St. Maurs – Tuesday 2nd May
After a difficult couple of weeks, this team finally delivered the ‘Complete’ performance that they had been threatening. “What impressed me most was the work rate. From the throw-in to the final whistle the lads gave it everything. They never relented or became complacent”, said a jubilant Brendan Meaney after the game, although he hides it well.  From the off, Lynch and Hutchinson dominated the midfield area and delivered quality ball to the forwards, who kept the scoreboard ticking over. A couple of goal chances were squandered before Hassett finished off a lovely training ground move, palming the ball into an empty net. McGinn, O’Reilly and Cashmen (that’s the two of them) were proving too hot to handle, ably supported by McGlynn and the wing back pairing of Long and Monahan. Leading 1-14 to 0-4 at the break, this game was a done deal.
On his way to the half time team talk, we caught up with the star forward Laurance Murphy, and asked him for his thoughts. “We have to do everything ourselves, that manager’s a tool. He has all the tactical instructions of an airplane sick bag”. It seems there may be unease with the setup……………….. The introduction of the aforementioned coup leader, Murphy, along with Cullen, O’Donnell, Weldon and ex-hurler Kennedy just compounded the woes of St. Maurs.
Netminder Farrell’s laser like kick outs were a joy to behold. As the game began to break up, space became available for Reynolds, McWalter & McPartland to make sorties into the heart of the Maurs defence. This allowed a record 11 different players to get their name on the scoresheet. In truth, it was a tough day at the office for the visitors but that does not detract from the ability and determination of this outstanding group of players. The final word’s go to Intermediate manager Donal Monahan, who was showing his support to the team, “It was a good all-round performance, with some good young talent”. I find Donal very educational. Every time he speaks, I switch off and go and read a good book.

Final Score:  BBSE 1-24 St. Maurs 0-4

Team: Adam Farrell, Mark Reynolds, Fionn Keating McDermott, Paddy McWalter, David Monahan, Charlie McPartland, Ronan Long (0-1), Jack Hutchinson, Daniel Lynch (0-1), Aodhan O’Reilly (0-5 (1xF)), Connell McGlynn (0-2), Enda Cashman (0-5 (2xF)), Ciaran Cashman (0-1), John McGinn (0-5), Cian Hassett (1-1), Barry O’Donnell, Darragh Cullen (0-1), Laurence Murphy (0-1), Karl Weldon (0-1), Conor Kennedy

Fingal Ravens – Sunday 7th May
“We’re meeting in Rolestown at 10am on Sunday morning.” Is there a more frightening sentence in Dublin GAA circles? I wouldn’t mind but I don’t even get expenses to follow this group around and document their season. Not as much as a branded jacket, T-shirt, or any other free merchandise. (Size large, if Jack Nolan is reading this………. ). After storming through division 6 last year and with a 100% record this year, Ravens were always going to be a challenging encounter. Boasting Dublin U20’s star, Dylan Kettle in their ranks they are a team to be treated with the utmost respect.
With a more defensive-minded setup, Boden started the game well. Like mentor Maguire’s arteries, early exchanges were tight and hard. Dunne and McPartland marshalled the defence, while Long, Monahan and Kennedy worked tirelessly filling the gaps. Limiting the opposition to long range efforts, scores were hard to come by. Conversely, Boden countered well with McGinn registering the first point after ten minutes. Ravens, to their credit, were composed and well-drilled and not being disingenuous, were more accomplished in the dark arts. Evidenced by the fact that Boden only scored twice from open play in 60 minutes of football. Both teams went to the break at 4 points apiece.
“That Boden number 6 is some player, the seniors should be looking at him, Dylan Kettle hasn’t had a look in all day”, said Boden centre-back Joe Maguire. He went on to say, “Look, I have to go over for the halftime waffle talk. If you thought Lockdown was long and boring, strap yourself in.”
Ravens started the 2nd half stronger, registering the 2 points within three minutes. Committing numbers to the attack, they began to create openings. But for the experience and physicality of Lynch, Maguire & Reynolds the system, like a Tony Hassett suit, could have easily fallen apart. Further free’s from the boot of John McGinn and Boden were very much in the ascendancy. The game turned when Ravens raised a green flag after a somewhat controversial ‘Square Ball’ decision. 6 points adrift Hutchinson, O’Reilly, Egan and Murphy were never giving up the fight. Winning free after free, McGinn was on hand to do what he’s paid the big money for. Impact sub, Colm Humphreys bulled his way around the park and created havoc. Narrowly shooting wide for a goal chance, he got his reward 2 minutes later after dispossessing the keeper and blasting into an empty net. Another point from McGinn and Ravens were under the gun again. But unfortunately, time ran out in this highly entertaining affair.
After the game we caught up with the Director of Division 5 Coaching, Paul Dolan, “The lads showed great adaptability today. Their ability to respond to ever-changing scenarios and make key on-field decisions is outstanding.”  Paul hails from the small village of Lecarrow on the banks of Lough Ree in the remotest, darkest depths of County Roscommon. Cold, wet, and miserable, Paul is an integral part of the management setup.
Final Score: BBSE 1-8 Fingal Ravens 1-10
Team: Adam Farrell, Mark Reynolds, Michael Dunne, Paddy McWalter, David Monahan, Joe Maguire, Ronan Long, Conor Kennedy, Daniel Lynch, Connell McGlynn, Laurence Murphy, Charlie McPartland, Ciaran Cashman (0-1 F), John McGinn (0-7 (6xF)), Cian Hassett, Colm Humphreys (1-0), Barry O’Donnell, Jack Hutchinson, Aodhan O’Reilly