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International Rules versus Oakleigh Districts

Sunday, 29th January

Garryowen's first game of the 2006 season was an International Rules practice match against Oakleigh Districts in late January. The club was generously invited to train at the Australian rules club's ground in the middle of last year and a return to hybrid football-Garryowen played a game in Gisborne in 2004-against our gracious hosts seemed like a convenient arrangement.

Although not precisely abiding by International Rules, the game still sternly tested fitness and skill. Owing to the danger imposed by the cricket pitch, the match was played on a narrow strip much smaller than the fields that both the Australian and Gaelic footballers were used to, but the heat of the day and relatively small sides made the game a real challenge. In this regard, it was a good lead-up to Garryowen's first seven-a-side game later in February and as coach Martin Kearns said before the game, was an excellent way of finding out each player's level of fitness. Several Garryowen players showed that they are not only fit, but already in good form. Sean O'Sullivan was his usual dominant self, while new players Hugh Gribbin and Sean Fishlock, were outstanding in defence, playing mostly on taller and physically stronger players than those they'll meet on Gaelic Park.

Around the ground, Pat McGivern had the Oakleigh boys wondering where he had got his accent from, so strong was his marking (catching), and Jason Hunt showed that he is going to be an important player for Garryowen in the coming season. Collins Connolly was outstanding in goal.

The game did not quite have the same hype as the Gisborne excursion, but was played in the right spirit and was an ideal way for both teams to have a semi-competitive run-around nice and early in the season.

Thanks very much to the Oakleigh boys for an enjoyable match.