Leprechauns in for Gaelic battle

THE WOLLONGONG University Fighting Leprechauns defended themselves to a standstill in their Gaelic football encounter against a free running Clan na Gael on Sunday.

While Clan na Gael constantly attacked the Fighting Leprechauns' goal for most of the first half, a moral victory was had as the newcomers trailed only (1-7) 10 " 0 at the break.

However, the Leprechauns conceded a major score was early in the second half and a massive deficit looked on the cards.

The Fighting Leprechauns dug deep to hold the Clan.

Although the (4-14) 26"0 score line did them no favours the effort and intensity shown in defence must be applauded.

Player's player awards went to captain Lee Murray and Elias Kassas, who seemed to pop up all over the field in an effort to cover for the absence of three of the starters missing from the previous week's 41-1 thrashing against defending premiers Young Ireland.

Best on ground in that defeat was Dane Traeger, who was outstanding in defence and was one of a few who left the field with reputation intact.

A torrid training session is planned for this week with the Leprechauns preparing for Sunday's game against Cormac Macanallens.

Meanwhile, a handy crowd witnessed the first organised Gaelic Football game in the Illawarra in decades. Clan na Gael ventured to Wollongong to lend assistance to the Fighting Leprechauns.

After some brief training drills and invaluable input from the experienced Irishman the teams were divided and took to the field with gusto.

A spirited draw was played out, another indication that the babies of Gaelic Football are nearly ready to walk.