2007
Our senior squad ended a 13 year famine when they deservedly won the Wicklow Senior Championship in Aughrim on the 11th of November 2007. This was a great win - against the odds and against arch rivals - Rathnew. It took two games to separate the sides and thankfully we came home with a 2 point win. In the first 5 minutes our veteran goalkeeper showed all his experience when he denied Rathnew on the two occassions. After these great saves Balto took control for the rest of the first half and we deservedly went in at half time leading 4 points to one. Joey Kelly scored three of the points and John Mc Grath got the other.
We expected Rathnew to come out all guns blazing and they did. They scored three quick points in the firsr 7 minutes. Rathnew were on a role now but this is where Balto stood up to be counted - they refused to let Rathnew take the lead and we scored two great points to go two up. Rathnew rallied again and levelled the scores. Again Balto came fighting back - Joey Kelly took a quick free to Ciaran Walshe and Ciaran scored one of his trademark points. A few minutes later John Mc Grath caught a great ball and he was then fouled. Joey Kelly made no mistake from the free and we were now 2 points up. The whole team and the subs introduced all played their part in this memorable victory. Final Score: Balto 0 - 08, Rathnew 0 - 06.
Team manager Tomy Murphy, Brian Kilcoyne and Billy Cullen (snr) did a super job with this panel of players all year - well done lads. Also team trainer, Tom Kinahan and physio Noel Molloy played huge parts. Collectively these five men are as good as there is in the business.
The scenes of joy after the final whistle were unbelievable. Juniors in Rathnagan was hopping. Timmins bar welcomed the early homecomers. The Rathvilly pipe band led the squad into Weaver Square from Parkmore. The athmosphere in the Square was terrific with hundreds of our supporters cheering on the lads. Quinns Lounge then hosted the celebratory dinner in Mc Allistar Restaurant and all had a great night. On Monday morning the panel visited all the schools involved with Balto GAA Club and in the evening all the panel, mentors, club officials and supporters watched the video of the match, drank a few pints and had a fantastic singsong in the Dutchman's Inn. Well done to all involved - its great to be back!!