Chairman: John Hanniffy;
Vice-Chairman: Jas. O’Reilly;
Secretary: Pat Leogue;
Hurling Sec: Mary Murphy;
Football Sec: Michael Nerney;
Treasurer: J.P. Cahillane; Ass. Treas: Dick Finnegan;
President: Dick Sides;
Registrar: Peter O’Neill;
County Board delegate: Ollie Byrne;
ASAO and Disability Officer: Catherine Doyle;
Coaching Officer: Adrian White;
Committee: Brennan Keogh, Liam Breen, Rosemary O’Neill, Olga Loughman, (Ladies Football), Teresa O’Reilly (camogie); Jim Gaynor, Joe O’Callaghan, David Maher (Juvenile Club), Malcolm Nealon (Juvenile Club), Brian Delaney, Denis Kavanagh, Imelda Fitzpatrick, Andy Molloy, Catherine Fitzgerald, Joe Daly, Vincent Dowling.

2015 Roll of Honour

Laois Senior Football Championship,
Laois Senior ‘A’ Hurling Championship,
Laois Div 1 ‘A’ ACHL Cup,
Laois U-21 ‘A’ Hurling Championship,
Laois Ladies U-14 ‘A’ Championship,
Laois Ladies U-14 Féile,
All-Ireland Ladies 7s U-14 Kilmacud Crokes,
Laois Ladies U-12 ‘A’ Championship;

Senior Hurling

Manager – John Taylor; selectors, Noel Rigney and Derek Delaney;
Intermediate Hurling manager: Phil Duggan and John Gleeson;
Under 21 Hurling: John Taylor, Eamon Fennelly and Brian Bohane.

The football management was deferred with Malachy McNulty manager and Tommy Mulligan as his assistant appointed at the first committee meeting.

The year 2015 was a real roller-coaster with the senior footballers winning their ninth county title on the trot, the senior hurlers winning the “A” title and winning promotion back to the top division after a lapse of one year, the Under 21 hurlers winning their first title in fifteen years and the minor hurlers and Under 21 footballers beaten narrowly in their county finals. The hurlers and Under 21 footballers beaten narrowly in their county finals. The senior footballers went on to reach the Leinster club final only to lose out unluckily by one point to the Dublin champions, Ballyboden St. Endas. The highlight of the year otherwise was the official opening of the new grounds at Rathleague in June by John Horan, Chairman of the Leinster Council.

Kieran Lillis won the Footballer of the Year award, Cahir Healy the senior hurling “A” award and Brochan O’Reilly was Referee of the Year. The new Coaching and Games Committee had a busy year. Seamus “Cheddar” Plunkett, who has been widely acclaimed for his success as manager with Laois hurlers in recent years was reappointed to the position for 2016.

Another great Portlaoise player of the past, Mick Lillis, will be in charge of Laois footballers for 2016.

There was much sadness for the club during the year with the death of Paddy Bracken, who starred in goal for the club, county and province in the 1950s and ‘60s and was honoured on the Laois Millenium team in 2000. The Murphy family from Clondouglas suffered a triple blow with the deaths of Mick, captain of the first Portlaoise team to win a Leinster club title, his brother, Ned, a Portlaoise stalwart both on and off the field for many decades and Ned’s son, Brian, who was a star hurler with Portlaoise teams in the 1990s and later. There was also a great sense of loss in the Town with the news of the death of Tom Colgan, who was closely associated with the club for many years.

Jimmy Doyle, the famous Tipperary hurler, passed away unexpectedly in his home at Thurles in Jun 2015. Jimmy was involved in the coaching of Portlaoise hurlers from 1980 until 1985, during which time the Town won four senior titles in a row. He was hugely popular with the hurlers and loved coming to Portlaoise to meet up with all his old friends in later years. There was a big Portlaoise representation at his reposing at Semple Stadium and at the funeral on the following day.

Senior Football

Portlaoise 0-15 v Emo 2-9.

Rampant favourites, Portlaoise, had to pull out all the stops to save the day against surprise packets, Emo, in the final played on Sunday, October 18th. In a fairly pedestrian first half, Portlaoise always looked to have the edge but never fully exerted their authority on the game. They led fairly comfortably by 0-8 to 0-5 and seemed to be just doing enough to take their ninth title on the trot. But two fantastic goals by 42 years young, Mick Lawlor, early in the second half rocked the champions and after adding two more points Emo led by five points and in control.

A brilliant point by team captain, Kieran Lillis, sounded the beginning of an heroic rally that would save the day and force the game to a replay. Paul Cahillane and Conor Boyle added two more. Desperate situations need desperate measures and mentors, Malachy McNulty and Tommy Mulligan, threw the dice by first introducing Aussie Rules star, Zack Tuohy, in the 47th minute and then England based, Brian Glynn. They proved wonder moves for Zack sent over a fantastic point after a driving run to leave one point between the teams and then repeated the trick by sending over the equaliser much to the relief of the anxious Portlaoise following. Anxiety turned to ecstasy as Brian sent over what looked like the winner that saved the blushes against a superbly brave Emo squad who were not quite finished as they his back deep into injury time with an equaliser from a free by Paul Lawlor.

Portlaoise: Graham Brody, Kieran Lillis (0-1), John Delaney, Colin Finn, David Seale, Brian Mulligan (0-1), Cahir Healy, Paul Cotter, Conor Boyle (0-1), Gareth Dillon (0-1), Craig Rogers (0-2), Conor Dunphy, Brian McCormack (0-2), Paul Cahillane (0-3, 0-2 frees), Brian Smith (0-1). Subs: Ricky Maher, Eoghan Whelan, Zack Tuohy (0-2), Brian Glynn (0-1).

Emo: Paul Kirwan, Shane Murphy, Shane Carney, Paddy Dunne, Darren Strong, Niall Wheeler, Ray Ryan, Evan Costello (0-2, frees), Mark Carney, David Gorman (0-1), Glen Brophy, Mick Lawlor (2-0), Paul Lawlor (0-6, frees). Sub: Finbarr Crowley, Conor Lawlor.

Referee: David Moore (St. Josephs).

Final Replay: Portlaoise 2-13 v Emo 0-7.

Portlaoise have a formidable record in replays going back half a century. It is almost impeccable and that reputation was further enhanced by this scintillating performance under lights on Saturday, October 24th. This time, Zach Tuohy was in the starting fifteen and he made his presence felt from the start.

After an exchange of points, Zach was put through brilliantly by Brian McCormack and he made no mistake with a low cracking shot that took the sting out of the Emo men. Paul Cahillane almost got another one when his rocket shot rebounded off an upright.

Emo did show some fight and it took a superb flying save from Portlaoise keeper, Graham Brody, from a fine effort by the impressive Nigel Murphy, to keep his goal intact. At half-time the Town led by 1-8 to 0-3 and the second half was a cruise for the champions. Brian Smith, who enjoyed a fantastic year, played another man-of-the-match display, with a high work rate and four classy points from play to cap off a top performance. Paul Cahillane compensated for his earlier bad luck with a delightful goal near the end that wrapped up a fine and comprehensive win and a ninth title in a row.

Portlaoise: Graham Brody, Paul Cotter, Cahir Healy, David Seale, Eoghan Whelan, Kieran Lillis, Brian Mulligan, Zach Tuohy (1-2), Conor Boyle (0-1), Gareth Dillon, Dean Cullen, Brian Smith (0-4), Brian McCormack (0-2), Craig Rogers (0-1), Paul Cahillane (1-2, 0-2 frees). Subs: Colin Finn, Brian Glynn, Ricky Maher (0-1, free), Conor Dunphy, Kevin Fitzpatrick, Liam McGovern.

Emo: Paul Kirwan, Shane Murphy, Shane Carney, Paddy Dunne, Darren Strong (0-1, free), Niall Wheeler, Ray Ryan, Evan Costello (0-1, free), Mark Carney, David Gorman, Nigel Murphy, Brian Gorman, Glen Brophy, Mick Lawlor, Paul Lawlor (0-5, frees). Subs: Finbarr Crowley, Conor Lawlor, Dylan Langford, James Coman, Chris Gleeson, David Whelan.

Referee: Maurice Deegan (Stradbally).

In the semi-final. Portlaoise disposed of Arles-Killeen more decisively than expected. Their opponents had a league semi-final victory at their expense in the semi-final earlier in the year and came into this game on a good run of form and with high expectations. But the Town, seriously on the trail of a ninth title on the trot, upped their performance from the start and the game was effectively over when they led by eight points after eighteen minutes, helped by a neat goal from Craig Rogers. At half-time Portlaoise led by 1-9 to 0-7. A Paul Kingston goal in the third quarter brought his side within three points of their opponents, but further points from Portlaoise snuffed out the Arles-Killeen challenge. Scorers: Portlaoise: Craig Rogers 1-2, 0-1 from free); Brian McCormack 0-4; Paul Cahillane (0-3 frees); Brian Smith (0-3); Gareth Dillon and Conor Dunphy (0-2 each); Kieran Lillis and Conor Boyle (0-1 each). Arles-Killeen: Donie Kingston (0-5, 0-4 frees); Paul Kingston (1-0); Sean O’Shea and Jason Enright (0-2 each); Donie Brennan and Brendan O’Shea (0-1 each).

In the other semi-final, Emo continued to surprise the pundits, by securing a draw against Arles-Kilcruise. After dominating most of the game, it took a last minute pointed free by Evan Costello to force a replay. Emo went on the win the replay.

Earlier rounds: Portlaoise 1-12 v Stradbally 0-5; Portlaoise 1-16 v Killeshin 0-7; Portlaoise 4-18 v Mountmellick 0-5.

Leinster club championship

Portlaoise’s wonderful run in the Leinster club championship began with an historic 0-15 to 1-8 win over Carlow champions, Palatine. It must rank as one of the most memorable wins in Potlaoise’s proud history in the competition. There may have been more formidable opponents in the past, although Palatine could not be regarded as pushovers, especially with home advantage. But to play and win such an important encounter less than twenty four hours after winning the county title was, indeed, challenging to put it mildly. Yet the resolve of the Town lads was well up there with that of the great Portlaoise teams of the past and they came through the test with flying colours.

The Leinster Express report summed it up. “Remarkably it was in the final 20 minutes that they played their best football, as when they should have been flagging, they hit their second wind and pulled away … Brian McCormack came up with a few crucial points and Paul Cahillane’s reliability from frees were all crucial.” Portlaoise held a slender 0-5 to 0-4 lead at the interval. A palmed goal for Palatine set the alarm bells ringing with nine minutes left but a brilliant point from Cahir Healy and a pointed free by Cahillane clinched the victory.

One interesting aside from this amazing fixture was that the Palatine manager was Mick Lillis, himself a former star and All-Ireland club winner with the Town in 1983 and father of the Portlaoise captain, Kieran Lillis, who led by example throughout the 2015 campaign.

The second round game was against Kildare champions, Sarsfields, on Sunday, November 10th. It had been a traumatic week for Potlaoise manager, Malachy McNulty, whose mother, Violet, passed away on the Friday before the game at O’Moore Park. The home side were slow out of the traps and were three points down in the opening quarter. Indeed it was not until the 21st minute that Portlaoise opened their account with a point from Gareth Dillon. Paul Cahillane soon added another and then forced a penalty which Craig Rogers slotted home. Sarsfields lost a player in this incident through two yellow cards but still they hit back with two points before the break to level matters at 1-2 to 0-5.

The Kildare side edged ahead on the restart but Portlaoise hit back clinically when Cahillane set up Brian Glynn in the penalty area. His shot was blocked and Cahillane was on hand to finish to the net. It was tense stuff as the game hung in the balance and the game was level with three minutes remaining. Brian Smith sent over the winner and the Town held out for a hard-earned and highly emotional win at 2-5 to 0-10. Portlaoise scorers: Paul Cahillane (1-1), Craig Rogers (1-0, pen.), Gareth Dillon (0-2), Brian McCormack and Brian Smith (0-1 each).

That win set Portlaoise up for a home semi-final tie with Longford champions, Emmet Og, Killoe, who had stormed through with wins over the Wexford and Meath champions. Killoe came to O’Moore Park with a huge and vocal following and their flags and buntings added colour to the occasion. The visitors started off at a blistering pace and were two points up in the early minutes. But a superb move involving Conor Boyle and Conor Dunphy resulted in Craig Rogers sliding the ball to the net. Brian McCormack then slipped his cover and found the bottom corner of the net to help his side into a five point lead at the break.

Back came Killoe with two early points on the restart but Portlaoise were only getting into their stride at this stage and full-forward, Paul Cahillane, showed his class as a striker by engineering two quickfire goals. It was exhibition stuff all the way as substitute Ciaran McEvoy battled his way through for a fifth goal which put the icing on the cake for a 5-12 to 0-11 victory. The magnificent full forward line trio of Cahillane, McCormack and Rogers contributed no less than 4-11 on the day.

Portlaoise scorers: Paul Cahillane (2-6, 0-4 frees), Craig Rogers (1-3, 0-2 free), Brian McCormack (1-2), Ciaran McEvoy (1-0), Brian Mulligan (0-1).

Leinster final

Ballyboden St Enda 2-9 v Portlaoise 1-11.

Dublin champions, Ballyboden St Enda, provided the opposition to Portlaoise in the final in Tullamore on Sunday, 6th December. Dublin clubs have put a stop to Portlaoise in the club championship in every previous year since the Town last won the provincial title in 2009. This included nail-biting defeats to Ballymun Kickhams and St. Vincents in the finals of 2012 and 2013 respectively. Ballyboden entered the game as bookies favourites but that counted for little in the game itself as Portlaoise playing delightful football held the whip hand throughout. But having conceded two goals, at the early stages of the first half and just before the interval, some heart-breaking near misses, especially in the closing stages, left them a single point adrift at the end. It was a devastating result for the team and the huge concourse of fans who cheered them on.

Ballyboden were surprise packets in the Dublin championship and quietly progressed through Leinster beating St. Lomans of Westmeath by 1-11 to 0-9 in the semi-final. After an exchange of points Ballyboden fans were cheering when Andrew Kerins got inside the Portlaoise defence to scramble home a low shot that just evaded goalie, Graham Brody. The Dubs went four points up but Portlaoise kept battling and after points by McCormack and Eoghan Whelan the sides were level. Brody brought off a spectacular double save in an attack that ended in a pointed free from Conal Keaney. Little by little Portlaoise began to exert their authority on the game an good play was finally rewarded when Cahillane beat his man and fisted home a goal to put his side two points ahead just before half-time. The cheers had hardly died down when Ballyboden struck again with Michael Darragh McAuley shooting low past Brody to leave his side leading by 2-4 to 0-6.

After an exchange of points, Portlaoise continued to dominate outfield but were not transferring this to the scoreboard. Brian Glynn sent over a fine point from the right wing and then was denied of a goal when he was through but his shot was somehow diverted by Ballyboden keeper, Paul Durcan. Craig Rogers finally equalised and Portlaoise continued to play superbly but it was Ballyboden who scored next with a pointed free against the run of play. The sides were level and Portlaoise were looking far superior yet lady luck deserted them. Brian McCormack flashed through and with only the goalie to beat saw his brilliant pile-driver finger tipped onto the post by Durcan as Ballyboden clung on. Brian Smith had Portlaoise ahead again but once more Ballyboden lifted the siege and grabbed another equaliser from a free by Kerins.

Next it was the turn of Cahir Healy who typically raced upfield and snatched another lead point for the Town only for Ballyboden to grab another equaliser. Portlaoise forced a ‘45’ and Brody’s effort tailed off in the last yard or so and wide. In the 60th minute Aran Waters gained possession and kicked over what proved the winning score. Cahillane had a great chance to equalise but untypically his close free tailed off in the swirling wind just wide of the post. Conor Boyle next had a chance but his effort under pressure also missed the target. Commentators and fans reckoned that the young Carlow referee, John Hickey, gave a few harsh calls against the Town at vital times particularly the free that led to Basquet’s late point but overall it must be conceded that Portlaoise had the chances and failed to take them and that’s what wins and loses games.

It was a super performance overall and one of the best games of the entire GAA year. As Eugene McGee’s headline in the Irish Independent on the following day read: “True games like this one can save Gaelic football”. Unfortunately Portlaoise lost out in the thriller but every player on the team played splendidly and gave their all for the cause. The bravery and tenacity of the Town performance was reflected in the performance of the young right-half back, Eoghan Whelan, to continue playing having suffered what was discovered later as a broken jaw in a clash late in the opening half.

Full tribute must be paid to team manager, Malachy McNulty, his fellow mentor, Tommy Mulligan, and the backroom team for their inspiring leadership and organisation throughout the campaign. Both Malachy and Tommy were new to team management but they brought all their experience and skills as players with them and helped produce one of the finest Portlaoise football teams in the proud and long history of the club.

Portlaoise: Graham Brody, John Delaney, Cahir Healy (0-1), David Seale, Eoghan Whelan (0-1), Kieran Lillis, Brian Mulligan, Dean Cullen, Conor Boyle, Gareth Dillon, Brian Smith (0-2), Brian Glynn (0-1), Brian McCormack (0-2), Paul Cahillane (1-2, 0-2 frees), Craig Rogers (0-2, 0-1 free). Subs: Conor Dunphy, Colin Finn, Ricky Maher.

Ballyboden St Enda’s: Paul Durcan, Bob Dwane, Stephen Hiney, Shane Clayton, Stephen O’Connor, Darragh Nelson, Robbie McDaid, Michael Darragh McAuley (1-0), Declan O’Mahoney, Darren O’Reilly, Colm Basquet (0-1), Daniel Davey, Sam Molony (0-1), Conal Keaney (0-4, all frees), Andrew Kerin (1-2). Subs: Sean Gibbons, Aran Waters (0-1), Shane Durkin, Donogh McCabe.

Senior Hurling “A”

Having been relegated from the premier group in the previous year (which was a travesty of justice) Portlaoise did not delay in getting back in the premier competition through a series of well executed victories in the “A” championship. This began with a hard fought 0-17 to 0-14 win over Rosenallis in the opening round despite losing one of their players through a red card. This was followed by a more clear-cut 2-18 to 2-10 win over Ballyfin in a game in which they won despite their wastefulness. Mountrath were no match for them in the semi-final with the Town winning by 2-18 to 1-13.

The final against Clonaslee-St Manmans was played at O’Moore Park on Sunday. September 27 o the same programme as the senior final in which Clough/Ballacolla came back from the dead to defeat Camross. The defence, superbly led by Cahir Healy at centre half, were brilliant and watertight. There was little between the sides for the first twenty eight minutes but two points from Cian Taylor and a goal by Joe Phelan left them five points ahead at the break at 1-6 to 0-4.

One disappointing aspect of the opening half was the wastefulness in attack. They shot no less than ten wides in that opening half. Now playing with wind advantage it looked as if Portlaoise were about to win handsomely when Cahir Healy, Tony Byrne and Joe Phelan added to their opponents woes. Yet Clonaslee-St Manmans would not go away quietly and kept in touch and in contention. Then John Rowney hammered a 20 metre free to the net and suddenly only three points separated the sides.

This score seemed to give Portlaoise the “jitters” and Clonaslee were in the ascendancy. They shot three points to equalise the game and seemed set to finish off the task but Portlaoise showed spirit and determination and tacked on points from Phelan, Healy and Taylor to re-establish a three point advantage. The Town goalie, Noel Costello, was called upon to make a terrific save and there was another narrow escape when a ball was fumbled near goal but happily Portlaoise held out and won their way back to the top division after only one year’s absence on a 1-14 to 1-11 scoreline.

It may not have been the most convincing of displays but a win is a win and they showed plenty of spirit and finesse when it was most needed. Manager, John Taylor, accomplished what was their target for the year and a coveted Under 21 hurling title which was added later in the year, made it a splendid hurling campaign for the Town. Apart from seasoned campaigners, Noel Costello, Keith Murphy, Cahir Healy, Tommy Fitzgerald, Tony Byrne and Eoin Costello, this was largely a new squad comprised of minors and Under 21s. There must be great scope for further successes in the future.

Portlaoise: Noel Costello, Eoin Phelan, Christopher Lynch, Keith Murphy (Capt.), Ciaran McEvoy, Cahir Healy (0-2), Darragh Rigney, Cian Taylor (0-4, 0-2 frees), Dean Lynch, Eoin Costello (0-1), Tommy Fitzgerald (0-1), Tony Byrne (0-1), Colm Gleeson, Joe Phelan (1-4), Aaron Bergin (0-1). Subs: Caolan Murphy, Shane Smith, Joe Geaney, Frank Flanagan.

Cloaslee-St Manmans: James Young (0-3, 65s), Jonathan Carroll, William Murray, Mark McEvoy, Shane Conroy, Darren Rooney (0-1), Gerard Reilly, Glen McEvoy (0-1), Dermot Conroy, William Young, P.J. Fitzpatrick, Conor McEvoy, Mark Duggan (0-2), John Rowney (1-4 frees), Tommy Tynan. Subs: Gerard Dunne, Enda McEvoy, Michael Hyland, Danny Larkin, Conor Gorman.

Referee: Anthony Stapleton.

The “A” championship final completed a double for the senior hurlers who defeated Abbeyleix previously in the Division One “A” league final. A point before half-time by Cahir Healy gave Portlaoise the lead at the break. A series of points from Aaron Bergin, Cian Taylor, Joe Phelan and a spectacular one from Tony Byrne gave Portlaoise some breathing space before the talented minor, Aaron Bergin, showed his class with two wonderfully executed goals to clinch the tie on a 3-16 to 1-10 soreline.

Portlaoise: Craig Cleary Haslam, Eoin Phelan, Cahir Healy (1- 1), Keith Murphy (Capt.), Shane Smith, Ciaran McEvoy, Darragh Duggan (0-1), Cian Taylor (0-2), Caolan Murphy, Tommy Fitzgerald (0-1), Eoin Costello (0-1), Tony Byrne (0-2), Colm Gleeson, Joe Phelan (0-7, 5 frees and a “65”), Aaron Bergin (2-1). Subs: Gary Bergin, Owen Rochford.

Intermediate Football

Portlaoise scored convincing victories over Spink (2-13 to 1-5) and The Rock (3-12 to 0-12) before being beaten by Courtwood 2-13 to 2-9 and outplayed by Timahoe 4-11 to 0-8. Timahoe led by six points at half-time and ran out easy winners. This win installed them as championship favourites but they were surprised in the final later in the year by Clonaslee-St Manmans.

Portlaoise: Richie Downey, J.P. Seale, Brian Seale, Fintan Walsh, Chris Finn, Ciaran McEvoy, Darragh McCauley, James Nerney, Jo Jo Salmon, John Kavanagh, Ricky Mulhall (0-1), Brendan Carroll (0-1), Aaron Rafter (0-1), Jack Brown (0-5, 0- 3 frees), Dean Lynch. Subs: Eoin Phelan, Scott Lawless, David Holland, Donnacha O’Reilly, James Dunne, Eoin Rochford.

Intermediate Hurling

Trumera 3-11 v Portlaoise 2-8; Portlaoise 2-10 vThe Harps 1-13 (Draw); Portlaoise 1-9 vThe Harps 0-10 (replay); Camross 2-13 v Portlaoise 1-8.
Portlaoise: Philip Roche, Denis Kavanagh, Darren Murphy, Bertie Walsh, Padraig O’Neill, Rock Scully, Alan Murphy, Tom Mulligan, Ray Nerney, Sean Culleton (0-5), Ciaran Flynn, Niall Gleeson (0-2), Brian Naughton (0-1), James Nerney, Eoin Rochford. Subs: Ronan O’Sullivan (1-0), Rhys Murphy, Lorcan Duff, Gavin Fitzpatrick, Jimmy Dunne.

Junior Football “A”

Portlaoise 0-11 vBarrowhouse 0-14; Portlaoise 3-24 v Mountmellick 3-8; Portlaoise 0-3 v Park-Ratheniska 2-18.

Junior Football “B”

Arles/Killeen 4-9 v Portlaoise 1-5.

Junior Hurling “B”

Portlaoise 3-15 v Rathdowney/Errill 3-13; Mountrath 3-10 v Portlaoise 1-7.

Under 21 Football

Portlaoise faced St. Josephs/Barrowhouse in the final on Sunday, December 20th at Ratheniska, just a week after the Under 21 hurlers had captured their first title in the grade for fifteen years. Pre-match confidence in completing the double prove unfounded as the Saints-Barrowhouse combination proved too strong on the day and fully deserved their 2-10 to 1-5 victory.

The Town lads were well in the game in the opening quarter when Jack Brown shot two points and Conor Dunphy added a third. But all this good work as negated by an opportunist goal by the winners’ full-forward, Mick Keogh. Aaron Rafter was a little unlucky when his shot at goal ended in the side-netting. By half-time the Saints-Barrowhouse combination had eased into a 1-5 to 0-4 lead. Three further points on the restart had the area team well in charge but the Town was given a lifeline when right-half back, Chris Finn, raced forward and found the net. There was only four points between the sides with ten minutes remaining but Peter Kealy hammered home a goal in the closing stages to clinch the title.

Portlaoise: Chris Lynch, Padraig O’Neill,Frank Flanagan, Dean Lynch, Chris Finn (1-0), Eoghan Feane, Cian Taylor, James Nerney, Ciaran McEvoy, Shane Smith, Conor Dunphy (0-1, free), Aaron Rafter, John Kavanagh (0-1), Jack Brown (0-3,0-1 free), Brendan Carroll. Subs: Donnacha O’Reilly, Lee Davis, Dean Cullen, Shane Whelan.

Portlaoise survived a first round scare when winning by the minimum at Portlaoise 0-12, Sarsfields 0-11. In the semi-final the Town side seemed to be cruising in dreadful conditions leading by 0-5 to 0-2 at the break. But Graiguecullen hit back with two quick-fire goals in the third quarter which rocked a complacent Portlaoise. The Town lads gradually regained their composure with points from John Kavanagh and Conor Dunphy. The key score came with ten minutes remaining when Brendan Carroll found the net and a couple of pointed frees from Conor Dunphy earned them a place in the final. Portlaoise 1-11, Graiguecullen 2-5.

Under 21 Hurling

This was a huge boost for hurling in the club and bridging a fifteen year gap since the last title success in the grade.

Portlaoise had not had the best of fortunes in hurling finals in recent years having lost out narrowly in the grade the previous year and the minors losing their final against Castletown-Slieve Bloom in a replay a little earlier in the year.

Much pride has been restored as much by the manner of the success as much as the success itself. It was a really hard-fought campaign covering six nail-biting finishes before finally emerging as champions for the first time since 2000. They got off to the best possible start when ousting the then reigning champions, Borris-Kilcotton in the opening round. This was a win that seemed to pass under the radar as it failed to get a mention in reports but the brilliant 1-23 to 0-22 victory was a significant one.

The next round against Rosenallis proved even tougher still. It went to three games before Portlaoise finally emerged winners, 2-16 to 1-14. The first game resulted in Portlaoise 1-13; Rosenallis 2-10 and the replay also finished level at Portlaoise 0-20; Rosenallis 2-14. The Town lads again showed their great never-say-die qualities in the semi-final.

Ballinakill were well on top in the opening half and with Cha Dwyer in super form led by 1-7 to1-3 at the break having hit nine wides into the bargain. Portlaoise had led briefly when Cian Taylor found James Nerney who shot a goal in the early stages. But Cha hit back with a point and then a goal from a 20 metre pile-driver to put his side in the driving seat. In a brilliant second half display, Chris Lynch, took control at midfield and this gave the impetus to a red-hot attack that added fifteen points to their half-time tally and simply outclassed their rivals on a 1-18 to 1-11 scoreline. Aaron Bergin finished with a personal tally of 0-12, nine coming from frees.

The final against Abbeyleix Gaels on Sunday, December 15th, was a thriller and, in a breath-taking finish, the Town proved masters at 0-13 to 1-8. Portlaoise can thank their brilliant goalkeeper, Philip Roche, who brought off two wonder saves in the final quarter. The first was when Abbeyleix forward, Jake Cranny sent a blistering shot towards the right bottom corner and Roche flung himself across the goal and got a saving touch. Then in the final minute Enda Rowland hammered a 30 metre free at goal which Roche deflected over the bar to save the day for his side.

Portlaoise trailed at the break by 1-5 to 0-5. Portlaoise kept in touch mainly through the accuracy of Aaron Bergin and the sides were level as time ran out. Cian Taylor put his side ahead and after an exchange of points from Rowland and Shane Whelan, Taylor was on hand again to rubberstamp the win with a point in injury time.

Portlaoise: Philip Roche, Eoin Phelan, Chris Lynch, Frank Flanagan, Bryan Naughton, Ciaran McEvoy, Pauric O’Neill, Dean Lynch, Shane Smith, Gary Bergin, Cian Taylor (0-4, 0-1 free), Daniel Delaney, Aaron Bergin (0-6, 0-4 frees), James Nerney, Sean Culleton (0-2). Subs: Eoghan Nealon, Shane Whelan (0-1).

Abbeyleix Gaels: Enda Rowland (1-1, 1-0 pen., 0-1 free), Jamie Coffey, Thomas Cass, Mark Cahill, Kieran Bowe, Alan Lynch, Jake Cranny (0-1), Rory McEvoy, Liam Delaney, Aaron Cahill (0-1), Eoghan Fennelly (0-2 frees), Callum Mullen, Ciaran Connell, Marty Scully (0-3), Barry Walsh.

Referee: Anthony Stapleton (Rathdowney/Errill).

Minor Hurling

It was another brave campaign by the minor hurlers who only lost out in the final in a replay. But they showed that they are a force to be reckoned with once again at this level and combined with the victory of the U21 side and the Senior “A”, 2015 proved a very good year for Portlaoise hurling.

The Town lads beat The Harps 3-16 to 2-15 in the opening round and then Rathdowney-Errill by 2-15 to 1-15 in the semi-final after leading by 1-9 to 0-9 at the break to qualify for the first final in the grade for fourteen years.

Portlaoise were four points up in the final against Castletown- Slieve Bloom with only a few minutes remaining but they conceded a few late scores which forced a replay at Portlaoise 0-17, Castletown-Slieve Bloom 1-14. At half-time Portlaoise led by 0-8 to 0-7 after shooting no less than 12 wides. When the Town lads led by four points in the 57th minute it looked like it was their title but a goal from Joe Phelan and a late point from Conor Phelan forced the game to a replay. A feature of the game was the thirteen points scored by ace forward, Aaron Bergin.

Portlaoise: Craig Haslam, Joe Geaney, Frank Flanagan, Tiernan Brennan, Ethan O’Reilly, Dylan Feane, Eoghan Nealon, Caolan Murphy, Shane Smith (0-1), Craig Martley, Shane Whelan, Niall Gleeson, Darragh Phelan (0-1), Aaron Bergin (0-13, 0-6 frees, 0-1 ‘65’ and 0-1 sideline cut), Lee Davis (0-2). Subs: Bryan Naughton, Ronan O’Sullivan, Patrick Critchley.

The replay was on Saturday, 3 October again at O’Moore Park and it was another thriller. The Town lads were very much in the game with bright prospects right up to the closing stages when the winners put on a final winning spurt. In a first half full of quality hurling and many fine scores the sides went in at the break level at 0-8 each. It was touch and go for most of the second half with Castletown first gaining a two point advantage but then points from Shane Whelan and Aaron Bergin (3) had the Town lads ahead by two with ten minutes remaining.

Just when it seemed Portlaoise had gained the initiative Castletown dug deep and Dylan Conroy found Conor Phelan on the edge of the box and he fired home from close range. This gave the winners the impetus they needed to survive to the end. Aaron Bergin shot ten of Portlaoise’s thirteen points in another top star performance.

Final Score: Castletown/Slieve Bloom 1-16 v Portlaoise 0-13.

Portlaoise: Craig Haslam, Joe Geaney, Frank Flanagan, Tiernan Brennan, Ethan O’Reilly, Dylan Feane, Eoghan Nealon, Caolan Murphy (Capt.), Shane Smith, Craig Martley, Shane Whelan (0- 1), Aaron Bergin (0-10, all frees), Darragh Phelan, Niall Gleeson (0-2), Lee Davis. Subs: Bryan Naughton, Ciaran Martley, Ronan O’Sullivan.

Minor Football

July 27th: Graiguecullen 2-9 v Portlaoise 1-6.

Portlaoise: Niall Gleeson, Killian Brosnan, Frank Flanagan(0-1), Brian Naughton, Craig Martley, Shane Whelan, Joe Geaney, Shane Smith (0-1), Dylan Feane, Niall Gavin, Eoin Dunne, John Kavanagh (0-1), Lee Davis (0-3), Ciaran Martley, Jack Reddin. Subs: Jack Brown, Eoin Dunne, Tadhg McEvoy (1-0).

Juvenile news

Portlaoise just failed narrowly to annex the Under 16 “A” title in the final played at O’Moore Park on Saturday, 10 October.

The Town lads were dominant in the opening half and a goal by Ruairi Lewis helped them into the break with a six point advantage. Camross came out more determined in the second period but Portlaoise resisted their best efforts until a quick-fire double goal spree from Eoin Dowling had the sides level around the three quarter stage. This provided the platform for Camross to push on for their slim victory by 2-10 to 1-10.

Portlaoise: Gareth O’Brien, Aodhan Doheny, David Dowling, Eoin Carey, Ross Brennan, Eoin O’Connor, Aaron Feane, Patrick Daly (0-1), Brian Sheehy, Cormac Rigney (0-1), Cathal Duggan (0-7, 0-3 frees), Cian Houlihan, Michael Nerney, Christopher Cahill, Ruairi Lewis (1-1).

Under 16 “A” Football: Portlaoise 1-9 v Ballyroan Abbey 1-9; Portlaoise 5-8 v Ballyroan Abbey 1-1; Portlaoise 1-6 v Portarlington 0-18; Portlaoise 4-10 v Stradbally Parish Gaels 1-14; St Pauls The Rock 3-11 v Portlaoise 1-8.

The Under 16 “B” footballers won the League beating the Harps in the final.

Under 14 Football: Portlaoise 5-5 v Ballyroan Abbey 3-5; Portlaoise 5-7 v St Pauls 1-7; Ballyroan Abbey 3-12 v Portlaoise 1-3.

Under 14 Hurling: Portlaoise 3-6 v Na Fianna 2-6; Rathdowney/Errill 3-10 v Portlaoise 0-4; Abbeyleix Gaels 3-17 v  Portlaoise 0-0; Camross/St. Fintans 3-9 v Portlaoise 1-6.

Under 13 Football: won the Shield beating Portarlington in the final.

Under 12 Football Division One Cup final: Ballyroan Abbey 3-11 v Portlaoise 1-5.

Ladies Football

Portlaoise bowed out of the senior championship to Sarsfields by 1-9 to 0-2 in the semi-final.

Portlaoise: Emma Hooban, Claire Dunne, Kate Dunne, Deirdre Phelan, Maeve Phelan, Aisling Saunders, Orla Carroll, Aisling O’Gorman, Erin Brennan, Ellen Healy, Fiona Dooley, Olga Parkinson, Alison Taylor, Aisling Keogh, Ciamh Dollard. Sub: Jennifer O’Neill.

Mark Keating was manager and the mentors were Sean Dunne, Bridie O’Reilly and Denise Carroll.

Portlaoise won the Under 14 “A” title by virtue of a 3-11 to 0-1 win over Shanahoe in the final. The same squad also won the County Féile and won the Plate final at the Kilmacud 7s competition. The Under 12s won the county championship. The Under 16s were narrowly beaten by Shanahoe in the ‘B’ final and a number of the panel were on the Scoil Ri team that won the All-Ireland Post-Primary schools final.

2015 – a sad year for the Murphys of Clondouglas

The year, 2015, was a sad year for the Murphy family of Clondouglas, or The Oak as their area is also known. Three members of the clan passed away during the year. In January we heard of the passing of Mick, who won many juvenile and minor titles with the Town and was captain when Portlaoise won its first Leinster senior football club title in 1972. He played in 1964 when the historic breakthrough was made and overall won six senior football championships with the Town. Though ill, he made the journey from his home in Tramore, County Waterford, to attend the Golden Jubilee celebrations in Portlaoise of that famous win in 1964 just a few months before his death, where he met and exchanged memories with his former team-mates.

The next shock came when the news was announced of the death of Mick’s eldest brother, Ned, on 20 June 2015. Ned was part and parcel of the Portlaoise story for over half a century. Ned was chairman of the Laois juvenile board in the eighties and chairman of the Portlaoise juvenile club in the early nineties and along with Mick Reynolds as secretary was responsible for the start-up of Sunday morning coaching which has produced a host of excellent players in hurling and football to Portlaoise and Laois teams.

Ned was a high ranking officer in the Order of Malta and was a respected physio. He gave of his expertise and his knowledge in those areas to Portlaoise hurling teams for many years. Offaly and Toomevara hurlers also called on his services and won many titles with Ned as their medical man.

Then another tragedy came for the family with the passing of Ned’s son, Brian, in November 2015 who with his brother, Eamon won hurling titles in all grades with Portlaoise and both lined out in 1998 when the Town lost their second Leinster senior hurling final to Rathnure of Wexford. Brian was an outstanding hurler and a gentleman and his untimely passing caused untold grief and deep regret to his family and to the club.

The Murphys have given unequalled service and loyalty to the club. In 1965 the four brothers, Ned, Jim, Bill and Mick, lined out on the junior hurling team that won the county final, the first win since 1923 in the grade, beating Camross on a 4-3 to 2-5 scoreline. Ned was captain and left full back, Bill at centre back, Mick at midfield and Jim at full forward.

Bill played senior hurling for the Town and was a hurling selector and committee member for many years. He was a great supporter and his ready wit and cheerful disposition endeared him to all. His sudden death in April 1995 at the early age of fifty five years was a great shock to his family and club members. Jim’s work took him to Dublin soon after the 1965 win and he hurled for a number of years in the capital. Now back living in Laois in his retirement he has resumed his interest in Laois GAA.

The Murphy clan continue to give unstinted loyalty and leadership to the club. Ned’s daughter-in-law, Mary, is the current hurling secretary, her son, Keith, captained the club hurlers to the senior “A” title in 2015 and her other son, Darren, captained the Div. 3 ACHL champions of 2012