On Saturday last Monaghan U14 & U16 hurling development squads took part in an Ulster blitz which was aimed at giving teams valuable games before the National Blitzes on 31st August. Both Monaghan squads took part and played games against Tyrone, Wicklow, Louth and Down. The blitz took place in the excellent facilities of Abbey Christian Brothers school in Newry.
Our U14`s started off with a big win against Louth and in the second game the lads faced a well organised Tyrone side. Although we were winning by 6 points at half time, the breeze proved to be a big asset to Tyrone and they ended up winning by 2 points. That left Monaghan second in the group and a play-off match with Wicklow. Although Wicklow play at a higher level the lads equipped themselves well and lost by 9 points.
Our U16`s played Wicklow in their first match and after a slow start against a strong breeze they got into the game. Our lads showed great spirit and pushed them all the way. Unfortunately the lead couldn’t be clawed back and we lost by 11 points. In the second match we got off to a great start against Tyrone and were winning by 4 points at half time. Tyrone came out with a strong breeze at their back and eventually ran out winners by 5 points.
Monaghan coaching and games would like to thank Ulster GAA for organising the Blitz and to PJ Boyle and Brian Connolly for helping out with the development squads
