Danske Bank Ulster Schools GAA – Gerry Brown Shield Final (U14.5 Boys)
St Aidan’s College, Derrylin 5-10 | De La Salle College, Belfast 3-02
St Aidan’s College, Derrylin were crowned Gerry Brown Shield champions on Friday following an impressive all-round team performance against De La Salle College, Belfast.
The Derrylin side made a blistering start to the final, with Year 8 forward Ryan McCaffrey striking an early goal to set the tone for the contest. That early score gave St Aidan’s momentum and confidence, which they maintained throughout the opening half. Josh and Ryan Melanaphy led by example in attack, combining superbly and delivering an outstanding all-round display. Further scores from Tomás Maguire and Jayden Smyth ensured St Aidan’s kept sustained pressure on the De La Salle defence.
In the second half, St Aidan’s continued to push forward, showing composure and hunger in all areas of the pitch. Goalkeeper Shay Rasdale produced an excellent performance between the posts, while Rian McCaffrey made two outstanding goal-line blocks to deny De La Salle and preserve St Aidan’s dominance at key moments. Ollie Maguire, Liam McGovern and Luke O’Reilly worked tirelessly throughout the game, displaying great energy, discipline and commitment.
This was a superb collective effort, with every member of the squad contributing positively to the victory. The U14.5 boys have shown great character and resilience over the course of the season, and their 5-10 to 3-02 victory was a fitting reward for their hard work.
Congratulations to all players and management on a thoroughly deserved Gerry Brown Shield success.
