RiCruden Scotland U17 Tour of Ireland:
Overview
Nineteen boys from 11 clubs across Scotland gathered at Edinburgh Airport on Sunday to embark on an exciting tour of Ireland. The tour featured a blend of cultural experiences and competitive hurling matches, showcasing the talents of the young Scottish shinty players.
Sunday: Arrival and Exploration
Upon arriving in Dublin, the team settled into their accommodation before heading to the city centre. The boys took the opportunity to explore Dublin, indulging in some shopping and immersing themselves in the vibrant atmosphere of the All-Ireland Hurling Final. Following an eventful day, the team returned to their hotel for a meeting and an early night, preparing for the challenges ahead.
Monday: Training, Croke Park, and Match Against Dublin
The day began with an intense training session focusing on key skills such as blocking, fitness, hitting, finishing, and identifying who would take our 65s. Afterwards, the team enjoyed a tour of the iconic Croke Park, deepening their appreciation for the sport and its ties to shinty.
Later, Scotland faced Dublin at Parnell Park. Despite a slow start, the team found their rhythm, establishing a 14-point lead. An end of game rule change, enabling the hurlers to catch the ball, allowed Dublin to close the gap dramatically in just four minutes, but Scotland managed to secure victory. Shane O’Rua earned the Man of the Match title with his exceptional performance, contributing several goals and points.
Tuesday: Battle in Wexford
The team travelled to Wexford, where they encountered a formidable opponent. The home side dominated the first 35 minutes, challenging Scotland’s resolve. However, the team rallied in the second half, largely thanks to Archie Millar, who scored 18 of Scotland’s 26 points, all as two-pointers. Arran Stephen delivered an outstanding defensive performance, earning him the Man of the Match accolade. The thrilling match concluded with Archie Millar scoring a decisive two-pointer with the final hit, securing a narrow victory for Scotland in front of a 500-strong crowd.
Gratitude goes to both Dublin and Wexford for their hospitality and a special mention for the latter for providing a generous spread of food for the team before their two-hour journey back to Dublin.
Conclusion
The RiCruden Scotland U17 Tour of Ireland was a resounding success, both on and off the pitch. The young athletes gained invaluable experience and demonstrated commendable skill and determination throughout the tour. Their performances in Dublin and Wexford highlighted the promising future of these young men. Final huge thanks go to Seamus Curtis for all his support over in Ireland.
Squad
Charlie MacRae Beauly
Auryn Kerr Col Glen
Arran Stephen Fort William
Archie MacKinnon Fort William
Alfie MacLeod Glenurquhart
Daniel MacLean Glenurquhart
Shane O’Rua Kilmallie
Fergus Sherlock Kingussie
Sam Thain Kingussie
Calum MacMillan Kinlochshiel
Kieran Martin Kinlochshiel
Kyle Clark Newtonmore
Joe Coyle Newtonmore
Tristan Ross Newtonmore
Matthew Sloss Oban Camanachd
Alexander MacDonald Oban Camanachd
Ewen Campbell Oban Celtic
Archie Millar Skye
Seonaidh-Alex MacLeod Skye