NY Shamrock SC – Week 2 – Results

Posted on September 20, 2017 by NY Shamrock SC

Shamrocks – First Team

The Shamrocks first team got back to winning ways on Saturday night with a 2-1 win over Zum Schneider at St. Michael’s. Last season’s top scorer Kwesi Mills-Odoi opened his account for the new season with a first half goal. After latching on to a James Whyte clearance when defending a Zum corner, Mills-Odoi knocked the ball past his marker and then the advancing keeper to slot home from close range. Midway through the second half, Sean Reilly, who was returning from suspension, was fouled in the box. Whyte was handed the penalty which he converted, making it three goals from two for the Scot. The visitors would go on to score a late consolation despite being reduced to ten men, but the Rocks were comfortable winners in the end. “A very valuable three points,” said Coach Kevin Grogan. “We didn’t necessarily play to our potential on the ball but we did work hard off the ball and we hunted in packs and defended the space very well. We will get better each week.”

Shamrocks – Reserves

Earlier, the Reserves opened up the proceedings with their own victory over Zum Schneider. From the onset, The Rocks piled pressure on their opposition which resulted in an early opening goal. From a Darren Coleman corner kick, midfielder George Lara attempted an overhead kick from just outside the penalty spot. The acrobatic effort caught the visitors off guard and found the forehead of Conner Lachenbruch, who scored his second goal in as many games. Despite Zum responding well, the Rocks were constantly on the front foot and looked to get forward every chance they could. An interception at the back by Chris Burns sent Joey Aronovsky on his way down the left flank, and after skipping past two defenders, a low driven cross found the foot of Andrew Scott who doubled the lead. Aronovsky then scored the goal his performance had deserved, cutting the Zum Schneider defense to ribbons before beating the keeper at his far post. 3-0 up at the break, the Shamrocks never looked back.

Shamrocks – 1960

Shamrocks 1960 will have to wait at least another week to earn their first points of the new campaign, succumbing to a 4-1 defeat to NYFC Iliria. Dan Meola opened the scoring for the Rocks before the 10 minute mark, when the forward stepped up to take a free kick just outside the area. Meola curled the ball over the Iliria wall, which hit the underside of the crossbar and dropped over the line to give the Rocks a 1-0 advantage. However, the celebrations were short lived, as moments later, the home side earned and converted a penalty. An evenly contested first half saw Iliria take the lead just before the break. Despite valiant defending from Neil Mannion, Mick McAnea, and Captain Ruari Lavery, the Albanians pressure was too much to handle. With a short bench and injuries forcing players off, the 10 men Shamrocks piled forward in an attempt to salvage something from the game. In spite of their efforts, the hill was ultimately to steep to climb, with Iliria running out 4-1 winners.

Shamrocks – Over 30’s

Paddy McCarry’s Over-30’s eventually came out on top against a very well organized Megas Alexandros side at Randall’s Island. In what was a hard fought opening half, the Rocks defended with purpose and attacked with patience to earn the opening goal. With the game yet to see its first goal and nearing the last quarter of an hour of play, last season’s top scorer Johnny McGeeney broke the deadlock from a Dave Harvey corner. Harvey would then double his assist tally on the day from another well taken corner, this time finding the head of Dominick McCartan, who finished at the near post. McGeeney would add his second goal of the game and his fifth of the young season off the back of a Sean Riley assist. “All the boys put in great shift in very tough conditions, very happy with clean sheet and two wins from two games” said Paddy McCarry.

Shamrocks – Legends

The Legends played to a well-earned 2-2 draw away to Manhattan Celtic Sunday night at Pier 40. Trailing two nil with 15 minutes to play, it appeared that missed chances, a saved penalty, and Celtic efficiency in front of goal would prove the end of a 10-game unbeaten run going back to last season. But the never say die attitude of the Rocks Legends surfaced when required. A well-placed volley by Richie Brennan, from the center of defense with 12 minutes remaining cut the Celtic lead in half. Tyrone Kent then scored the leveler with five minutes remaining to give the Rocks a valuable point gained. Tireless running by John Riordan and the leadership of Emmet Harvey in midfield epitomized the Shamrock spirit on the night. Having answered tough away challenges early in the season, the Legends will be looking forward to their return home at the weekend.

Shamrocks – Women’s ‘A’ Team

After drawing their opening game of the season, Shamrocks Women’s ‘A’ kicked off at St. Michael’s against newly promoted NYC United. While the Shamrocks dominated the first 45 minutes, they only found the net once off a corner connection from Chloe Wheeler to Georgia Frost. The defense was excellent possessing the ball at the back and Jackie Gawne and Erin Cullen stepped up to each play a half in goal. The second half started with an early goal from United against the run of play. With 30 minutes remaining, Frost played a through ball to Jackie Pounder who lobbed it over the keeper to restore the Shamrock lead. Shortly after, Caroline Carter picked up the ball on the left wing and played Wheeler through. Wheeler proceeded to beat three defenders before breaking the net to make it 3-1. After chasing after the ball for much of the match in humid conditions, United began to break down. Frost scored the fourth from a Pounder assist. Pounder added her second from a low driven cross from new signing Gianna Smith. Smith was again the provider as Pounder completed her hat trick in style with a glancing header, sealing a 6-1 victory. Coach Paddy commented, “It was a tight first half and we were level in the early stages of the second half, but the ladies displayed great resilience, patience, and determination. Those factors ended up being too much for the other team and we were able to open the game up. We still have a lot to improve on but it’s good to come out with three points at the end of day.”

Jackie Jackie Pounder led the rocks with a hat trick and an assist

Shamrocks – Women’s ‘B’ Team:

The B Team took a 1-0 early lead and played tough in the midfield and defense to take that lead to half time. The rocks went up 2-0 off a header from a corner kick. The opposing team was able to get a goal back shortly after to make it 2-1. The lady Rocks finished strong though to take a 3-1 lead before capping the game with a goal off a free kick right outside the box to make it 4-1. The games goal scorers were Paige Osborne, Brandi Daniels, and two for Cassey Esposito. Coach Keith Perez said “The ladies followed up on last weeks victory against NY skulls. We played well the first half, but really displayed our talent and teamwork in the second half. We will continue to grow as a team and the positive results should continue.”

Coming Weekend Schedule:

NY SHAMROCK – FIRSTS
Sun Sep 24	11:00 AM	Cedar Stars Academy	vs	Shamrock SC	Ramapo College Athletic Center
NY SHAMROCK – RESERVES
Sun Sep 24	9:00 AM	Cedar Stars Academy Reserve	vs	Shamrock SC Reserve	Ramapo College Athletic Center
NY SHAMROCK 1960
Sun Sep 24	1:00 PM	Shamrock SC 1960	vs	BW Gottschee	St. Michael’s Playground
NY SHAMROCK – OVER 30
Sun Sep 24	8:00 AM	NY Shamrock SC Over-30	vs	Hoboken FC 1912 Over-30	Randalls Island Field 75
NY SHAMROCK LEGENDS
Sun Sep 24	11:00 AM	NY Shamrock SC Legends	vs	America FC 1927	St. Michael’s Playground
NY SHAMROCK WOMEN’S ‘A’
Sun Sep 24	3:00 PM	Shamrocks	vs	Rovers	Icahn Stadium – Randalls Island
NY SHAMROCK WOMEN’S ‘B’
Sun Sep 24	2:00 PM	Shamrocks B	vs	Appletown FC	Verrazano – Calvert Vaux

2017/18 – Opening Weekend Results

Posted on September 14, 2017 by NY Shamrock SC

The New York Shamrock opening weekend of CSL games was met with excitement, anticipation and heartfelt emotion. Each match was lead by a moment of silence for recently lost Shamrock, Pierre-Alexandre Meloty-Kapella. A popular teammate, Pierre was a vital part of the first team that earned the Rocks promotion back into the Division 1 in 2015. His play on the pitch could only be outdone by his smile and infectious personality. A great player as well as a great friend, he will be deeply missed by the Shamrock Family, but remembered by all.

NY Shamrock SC – Reserve

Pierre-Alexandre Meloty-Kapella

NY Shamrock SC – First

In the early kickoff, Paddy McCarry’s Over 30’s earned a hard fought 3-2 Irish Derby win over Manhattan Celtic at Randall’s Island. “We made it a lot harder on ourselves than it had to be”, said Coach McCarry. After only a minute into the contest, the Rocks found themselves a goal behind from a defensive mix up inside the box. Looking for a swift response, Sean Riley was fouled just outside the area. Johhny McGeeney’s ensuing free kick was curled around the wall and into the bottom corner. Later in the first half, Neil Doran took a quick free kick to release McGeeney, who again found the back of the next. In the second half, McGeeney completed his hat trick when was taken down in the box and converted the following spot kick. A nervy end to the game was ensured when Celtic dispatched a penalty of their own with 10 minutes remaining. Concluded McCarry, “We dug deep to hold on for the three points. We had six new players make their debut today and they all did well. Once we get going, we will be fine. I believe this is the best squad Sean and I have ever put together.”

In the second Irish Derby to be played that morning, Shamrock 1960 visited Lansdowne Bhoys in Metro 1. An opening 45 minutes of dominance did not bring a goal for Andy Connolly’s men, who would have considered themselves unlucky not to be ahead at the interval. A goal line clearance on a Ciaran Moloney effort keeping the score line level at the break. Two second half goals against the run of play sealed a victory for the Bhoys, despite ongoing Shamrock pressure. Quoting England’s World Cup winning Captain Sir Bobby Moore, Connolly said, “I’m as sick as a parrot with our result over the weekend. However, there were some good performances and a strong team effort. Sean Glynn deserves special praise for his outstanding impersonation of a young Ciaran Moloney. Sean’s a strong and skilled competitor, and his example to everyone else on the day was inspiring.”

The First and Reserves took the trip up to New Rochelle to face NYAC at Travers Island. In the early kickoff, each team came close to scoring but neither could take advantage in an evenly played first 45 minutes. Joey Aronovsky and Alex Wasilewski coming closest to opening the scoring for the Rocks. At halftime, the introduction of Andrew Scott paid off with 10 minutes of the restart. With the Rocks pressuring NYAC in their own half, Scott forced a turnover which fell kindly to Wasilewski in the box. After cutting inside numerous defenders, the striker turned the ball home to hand the Rocks a 1-0 lead. After constant pressure from the home side, Conner Lachenbruch doubled the advantage. A quick free kick from Captain Rob Gaynor found Lachenbruch in space, with the midfielder arrowing a shot into the top corner from nearly 30 yards out. More pressure came in waves from NYAC, but defensive effort and the goalkeeping prowess of Kieran McGovern ensured the Shamrocks opened their season with a clean sheet and all three points. “The first half was difficult and very emotional for everyone, but in the second half, we played with confidence, rhythm, and stepped up to get the three points” said Coach Dan Meola.

A quick start was not enough for Kevin Grogan’s First Team, who welcomed numerous Shamrock debuts on the afternoon. New boy James Whyte scored twice in his first match for the club, with both goals coming in the first half. Whyte scored his first on a brilliant free kick after 25 minutes, set up by a foul on new signing Kurt Cameron. Kwesi Mills-Odoi then earned himself an assist, as he crossed for Whyte to turn home the second goal just before the half. But a much improved NYAC team hit back immediately to make it 2-1 at half time. The home side then seized on some uncharacteristic defensive mistakes to seal the win with a flurry of three second half goals. Coach Grogan explained, “Today was an exercise in integrating new players into the squad and team. We were impressed with NYAC. They will be a big threat this season in the league. We will get better each week once our new players settle into the squad.”

The women’s A time had a tough fight against the Celtic Aces. Coach Geraghty summed it up, “we were very lucky against Celtic on Sunday. They outplayed us and had the better chances. Hopefully it was a wakeup call for the players and we can improve in our next game. One positive was not conceding a goal so we can build off that and hopefully put away a few chances this week to get our season up and running.”

The women’s b team came out in the season opener and delivered a 2-1 victory with a solid team effort. They had a number new players and coming off the summer break, still managed to work together as a team to pull off a well earn win. “I’m looking forward to a successful campaign for the lady rocks.” said Coach Keith Perez.

The Shamrock Legends were last to take the field when they took on CPR late Sunday evening. Entering the season on an 8 match unbeaten League run, the Legends were poised to pick up where they left off. wanted to continue where they left off. The battling John Riordan had the Rocks 1-0 up in the first half with a well taken goal. CPR grew into the game as time ticked on, when a tough decision by the referee award the home side a penalty. CPR converted from the spot, setting up an intense final 20 minutes for both teams. The Rocks looked to have secured all three pints after a brilliant goal by Patrick Geraghty gave them a well deserved 2-1 advantage, but with what proved to be the last kick of the game, a CPR free kick found its way into the back of the net for a 2-2 draw. Coach Emmett Harvey lamented, “Even though we finished with a point, it feels like two points dropped, but we can’t be disappointed and we will move on to the next game. Every one of the guys always give 100% and that’s all we can ask for.”

Shamrocks awards night honors Scotty Shevlin, Suzanne Mills, Eoin Sweeney and players of the year

Posted on July 1, 2017 by NY Shamrock SC

Scotty Shevlin received a rapturous standing ovation at the Shamrocks End-of-Season Awards last weekend on an enjoyable evening at the Astoria World Manor.

Guest of Honor Scotty Shevlin with Club President Sean Mc Mullan and Johner Guildea. Picture by Noel Estevez

The former club president was the Guest of Honor for the club’s annual event and he recalled his two decades at the helm in a speech that was received very well by the 160 players and supporters in attendance.

Johner Guildea introduced the popular Scottish man who served in Vietnam and still plays an active part in his community.

“I’ll always be very grateful for my time spent on the Shamrocks committee,” said Shevlin. “People like Mick Haley, Johner Guildea, Paul Wilson, Kevin McPartland and so many more. They are friends and we share many great memories.”

Scotty also paid his respects to the great Robbie Walsh who was a player and a coach for much of his time in charge.

The Shamrocks Women B team enjoying the evening! Picture by Noel Estevez

Saturday began with a very successful soccer match honoring the beloved Rock who passed away in November; the first annual Robbie Walsh Exhibition Game which paired two teams of Shamrocks Legends selected by Eoin Sweeney and Emmett Harvey.

Two goals from Dave Harvey won the game for the Whites, the enjoyable encounter ending 2-1 but played in very good spirits.

The evening ended much as the day began with Sweeney brought to the stage to accept the Robbie Walsh Award for club person of the year, a nomination which caught the Kerryman off guard.

Eoin Sweeney was presented with The Robbie Walsh Award by his long time friend and team mate Ducky Kelly. Picture by Noel Estevez

“Robbie was a great human being and he meant a lot to the Shamrocks,” said Sweeney in an emotional acceptance speech. “I love you Robbie and I love this club.”

Meanwhile, in one of the other stand out moments of the night Suzanne Mills, receiving her honorary lifetime membership, called on her fellow 1960s Shamrocks to join her on the stage for a rendition of their fight song.

The Shamrocks Fight Song! Picture by Noel Estevez

Suzanne told those gathered that she had been dared to try and join the club as a fully fledged member 50 years ago almost to the day but was turned down by what was then a men’s only club.

“I’m very happy to see the women’s team do so well,” she said adding, “it just goes to show… if you live long enough, you get what you want!”

Suzanne Mills pictured with Club President Sean Mc Mullan and club secretary Sinéad Hennessy after receiving her honorary lifetime membership. Picture by Noel Estevez

Players of the year were also honored with Giuseppe Barone (first team), Darren Coleman (reserves), Johnny McGeeney (Over 30s), Mick McAnea (1960), Eoghan McParland (legends), Teresa Ferarro (Women A) and Sam Horvath (Women B) all taking the top honors.

Wheeler (top scorer) and Jackie Gawne (top defender) were also both recognized for league honors on behalf of the New York Metropolitan Women’s Soccer League.

The Shamrocks players of the year. Picture by Noel Estevez

Top goalcorers were Kwesi Mills-Odoi (first team, 8 goals), Sean O’Neill (reserves, 15 goals), Johnny McGeeney (Over 30s, 29 goals), Dave Harvey (1960, 12 goals), Karol Hughes (legends, 14 goals), Chloe Wheeler (Women A, 18 goals) and Cassie Esposito (Women B, 10 goals).

The Shamrocks top goalscorers for 2016/17. Picture by Noel Estevez

Host for the evening, Sinéad Hennessy did not get away lightly, being presented with a bouquet of flowers by banquet chairperson Aoife West and fellow committee member Tricia Geraghty, the popular club secretary and women’s team player bidding farewell ahead of a move to Seattle.

Sinéad Hennessy presented with a bouquet of flowers by Tricia Reed (left) and Aoife West (center). Picture by Noel Estevez

“It was a very enjoyable evening,” said West. “A lot of work went into this and I want to thank all those who helped and all those who sponsored our journal and the event as a whole. In particular, the Courtyard Ale House, GTI, Solas Electrical, Seven Nation Food and Spear Physiotherapy.”

Shamrocks first team player of the year Giuseppe Barone. Picture by Noel Estevez

Ducky Kelly accepting Eoghan McParland’s Shamrocks Legends Player of the Year Award. Picture by Noel Estevez

Shamrocks 1960 player of the year Mick McAnea. Picture by Noel Estevez

Shamrocks Over 30s player of the year and top goalscorer Johnny McGeeney. Picture by Noel Estevez

Shamrocks reserves player of the year Darren Coleman. Picture by Noel Estevez

Shamrocks Women A Player of the Year Teresa Ferraro. Picture by Noel Estevez

The New York Metropolitan Women’s Soccer League defender of the year Jackie Gawne. Picture by Noel Estevez

Shamrocks Women B Player of the Year Sam Horvath. Picture by Noel Estevez

Kwesi Mills-Odoi was first team top scorer and captain Zachary Gosse accepted the award on Kwesi’s behalf. Picture by Noel Estevez

Shamrocks Legends top goalscorer Karol Hughes. Picture by Noel Estevez

Dave Harvey’s top goalscorer award was collected on his behalf by Shamrocks 1960 coach Andy Connolly. Picture by Noel Estevez

Shamrocks reserves top goalscorer Sean O’Neill. Picture by Noel Estevez

Shamrocks Women A top goalscorer Chloe Wheeler. Picture by Noel Estevez

Colleen Kavanagh, Cassie Esposito’s captain on the Shamrocks Women B team, picked up Cassie’s top goalscorer award on her behalf. Picture by Noel Estevez

Robbie Walsh Memorial Cup

Posted on June 24, 2017 by NY Shamrock SC

Shamrocks Legends Whites beat Shamrocks Legends Greens 2-1 to secure the Robbie Walsh Memorial Cup at Randall’s Island! Two goals from Rocks 1960 top scorer Dave Harvey who received his award pre game. Great day had by all! Thanks to everyone for coming out! Up the Rocks!

And here’s the winning goal!

(Video courtesy Fiona Smyth)

Rocks, Pancyrpians semi-final showdown

Posted on May 28, 2017 by NY Shamrock SC

pancyprians poster

- Grogan & team ready for biggest week in Rocks history
- Excitement building for league semi & State Cup final
- Reserves eye top-seeded NYAC in final four
- Over 30s host CPR on morning of State Cup finals

The Shamrocks Soccer Club is proud to confirm that we will host the CSL Division 1 semi-final in St Michaels on Wednesday May 31 at 8pm against Pancyprians.

Just over one year after dramatically avoiding relegation, Kevin Grogan has guided the Rocks to arguably the two biggest games in the 57-year history of the club after achieving second place in the regular season while also advancing to a first ever State Cup final.

Five massive Shamrocks games will be played out over a six day period beginning with Tuesday’s reserves league semi-final and culminating on Sunday June 4 with the hotly anticipated State Cup final between the Rocks and rivals Lansdowne. That will be preceded by the Women’s State Cup final between Paddy Geraghty’s treble chasing team of Invincibles and fellow NYMWSL Division A side Rovers.

SHAMROCKS sunday schedule graphic-2 The first team’s 13th league win of the year was one of their most impressive – last Saturday’s 4-0 demolition of Cedar Stars Academy which sent CSA tumbling out of the play-off spots.

Two goals each from Nick Laurent and Andy O’Connell ensured that the Shamrocks head to the semis with confidence although Grogan is wary of focusing his players on the tough task ahead.

“It was a fantastic win against Cedar Stars,” said Grogan.

“It was a very entertaining game. We are peaking at the right time. I’m happy with the squad rotation over the last five weeks. It keeps everything fresh.

“I feel our full squad is healthy and hungry now for Wednesday. It’s the biggest game because it’s the next game. No one will like playing us at this point. We have a work ethic and discipline about us and we have a lot of expansive minded players going forward. Staying calm on Wednesday is important. We will play with a smile!”

Meanwhile, the other teams are preparing for their dates with destiny. The reserves will be up against a major challenge when they face top seeded NYAC on Tuesday at Randalls Island 74 (7pm kick off). The Over 30s are seeking a third league championship in a row and they will need to overcome CPR Old Boys in the semi-final on Sunday June 4 – an 8am kick off at Randalls 70. And the women’s team will look to round off their season in style when they seek to complete the treble with a big State Cup final showdown at Verrazano – also on Sunday June 4 (11.50am).

Shamrocks supporters are encouraged to join us at Verrazano Soccer Complex on Sunday June 4 as we look to make history for both our men’s and women’s teams. It should be a great day out for the entire family! Up the Rocks!

In pictures – Over 30s Divisonal Champions

Posted on May 24, 2017 by NY Shamrock SC

001 team photo

Photo May 21, 9 33 37 AM

Over 30s celebrate title with 15th win

Posted on May 22, 2017 by NY Shamrock SC

SHAMROCKS sunday schedule graphic Paddy McCarry’s Shamrocks Over 30s ended the regular season on a high – bludgeoning Megas Alexandros 7-0 on Randalls Island on Sunday.

Johnny McGeeney hit a hat trick for the CSL champions, bringing his season tally to 30. Sean Riley, Tayfun Gokmen, Domnick McCartan and Adam Bierman also connected for the Rocks [15-1, 45], who finish seven points clear of second place Manhattan Celtic Legends.

The Shamrocks Over 30s celebrating their divisional title on Sunday.

Over 30s coach Paddy Mc Carry flanked by defender Peter Hatzer and the team’s top scorer Johnny McGeeney.

Shamrocks Over 30s players Lonan Maguire, Bingo O’Driscoll and Alex Berne.

It’s their third division title in the Over-30s’ upper echelon and they continue their quest for a second successive CSL crown [and fourth in seven seasons] against CPR Old Boys at Randalls Island 70 on June 4. The winners play either NY Greek Americans or Celtic Legends in the final.

Nick Laurent, on his home debut, and Andy O’Connell had a brace apiece in the first team’s 4-0 thrashing of Cedar Star Academy at St. Michael’s Playground on Saturday evening.

The surprisingly convincing win ended CSA’s season after the Greeks leapfrogged Cedar thanks to a 1-1 draw against Pancyprians – the seven-time champs had already been lined up as the opposition for the Rocks in the May 31 semi-final.

It was an impressive rebound win for Kevin Grogan’s men who had been coming into the weekend off the back of a 1-0 loss to three -time champions Lansdowne at Verrazano Sports Complex.

Earlier at St. Michael’s, Andrew Scott, Sean O’Neill [two] and Joey Zorbo were on target in the Shamrock reserves’ 4-0 win. They are also playoff-bound against NYAC B on Tuesday May 30 at Randalls Island 74.

Metro Div. One champions-designate Williamsburg International produced another trademark scoring spree to rout Shamrock 1960 6-1 at St. Michael’s Playground. Mark Gallagher and Andreas Moudatsos both had hat-tricks. Ryan McKinley had the Shamrocks’ consolation.

Rocks Women crowned League Cup champs!

Posted on May 15, 2017 by NY Shamrock SC

Geraghty’s Invincibles add second trophy
Legends wrap up season with nine goals
Over 30s secure 14th league victory

SHAMROCKS sunday schedule graphic (1) The Shamrocks Women won the NYMWSL Division A Cup final on Sunday at East River Park, adding a second trophy to their undefeated season.

Jo Belluardo and Chloe Wheeler scored second half goals to ensure a well deserved 2-0 win against Rovers, a team that they’re going to get to know well over the next couple of weeks.

Scoreless at half-time, Belluardo opened the scoring five minutes after the break when she pounced on a perfect Wheeler through ball, beating the goalkeeper at the near post with a low drive.

Wheeler then sealed the win with a header ten minutes later, captain Teresa Ferraro’s corner finding the top scorer with the perfect cross.

The Rocks will try to keep their unbeaten run going next weekend when they face Rovers again in the league before the same opponents line up for the State Cup final on Sunday June 4.

170514 shamrocks women team Div A cup winners

The victorious Shamrocks Women’s team celebrating after their win over Rovers on Sunday. Photograph by John Riordan

“The ladies did a great job today,: said Paddy Geraghty.

“After having hitting the crossbar twice in the first half we thought it could be one of those days. But credit to them they kept at it and eventually made the breakthrough. Our defense gets special mention today. They kept Rovers without a shot on target and possessed the ball well.”

“We were missing a few key players, but we had a number of women that stepped up and had a major impact,” said winning captain Ferraro.

“We’re excited with today’s result, but we have to remain focused on our goals. We have a State Cup final on June 4th, and we’re hungry for the triple crown!”

Rocks players (left to right) Jackie Gawne, Jackie Pounder, Sharon Odofin, Christina Beck, Chloe Wheeler, Tara Kiernan, Caroline Carter and Teresa Ferraro pictured after their win over Rovers on Sunday. Photograph by John Riordan

RESERVES DOWN BHOYS IN DERBY

Meanwhile, the Shamrocks Reserves recorded a 4-2 win over Lansdowne Bhoys at St Michaels on Saturday.

The fourth-placed Rocks put a dent in Lansdowne’s bid to top the reserves division but will have to wait a week before they know their semi-final opponents.

NYAC have moved into first after a win on Sunday paired with a defeat for the Greeks. The team finishing top will play fourth-placed Shamrocks in the semi-final at the end of the month.

Andrew Scott opened the scoring early in the first half while captain Paul McDaid marked his return to action with the second, latching on to a Nikle Guzijan knockdown from a Larry Slaughter free kick.

Top scorer Sean O’Neill made it three from the penalty spot and Scott scored his second of the night after a George Lara assist.

“A lot of players really stepped up,” said reserves gaffer John Riordan. “The conditions were horrendous and we showed some of the grit I know we’re capable of.

“It’s a win that gives some extra confidence but it counts for nothing unless we can bring a display like that out in the league semi-final.”

NINE GOALS FOR LEGENDS

Also on Saturday, the Shamrocks Legends rounded out their season with a huge 9-1 win at Hoboken in Elizabeth, NJ.

Unfortunately their seventh league win in a row was not enough to see them through to the play-offs, missing out by a point after Manhattan Kickers won their Sunday game.

Top scorer Karol Hughes scored four and there was one each for Eoghan McParland, John Riordan, Brian O’Connor, Stevie Doyle and Colin Lee.

30s HAMMER CPR

Johnny McGeeney scored four goals for the second week in a row as the Over 30s routed CPR Old Boys 5-1 at Randalls Island on Sunday morning.

Kevin Walsh also got himself on the scoresheet in the impressive win, a result which means the western conference belongs to the Greeks who moved up to first place on Monday due to a forfeit going in their favor next weekend.

“It was a great team performance,” said Sean Mc Mullan who coached and played in goal, saving three times in one-on-one situations.

“We have one more game before the play-offs so this is very good preparation.”

In Metro 1, Shamrocks 1960 lost 4-2 to Ridgewood Romac in Staten Island – Hughie McGowan and Anthony Carrabotta on the mark for the Rocks.

DIVISION 1 UPDATE

While Kevin Grogan prepared to send his team into the fray against Lansdowne for a league game on Wednesday night, the play-off picture became a little clearer.

A win at Verrazano Soccer Complex will push the Rocks top with one game remaining – Saturday’s game against Cedar Stars Academy (St Michaels, 8pm).

But after Pancyprians surprisingly lost at Doxa on Sunday, the Rocks are now guaranteed to finish no lower than second place, thus securing a home semi-final against Pancyprians on possibly Wednesday May 31 (TBC).

Cedar Stars must win on Saturday or hope the Greeks lose in order to be sure of finishing fourth after they failed to beat Manhattan Celtic.

That 0-0 draw gave Celtic a lifeline and it will be a winner takes all affair on Saturday night as Celtic and NYAC battle for survival – one or other team risks joining Polonia in Division 2 next year.

Cup final for the league champion Rocks Women!

Posted on May 13, 2017 by NY Shamrock SC

SHAMROCKS sunday schedule graphic (1)
The first cup final of the season takes place on Sunday with the league champion Shamrocks Women looking to add a second trophy to their historic haul.

Paddy Geraghty’s undefeated team will be at East River Park (E 6th St) again on Sunday at 11am for the NYMWSL Division A Cup final against league giants Rovers.

The Rocks won the Division B Cup final last year, a memorable 2-0 win against Sirens that formed the first part of their Division B double. Now a year later, having not lost since September 2015, the team can continue its mission to secure a unique treble of trophies.

The Shamrocks Women’s team that won the 2016 Division B Cup Final almost a year ago. Picture by Braden Ruddy

“This is a very good Rovers team,” noted Geraghty. “They are also our opponents in the State Cup final so we know they are a tough team on their day. We are missing six players but that’s why we have a big squad and I expect us to be on our game from the start.”

The first team’s home derby against Lansdowne has been delayed until Wednesday evening due to the Bhoys’ involvement in the national cup and the game will now take place at Verrazano Soccer Complex at 8pm.

But the reserves game goes ahead Saturday evening at St Michaels, a repeat of the recent State Cup semi-final which ended in a 1-0 reverse for John Riordan’s men.

The Shamrocks have locked up fourth place and cannot reach third so the final two games of the season will have no impact on their play-off position but Lansdowne are in a race for first with the Greeks and NYAC.

“We are short a dozen players so there will be another few adjustments necessary,” said Riordan.

“It’s not concerning though – they will be ready when the play-off semi-final is set so we’ll aim to get through the next two games without adding to the injury list and go from there.”

The Shamrocks Legends brought forward their trip to face Hoboken to Saturday evening in order to enjoy Mother’s Day in peace and will now play their final game of the regular season at 8pm on Saturday at Phil Rizutto Park.

The mission now is simple – the Legends have to win and hope that Manhattan Kickers are denied a victory at Eintracht or that leaders Gjoa lose to Doxa.

“On the back of a really good win against SC Eintracht last weekend we go into this last game of the regular season with confidence and strength,” said Emmett Harvey.

“We have won six league games in a row and the momentum is with us. We have to make sure that we do our best against Hoboken and take nothing for granted. We have a great squad and we are playing some wonderful football and the most important thing is that we are really enjoying it. There is great togetherness throughout the whole squad.”

Meanwhile, the Over 30s East winners will face the leaders in the West when CPR Old Boys come to Randalls Island 75 on Sunday morning for their final game of the regular season against the Shamrocks.

CPR need a win to secure home advantage – a mission already accomplished by Paddy Mc Carry and his players.

“We will be targeting three points as usual but we will be trying out a few new things formation wise with players in new positions,” said Mc Carry.

“It’s also a chance for the squad players to stake their claim for a starting position in the semi-final and for other players to try and break into the 18 man panel for the play-offs.

“We go into Sunday without our captain Bingo who is injured and also Pat Kelly, Glen Wrafter and Mauricio Bermudez who are all out of town. Other than that we have full 18 to choose from.”

Elsewhere, injury ravaged Rocks 1960 head to State Island for a Metro 1 game against Ridgewood Romac (Green Belt Rec – 11am).

Rocks Women History Makers!

Posted on May 8, 2017 by NY Shamrock SC

Captain Ferraro’s thunderbolt earns title victory x
President Mc Mullan praises “proud day for club”
Unbeaten season rolls on for Geraghty’s charges
Seventh heaven for Over 30s as conference clinched

SHAMROCKS sunday schedule graphic

Shamrocks President Sean Mc Mullan has congratulated the history making Shamrocks Women’s team who made it to the summit of New York soccer in style on Sunday!

The undefeated Rocks clinched the New York Metropolitan Women’s Soccer League Division A title at East River Park courtesy of a 1-0 win over Fuel FC.

The Shamrocks women’s team celebrating their New York Metropolitan Women’s Soccer League Division A title at East River Park on Sunday after their 1-0 win over Fuel FC. Picture by Zachary Gosse

In less than three seasons and with two more trophies still to play for, Paddy and Tricia Geraghty have steered an incredible group of players to an achievement unimaginable two years ago.

Shamrocks Women’s team coaches Tricia and Paddy Geraghty with daughter Jane and the trophy for the New York Metropolitan Women’s Soccer League Division A title at East River Park on Sunday. Picture by Zachary Gosse

Captain Teresa Ferraro broke the deadlock with 20 minutes to go with a superb shot from 35 yards, sparking wild celebrations after the game.

“I’m very happy for the ladies who put in so much hard work since pre-season in July,” said Coach Geraghty. “It wasn’t our best performance but a quality goal from Teresa Ferraro was the difference. We’ll try and make it a league and cup double next week.”

There are still two league games left and there are also the dual ambitions of a pair of cup finals – the Division A Cup next Sunday and the State Cup on Sunday June 4, both showdowns with Rovers.

005 Christina Beck Chloe Wheeler Caroline Carter

Christina Beck (left), Chloe Wheeler (center) and Caroline Carter celebrating the Shamrocks Women’s team clinching of the New York Metropolitan Women’s Soccer League Division A title at East River Park on Sunday. Picture by Zachary Gosse

“I want to congratulate Paddy and Tricia and all the players for everything they have done for the Shamrocks,” said club president Mc Mullan.

“We are all incredibly proud and very impressed. I want to thank Teresa Brink and Erin Cullen who worked hard to get the team going and also to Keith Perez who did a great job coaching the B team this season. It’s a great day for the Rocks!”

Scoreless at half-time, Geraghty fired his talented team up and sent them out for a second half which they dominated. Fuel put up stern resistance until Ferraro’s moment of magic settled it.

Shamrocks Women’s team captain Teresa Ferraro scored the winner for her team in a 1-0 victory that secured the New York Metropolitan Women’s Soccer League Division A title at East River Park on Sunday. Picture by Zachary Gosse

“The progress we’ve made since coming up from Division B is something to be proud of,” the goalscoring captain said.

“We’ve worked extremely hard and it’s nice to be able to celebrate what we’ve accomplished. We still have two more cup finals in the next few weeks, and we are focused on continuing our efforts and helping the club secure two more trophies.

“On behalf of the team, I want to thank Coach Paddy and the club for always supporting us. We would not be here without the entire Shamrock family!”

This first Sunday in May saw a total of two trophies added to the Shamrocks cabinet after four goals from Johnny McGeeney inspired a 7-1 win for the Over 30s at Lansdowne.

The Shamrocks Over 30s team that clinched the Eastern Conference on Sunday courtesy of a 7-1 win at Lansdowne in Tibbet Brook Park on Sunday morning.

The league holders advance to the play-offs as Eastern Conference champions and will enjoy top seeding in the final four.

Dominick McCartan opened the scoring for this visitors while Tayfun Gokmen added a pair of goals to his season’s tally.

“Excellent team performance – everyone played great!” said Paddy Mc Carry.

“Johnny McGeeney was man of the match. When he plays like that, he is unstoppable. The best striker in the Over 30s Division in my opinion.

“I’m so happy for the whole squad. They have put in huge effort all year long and they deserve to be the champions. We knew we had a chance if results went our way. They went out and made sure we got those three points.

“We blew Lansdowne away in the second half. The best game we have played since the winter break. They were brilliant today.”

Elsewhere, in the final game of the day, a first half goal decided the Division 1 showdown in favor of play-off chasing Greek Americans who ground out a scrappy game against the Rocks at the Met Oval.

And it could have been 2-0 to the Greeks just before half time had they not missed a penalty on the stroke of half-time.

“It was great to get our new signing Calvin Moyes involved and also to give reserves player Darren Coleman his debut in the first team,” said Kevin Grogan.

” We also got to give Kwesi some rest. Everything now is in preparation for the semi-finals ”

Earlier, a depleted reserves team was forced into eight changes for their league game against the Greeks and they were beaten 2-0 by the top two side.

“Very positive performance,” said John Riordan.

“We had 11 available players and they each gave it everything for 90 minutes. We’ll be ready come play-off time and we’re looking forward to it.”

Meanwhile, the Legends won their sixth league game in a row, a 3-0 result at Eintracht which extended their play-off hopes to next weekend’s final round of games.

The Shamrocks Legends team that beat Eintracht 3-0 at the Met Oval on Sunday.

John Riordan had the Legends a goal up after 30 minutes when he seized on a Karol Hughes assist and then Hughes himself made it 2-0 half way through the second half after a great ball across by Brian Wolohan.

Emmett Harvey rounded out the scoring with a brilliant right footed strike close to full time. Joe Connolly in goals was rarely troubled throughout the game as a magnificent defensive display nullified any threat.

“Six wins in a row and with great momentum, we can look forward to next weekend,” said assistant coach Eoin Sweeney.

“We will play with a hundred percent until the final whistle of the final game. Randall Friedman had an outstanding display at right full and Richie Brennan as usual led by example at center back with a commanding display.

“Dave Symington and John Riordan were the engine house in midfield while Emmett capped a fine display by scoring with the last kick of the game.”

At St Michaels, Dave Harvey scored a superb free kick from 26 yards to tie the Metro 1 game against Iliria midway through the first half, earning a 1-1 result for Rocks 1960.

“Ruairi Lavery once again was a rock at the back,” said Neil Mannion. “Both sides had chances to win late in the second half but a draw was probably a fair result in the end.”

Brandi Daniels and Shannon Hopkins scored two each in an impressive 4-0 win for Shamrocks B against United B.

“We put together a dominant performance,” said coach Keith Perez.

“With some new additions and formation changes, the ladies came together to out work the other team. The result puts us back in winning form and we look forward to finishing the rest of the season in similar fashion.”