Last Sunday, the City Junior Board organized two matches at the Markets Field as part of their competitions. The first was a junior championship football match, while the other was a challenge match between Young Ireland and Ewmets. Additionally, in an effort to encourage junior athletes, the board offered three prizes for a one-mile flat race exclusively for juniors.
With the weather conducive to outdoor activities, it was expected that there would be a large turnout from the sporting public. However, the opposite was true, as only 60 people paid for admission. The board has made significant efforts to cater to the juveniles and juniors of the city, and it is truly regrettable that they do not receive the support they deserve from the citizens.
Despite the low attendance, there was great anticipation for the one-mile flat race, for which the board offered a silver cup. The race proved to be excellent, with fierce competition from start to finish. Out of the 10 competitors, only two dropped out before the end. The victory went to Jos Thompson of Emmet’s, who showed promising potential as a long-distance runner. P. O’Toole, also from the same club, secured second place, while P. Coffey of Young Ireland came in third. Other participants included Denis Hardiman, J. O’Mara, T. Frawley, F. Murphy, T. O’Connor, P. Ryan, and P. Hurley.
The football match between Geraldines and St. Patrick’s was canceled, as the latter failed to field a team. However, a scratch match was played and proved to be entertaining. Later in the afternoon, Young Ireland and Ewmets took to the field under the direction of referee Mr P. O’Reilly. The game immediately became exciting, with both teams giving their all. The spectators were treated to impressive displays of skill and tactics from both sides, with the young players showcasing their talent in wielding the camán. The final result declared Young Ireland as the victors, with a score of 1 goal and 4 points against Ewmets’ 5 points.
The splendid band from the Industrial School attended the event, delighting the crowd with a remarkable selection of Irish airs. In another friendly challenge match held at Newcastle West, Monegay and Young Irelands competed, and after a well-fought contest, the Limerick team emerged as the victors with a score of 26 points to Monegay’s 21.
In Cappamore, a friendly contest between Cappamore and Murroe took place. However, due to a dispute, the match was not completed.
Limerick Echo – Tuesday 13 September 1904
