Thrilling Football, Skill, and Superb Sportsmanship all on show at the Tyrone Cumann na mBunscol Indoor Girls’ Heat in MUSA.
The Mid Ulster Sports Arena (MUSA) in Cookstown was buzzing with excitement today as local schools gathered for the Tyrone Cumann na mBunscol Indoor Girls’ Football heat. What followed was a festival of football full of energy, exceptional skill, and brilliant attitudes. From first whistle to last, every girl involved showed the type of teamwork, discipline, and flair that made the day a joy for everyone present.
The schools involved were:
- St Peter's P.S. Moortown
- St Mary's P.S. Pomeroy
- St Patrick's P.S. Donaghmore
- St Joseph's P.S. Galbally
- St Patrick's P.S. Mullinahoe
- Holy Trinity P.S. Cookstown
From the moment the ball was thrown in, it was clear that the future of girls’ Gaelic football in Tyrone is in very safe hands.
Group Stages: Skill, Speed, and Superb Teamwork.
The teams were split into two groups of three, and every match produced moments of magic.
Group 1:
Donaghmore, Galbally, Ardboe The opening match between Donaghmore and Galbally set the tone for the day—tight marking, fast transitions, and confident shooting. Galbally’s Cara McCann, with her excellent movement, and Sarah Rafferty, a constant engine from defence to attack, were outstanding. Katie Kelly also impressed with her clever passing and tireless work rate. Donaghmore matched that intensity, driven on by the sharp-shooting Caday Comac, whose finishing ability shone throughout the day. Neasa Grimes and Caoimhe Brady provided great support play, constantly linking defence and attack with intelligence and composure. Ardboe also made their presence known in Group 1. Goalkeeper Jessica O’Neill produced a series of brave saves across all her games, while Emma Browne, Orla Kelly, and Ella Devlin worked hard in every battle, showing great heart and determination.
Group 2:
Moortown, Holy Trinity Cookstown, Pomeroy Group 2 delivered equally exciting football. St Peter’s Moortown showed incredible teamwork and accuracy, led by the brilliant Caoimhe Crozier, who delivered a real masterclass in goal scoring throughout the group stages. Fiadh Walls was also exceptional—strong on the ball, smart off it, and a real leader in tight moments. Holy Trinity Cookstown impressed with their fast transitions and slick attacking play. Emily O'Neill was superb all day, winning turnovers and launching attacks, while Cahla Hughes brought a calmness in possession that helped Holy Trinity reach the semi-finals. Pomeroy, meanwhile, were full of heart and skill. Kyla Conlon battled brilliantly in midfield, Aoife McCrory worked tirelessly to keep her team moving forward, and the outstanding Caoimhe McGoldrick, like her sister last year, lit up every game she played—showing vision, control, and confidence that drew admiration from all in attendance. She is certainly one to watch out for in the future.
Semi-Finals:
Four Teams Give It Everything.
Galbally v Holy Trinity Cookstown.
The first semi-final was a thrilling end‑to‑end contest. Holy Trinity’s attacking play—driven by the excellent Emely O’Neill and Cadhla Hughes—caused Galbally problems early on. But Galbally gradually settled, with McCann super at the back, Rafferty and Kelly combining brilliantly in attack while also defending tirelessly when required. Galbally’s sharpness in front of goal, despite some brilliant saves from Iris Sousa, ultimately proved the difference, securing them the first spot in the final. Holy Trinity however walked off with their heads high—proud of the effort, teamwork, and moments of brilliance they produced.
Moortown v Donaghmore
The second semi-final was a pulsating affair. Moortown again looked dangerous with Crozier’s goal-scoring instincts and Walls's clever playmaking causing real problems. But Donaghmore were relentless. Caday Comac continued her superb scoring form, while Grimes and Brady showed incredible grit in defence. The game swung back and forth until Donaghmore edged ahead by a single point at the final whistle—a dramatic ending to a game played at a wonderful pace and intensity.
The Final:
Galbally v Donaghmore.
A Derby That Delivered.
The final was a repeat of the day’s opening fixture, but this time with everything on the line. Donaghmore started brightly, with Comac again looking dangerous, but Galbally weathered the early storm. A stunning team goal—combining swift passing from Kelly, intelligent movement from McCann, and a crisp finish—lifted Galbally, and from there they steadily grew in confidence. Donaghmore kept pushing, driven on by Grimes and Brady, but Galbally’s defence was heroic. Tackle after tackle, block after block—they simply refused to give Donaghmore an easy chance. The final whistle sparked jubilant celebrations for St Joseph’s P.S. Galbally, who fully deserved their victory after producing their best football of the day when it mattered most a special mention must go to Sarah Rafferty who had a great Final.
Donaghmore, for their part, gave everything on the day and showcased huge amount of character and skill. There is no doubt they will be back stronger.
A Day to Remember.
Every girl who took part today represented her school brilliantly. The level of skill was exceptional, the behaviour exemplary, and the attitude across the board was positive, respectful, and full of determination.
It truly was a wonderful day of football—fast, exciting, competitive, and hugely enjoyable for all involved.
Acknowledgements
Huge thanks to the Holy Trinity College young whistlers, who refereed all matches with fairness and confidence. Their contribution was invaluable.
A special word of thanks to the teachers, classroom assistants, principals, and school staff for their enthusiasm, organisation, and continued support. Their hard work ensures days like this run smoothly and give the girls memories they’ll carry for years.
And finally—best of luck to the Galbally girls as they progress to the Indoor Finals in March at MUSA. Tyrone will be cheering you on! 🏆
