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with regards to that semi-final, I cant recall why I was there, just know I was (normally my saturday morn was deciding to go with my grandfather to watch Waringstown or with my father to watch Lambeg, though by '81 Lambeg would have folded), I still remember the call for a "drinks break" despite the fact that it was a lot cooler by then than during the first innings (kidology sticks in my mind), and was great to see the crowd that was in the Factory that day. As to Sydney Alexander, true gentleman and great clubman (one of quite a few of that generation), but still enjoyed watching his brother batting more.
looking forward to the season and just hoping we can stay up, though would be interested to hear the predictions of others
Yes Billy that trip to the 'Cloney was one of many happy visits to the Factory Ground and the match was a thriller in every sense. Wonderful club with lovely people and a unique atmosphere that is very special in Ulster cricket. As an aside I share Ivan's comments about Muckamore stalwart John McCormick-a real Trojan at Moylena. In Donacloney's case Sydney Alexander would be up there with the best of them. A true sportsman, win or lose on or off the field. Cricket would be nothing without the likes of John and Sydney. And the same could be said for Bumper Dale-I doubt if there's a more enthusiastic cricketer playing this Saturday and he's a little over 21. Time will not age him.
Coincidently enough Andy, the Co Antrim man was the inspiration behind the poem, that allied with a certain Stevie Gerrard ofcourse!
After reading Caleb's latest posting isn't the Dulseman doing a great job at Anfield. I know that this isn't directly related to cricket but the man has obviously got tremendous man-management skills and I would really like to see him writing about his "thinking" - and him from just over the hill at Carnlough!
Just to follow on from Messrs McCombe &Dobbin - in all the years of being involved in cricket I don't ever recall anyone ever saying that they had retired too late. That's why I keep telling guys to keep at it as long as the body can "thole" it. As for that shiner on the leg Ivan, I recall getting one like that from Denis Fell at Wallace Park only mine was on the shin. My eyes still water at the memory!!
The Successful Coaches Guide…
Come hither, come hence, all mentors and coaches fine
to hear a tale, philosophical and sanguine
for if it is your desire, the ladder of success to climb
then for your benefit my request, refuse not or decline!
A most eminent scholar, once did opine
show me the boy, between seven yrs and nine
and I’ll show you the man, his party line
begin as you mean to go on, the inferred incline!
Now it is incumbent upon you, to take the time
and teach your underlings, never to be supine
fight like the lion, that peerless feline
and if convincing, just like a star for you they will shine!
So before you embark on a voyage, destined to be divine
beware the perils of fame and gluttonous swine
who proffer much money, if for their club you'll sign
don’t be an agent provocateur, for any would be lupine!
Always keep your love for the game, wholesome and genuine
then no player under your wing, will have reason to whine
as high moral integrity, can give none cause to repine
So keep these ideals in mind and your career will mature, like rare vintage wine!
You will fondly remember this game Clarence!
The first game of the 2014 season is away to Donacloney. The last time I played there was the 1981 Senior Cup semi-final played in front of a capacity crowd, even the factory roof was full of the Cloney faithful chanting we are on our way to Wembly as they raced to 88/1 at drinks chasing a modest 150 with pro West Indian Harper still to bat!!But what a comeback by North Down to win it by 3runs- a dropped catch but a quick pick up and throw ran out the last Cloney batsman.
I can't really expect the same excitement next Saturday but you never know in cricket1
Billy, if I had to pinpoint one reason for the involvement of so many ex players at and about Moylena it is quite simply - John McCormick. His passion for the club from the best player to the guy just starting out is infectious . To see him at 70 years of age don the pads in the nets the other week to give a master class in technique was awesome and then the next day see him helping get the back pitch ready for the new season. With that enthusiasm you just can't help but want to be involved. As I enter my 44th season of competitive cricket , John is the one constant throughout all those years . Even when I left because I wanted to play at a higher level for four seasons he was constantly reminding me just how great a club Muckamore is and that's why we coined the phrase " there are no gates at Moylena " which is true in every sense of the word. Every club has it's stalwarts but I don't think any club has such a passionate one as John who loves everyone who makes even the smallest contribution to Muckamore. When you receive the McCormick " hair dryer " treatment you know he rates you highly.
That is an admirable quality to have around a club, too many ex players take a lot from a sport during their playing careers and then give nothing in return, a sad indication on society!
Billy I think we know it's going to be tough and we accept we are most people's favourites to go down so finishing 7 th will be seen as a success. We are building structures on and off the field designed to help us be a Premier League for many years. Over 50 at nets tonight and I think we will be one if the best supported teams in the Premier League. It's great to see so many names on our captains board still actively involved in the club namely myself, Fred Ashton, John McCormick, Harry McFadden, Andy Clement , Les Allen, Simon Thompson, Peter Bates, Charles Henderson, Richard Keates, The Muckamore family is stronger than ever.
All very admirable and should be commended Ivan but can they stay up in a very tough Premier League. Id be shocked
Mr Kennedy, you seem to comment on everything so dont see what your issue is with my opinion of your current club.
Clarence - I recall being lambasted when I made comments about the "pros" in the past so it is payback time!
Phew Ivan!
I can see now how you have lost all that weight!
Great stuff at Moyelna and thanks to Billy's post everyone can share in what's happening at Muckamore. Good role model for many clubs if they can marshall their forces as efficiently.
Well done everyone involved.
Come on Andy lighten up!
I seem to recall similar comments about CI and North Down in recent times so the comment is fair game. One thing I did learn at school was 14 into 11 doesn't go! Also, I have 'inside knowledge" as the club chairman was in Barbados on a pre-season scouting trip and found at least one new talent! Sharon will certainly make the 1st XI tea-team!
Billy Dobbin
What ever we are doing at Muckamore it seems to be working . Four teams out this weekend in friendlies. 92 adult players registered for the 2014 season. Five weekend teams and two midweek teams being fielded. Six newly qualified Level 2 coaches. 41 adults at practice last night. A three month winter indoor coaching Academy for kids with an average attendance of 65. An Easter camp and a Summer camp organised. More sponsors than ever before . Full fund raising calendar, money invested in a new roller and other ground machinery . ( and we have now tarmaced the entrance ).
