Easts Celts finished their disappointing 2005 campaign on Sunday with a scrappy but hard-fought semi final loss to Sarsfields. It was a case of Sarsfields being the much more determined side for the entire game, and despite dominating the majority of the second half, the men in blue and gold didn't have enough to get the win.

In a game where points were at a premium, Easts uncharacteristically pushed too many shots wide of the posts and took countless wrong options in attack. With several key players out injured and others playing hurt, Easts were out-enthused and out-muscled by their hungrier opposition. Sarsfield's dominance in the midfield and their sound defensive line ensured the one point victory and booked a semi final place for next week.

Celts would like to wish Sarsfields the best of luck for next weekends game, we're certain you've got what it takes to get another big scalp. On a personal note, I'd like to thank two particular Celts, Gerard Enright and Veronica Snowdon. Gerard's training drills and on-field leadership made my job all that much easier during an already difficult season, whilst Veronica's off field work keeps the Easts Celts club afloat. Make no mistake, we wouldn't have a club to play for if not for the behind-the-scenes work Veronica puts in. This is something many players are unaware of.

Can't wait for 2006, when the Celts get back where they should be.....On top!!!

Dov Hirst, Seniors captain.

Easts Celts seniors had their hardest-fought contest to date yesterday against league leaders John Mitchels. A novel approach to the final league fixture for 2005 was taken by the Celts, and every single player from goalie to full forward was chosen in an unfamiliar position. The purpose of this strategy was to give all players a different taste of Gaelic footy than what they're used to. Forwards often don't realize how hard it is to tag a player for an entire game and backs don't understand how easy it is to push a seemingly easy kick wide of the posts, and all should've got benefit from playing out of position.

Having opened the scoring and staying with their more fancied rivals for most of the first half, Easts put a bit of a scare into the Mitchels camp. Despite leading most of the match and running out winners 4-7(19) to 0-7(7) Mitchels were exposed in several areas when under pressure, something that would certainly have been noted by the Shamrocks goal umpires and linesmen.

Stand-out performer for Easts was the tireless Jeremy Thompson, who took high marks, defended strongly and kicked accurately in his first hit out as a midfielder. Jeremy is as enthusiastic about training and playing as a player can be and has a very bright future at Easts. Billy Clohessy was also dominant during his limited time on the field, whilst Hugh McCarney and Stephen Montieth showed they were a "class above" your average footballer. Easts "club men" Matty Huggett (goalie) and Greg Bryant (half forward, half back) also showed great skill and determination in unfamiliar territory.

This weekend sees Easts take on Sarsfields at 11.30 in a sudden-death preliminary final and if I need to mention how important victory is in this clash we all may as well chuck it in! All players required at the ground by 10.45 at the latest. Competition for places in the team will be fierce and priority will be given to players that train on Wednesday night.

A reminder to players that all outstanding fees must be paid to Veronica Snowdon or Nathan Ram at training this week.

Dov Hirst, Seniors captain.

The difference between rivals Souths Magpies and Easts Celts was never more evident than in yesterdays league fixture at Willawong. Souths annihilated the men from Easts in every facet of the game, running out winners with a massive scoreline of 4-19(31) to 0-4(4). Despite getting on the board first, Easts were unable to hinder Souths' superb attack and were simply starved of enough possession to post an even remotely competitive score.

Positives from such a hard day were the performances of Easts three visa players, who were tireless in a well beaten side. Gerard Enright, Hugh McCarney and Stephen Montieth were all hard at the ball and made the most of their limited opportunities. Stand-in goalie Jeremy Thompson was also strong all day and his performance was the only thing that prevented a Magpies half century. Rookie player Shane McNamara continues to improve weekly and being marked by Souths gorilla-like backline will only serve to toughen him up ahead of his Queensland under 18's debut in October.

Despite this Wednesday being a public holiday, Easts men are still training and all players are urged to make the effort to get there. With possibly only a fortnight of the 2005 season left for the Celts, good numbers at training and plenty at the ground early on game day will ensure we're more than just nuisance value to some of this years "big guns" in the semis.

Dov Hirst, Seniors captain.

The Celts-Harps senior fixture was a game of two halves.

The first half was even, the second half was even worse. Celts 3-10 (19) d Harps 2-2 (8).

Dov Hirst, seniors captain.

Easts Celts Seniors put their season back "on track" with a hard fought four point win over Sarsfields on Sunday. Having struggled in recent weeks both on and off the field, Easts showed an improved attitude to getting to the ground, warming up and playing the style of footy we all like to watch. Commitment from all players and unselfish and creative play earned the Celts victory in what was a real "danger" game for the club. Defeat would've meant the continuation of a disastrous slide down the ladder.

With a full, five-man bench and all players sober and fit the Celts side were methodical in both attack and defence and although the win was far from comfortable, it signalled the return of an Easts side determined to perform to the best of their ability. Gerard Enright, (standing in as captain) played his best game to date in the blue and gold jersey. Gerard was hard at the ball all day and would've clocked up massive mileage during the game. Brendon Riddell was also impressive, standing in for injured regular goal keeper Marc Griffiths. Great displays also from "the two Shanes", with Shane Verity bagging a lovely score early on and Shane McNamara improving on last weeks game. The rampaging Billy Clohessy was almost back to his best form and everyone at Easts shudders to think how much damage this bloke will do when he gets fit!

This weekend sees the Celts come up against Harps at 2.45 and despite Harps low standing on the ladder, this is another "danger" game for Easts. The same level of commitment will be required again to ensure we get the vital two competition points.

Dov Hirst, seniors captain.

The only highlights from Easts thrashing at the hands of Shamrocks 'A' yesterday was the classy return of Billy Clohessy and the tough and determined performance from young Celts rookie Shane McNamara. In his first game back in an Easts jersey since starring in last years Championship decider, Billy Clohessy displayed the skill, guts and aggression that made him such an important member of the 2004 squad, and indications are that he'll prove just as important to this years charge toward the finals.

After only a handful of senior games, sixteen year old rookie Shane McNamara threw himself into yesterdays game in fearless fashion, and despite coming off "second-best" a couple of times will benefit from such a tough hit out.

The Celts side was disappointing to say the least. Displaying almost no commitment at certain stages, the Easts men played like a team un-interested in winning. When players are absent, turning up for games at the last second and only training when the weather is nice, it's obvious we aren't committed enough to give the "big guns" of the competition a scare, come September.

Congratulations to our opposition, who always give us a very tough game with a minimum of whinging. Shamrocks are currently setting the example to other clubs in the competition of how a footy club should be run. Well done.

Dov Hirst, Seniors captain.

The Celts Irish stars ran riot yesterday in the windiest day Willawong has seen for years. Playing against a younger and less experienced Shamrock "B" side, The Tyrone trio of Stephen Montieth, Hugh McCarney and Kevin McCloughan proved too much to handle. "Best on ground" was easily Gerard Enright, who was dangerous every time he touched the ball. Gerard terrorized the Shamrocks goalie several times.

In a game where the incredible, swirling wind was expected to disrupt play, the Easts forwards kept the wide shots to a minimum and carried the ball into the danger zone with confidence. The final scoreline of Easts 6-12 (30) to Shamrocks 1-3 (6) indicates accurately the degree of dominance of the Celts against a team which traditionally troubles them. Easts backline players were also solid and despite not seeing much action at their end of the field, displayed clever skills to move the ball out of Shamrocks scoring zone whenever required. Jamie Byrne and Marc Griffiths both showed courage and football intelligence throughout the game.

In what was probably the most disappointing aspect of the day, Easts players showed very poor punctuality in turning up in time to play. With only minutes to go before the start of play, Easts were looking likely to forfeit the game with only ten players ready to go. The importance of turning up early enough for coaching staff to line out a decent side can't be stressed enough. Had we played one of the stronger sides in the competition yesterday, we would've copped an ugly and well deserved hiding. With only a couple of months left in the season it's time for all Celts players to ask themselves if they want to be playing or watching when finals time rolls around.

Celts Seniors have the bye this weekend but are urged to get out to the ground to support the ladies side when they take on Sarsfields at 12.15pm. All Celts players are reminded to get their orders in very quickly if they want their own Easts Celts jersey in size and number of choice. Contact Dov on 0408 458 939 or e-mail dov.hirst@goprint.qld.gov.au

Dov Hirst, Seniors Captain

In what's becoming an all too familiar story for Easts in 2005, The Celts let John Mitchels "off the hook" in yesterdays QGFA league fixture. After a very spirited display in a low scoring first half, Easts took a one point lead to the break against this years Brisbane Shield champions. As with the game last week against Souths, many players took the field for the second half without the urgency and determination that delivered them the half time lead in the first place. With Mitchels skilfully slotting the first three points of the second stanza the upset result became less likely and although it required a goal in the dying seconds to Mitchels to seal the game, the result was a fair one.

Despite losing a game that was there to be won, Easts are showing signs of improvement. More game time together as a team will be a benefit to Easts senior side, which is an interesting mix of rookie Gaelic footballers, experienced Irish players and ageing Celts stalwarts. It's safe to say Easts will be performing at the "business end" of the season, a thought that will have rival clubs more than a little nervous.

All players are reminded that training this Wednesday will be a short, sharp session from 6pm to 7pm, allowing everyone to be showered and home in time to watch the State of Origin decider.

Also note that anyone wanting to order their own Easts Celts jersey in size and number of choice have until Sunday 17th July to get their order (and $55) to Dov Hirst, contact 0408 458 939 , 0419 777 812 or e-mail dov.hirst@goprint.qld.gov.au. This is a one-off opportunity and jerseys will not be ordered again this year, so get in quick!

Dov Hirst, seniors captain.

The new-look Celts ran riot yesterday against an inexperienced and under-manned Harps outfit. With several new players and the luxury of a massive fresh reserves bench Easts ruthlessly disposed of their opponents 8-16 (40) to 0-2 (2).

Highlight of the game was Easts unselfish play and willingness to make the ball "do the work". With ten different scorers there were no real stand out players, though it must be noted the game was dominated by Easts new recruits, two of whom (Gerard Enright and Chris Cullen) were on debut. With an excess of players, six Celts played a half a game each for the opposition and these players should be thanked and recognized for pulling on the Harps jumper without hesitation.

Yesterdays game was Easts first under new coach Tony Gallagher and as discussed in the dressing rooms after the game, the importance of training and punctuality on game day will be highlighted in the coming weeks. With Easts no longer fielding a reserve grade, competition for Senior positions will be fierce and all players are urged to get "fair dinkum" about getting the club back where we should be - ON TOP!!

Dov Hirst, Seniors captain.

Sarsfields staged a mighty comeback to snatch a well-earned draw against Easts in the first round of league competition yesterday. With a poor turn out from the Celts, the game was played as fifteen Sarsfields men against Easts thirteen and for the majority of the match this didn't appear to bother the Celts. Despite the two-man overlap, Sarsfields were unable to stop the Celts from controlling the ball and taking scores. With a half time scoreline of 1-2(5) to 0-1-(1) it appeared Easts may run away with the game. Unfortunately for Easts, Sarsfields had different ideas and came out in the second half with "all guns blazing".

A more committed effort from our opposition combined with some indecisive play and poor options in attack saw the lead see-saw several times during the second half. When the referee blew the whistle for full time most players weren't sure of the result, although anyone watching the game would agree that the draw was a fair indication of the game. Sarsfields are to be congratulated for their conduct and the grit they displayed to keep themselves in a game they could've easily lost

From the clubs point of view, the single competition point earned in yesterdays drawn game is a bonus. The game was one Easts didn't deserve to win. Whilst there is always legitimate reasons why players can't make it to games, Easts have enough players to make any game competitive and yesterdays poor showing highlights a lack of commitment from some players. The Easts playing squad need to decide very quickly if it has the desire and dedication to defend the championship it won last season.

Dov Hirst, Seniors Captain.

Souths Magpies served up the Celts their most embarrassing result in recent memory in their Brisbane shield clash yesterday at Willawong. Despite mixed results for the season so far, Easts went into the game confident of upsetting their undefeated rivals. Souths got scoring under way almost immediately and were both skilful in attack and relentless in defence for the entire first half. Souths midfield dominated play and shut down most Easts attacking moves with ease.

With a half time deficit of nineteen points, Easts made several positional changes and decided a supreme effort would be required to save face against a bitter rival. Easts attack looked a lot better in the second half, with Conan Dyar and Matt Huggett both finding the back of the net. Excellent single scores from Nathan Ram, Eddie Burke and Joe Dyar during the second half made the scoreline a little less embarrassing, though the 6-20 (38) to 2-7 (13) hiding is one the whole Easts club would like to forget. Despite the massive loss, there was not one Celts player who didn't try his hardest. This aspect of the game was something to be proud of. In games where you are being thrashed, it's easy to "throw in the towel", not one Easts player was guilty of this yesterday.

Easts would like to congratulate Souths on their superb game. Souths development of players this season has been terrific. It's no coincidence they're sitting in top position on the Brisbane shield ladder and undefeated for the season. Some of the new players Souths have unearthed this year could be mistaken for players that have been playing the game all their lives. Easts would also like to wish Souths the best of luck in the Brisbane Shield final on Friday 10th June.

Well done to Easts ladies on their one point win against Souths yesterday, the hard work is starting to pay off and the win is certain to be the first of many.

Easts play Shamrocks this weekend at 12.10 in the final round of the Brisbane Shield. Due to State of Origin, training will be at the earlier time of 6.00pm sharp this Wednesday. All players are urged to be ready to train at this time as it's likely to be a short, sharp session that allows everyone to be home in time to see the big game on TV.

Dov Hirst, Seniors Captain.

It was a case of "mate against mate" as Easts Celts "Seniors" lined up against a tough and determined Easts Celts "Reserves" side in the Brisbane Shield. In a game that was as keenly contested as any grand final, the two sides ripped into each other from the word "go", with the reserves side scoring first and putting the wind up the more established senior side.

After a tense "softening up" period which saw a disallowed three pointer and several wide shots to the seniors, rhythm was eventually found and the senior side took a two goal lead into the half time break. In the second half, the mighty Celts reserves rallied and staged a mini comeback. Following the lead of Celts stalwart Brad Small and former championship winners Stevie Ryan and Stu Rodriguez the reserves side picked up the tempo and looked to be the better side for the majority of the half. If not for a five minute lapse in concentration where Seniors stars Conan Dyar and John Ryan put some good scores on the board, the Celts "reggies" may have caused a massive upset. The final scoreline of Easts "A" 3-7 (16) to Easts "B" 1-7(10) was a fair indication of the game.

In a game played in the right spirit there were several stand-out performances. Rookie Gaelic footballer Dave Barry was excellent in the reserves half backline, attacking the ball fearlessly and playing with a brand of control and discipline only class players can display. Yesterday was Dave's best performance to date. Another top performer in a beaten side was Shane Verity. Shane's defence and pin-point accuracy when driving the ball out of the danger zone was a pleasure to watch. Shane's game has improved "out of sight" this season and Shane is to be congratulated. If a senior Easts side was named tomorrow, both Shane and Dave would be in it.

A big "Welcome Back" to the club for Stu Rodriguez and Stevie Ryan, Both of whom were members of Easts first ever Senior Championship winning side in 1999. Stu and Stevie are both top players with a tonne of experience and their return to the club could be just the thing to get Celts season "back on track".

This weekend sees a grand final replay when Easts Seniors play the "old enemy" at 2.00pm. Souths are playing very good football and are yet to be beaten this season. Who better to knock them off than the Celts?

Dov Hirst, Seniors captain.

Easts Seniors had a particularly tough day on Sunday, soundly beaten by Shamrocks 4-14 (26) to 1-2 (5) in their Brisbane Shield fixture. With Shamrocks finding the net only minutes after of the start of play, the signs were not good early on. Shamrocks dominated the midfield, thus starving the Easts attack of enough ball to score sufficient points to make the game competitive. Weight of possession meant the 'Rocks had ample scoring opportunities and their main attacking weapon Brad Kennedy made a minimum of mistakes in front of the posts. Brad had a field day against Easts in what was be his last Shamrocks appearance before heading off to Ireland. (We hope you have a good holiday mate.........don't hurry back though!!!).

In stark contrast to last years Seniors side, the Celts are showing signs of inexperience, poor discipline and are often taking the wrong option when in possession of the ball. Over the coming weeks, coaching staff and players will be taking steps to rectify these problems. With training the key to improvement, all players are urged to make the effort to get to training.

This weekend sees the club play a truly unique Brisbane Shield fixture. The Easts "A" vs Easts "B" game will hold varying degrees of significance for different players. For some it will be the opportunity to cement their position in the team, for others it will be the chance to prove they deserve a chance in Seniors. Whatever the driving factor, all Easts players are urged to make it out to the grounds for this game. With the club struggling for playing numbers and form, this game is the perfect opportunity for Easts to get the year "back on track"

Finally, mention must be made of the terrible hip injury Celts player Martin Cunningham suffered on the weekend. The entire club wishes Martin a swift recovery form his unlucky break. We're all looking forward to seeing you back on the paddock.

Dov Hirst, Seniors captain.

In football we normally have to wait a week before we are given the chance to redeem ourself or exorcise the demons of a terrible game. However, East's were given the chance against Harps to show its supporters and to prove to themselves that they are a very good side. It seems that two hours is a long time in football, as two hours earlier we walked off Field 2 with heads down. East's with virtually the same side that was convincingly beaten now walked off Field 1 with smiles all round and slaps on the back.

Our back line was the corner stone of the win, defence was turned to attack with every player working to support their team mates and drive the ball back into attack. Our Mid-fielders ran their hearts out all day playing and leading by example, playing attacking football. Forwards shared the ball around to take full advantage of scoring opportunities and taking risks. The interchange bench was used quite frequently to ensure all players were given the opportunity to contribute to the game.

I will use a cliché as to explain the transformation from losing to winning, we played as a team, a unit of men with the same goal, desire and wish to succeed. I haven't been specific as to individuals in this report as I do believe that it wasn't a few doing the job, but the whole team. I will make special mention of Conan Dyar who reads the play so well and sets up many scoring opportunities for others, well done. Finally, after the game I went and thanked all players for their efforts in the game, it showed me that they are a strong team who are willing to give it their all.

Remember training is every Wednesday evening at 6.30pm.

Neville Whiteley

Easts Seniors made hard work of their Brisbane Shield clash with Shamrocks "B" side on Sunday. Despite winning with a 2-12 (18) to 1-6 (9) scoreline, Easts played a fairly disjointed game with several lapses in defence and a couple of telling errors in attack.

Due to the Shamrocks (rather odd) decision to play the game in 13-a-side format, stand-in coach Nev Whitely found himself with a large bench to work with. Regular interchanges were made to ensure all Easts players had ample game time and this may have contributed to Easts "scratchy" performance.

As with any win, there were positives. Good ball movement amongst the forwards, tight defence from the backline, and a particularly courageous display from goal keeper Marc Griffiths being the highlight. Strong performances from John Ryan, Martin Cunningham and Eddie Burke were also features of the game. Whilst Martin is proving to be a reliable defender, it's also becoming evident his skills with the ball are going to be an asset to the Celts. Martins error rate is low and his attacking play very unselfish.

Rookie John Ryan is taking to Gaelic footy like "a duck to water". Johns solo skills and ball pick up skills are equal to that of any experienced player. Eddie Burke plays better each week and has a very powerful and accurate kick. Eddie is bound to trouble the scoreboard attendant all year!

The Dyar brothers, Joe and Conan also had big games against the Shamrocks. Both ran riot from the mid-field , getting plenty of possessions and scoring shots.

A big "thanks" to ex-coach Nev Whitely who is helping out the team, particularly in the absence of ill head coach Chris Guice. Nev's knowledge of the game and ability to help new players master the fundamental skills will help the club greatly.

Chris Guice's usual demand for discipline, thorough training and team warm ups is being sorely missed by the team and it's fair to assume the teams results and all round performance will improve when Chris is well enough to make a return. "Get well mate!"

Dov Hirst, Seniors Captain.

Easts Celts Seniors have easily accounted for an under strength Sarsfields side in its first Brisbane Shield fixture for the season. Despite all but three players backing up from playing reserve grade earlier in the day, Easts dominated play from start to finish and ran away with the game 4-14(26) to 1-1(4).

Top performers for the Celts were those on debut for the club. Joe Dyar ran riot in the forwards, bagging two goals and nine points. Anghus "The Rock" Foley also had a strong debut, showing his toughness and skill in a match winning performance at fullback. Not much got past him.

Off season recruit (and ex-Sarsfields player) Martin Cunningham made has first game in Easts colours a memorable one. Martin was very solid in defence in the first half and displayed un-selfish ball distribution in the second half when moved up into the forwards. A terrific debut for his new club.

Mention must also be made of all new players to the club. The effort made at training is already showing results. Well done to those former reserve grade players who have decided to "step up to the mark" in 2005, particularly Adam Mellick, Marc Griffiths, Shane Verity and Matt Huggett. All played extremely well.

Dov. Hirst.