. They had defeated Mountmellick by 5-9 to 3-3 in an earlier round.

First Under 17 football championship success

Portlaoise captured the club’s first Under 17 Football Championship in 1965, adding another important juvenile football milestone during a hugely productive era for The Town. The victory reflected the growing strength of underage football structures within the club during the 1960s, with a talented generation of players beginning to emerge through the ranks.

Portlaoise produced a dominant display in the final, defeating Portarlington by 4-11 to 0-3 to secure the title in emphatic fashion. Across the field, The Town combined strong defensive work with a sharp attacking display to claim a convincing county championship victory.

Under 16 Hurling

Portlaoise 6-3 to Mountmellick 6-3. (Draw) Portlaoise won the replay and beat Borris-in-Ossory also in a replay in the final.

Under 16 Football

Portlaoise were beaten by Portarlington by 5-7 to 0-1.

Under 14 Football

Portlaoise were beaten in the semi-final by Portarlington 3-11 to 1-9. Players noted were E. Marum, O. Conroy, T. Rogers and L. Harkin.

Under 12 Football

Portlaoise won title by beating Graiguecullen 4-3 to 0-0.

Under 12 Hurling Final

Potlaoise CBS were defeated by Durrow, 5-2 to 1-1.

CBS playing pitch

In May it was announced that a deal had been done with Laois County Council on a patch of land at Borris Road, adjacent to the new CBS school which was to be used as a playing pitch.

Noel on big trip to USA

Former Portlaoise star, Noel Delaney, was one of only twelve GAA players selected to take part in the Cardinal Cushing Games in the USA for the “Mission in Peru” funds. Among his companions on the trip were all-time greats as Christy Ring (Cork), Jimmy Duggan (Galway), Tom Maguire (Cavan), Jim McKeever (Derry), Pa Connolly (Kildare), Mickey Kearns (Sligo), Tom Neville (Wexford) and Pat McMahon (Clare).

The Rovers hold AGM in Dublin

The Rovers made their own little bit of Laois GAA history even if their recently reformed club was making little impact on the playing field by holding their AGM in the Laoismen’s Association Hall in Dublin. Dan Kerry, Club Chairman, was warmly welcomed by Association President, Laurence Cushen, who was himself from a family closely associated with Portlaoise town and with Portlaoise GAA Club from its very foundation.

JFK club reinstated

The John F. Kennedy Club, not long in existence, were suspended from the Association after getting involved in organising banned games. The name was adopted after the historic visit of JFK to Ireland a few years earlier. Applications for reinstatement from Mr. J. Brown and Mr. L. Marum were discussed at a County Board meeting in April and the club was allowed into the fold again. But that was as good as it got for the JFKs and little more was heard of them.

1965 honours

• Men’s Football – Under 12 Laois U-12 ‘A’ Football Championship Portlaoise 4-3 v 0-0 Graiguecullen
• Men’s Football – Under 17 Laois U-17 ‘A’ Football Championship Portlaoise 4-11 v 0-3 Portarlington
• Men’s Football – Under 21 Laois U-21 ‘A’ Football Championship Portlaoise 2-10 v 0-5 Timahoe Captain: Cyril O’Meara
• Hurling – Junior Laois Junior ‘A’ Hurling Championship Portlaoise 4-3 v 2-5 Camross Captain: Ned Murphy
• Hurling – Minor Laois Minor ‘A’ Hurling Championship Portlaoise 8-5 v 3-3 Durrow Captain: Paddy Doyle
• Hurling – Under 16 Laois U-16 ‘A’ Hurling Championship Portlaoise v Borris-in-Ossorry

AGM

Senior Football County Championship

Portlaoise qualified for the second round after having defeated The Heath by 1-10 to 1-5. The team next met reigning champions, Graiguecullen, and showed their wellbeing by routing their great foes of the period by 3-10 to 2-4. The “Town” led by 0-6 to 0-2 at the break and three second-half goals by super sub, Oliver Phelan (2), and Paddy Doyle left them clear at the end.

Portlaoise narrowly cleared their semi-final hurdle against Timahoe, 2-7 to 1-8. A Jim Foyle goal in the first minute put Timahoe in the driving seat from the early stages. Having played against the wind, the Round Tower men led by 1-4 to 0-6 at the break. The fat was certainly in the fire for the “Town” when Timahoe went five points clear in the third quarter. But then a point by Tom O’Reilly sparked a recovery. O’Reilly placed Oliver Phelan for a goal and then shot a great goal himself to put his side into a lead they never again lost. Mick McDonald was drafted back to help out in defence and had a spectacular game to foil a brave Timahoe side.

The final ended in a low scoring draw, 0-7 to 1-4 with O’Dempseys getting the only goal. A few good saves by the opposition goalkeeper, Paddy Molloy, denied Portlaoise victory.

Portlaoise defeated O’Dempseys by 2-8 to 0-8 in the replay, once again vindicating the “Town’s” formidable record in replays. The team regained the title after a year’s lapse with a much improved performance than in the drawn match. Though behind by 0-6 to 1-2 at the break they went on to dominate the second half and confirm their growing superiority in Laois football. The game will be best remembered by a brilliant volleyed goal off the turf by corner forward, John Fennell, from a ball that looked destined to be going wide. This score proved the turning point in the game. The referee was Cormac Lally for both games.

Senior hurlers just fail in semi-final

Rathdowney disposed of Portlaoise in the semi-final by 0-14 to 1-7.

This was the second attempt to complete this match after the first outing was abandoned in the first half due to the tragic death of Mr. P. Mahon from Rathdowney, father of Paddy and Mick Mahon, who were playing for Rathdowney. Portlaoise were leading 0-7 to 0-2 when the game came to a halt.

In the first round Portlaoise had an easy victory over Ratheniska by 5-10 to 1-3. They then beat Ballypickas 8-10 to 2-3.

Juniors held scoreless

Portlaoise beat Courtwood by 2-4 to 2-0, Ballylinan 2-6 to 1-3 and Graiguecullen 3-4 to 1-2 but then were defeated by Kilcavan, 1-10 to 0-0. (How many times has a Portlaoise team failed to score in a game? This was a very rare occasion.)

Junior Hurling

Portlaoise had a rare defeat in hurling by Portarlington when they were over-run on a score of 7-2 to 2-0 in the opening round of the JHC.

Under 21 hurling

The U21 hurlers beat Castletown 4-6 to 2-2 and then the O’Moores 6-10 to 3-3 in the semi-final.

Camross stopped their gallop in the final in a game in which defences were on top. Camross were in a good position at the break when leading 2-3 to 0-2 and won by 2-6 to 1-3. Portlaoise had the lion’s share of the play in the second period but the attack made little headway against a sound Camross backline.

Under 21 Football

Portlaoise always had that little extra when beating Mountmellick in the opening round at Portarlington. Portlaoise 2-8 to Mounmellick 1-4. In the semi-final, Emo were too strong winning 4-12 to 2-3 in a game played in November 1967.

Both minor teams beaten

Portlaoise were knocked out by Portarlington, 1-7 to 1-6 in the football. Mountmellick had a fine win over the “Town” in the hurling semi-final on a 6-4 to 5-2 scoreline.

Under 16 Hurling

Portlaoise won the final against Mountmellick in a most one-sided affair and so retain the title. The score was Portlaoise 17-8 to 0-2.

Under 14 Football Semi Final

Portlaoise were beaten by Portarlington, 1-7 to 1-4.

Under 14 Hurling Championship

Portlaoise were eliminated by Camross, 6-4 to 3-0.

Under 12 Football

Portarlington beat Portlaoise CBS in a replay in the final. The first meeting ended Portlaoise CBS 3-2 to Portarlington’s 2-5.

But Portarlington shaded matters at the second attempt by 2-5 to 1-2.

Leinster Minor Football Final

Laois defeated Offaly by 1-10 to 0-7.

1966 honours

• Men’s Football – Senior Laois Senior Football Championship Portlaoise 0-7 v 0-8 O'Dempsey's Captain: Jim Hughes
• Hurling – Under 16 Laois U-16 ‘A’ Hurling Championship Portlaoise 17-8 v 0-2 Mountmellick Captain: Harry Mulhaire

AGM

In congratulating the senior and under 21 footballers on winning county titles, Secretary, Jimmy Cotter, pleaded for a special effort to be made to get the senior hurlers into contention for honours. He said that they had been beaten by an alleged four points by Rathdowney in the semi-final, but that the umpire flagged two Rathdowney points that were at least two feet wide.

Prior to the meeting there was two minutes silence as a tribute to Joe Fennelly, Grattan Street, Vice-President of the club and a former hurler and footballer with Portlaoise and Laois.

Senior footballers retain title

Portlaoise had to pull out all the stops to beat their old nemesis, The Heath, by 0-14 to 1-8 in the opening round. The “Town” should have had this game wrapped up in the opening quarter but squandered chance after chance, shooting eight wides from good positions. However, they did well to still lead at the break by 0-8 to 1-2. There were only two points between the sides until Tom O’Reilly finished the scoring with a point from a free to clinch a hard-earned victory.

The “Town” side qualified for the final by beating the Rovers, an area team drawn from Killeshin, Arles and St. Josephs’ players by 2-8 to 0-8. The area team led by 0-6 to 1-2 at the break but after Brian Delaney levelled, Paddy Doyle shot a goal and that put the “Town” side on the road to a relatively easy win.

In the final Portlaoise had too much power and experience for an Emo team contesting their first final in the grade. The absence of Jim Hughes through injury was a big blow to the “Town” but the void was filled in no uncertain way by the return of Alfie Lewis, the man of steel, who at full-back snuffed out numerous promising Emo attacks. The “Town” built up an 0-8 to 0-4 lead at the break and when Tom O’Reilly added a pointed free and Brian Delaney crashed home a goal, it was curtains for the challengers. The “Town” added three further goals from Mark Carroll while a late goal from Emo captain, Brian Lalor, was a mere consolation score. Final scoreline: Portlaoise 4-9 to Emo 1-7.

Senior hurling

Portlaoise flattered only to deceive in this opening round against near neighbours, Clonad. The “Town” showed great promise in the opening half and despite some misses led by 3-4 to 0-6 at the break, courtesy of three great goals from Pascal Delaney, Brian Delaney and Seamus Doran. But fortunes were reversed on the restart as Clonad hit back with three goals and a point without reply in a ten minute period. Jack Kavanagh shot a Portlaoise goal and a Pat Walsh shot glanced over the crossbar to leave two points between the sides at 4-9 to 4-7.. The “Town” had further chances but Clonad goalie, Jimmy Fennell, defied their best efforts of them gaining a winner.

In the final of the loser’s group, the “Town” were convincingly beaten by Borris-in-Ossory 3-10 to 2-5 having trailed by 1-8 to 1-4 at half-time. Short regulars, Pascal Delaney and Teddy Fennelly, Portlaoise were competitive for most of the game but lacked the striking power of players like J. Fitzpatrick, who shot 2-7 of the winner’s total.

Junior football

The juniors beat Stradbally 3-5 to 2-5 in the first round. The next round was a thriller and the “Town” side had to fight all the way to secure the victory against Abbeyleix by 3-5 to 3-4. They trailed by 2-3 to 2-2 at the break but did their best work in the third quarter when Peadar Molloy, switched from corner back to the attack, shot a great goal. Portlaoise stretched the lead with three points but a fortunate goal near the end by Abbeyleix left it a nail-biting finish.

The final was a disappointment but, in retrospect, the winners proved in the years ahead to be an exceptional side. In the end St. Josephs won by 2-11 to 0-3 having led by 1-7 to 0-2 at the break. St. Josephs would be contesting for senior honours in the years ahead.

Under 21 Hurling

Camross eliminated Portlaoise at the penultimate stage of this delayed competition played in 1968, 1-12 to 0-3.

Minors well beaten in hurling final

Durrow had matters all their own way when winning 1-11 to 0-1. The Portlaoise point was the last score of the game scored by Tommy Keane.

Minor footballers out

Portlaoise lost to a strong Mountmellick side in the quarter-final by Mountmellick 4-4 to Portlaoise 3-2.

Under 16 Hurling

The Under 16 hurlers lost out to Camross in the semi-final after a thrilling game by 5-6 to 5-3.

Under 14 Football

A goal from a penalty in the last minute earned Graiguecullen the title on a 1-7 to 1-6 scoreline. Anthony Marum gave “a remarkable display” in the Portlaoise goal.

Mixed fortunes for Under 12s

Portarlington beat the “Town” side by 1-6 to 1-4 in the football final. But the hurlers more than compensated when the CBS side won their first title beating Portarlington 8-5 to 0-0.

Football Street League

Green Road beat Dr. Murphy Place by 3-3 to 0-1.

Presentation to Bro. O’Mahoney

A presentation was made to Bro. O’Mahoney by the students in June to mark his ten years loyal work at the local CBS at a special function in the County Hotel. His departure was widely regretted because of his inspired role as a teacher and his caring nature. The local club was also at a great loss because he had thrown in his weight behind all its efforts in his time in Portlaoise and he could share in its great achievements during his time in the town.

Passing of a Vice-President

Bill Campion, a popular local publican on the Main Street, and a Vice-President and great supporter of Portlaoise GAA over many years passed away in August.

1967 honours

• Men’s Football – Senior Laois Senior Football Championship Portlaoise 4-9 v 1-7 Emo Captain: Alfie Lewis
• Men’s Football – Under 16 Laois U-16 ‘A’ Football Championship
• Hurling – Under 12 Laois U-12 ‘A’ Hurling Championship

AGM

Paddy Brennan, a hurling stalwart, took over the reins as Chairman, replacing Joe Bracken who stepped down after guiding the club since 1959, following the troublesome events of 1958. He had steered the club wisely and by the time he stepped down, Portlaoise was recognised as one of the top clubs and a well-run organisation that had tasted success at top level and still invested greatly in the younger generation. Many tributes were paid to him and his work for the club.

Three-in-a-row for senior footballers

The final was a game played in unsuitable conditions on November 10th, with wind and a heavy surface militating against good football. But Portlaoise settled early and built up a commanding lead. Playing with the wind in the first half Portlaoise took full advantage, leading at one stage by 0-7 to no score, and at the interval it was 1-10 to 0-1. Timahoe made a brave bid to make the game competitive in the second half but Portlaoise contained the opposition and ran out comfortable winners by 1-10 to 1-5, and so completed an historic hat-trick of titles.

In the first round of the championship between Portlaoise and Stradbally, the game was abandoned with six minutes remaining because encroaching spectators refused to leave the pitch at the Mill Field, Portarlington. Portlaoise were leading 2-7 to 0-2 at the time. “The Town” easily defeated their rivals by 4-7 to 0-8 in the rematch. Goals by Harry Mulhaire, his first of three, and Mark Carroll, sent Portlaoise on their way and they led by 2-3 to 0-2 at the end of the first quarter. Stradbally were in touch at half-time only trailing by five points but further goals from Mulhaire finished the game as a contest.

In the quarter-final, Portlaoise were given a major fright by a gritty Arles side who bravely stood up to everything the two-time champions put up to them. It looked all over an easy win for the “Town” when they led by 0-5 to 0-1 at the break after playing against the breeze. But it was level within five minutes of the restart. This spurred the champions into raising their game and they led by 1-8 to 1-3 with twelve minutes remaining. Back came Arles again and there was only a point between the teams with three minutes remaining. The initiative was with the challengers but Portlaoise held out grimly to survive by the narrowest of margins 1-9 to 2-5. Arles were driven by the Conways, John and J.J. and Danny Brennan.

In the semi-final, Portlaoise were victorious over Portarlington by 1-8 to 1-5. It was an unimpressive performance but the “Town” never looked like losing and were always in the driving seat.

Senior Hurling Championship

Camross defeated Portlaoise in the quarter final by 6-12 to 5-4. Camross led by 3-8 to 1-0 at half-time.

Intermediate hurling

Portlaoise lost out heavily to St. Conleths in the semi-final by 8-11 to 4-2. Portlaoise scorers: M. Carroll (1-1), S. Harkin (1- 0), M. Byrne (1-0), O. Byrne (1-0), S. Beere (0-1).

Junior football

Portlaoise were eliminated by Courtwood, 1-10 to 0-4.

Junior hurlers

Portarlington put an end to the “Town’s” junior hurling

Under 21 hurlers lose heavily

Camross, again, were too powerful for Portlaoise in this semi-final clash winning by 3-12 to 0-3.

Under 21 Football

Portlaoise lost to St. Josephs by 3-9 to 0-6.

Minor Football Final

Portlaoise, with good wins over Mountmellick and Portarlington (2-6 to 1-4) to their credit, looked likely to capture this title but it ended on a very disappointing note. St. Josephs, a rising force in Laois football, were far too good in the final winning by 1-11 to 0-2. Portlaoise only managed their first point at the three quarter stage when they were 1-8 to 0-0 down. There was strong criticism of a section of the Portlaoise following who shouted abuse at the referee over some decisions they obviously did not agree with.

In the quarter-final, Portlaoise had defeated Mountmellick by 4- 7 to 2-5. In the semi-final, Portlaoise beat Portarlington 2-6 to 1-4.

Minor hurling

Portloise qualified for the final with a big win over Mountmellick by 8-6 to 2-4. Although pre-match favourites for the final, they met a surprisingly competent Borris-in-Ossory side that proved too good on the day winning by 6-8 to 4-3. This was the winning club’s first title win in the grade.

Under 16 Football

Portlaoise regained this title after defeating Graiguecullen in the final, by 3-8 to 1-4. One to catch the eye for the future was Eamonn Whelan. John Dooley, Paddy Cotter and Noel Tynan were others noted.

Under 16 hurling

Portlaoise beat Mountmellick 4-6 to 3-4 in the final.

Under 14 Hurling Final

Portlaoise beat Mountrath by five points but were defeated by Durrow in the final.

Under 14 Football

Portlaoise beat Stradbally 4-6 to 0-2 but lost to Graiguecullen in the final.

Under 12 Football

Portlaoise beat Graiguecullen by 1-6 to 0-0, Stradbally by 6-11 to 0-1 and defeated Mountmellick in the final by 3-11 to 1-2.

Under 12 Hurling Final

Portlaoise CBS beat Clonaslee 6-1 to 0-0 and beat Abbeyleix PBS in the final by 3-1 to 3-0. Included in the team were Mick Rochford, Billy Bohane, Pat O’Brien, J. Keenan, P. O’Riordan, Bernie Conroy (Capt.), Gerry Browne, P. Lanham, Maurice Prendergast.

Street Leagues

At the juvenile presentations in St. Mary’s Hall, in November the following panels received their medals.

1968 honours

• Men’s Football – Senior Laois Senior Football Championship Portlaoise 1-10 v 1-5 Timahoe Captain: Paddy Bracken
• Men’s Football – Under 12 Laois U-12 ‘A’ Football Championship Portlaoise 3-11 v 1-2 Mountmellick
• Men’s Football – Under 16 Laois U-16 ‘A’ Football Championship Portlaoise 3-8 v 1-4 Graiguecullen Captain: John McDonald
• Hurling – Under 12 Laois U-12 ‘A’ Hurling Championship
• Hurling – Under 16 Laois U-16 ‘A’ Hurling Championship Portlaoise 4-6 v 3-4 Mountmellick Captain: John McDonald

AGM

Secretary, Jimmy Cotter, expressed the anger felt by members at the expulsion of one of the club’s young star players who was reported by referee, Cormac Lally, for kicking an opponent in the minor football final of 1968. All agreed that it was a travesty of justice and that the club would appeal any penalty imposed by the County Board to the Leinster Council. He also referred to the bad publicity that the club had received as a result of abuse given to the referee at the same game by a section of the attendance. Mr. Cotter said that those responsible were not members of the club and he appealed to members to ensure they would not tolerate any such conduct into the future.

Senior football

In the opening game Portlaoise had a surprisingly easy win over Graiguecullen by 3-12 to 1-5 at Ballylinan. The game was as good as over when the winners led by 3-9 to 0-1 at the break. Portlaoise could afford to take their foot off the pedal in the second half. In the quarter-final of the championship Mountmellick, the Intermediate champions of 1968, really put it up to the three times champions. In the end the “Town” had three points to spare, 2-10 to 2-7.

In the next round of the championship the “Town” won a little more convincingly by beating Portarlington 3-8 to 1-9 and so qualified for the final and the prospect of a four-in-a-row. Short the services of Jim Hughes and Mark Carroll, the game was all square at half-time. But Portlaoise were too strong in the second half and won easily in the end.

The alarm bells were ringing at half-time in the county final with Portlaoise seeking a record equalling four-in-a-row and red hot favourites. Timahoe led by 0-8 to 0-3 but, as they were invariably did, Portlaoise rallied and were only one point adrift soon after the restart. But Timahoe held out and won on a scoreline of 0-12 to 0-9 with Portlaoise staging an all-out assault right up to the end. But it was not to be and Tom Joe Bradley was presented with the cup by county chairman, Tom Cushen.

There were will scenes of jubilation after the final played on October 5th-but it was not the Portlaoise supporters who were celebrating. No, it was the big contingent from the Round Tower village of Timahoe, who had pulled off the surprise of the year and won for themselves the county title for the very first time.

Portlaoise bounced back quickly after their final defeat when they beat Mountmellick 1-9 to 0-8 in the Gaelic Publications tournament final at Mountmellick. Bernard Rochford presented the Gaelic Publications cup and medals to the Portlaoise captain, Teddy Fennelly, after the game.

Senior hurling

Rathdowney just got over the “Town” in the opening round by 1-11 to 3-3. Portlaoise won their next game beating St. Conleths by 7-4 to 1-12.

Portlaoise once again played second fiddle to Clonad in this well contested quarter-final clash at O’Moore Park by 3-6 to 2-5. Clonad led by 3-2 to 0-4 at the break but the “Town” were still very much in the game with minutes remaining. Lack of penetration cost them dearly once again.

Junior Football

Portlaoise beat Abbeyleix 3-5 to 0-7. Then beat St. Josephs 1-8 to 1-7. But Killeshin won the title beating Rathdowney 0-10 to 1-2 in the final.

Junior Hurling

In the semi-final, the “Town” lost out on a scoreline of Rathdowney 2-12 to Portlaoise 0-8.

U21 football

Portlaoise beat Mountmellick 0-6 to 0-3 but in the semi-final, the “Town” came up five points short in their tie with a strong Stradbally area side on a 4-8 o 3-6 scoreline. Portlaoise got away to the best possible start when Ollie Conroy crashed home a goal after four minutes. Harry Mulhaire and John Dooley added points but Stradbally fought back and were trailing by a single point 1-4 to 1-3 at the interval. Goals from John Miller and George Tinkler put Stradbally in the driving seat and despite Portlaoise’s game spirit, they held on fairly comfortably to reach the final.

Under 21 Hurling

Camross 3-7 to Portlaoise 3-2. Camross beat Errill in the final by 4-9 to 3-5 played in March 1970.

Minor hurling

It was plain sailing for the “Town” in the opening round against Mountmellick winning by 9-13 to 0-2. But Portlaoise had to pull out all the stops to see off a Rosenallis challenge in the semi-final by 3-5 to 2-4. Rosenallis finished two points clear at 2-3 to 1-4 at the interval. Goals by John Walsh and Noel Scully swung matters Portlaoise’s way on the restart and they plugged on for a hard fought victory.

In the final, however, Rathdowney proved a handful and went on to win their first title in the grade for twelve years with a 6-8 to 3-5 win. The winners were in control at midfield through the good work of Johnnie Mahon and Eugene Murphy and they led by 4-4 to 2-5 after a lively first half. The teams lost a player apiece after being sent off for unruly play but this did not deter Rathdowney from securing the title. Mahon with 2-5 was the winner’s top player while Louis Duff was Portlaoise’s star player and scored 2-4 into the bargain. The County Board were asked to launch an investigation into the constitution of the Rathdowney team with claims that they included some players with assumed names.

Minor Football

Portlaoise beat Portarlington 1-9 to 1-4 and then qualified for the final with a 2-8 to 1-3 win over Annanough in Portarlington. The teams had drawn Annanough 3-2 to Portlaoise’s 1-8 in an earlier game. Tom Deegan and Mick Dooley had control at midfield and their side led by 1-3 to 0-1 at the break. E. Whelan, T. Gorman and J. Critchley had the lion’s share of the scoring. Stradbally won the final proving too strong for the ‘Town’ team by 2-7 to 1-6.

Under 17 Football

Portlaoise easily disposed of Crettyard in this newly inaugurated championship. Portarlington beat Stradbally in the final.

Under 16 Football

Final: Stradbally 4-14 to Portlaoise 1-5.

Under 14 Hurling and Football

Portlaoise defeated Mountrath in the opening round. Final: Ballygeehan 8-5 to Portlaoise 5-0. Included were Philip Rochford, Jimmy Bergin, Billy Bland, Mark Delaney and Billy Bohane. Portlaoise beat Portarlington in the U14 football final.

Under 12s Hurlers win

Portlaoise CBS beat Abbeyleix 3-1 to 3-0 in the final. They were two goals down at the break. Stars for Portlaoise were Billy Bohane, Pat O’Brien, J. Keenan, P. O’Riordan, Bernie Conroy, Gerry Browne, P. Lanham, Maurice Prendergast, Mick Rochford, Sean Whelan and Seamus Plunkett.

Under 12 Football

The CBS lads completed the double by also capturing the football crown on a scoreline of Portlaoise 2-11 v Graiguecullen 0-1. Among the stars were goalie, Padraic O’Riordan, Maurice Prendergast, Seamus Plunkett, Pat O’Brien, Billy Bohane, Gerry Browne, Colm Browne and Sean Whelan.

Juvenile Presentations

There was a big juvenile and street league presentation in St. Mary’s Hall at which Bill Phelan, Vice-Chairman of the Laois Juvenile Board, presided and welcomed guests. A special welcome was extended to members of the 1943 senior hurling championship winning team. Also welcomed was new chairman of Laois County Board, Tom Cushen, Rev. Liam Dunphy, chairman of the Juvenile Board, Colm Heenan, Chairman of Laoismen’s Association in Dublin, Bro. Canice, Patricians, Ballyfin, Bro. Beausang, who came from Wexford for the function and Bro. Somers, CBS, Portlaoise.

Bro. Beausang presented trophies to Under 15 footballers of Marian Place

Tom Cushen presented trophies to Dr. Murphy Place

Teddy Fennelly presented medals to Dr. Murphy Place U18 footballers

He also presented a cup to the winners in memory of his father, Joe Fennelly, Grattan Street, who was a prominent lifelong GAA supporter of Portlaoise and Laois.

Fr. Dunphy presented Under 16 medals

Jimmy Cotter presented Under 16 medals

1969 honours

• Men’s Football – Under 12 Laois U-12 ‘A’ Football Championship Portlaoise 2-11 v 0-1 Graiguecullen
• Hurling – Under 12 Laois U-12 ‘A’ Hurling Championship