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April 27 - May 3, 2017

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Residents take to streets in fight against yob gangs  MARK O’BRIEN

Keep reading, keep recycling – thank you

Residents protesting

ANTI-SOCIAL behaviour in Tyrrelstown has seen residents vow to “take back the estate” as locals continue to be terrorised. A large group of residents

took to the streets outside Blanchardstown garda station on Saturday in a protest calling for action against a group of youths who are believed to be the cause of most of the trouble. In a statement, Tyrrelstown

Neighbourhood Watch vowed to keep on protesting until action was taken against the trouble-makers. It said: “We hope this sends out a clear message to you, the people of Tyrrelstown, that you are not alone and that we can

and will work together to take our estate back.” Inspector Tony Twomey of Blanchardstown garda station promised the worried residents that there will be increased garda presence in the area.” Full Story on Page 6

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COURT | TREVOR NOONE SENTENCED TO 13 YEARS OVER KILLING

Family’s seven-year fight for justice ends  MARK O’BRIEN THE family of Daniel McAnaspie applauded after a judge handed down a 13-year sentence to one of his killers. Trevor Noone (29) from Blanchardstown had pleaded guilty in February to the manslaughter of McAnespie. The 17-year-old’s decomposed body was found in a ditch in Meath almost three months after he had been murdered in Tolka Valley Park on February 26, 2010. The sentencing brings the McAnaspie family’s seven-year fight for justice to an end after Richard Dekker (30) was sentenced to life imprisonment for his part in the gruesome killing. T h e r e w e r e Daniel McAnaspie emotional scenes after Noone’s sentence was read out, with members of the McAnaspie and Noone families having to be separated by gardai. Daniel’s sisters later spoke of their relief that justice had finally been done. Speaking on the steps of the Criminal Courts of Justice, his sister Caitriona McAnaspie said: “I’d like to thank everyone for their support over the last few years and especially the last couple of weeks. “Justice has finally been done for my

brother so he can rest in peace now.” His sister Nikita added: “He was a lovely young fella. “He didn’t deserve to die the way he did and them two absolute f***ing scumbags are going to rot in hell.” Daniel had been in the care of the HSE when he was lured to his death by Dekker and Noone. On the night that he died, he had skipped his HSE curfew and met Noone and Dekker, who lured him to Tolka Valley Park on the pretence of fighting some “lads from Corduff”. Instead, he was stabbed more than 20 times in his back, body and throat with a garden shears and his body was stuffed in a suitcase and dumped in a drainage ditch in Rathfeigh, Co Meath. In passing sentence, Justice Patrick McCarthy said that the events were of “quite a horrific nature” and that Daniel did “nothing whatsoever” to deserve what happened to him. Justice McCarthy noted that Noone has a schizoid personality, cognitive difficulties and an emotional disconnection from the social world around him. He said that the appropriate sentence given the seriousness of the crime would be 18 to 20 years but took into account Noone’s guilty plea and signs of remorse in handing down the 13-year sentence.

FASTNews

Ice to see you ... GAA Legend Pat Spillane and friends help launch the ARI Trade and Tourism Show 2017

Active retirement show to keep elders very busy THIS year’s Active Retirement Ireland trade and tourism show at the RDS promises to be the biggest and best yet, with a dizzying amount of free content lined up for attendees to enjoy. Taking place from 10.30am to 5pm on May 23, the largest one-day extravaganza for the active retirement market has grown so big that the RDS is needed for the thousands of people expected to attend. The ARI Trade and Tourism Show will celebrate all that is good about ageing and will focus on health, activity, financial security, travel, holidays, lifelong learning, social connections, sports, cooking, fashion, investments, and legal advice, as well as plenty of fun and informative workshops and demo hubs.

Over 30 cars damaged in Castleknock Park GARDAI are appealing for witnesses after a number of cars were damaged in Castleknock Park in the early hours of Tuesday morning. It is thought that over 30 cars were damaged, with words being scratched into the paint work. One Twitter user shared a picture of the damage to one of the cars which appears to have the words “ISIS kill family” scratched into the bonnet. Gardai said in a statement: “Gardai at Blanchardstown are investigating a number of criminal damage incidents to vehicles which occurred in the Castleknock Park area of Dublin between 11pm on 24th and 7am on 25th April 2017. “Garda are appealing for anyone who may have witnessed anything suspicious or anyone who may have CCTV or dash cameras to contact Blanchardstown Garda Station on 01-6667000, The Garda Confidential Line on 1800-666-111 or any Garda Station.”

Cream of the crop in the world of style

CASTLEKNOCK’S Glenda Gilson looked stunning as she attended the Peter Mark Vip Style Awards 2017 at The Marker Hotel, Dublin. The awards, hosted by Darren Kennedy, are undisputedly one of the high points of the Irish style calendar and included a long list of guests from some of the biggest names in Irish fashion. Huge congratulations to all of this year’s winners, with the top prize of Most Stylish Lady going to blogger and businesswoman Suzanne Jackson. Picture: Brian McEvoy

Dublin Gazette Newspapers, Second Floor, Heritage House, Dundrum Office Park, Dublin 14 Tel: 01 - 6010240. Email: sales@dublingazette.com news@dublingazette.com web: www.dublingazette.com twitter: @DublinGazette Visit us on Facebook at DublinGazetteNewspapers

27 April 2017 BLANCH GAZETTE 3

BEST OF DUBLIN | DON’T MISS THE CHANCE TO NOMINATE YOUR CHOICE FOR 98FM’S LOCAL AWARDS

ategories The C

BIG UP THE DUBS

FOOD & DRINK

• Best Breakfast • Best Coffee • Best Takeaway • Best Restaurant

PLACES

• Best Shop • Best Salon • Best Butchers • Best Barber

PEOPLE

• Dublin Hero • Best Sportsperson • Best Sports Club • Best Dub

SOCIAL

• Best Gym • Best Bar • Best Taxi Driver • Best Bus Driver

98FM’s Luke O’Faolain on Moore Street with the 98FM Thunders at the launch of Best of Dublin 2017 – celebrating the great and good of our city. Picture: Patrick O’Leary

IT’S BACK! Now in its fourth year, 98FM’s Best of Dublin Awards will celebrate the great and good of Dublin, from taxi drivers, barbers and sportspeople to shops, local takeaways and even the best breakfast. A new addition this year is the Dublin Hero category, which aims to celebrate those fantastic Dubs who selflessly go over and above to protect the residents, communities and all the people who frequent and enjoy our beautiful city on a daily basis. The call for nominations is out now so get your votes in – just got to www.98fm.com/BestofDublin – but hurry, because the closing date for nominations is April 30. A final shortlist will then be announced and released for public vote on Tuesday 2nd May, with two full weeks for voting before the final ceremony in the RDS on May 23rd. Last year’s awards received over 500,000 public votes and this year the station aims to bring this to over 525,000! If you live in Dublin, you don’t need any convincing as to just how great it is – we have some of the best food, drink, places and people, making it one of the best cities in the world. This year the categories to vote include a mix of culture, places, food and drink venues, and of course the people that make up the fabric of our capital city! And don’t miss next week’s Gazette to see the full list of nominees across all four categories.

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Out and About

Vlada Jonina and Milana Eidukaite

Carly Dempsey and Niamh Fogarty

The next generation enjoy music festival Veronica Dudko and Kate Stepanenko. Left: Karen Louise Pictures: ALISON O’HANLON

UBLIN 15’s youth flocked to Fingal Plaza in Blanchardstown last week for Generation: Dublin’s Urban Music Festival to enjoy music acts which included Lethal Dialect, 5th Element and Flynn Johnson. As well as the main stage - there was a graffiti wall, silent disco, phoenix 92.5FM was involved and also jigsaw youth mental health volunteers were on hand to talk to young people. Generation is a drug and alcohol free urban music festival for young people aged 14 - 18.

Elizabeth, Sally, Precious, Ada, Alice and Mabeth Aimee Geraghty, Jessica Odemena and Erinn Kelly

Cartman, Cian, Sean, Melody, Simona and Adam

Ciara Kirby, Robyn Jameson and Johanne Doherty

DJ Ben Murphy

Aaron Fleming

27 April 2017 BLANCH GAZETTE 5

6 BLANCH GAZETTE 27 April 2017

Plant sale to raise vital funds

TYRRELSTOWN | PROTEST CALLS FOR ACTION TAKEN

Residents vow to ‘take estate back’  MARK O’BRIEN TYRRELSTOWN residents have vowed to “take our estate back” from the anti-social elements that have been terrorising the area recently. A large group of residents took to the streets outside Blanchardstown garda station on Saturday in a protest calling for action against a small minority of youths who are believed to be the cause of most of the trouble. Tyrrelstown Neighbourhood Watch vowed to keep on protesting until action was taken. The statement read: “There will be a lot more work to be done. We hope to follow this up with a

public meeting and more direct action like this in the very near future. “We hope this sends out a clear message to you, the people of Tyrrelstown, that you are not alone and that we can and will work together to take our estate back. “We hope it sends out a clear message to the council and others that we will not tolerate antisocial behaviour from their tenants, and any others for that matter. “We hope it sends a message to all within the estate who engage in antisocial behaviour and criminality that your behaviour is unacceptable and you can and will be evicted.” Inspector Tony Twomey of Blanchardstown garda

Ross Therville, Josh Horgan and Nathan Connolly

Having a ball at rugby camp-out

Residents outside Blanchardstown garda station

station addressed the crowd at the protest. He assured protestors that the increased garda presence and engagement with the area would continue for the foreseeable future. Tyrrelstown Neighbourhood Watch said residents were very happy with the response by the gardai to the issue but that they felt let down by a justice system that they say: “Seems

to make certain people engaging in crime and anti-social behaviour the impression that they are untouchable.” Locals also said they were unhappy with the council for housing a disproportionate number of anti-social elements in the one area. It is expected that further protests may take place at council offices in the coming weeks.

MEMEBERS of Westmanstown Youth RFC took part in the Athy Rugby Camp-Out, the only event of it’s kind in the world which provides a memorable team-building experience for boys Under10 and Under11, and girls Under10 and Under12, rugby squads with a fun, affordable way to end the season. The standard of rugby at the event was really impressive and the way the children threw themselves into the positive, festive spirit of the day created a brilliant atmosphere. Pictures: Aishling Conway

CASTLEKNOCK Community College Parent’s Association will hold a fundraising plant sale at the school on May 6-7. The sale is a hugely popular local community event with this year being extra special as it is the 20th anniversary. Approximately 10,000 plants, hanging baskets, window boxes, pots, plants and garden ornaments are sold over the two days of the sale. There will be credit and debit card facilities available at the sale and a pre-order service is available by contacting 085 7540888. The funds raised at the sale will go towards purchasing new equipment for the computer and music rooms. The parent’s association also plan to use the funds to purchase defibrillators for the school, which caters for over 1,200 students.

27 April 2017 BLANCH GAZETTE 7 COMMERCIAL FEATURE

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Heatons Standing Home Sign €5, Metal Jug €4

Laura Ashley Butterfly Cloche €68

Laura Ashley Lynden Chair €1,875

 se Ro hts k in LIg 9 s P ring 12.9 o g t € Ar D S 20 f E L to se

Laura Ashley Living Wall Melamine Plate €12

New Look Floral Print Glass Jar €8.99

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Next Velvet Floral Cushion €26

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Summer Style 

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Next 3D T ropical Le aves Frame €1 9.50

at Westend Shopping Park BRING the outside into your home this summer with our top picks from Westend Shopping Park, Blanchardstown. Create a contemporary design statement by introducing nature into your living space via tropical leaf prints.

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Argos Heart of House Castilla Chaise €379.99

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New Look Artificial Cactus Plant Pot €6.99

Introduce a spectrum of summer colour into your favourite room by opting for colourful watercolour inspired floral prints and pretty butterflies. These will add a soft romantic touch to any room in your home. Potted plants are a must have for any home! Cacti and succulent varieties are really popular and there are some fantastic faux plants available for the less green fingered. All items available now from Next, Laura Ashley, Heatons, Argos and New Look at Westend Shopping Park, Blanchardstown. Visit westend.ie for more.

8 BLANCH GAZETTE 27 April 2017

TRIBUTE | GOLF CLASSIC IN CASTLEKNOCK TO RAISE FUNDS FOR CHARITY  MARK O’BRIEN THE family and friends of a young woman who lost her battle with cancer last year say they hope to honour her memory by raising funds for a charity that she tirelessly supported throughout her life. Lisa Dalton - who lived in Lucan with her husband Conor and their two young children - was just 35 when she tragically died from breast cancer in September last year. Conor told The Gazette that Lisa had raised money for cancer charities throughout her life and he was hoping to raise funds for the Marie Keating Foundation by holding a Golf Classic in Castleknock Golf Club in June. He said: “Lisa always did the Colour Dash, the Pink Run and the Mini Marathon and it was always for breast cancer awareness.” A few days before she passed away, Lisa told Conor that she didn’t want any flowers at her funeral and asked that people donate to the Marie Keating Foundation instead. Inspired by Lisa’s kind gesture, Lisa’s family and friends will host the Lisa Dalton Golf Classic on Friday, June 16, with all proceeds from the event will go to the Marie Keating Foundation. The tournament is a four-ball with an entry fee of €200 per team. Anyone who wishes to play is welcome, with teams being made up of other competitors if entrants don’t have a full team of four. The group are also hoping to give away a number spot prizes and hampers at the event and are appealing for local groups and businesses to donate prizes or sponsor a tee box. All sponsors and donors will be acknowledged on a sponsorship board at the event. Conor said that he is very grateful for all the support his family has received since Lisa passed away, particularly the support the couple’s daughter Sophie has received from her school St Thomas’ JNS, as well as from Lisa’s former employer. Lisa worked in pharmacology and microbiology in UCD. In a touching gesture, the college have named an award after her that will be awarded every year to the highest achieving 2nd year pharmacology student. “It’s a nice little touch from them and it’s great for the kids,” Conor said of the gesture. “If they do well in school and college, my little one (Sophie) hopes to go to UCD and be a scientist like Mammy.” Conor said that he hopes that the money raised from the Golf Classic will also act as a tribute to Lisa and help to fund vital research into cancer treatment. He said: “There’s a lot of charities out there, there’s a lot of causes out there and every cause is a good cause. But the way we look at it is this one is close to our heart. It’s close to home for us and unfortunately it knocked on our door so the way we look at it is it’s a tribute to Lisa and everyone that knew her if we do this.” Anyone who wishes to enter the tournament, donate a prize or sponsor the event can do so by contacting lisadaltongolfclassic@yahoo.com or by visiting the Lisa Dalton Golf Classic Facebook page (@lisadaltongolfclassic

Lisa with her husband Conor

FASTNews

ITB helps to create a new model for Irish universities

Loved ones honour Lisa’s memory by supporting charity dear to her heart

ITB’s co-involvement with ITT and DIT in creating a different type of university for Ireland – a Technological University – was to the fore recently at the launch of the Technological Higher Education Association (THEA) by Minister for Education Richard Bruton. As a founding member of the THEA, ITB has been able to shape a significant step in Irish higher education, affording ITB the opportunity to reflect on its distinct contribution to Irish society, together with the other 13 institutes of technology driving the THEA. The 14 members of the THEA have a diverse background, but share a common goal in widening access to higher education, with Dr Diarmuid O’Callaghan, president of ITB, saying: “Facilitating access to higher education on the part of a larger proportion of their society is the single greatest achievement of the technological sector, and ITB has expanded countless individuals’ horizons while also enhancing the welfare and quality of life for society as a whole.”

Natalie and her

40 years of St Francis Xavier

mum Lisa at last year’s Colour Dash

Lisa and her devoted husband John renew their vows back in 2013

FORMER students and teachers are reminded that St Francis Xavier Senior School will celebrate its 40th anniversary in the Castleknock Hotel on Friday, May 12. The event is a great opportunity for people to catch up. Tickets cost €25 and will be available from the Senior School from April 26. Further information can be found at www.sfxns. ie or by contacting 01 8211121.

27 April 2017 BLANCH GAZETTE 9

Out and About

Laura Davies, Catherine Kenny, Linda Jones-Cowley and Marie Quinlan

Heroes hit the road to raise awareness A

ROUND 2,000 cyclists set off from North Street in Swords last weekend to participate in Cycle Against Suicide. The event takes place across two weeks as the cyclists pass through Belfast, Mayo, Galway, Limerick, Tipperary and Carlow to raise awareness for mental health. Cycle Against Suicide aims to promote mental health within schools, with events,

projects, performances and motivational speakers due to visit 28 schools along the cycle route. The charity race was started by Jim Breen back in 2012 after an appearance on Secret Millionaire on RTE television. He witnessed first-hand the devastation left behind after a suicide and the Tsunami of Grief that washes over a family and community.

Al Porter at the start

Claire Keogh and Helen McClelland

GAZETTE

10 GAZETTE 27 April 2017

DUBLINLIFE

TRAVEL

SCOTLAND: EAGLE BRAE’S LUXURIOUS CABINS OFFER A PERFECT ESCAPE TO EXPLORE THE WILDERNESS Nature is on your doorstep and the beautiful landscape is matched by lots of activities for all ages to enjoy, with Eagle Brae’s luxuriously appointed cabins providing a truly luxurious getaway

You willnae find a more beautiful spot than the Highlands WIN

A THREE-NIGHT STAY FOR TWO AT THE 4 STAR FITZWILTON HOTEL IN HISTORIC WATERFORD CITY

To enter, just Like and Share the Fitzwilton Hotel post on the Dublin Gazette Facebook page, or email competitions@dubingazette.com and put Fitzwilton Hotel in the subject line along with your details in the email. THIS fantastic prize includes: The city centre is a mere 5 minute stroll and  Three nights B&B and one evening meal in the hotel is located just two minutes from the the plush Met Bar Café for two people. bus & train station.  Bike Hire for one day on the new The renowned Met Bar Café and Chez K’s Bistro Waterford Greenway. offer scrumptious menus catering for all tastes. T&Cs Apply. Prize is subject to availability. Excludes Bank For the adventurous out there, the stunning Holidays and Saturday nights in July & August. Waterford Greenway starts beside our hotel Fitzwilton Hotel is the finest boutique 4 star and is ideal for walk, running and cycling. Failte Ireland-approved hotel in Waterford city. WEB: FitzwiltonHotel.ie All 90 rooms have recently been refurbished. PHONE: 051-846900

FANCY a Highland fling with a difference? Want to explore the untouched Scottish wilderness without sacrificing your creature comforts? If the notion of a luxurious five-star Highland holiday appeals, then read on ... When it comes to comfort, style and rustic charm, it’s hard not to fall in love with Eagle Brae. This plush log cabin village is hidden away on a remote Highland hillside amongst magnificent glens and towering munros. The resort combines the breath-taking scenery with uber-luxe accommodation and all the mod-con comforts of home. The enchanting cabins offer spectacular views and an abundance of wildlife on your doorstep. Each cedarwood cabin (all are named after rare bird species) is handmade from the ground up featuring quirky decor, hand-woven textiles and intricately carved balconies. Creature comforts include home cooked meals, complementary WiFi, family areas and an office space. All cabins have an open-plan design

with the sitting room, kitchen and dining area combined under a cathedral ceiling and open to an upper floor mezzanine overlooking the living space below. Bedrooms can be set up either as twin beds or a double, depending on each guest’s preference. The smaller cabins (Tringa, Parus, Sylvia and Strix) each have a double bedroom and a bathroom downstairs, and an open mezzanine upstairs that’s been set up as a second sitting room. Breathtaking The larger cabins – Buteo, Loxia and Aquila – have an additional en-suite bedroom upstairs, as well as an open plan mezzanine area for kids to play in. Eagle Brae sits at the very heart of the Highlands, just north of Loch Ness, so it’s the perfect base to explore breathtaking scenery in all directions. On a clear day, both the North Sea and Atlantic Ocean can be seen from the same spot atop the peak of Sgurr na Lapaich, 3,773ft above sea level. You won’t be short of outdoor pur-

suits either. If fishing floats your boat, the Highlands is renowned for its famous salmon rivers and wildnerness trout lochs. Eagle Brae offers salmon, trout and pike fishing all on its own water – the River Farrar, River Glass, Loch Monar and two beautiful hill lochs. There are no trespass laws in Scotland, so hikers are free to roam wherever they choose – just remember to dress for the weather, close gates behind you, and avoid private estate moorland hills during red deer stalking season (July 1 to Feb 15). Countless routes with properly formed paths can be found at the national nature reserve, Glen Affric, and there is plenty of hill climbing with views at the end of it that make the effort well worthwhile. Other popular pursuits include bird watching, canoeing and kayaking, deer stalking, pony trekking, golf and even black grouse safari. For further information and booking, see www.eaglebrae.co.uk.

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27 April 2017 GAZETTE 11

HOMES | DIY | GARDENING

GAZETTE

APRIL 27, 2017

POP-UP ADVICE DESIGNER SUZIE MCADAM TO HELP CHOOSE THE PERFECT DESIGNS P21

pring INTO ACTION!

Catherine Fulvio finds modern kitchen bliss P13

Miles of tiles impress P14

FIX UP, SPRUCE UP, CLEAN UP OR TRADE UP

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12 GAZETTE 27 April 2017

Look no further to find the best UPVC windows HERE at C&S UPVC Windows, we’re proud to run a family-owned and local-run business for more than 37 years. The Lucan-based company was taken over by Lorraine Collins and her husband, Sean, more than 21 years ago, with Lorraine taking over from her father, John Collins. During this time, she has focused on the company offering the very best in replacement highquality UPVC A-rated windows and doors. We also specialise in high-quality composite doors using only the Apeer and Palladio range. Mo s t p e o p l e w h o would have purchased their houses more than

Let our website help guide you to the right choice

20 years ago, and who currently have older type UPVC windows, now feel it is time to upgrade to our new high-energy efficient windows and doors. Here at C&S Windows, we take care and pride in our work and mainly focus on our customer’s needs. We offer free quotations, day or evening

appointments, and currently have our Lucan showrooms open six days a week, with more than 35 composite doors on display. For further information, see our website at www. candswindows.ie/, call us at 01 621 7639, or call in to our showrooms in the heart of Lucan village, just across the bridge.

Lorraine and Bernie will be delighted to help you choose from the excellent range of high-quality windows and doors at the Lucan showrooms

Even better style at a new-look Des Kelly’s THEY’VE been around for a long time, but they’ve never looked this good! Get on down and have a look at Des Kelly Interiors’ fantastic, newlook store on the Long Mile Road. Wander around and be inspired by their new room settings, finishing touches, and their fantastic NEW BEDS, CARPETS AND FLOORING departments. Des Kelly Interiors have put a huge amount of effort into the buying and merchandising of their beds, carpets and wood flooring section, working closely with suppliers and looking at infashion colours and designs. All the very best brand names and thousands of different colours are there to choose from in carpets, laminate, and engineered floors, but at the same old quality prices you have come to expect from Des Kelly. Their sales advisors are welltrained to advise you with what-

ever your ideas and dreams are, and needed, they’ll even come out and estimate your rooms for free! They have new beds, bed frames, new furniture ranges, bar stools, dining furniture, mirrors, pictures and a huge interior finishing touches area. They even have their own interior designer on board if you need a little help, and they boast their own uphol-

stery shop upstairs. You’re bound to love the newlook LONG MILE ROAD store, so come down and have a look – you might be surprised by what you see. And it does not stop here as they’re refurbishing them all one by one at the moment, so be sure to keep an eye on your local DES KELLY INTERIORS store.

27 April 2017 GAZETTE 13

GAZETTE

HOMES | DIY | GARDENING

A clever, stylish, designer kitchen ideal for families CASH & Carry Kitchens has launched the Shaker Dakar Kitchen with much-loved Irish superchef Catherine Fulvio (right). In the process of collaborating, Catherine has developed a core list of kitchen design musthaves which she believes are essential to facilitate modern family life in any kitchen. Cash & Carry Kitchens

Shaker Dakar kitchen encapsulates the connection between how family life is lived in 2017 with design features to make the practicalities of a busy life function better.

It is a modern yet classic kitchen in a contemporary shade of soft grey; an ideal family kitchen to facilitate easy maintenance in a busy life. The Shaker Dakar is on display in all of Cash & Carry Kitchens’s nationwide showrooms, where you can feel the quality of the materials, and speak to an expert designer. Whether you have ideas you would like to discuss,

The Shaker Dakar Kitchen is more than a beautiful kitchen – it’s full of clever touches to help make it the heart of the home for all the family

or simply need inspiration for your new kitchen, just drop by or go online to book a free design appointment. Catherine’s Top-three design essentials to con-

sider when designing your kitchen space: 1. Recycling bins; integrating waste sorting into the design process will keep your kitchen looking attractive, tidy and is better

for the environment. 2. Pop-up plug station; pop-up plug stations are handy for easy access when cooking and mean that you can use your appliances right in the

middle of your work space. 3. Hot water tap: Instant hot water means a quick cup of tea or pasta on the boil straight away, and this will also save energy in the kitchen.

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14 GAZETTE 27 April 2017

Chaise one of these down for your home

HOMES | DIY GARDENING

Argos - Heart of House Padstow fabric, duck egg chaise lounge €370  EMMA NOLAN

THERE’S something unbearably elegant about a chaise lounge. They evoke a sense of indulgence that’s hard to explain; an old Hollywood timeless sophistication combined with a lack of real necessity. When does one actually ever need a chaise lounge?

While they may not be the most practical piece of furniture, they are damned stylish and if you have the room for one, why not consider including one the next time you’re decorating? They’re fancy and never going out of style, so there’s nothing stopping you from taking that stylish step of adding a singular piece of signature furnishing.

Create your ideal outdoor space with Tobermore tiling OUTDOOR living has become an essential lifestyle requirement for the modern homeowner and this is the perfect time of year to give your garden, patio or driveway a little ‘TLC’! Let Tobermore lend a helping hand in creating your ideal outdoor space with their inspiring range of paving and walling products and design services. The benefits of an outdoor living space are endless. As well as enhancing the beauty, character, and of course, the value of your property, the creation of a landscaped outdoor space extends the size of your home in offering another living area for you and your family to unwind in over the glorious Spring/Summer months! It’s also ideal for entertaining and provides a safe play area for

children. Tobermore landscape designer and award-winning columnist Vanessa Drew offers some expert advice on crafting the outdoor space of your dreams: “With clever landscape design and the correct choice of products and colours, a paved patio or driveway can help create the outdoor space your home deserves. “Although we design a number of patios and driveways at Tobermore, we also believe that the incorporation of landscaping shouldn’t be limited to this – why not add linking paths and steps to connecting areas within your garden to create unique areas of interest?” Tobermore’s Paving and Walling Centre in Dublin is well worth a visit for some inspiration on getting started on your new and

improved outdoor space. Open from 9am to 5.30pm from Monday to Saturday, the centre offers the opportunity to view the beautiful product colour blends, textures, sizes and laying patterns available in real-life landscaped environments. Free samples are also available for you to take home. In addition, the company offer free design clinics which can be booked in advance at the centre, as well as exclusive call-out services which involve a detailed assessment of your project. Fees apply for the call-out services but are refundable on purchase of Tobermore products (terms and conditions apply). For further information, call 01 843 7440, or see the site at www.tobermore.ie.

27 April 2017 GAZETTE 15

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27 April 2017 GAZETTE 17

TV | GARDENING SERIES

Get ready for a Super way to battle into 2017’s Bloom WOULD-BE garden gods and goddesses will be glued to their RTE One screens for the new series of Super Garden, which has just started back on our screens. The 8.30pm Tuesday night episodes will see budding green-fingered garden designers compete to showcase their talents at Ireland’s premier garden festival, Bloom by Bord Bia, with each designer allocated a real garden to transform. Given a tight budget and just five weeks to meet the homeowner’s needs and build a Super Garden worthy of the prestigious Bloom spot, the series follows each designer from the initial concept and design stage, through the reality of the construction process to the all-important judging day. The decision of which Super Garden will be recreated to represent Woodies and Cuprinol at Bloom 2017 lies in the hands of the judges: Bloom show manager, Gary Graham; Bloom gold medallist and Woodies Garden Design ambassador Leonie Cornelius, and representing Cuprinol, garden design lecturer Monica Alverez. Will they wilt or thrive under the pressure? (The designers, that is, as the gardens will no doubt impress viewers throughout the series.) Tune in to RTE One on Tuesdays to find out.

WIN A Wood Floor Gift Voucher worth from

€500

Des Kelly Interiors

There’s no excuse – spring for an update with Heaton’s range of cosy, comfortable furnishings

Renew your home with Heaton’s help  EMMA NOLAN

TO ENTER this fantastic competition and be in with a chance of winning a €500 Wood Floor Gift Voucher from Des Kelly Interiors – Ireland’s leading supplier of quality floor coverings, beds and furniture – simply email your contact details to: competitions@dublingazette.com or go to the Dublin Gazette Facebook page and Like and Share our Des Kelly Interiors Competition post. VISIT YOUR LOCAL DES KELLY INTERIOR STORE NOW & GRAB YOURSELF A WELL DESERVED BARGAIN! Glasnevin - Walkinstown - Swords - Coolock - Donabate - Leixlip - Sallins - Clonsilla - Phibsborough - Ashbourne - Navan - Sandyford

THERE’S a reason spring cleaning is a thing – to revitalise the home after a long winter. We can finally start to crack open some windows, let some light in and enjoy the longer days, and nothing re-energises your home like a total Spring update. Heaton’s spring-summer homewares collection contains some very reasonably priced pieces for an easy overhaul – perfect to renew your home’s energy for the year. Natural and botanical themes are at the fore-

front of this collection – the selection of wall canvases start from just €4, and sugar-coated wooden picture frames from €8. Mix and match textured throws like the Cream Basket Weave throw (€18) with some 70s-inspired Jacquard cushions from €10. Fine dining goes a deeper shade of blue with Heaton’s new crockery ranges (from €3). Vibrant coloured glass and mango wood serving boards like the Acacia Paddle Board €10 will create a fresh table setting for entertaining. In the kitchen, keep your cool with

a mint makeover! Combine pretty cream and green enamel storage canisters from €5 and clever Household tidy boxes €10 for a retro look. In the bedroom, calming greys and pinks bring peaceful vibes. Add soft furnishings with the Damask Rug at €46, a selection of scatter cushions in velvets (from €8) and a super soft flannel fleece (€12). Finally, finish the look with a modern, contemporary bedside lamp in gun metal grey (just €15), and shed even more light on with the large Capiz Pendant shade (€14).

Dubs taking part in the series include rathgar woman Ashling Harrison (top), and Anna Grainger and her son Oran, from Stillorgan

GAZETTE

HOMES | DIY | GARDENING

FRESH!

18 GAZETTE 27 April 2017

HOMES | DIY GARDENING Large hurricane rope candle ne holder €65; Medium hurrica 5 €5 der rope candle hol

Herb keeper €35

Inspirational calm plants HARVEY NORMAN’S latest homeware collection is inspired by Botanical Gardens and Oriental Spring. Adding some house plants to a room is an easy and affordable way to create a calm haven at the heart of your home. As well as being aesthetically pleasing, house plants are actually good for your health. Apart from absorbing carbon dioxide and releasing oxygen in the home, house plants also help you to work better. Infact, being “under the influence of plants” can increase memory retention up to 20%, according to a University of Michigan study. So clear some corners and get some greenery in your home this Summer. The new SS17 collections is available in all Harvey Norman stores and online at www.harveynorman.ie.

Glazed pots €25 ea

Sea green pots €15 ea

Set of two plant pots €25

Hanging Macrame from €15 ea

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HOMEIMPROVEMENT

AND GARDEN BUSINESS GUIDE

Chairs for an insightful workshop

GAZETTE

FRESH!

27 April 2017 GAZETTE 21

Interior designer Suzie McAdam

Head to the city centre for interiors advice that’ll help a good cause, too  EMMA NOLAN

THIS May, Walls To Workstations – providers of interiors for workplaces – are launching a new collection for the home called RESIDE. The pop-up interiors shop will open at the Fumbally Exchange on Dame Lane from May 4 to 6, where it will feature some of the world’s leading furniture brands including Fritz Hansen, with a spotlight on the brand’s all new Lune sofa, which was just unveiled at Milan Furniture Fair. As an iconic Danish design brand, Fritz Hansen are famous for their classic and contemporary pieces. The Lune sofa, by designer Jamie Hayon, is being stocked exclusively at this pop-up. In a quest to capture the “intersection of clean Nordic aesthetics and southern elegance”, Hayon has paired a playful design with Fritz Hanse’s

Designer Jamie Hayon’s Lune sofa, for the iconic Danish design brand, Fritz Hansen , will be on show at the pop-up in Dame Lane

renowned quality. The functional, modular system offers unlimited possibilities, from a straight two-seater to larger L-shapes, along with chaise longue options. Prices for the Lune sofa start at a twoseater from €3,500, three seater from €4,900 and L-shape from €5,600. As part of the pop-up, RESIDE will be hosting workshops from Irish interior designer, Suzie McAdam. Suzie’s workshops will focus on themes such as design trends and key looks for 2017, interior styling tips and tricks, choosing the perfect colour and understanding its impact on atmosphere and light, and how to expertly curate furniture in the home and the importance of good design. Tickets for the workshops are available from residebyw2w.eventbrite.ie for €10, with all proceeds going to the Jack & Jill Foundation.

FRESH!

22 GAZETTE 27 April 2017

GAZETTE

HOMES | DIY GARDENING

OUTDOOR LIVING | SPRUCE UP YOUR GARDEN OR OUTDOOR AREA FOR THE SUMMER ARGOS: Heart of House Hanbury Solar Wooden Lantern. PRICE: €19.99

€8 PENNEYS: Home Picnic Blanket with leather straps. PRICE:

ARGOS: Heart of House Argenta Rattan effect four-piece Sofa.

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TK MAXX: Terracotta vase. PRICE: €7.99

NEPTUNE: Weber Sm okey Joe BBQ - Crim son. PRICE: €84

n Burner Gas HOMEBASE: Matador Ico 6.25 €66 E: PRIC . BBQ

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WE might not get the best summers but we sure know how to make the most of a sunny day! There’s nowhere better than Dublin when the sun comes out and having the back garden, patio or even a small balcony kitted out with some summer furniture really lets us enjoy all the good weather while it lasts. From small two-seater sets to table and chairs and benches to fit the whole family, these brands available all over Dublin have something to suit most outdoor areas – whether you’re looking to furnish the whole back garden or are simply in need of a picnic blanket. You never know, we might be in for a scorcher this summer ...

M50MOTORING The Dublin Gazette drives you through the motoring world on a tour of the latest models, technology and industry news



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27 April 2017 GAZETTE 23

The new Citroën C5 Aircross comes with SUV features including protective panels on the lower body and wheel arches are enhanced with the graphic contours of the Airbump inserts.

PRIUS PLUG-IN HYBRID WINS WORLD GREEN CAR AWARD

TOYOTA’S Prius Plugin Hybrid has won the World Green Car award for the second consecutive year. The car earned the World Green Car title from an initial entry list of 12 new vehicles from all over the world. In deciding the award tailpipe emissions, fuel consumption, and use of a major advanced power plant technology (beyond engine componentry), aimed specifically at increasing the vehicle’s environmental responsibility, were all taken into consideration. Vehicles in all award categories were selected and voted on by an international jury panel comprising 75 automotive journalists from 23 countries around the world, of which 13 are European countries. The Prius Plug-in Hybrid combines all the attributes of the new, full hybrid, fourth generation Prius with a classleading all-electric EV driving mode range of more than 50 km and achieves average fuel consumption of only 1.0 l/100 km and CO2 emissions of just 22 g/ km. Toyota’s new Prius Plug-in Hybrid also includes several new technologies such as an EV range-extending solar roof and a Battery Warming System.

Creature comforts CITROEN has unveiled its new generation C5 Aircross SUV as a ‘peopleminded’ SUV. This new model claims to benefit from the latest technologies that ensure easier driving and a modern approach to comfort including the new Citroen Advanced Comfort programme. This is claimed to be a revolutionary new suspension system with Progressive Hydraulic Cushions, which aims to deliver a uniquely smooth and comfortable ride that is typically

Citroen. New C5 Aircross will also be the first Citroen available with PHEV Plug-In Hybrid technology, developing 300bhp a combination of a 2.0litre petrol engine and two electric motors. The car is scheduled to be launched in Europe early in 2018. The new C5 Aircross stands apart with its unique appearance designed around a high bonnet line, a 2.73m long wheelbase and short overhangs. On the inside there is a wide and tall central console.

There are front heated seats with massage functions and rear seats with extra leg room. The atmosphere inside the car is purified using an air quality treatment system. The car is equipped with a 12.3inch digital instrument cluster and an eight-inch HD touchscreen. The new C5 Aircross also features a wireless inductive charging function for smartphones as well as an array of driving aids, including Active Safety Brake, Active Lane Departure Warn-

ing and Adaptive Cruise Control with Stop Function. The car also features Grip Control and Hill Assist Descent Control to help you enjoy an off-road adventure in safety. Citroen claims that the acoustic insulation of the car is excellent, thanks to laminated double glazed windows. An insulation layer helps to reduce road and wind noise and there has been particular emphasis placed on the sound insulation in the engine compartment.

Volvo Car Ireland offers up to €4,000 price support offer VOLVO Car Ireland has announced a series of competitive price contribution offers towards the purchase of a selected range of new Volvo cars. At the top of the range, Volvo is offering a €4,000 contribution towards the purchase of a new S90 or V90 car. The S60, V60 and V60 Cross Country are available with a €2,000 contribution. The Volvo V40 and V40 Cross Country come with a €1,000 contribution. The classic XC60 comes with a €1,850 contribution offer and for a limited time it also comes with a free style pack worth €2,000.

Volvo is offering new car buyers tempting contribution offers of up to €4,000 on some models

Patricia Greene, of Volvo Ireland says: “The premium car market has become very competitive and we believe these transparent contributions will put Volvo

in a very strong position when consumers are considering their options and making a new car purchase. The Volvo Car brand is built on award-winning Swedish design and engineering. With our most innovative Volvo range in terms of design, safety and technology and our recently announced incentives, there has never been a better time to visit a Volvo car dealership.” The S90 is the only car in its class with the semi-autonomous drive feature, Pilot Assist, as standard. The system gives gentle steering inputs to keep the car properly aligned within lane markings up to motor-

way speeds of around 130 km/h and no longer needs to follow another car. Pilot Assist is standard across Volvo’s 90s range and is another step towards full autonomous drive – a key innovation area for Volvo. For a limited time only the classic Volvo XC60 also is also being offered with a complimentary Style Pack worth €2,000. The Volvo contribution offers are available at participating Volvo dealers and are applicable to retail sales only on new cars registered between April 11and 31 June 2017.

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24 BLANCH GAZETTE 27 April 2017

M50MOTORING

FASTNews Renault helps Pieta House THERE was good news for Pieta House recently thanks to Renault Ireland, which presented the national suicide and self-harm support centre’s chief executive with a new 171 Renault Megane Grand Coupe. Brian Higgins regularly travels all across the country to visit Pieta House’s centres, with the branded vehicle helping to draw attention to its services. Patrick Magee, country operations manager, Renault Ireland, said: “We hope that this new Renault Megane Grand Coupe will benefit the amazing work that Pieta House do.”

New E-Class set to be the Estate of the nation While Irish car buyers tend to shy away from the estate car options, the new MercedesBenz E220d estate is one car that can change that. This is a luxury and spacious estate car that delivers predictable economy as Michael Moroney found when it took the German brand load carrier for a recent test drive. Irish car buyers have not been estate car fans to the same extent as their German counterparts. Saloons and hatchbacks dominate the market while estate cars with their perception of being awkward or unwieldy to drive, are seen as a minority interest. The new generation Mercedes-Benz E-Class

estate can change that impression. Large luxury brand cars are often more likely to have estate car fans for a variety of good reasons. They combine a luxury car experience with some practical space features and modern designs have meant that there often just minuscule differences in vehicle

lengths between estates and saloons. Modern estate cars such as the E-Class estate are every bit as manoeuvrable as their saloon car counterparts. The E220d comparison shows that the estate car is just 10mm (less than half an inch) longer than the saloon model. This confirms just how the modern estate car design can be incorporated into a standard car body size while packing in more load space. The other manoeuvrability measure is the turning circle. With the E220d estate you’ll find that it measures up exactly the same as the saloon version, making the choice of a Mercedes-Benz E-Class estate an even more compelling one that some of the more expensive and less load spacious SUV’s. The new Mercedes-Benz E-Class credentials have been justly confirmed with its award as Ireland’s Car of the Year 2017. Just like the saloon version, this new E-Class estate answers all of questions when it comes to luxury and performance with an entry price reduction. Mercedes-Benz has blended in the styling to give this estate car an almost coupé type look. This means that you no longer feel that you’re driving a load carrier, just a big and luxurious car with lots of load capacity. In engine performance terms, this new 2.0-litre twin-turbo diesel can deliv-

The new Mercedes-Benz E220d estate is an impressive car in terms of comfort and technology while it also proves its value as a large and economical estate car. Entry prices start at €56,310.

Mercedes Benz E-Class 220d Estate

1500rpm on the engine. That alone will guarantee economy and keeping that economy can be SPECIFICATIONS automatically set using the Engine 2.0 litre car’s range of automatic Engine power 194hp technology devices. 0 – 100km/hr 7.7 seconds This new E-Class MerEconomy 23.8km/litre cedes-Benz is a car that’s (4.2/100km or 67mpg) now firmly on the pathFuel Tank Capacity 66 litres/12 litres A Blue way toward autonomous CO2 emissions 120g/km driving. The benefits can Road Tax Band A4 €200 be safer driving and great Main Service 20,000km/12 months economy, I found out. Euro NCAP Rating 5 Star 2016 This new optional MerWarranty 2 years cedes Benz Drive Pilot sysEntry Price €56,310 tem comes with automatic functions such as remote parking, road guidance, speed control, braking, acceleration, gear changing. It also has the ability to anticipate road hazards ahead and to take corrective action. The interior is spacious and comfortable, with er very impressive econo- off this figure during my good seat adjustment up my figures, being only very test drive which covered front. The large boot with marginally less economical 966km across a range of a capacity of 640 litres than its saloon car coun- driving conditions. (100 litres more than the terpart. That keeps the That’s still an impres- saloon version) extends to estate in CO2 tax band A4 sive economy level for 1,820 with the rear seats with a low annual motor such a big car. The reason folded. why it’s so economical is tax rate of just €200. This spacious estate The official economy a combination of its nine is competitively priced figure is rated at 23.8km/ speed automatic gearbox relative to the Audi A6, litre (4.2/100km or 67mpg) with the engine perfor- BMW 5 Series and Volvo and that’s on par with the mance. This car can cruise V90 competition and the saloon car version. I found at the top motorway speed basic deal still has a lot to that I was about 25% of 120km/hr at a low offer.

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SPORT

FastSport CRICKET SIDE GRATEFUL FOR TITLE SPONSOR: THE Irish Women’s squad have been given a boost ahead of their tour of the UAE and South Africa with the news that Hanley Energy have been confirmed as team sponsor for the 2017 season. Hanley Energy’s support means the team will take on an England XI in three 50-over games next week ahead of their Quadrangular tournament involving South Africa, Zimbabwe and India next month. The news was welcomed by Irish Women team captain Laura Delany, who sees Hanley Energy as a lucky omen for the team, given past success. “They were our headline sponsor when we beat Bangladesh in the dramatic final of the T20 World Cup in Thailand,” said Delany. “Their ongoing investment in the Irish women’s team means we have been able to double our fixture list during the last two years. More fixtures against the best sides means more chances for us to grow and develop as players.”

HOCKEY: RATHFARNHAM CLUB MISS OUT ON NATIONAL TITLE ON GOAL DIFFERENCE

Rovers’ run comes three goals short of EYHL title

 STEPHEN FINDLATER sport@dublingazette.com

THREE Rock Rovers hammered Instonians 9-1 at Grange Road in their final men’s EY Hockey League game of the season but the result proved not quite enough for them to overhaul Banbridge. It was their 11th successive win and saw the Rathfarnham club end the regular season level with Bann but they missed out on the title by three goals on goal difference. Indeed, it was a fraught final day of the season with anxious checks of smart phones throughout the game as Rovers sought to overhaul the long-time leaders. Three Rock were led out for the match by the club’s Rockets, Ireland’s first Parahockey team for people with special needs who will represent the country at August’s European Championships. From the outset, Rovers needed to outscore Bann by six goals and they got off to the perfect start with Mitch Darling scoring inside two minutes. Kevin Mullins forced home a second in the seventh minute and a Jody

Three Rock were joined by their Parahockey team, the Rockets, for their walk-out last Saturday. Picture: Adrian Boehm

Hosking strike followed seconds later - a brilliant reverse stick effort - to build a 3-0 lead with just eight minutes gone. Luke Madeley’s drag-flick accounted for the fourth goal before Conor Empey slammed in the fifth on the half-hour mark after the ball bounced fortuitously off umpire Robert Johnston. Another Madeley drag made it 6-0 at the break. All the while, goals were raining down at Banbridge, too, extending the Rov-

ers’ required goals which slowed up somewhat in the second half as they built a 3-0 lead against Railway Union Madeley completed his hat trick before Ross Canning coolly slotted home from close range for 8-0 by the end of the third quarter as Banbridge extended their lead to 5-1. At this stage, 10 goals was the target but the killer blow to Rovers’ title hopes arrived when William Robinson scored from

Inst’s only corner. Mullins grabbed a second goal with time running out but Rovers ended three goals short of Banbridge, 6-1 winners, who ultimately landed the title and a place in the Euro Hockey League next season. Rovers will now look to bounce back next Saturday in the Champions Trophy semifinal when they face reigning champions Lisnagarvey, looking to repeat their January 3-1 win in

the league. Win that and they could earn a place in the final and, also, a place in Europe into the bargain. Earlier in the day at Grange Road, there was heartache for Leinster league winners as they lost to Ulster Premier champions Cookstown as they missed out on a promotion shot due to a 1-0 defeat in their provincial playoff tie. Captain Mark Crooks scored the all-important goal with 21 minutes remaining for the Co Tyrone side. It was a just reward as they dominated large swathes of the match but could not find a way past Ross Murray who made a glut of brilliant saves. For the Whitechurch side, they could not get full purchase from their trio of corners while Jack Perdue had a gilt-edged chance to go 1-0 up in the second half as the ball popped up to him a metre from goal but he miscued and his shot somehow spun around the right post. The Co Tyrone side won the tie when Crooks pounced on a rebound off Murray; they had plenty of chances to double the score before Corinthian made them sweat down the final stretch but to no avail.

Tallaght Rockets defy odds to win Association Cup  BERNARD DUFF sport@dublingazette.com

The Tallaght Rockets side. Picture: Alana Cahill/iMyPhotography

THE TALLAGHT Rockets defied the odds to claim volleyball’s men’s Association Cup title last Saturday in Belfield on Saturday. The deicder brought together two clubs who had not been in contention for the Premier League. Garda VC finished fifth in the league while the Rockets ended two places below Garda to prop up the table with just two league wins all season. However, such form mattered little in the semi-finals played

three weeks ago in Naas. Garda beat Naas Eagles 3-0 and Tallaght Rockets upset UCD with a surprise 3-1 victory to take their place in the association’s show piece event of the season. Another surprise was on the cards in the final as Tallaght Rockets claimed victory. The match went the full five sets. Tallaght went one set down (2025) before Garda indiscipline gave them a lifeline in set two which Tallaght won 25-11. With powerful hitting delivered by player-coach Seweryn Furmansky and a series of blocks by

Luis Pereira, the Rockets began to believe. Despite Garda taking out the third set 25-19, the momentum was with Rockets. Wing man Israel Xavier made several killer spikes as the team fought back, playing with a quality not seen all season. Tallaght edged the fourth 25-22 and had too much energy in the last set, winning 15-9. Afterward Tallaght Rockets number two Fernando Calcada was not surprised with the victory when asked: “No, we have a really good bunch of players. “The problem is that we are a

small club and don’t have many players. Most struggled a little bit with availability hence we were bottom of the league. “But now, at the end of the season, we made it to the cup final, everybody finally showed up and we played the volleyball we know how. We came out with a pretty good win.” Earlier in the day, the ladies’ final was won by Galway VC, beating the home UCD team to claim the double after already winning the Premier League. They beat College in a tight encounter in three sets (25-21, 25-22, 25-22).

27 April 2017 BLANCH GAZETTE 29

GAZETTE

FASTSport

Packed house in Ranelagh for Irish Squash Open

Tarf and Cork Con set up UBL final showdown Reigning champions sweep past the challenge of Munsters at Castle Avenue while Deasy’s last gasp kick sees off Lansdowne UBL DIVISION 1A SEMIS Clontarf 37 Young Munster 29  sport@dublingazette.com

 BERNARD DUFF sport@dublingazette.com

THE Gillenmarkets PSA Irish Squash Open 2017 concluded to a full house at the Fitzwilliam Lawn Tennis Club in Ranelagh last Saturday. The event, now in its eleventh year, featured both a ladies’ and a men’s tournament which shared prizemoney of $15,000. The squash started the previous Monday with two days of qualifiers before the first round proper on Wednesday. An international field participated which included nine currently in the top 50 globally ranked players. Irish Squash coach Ed Dunne was happy with the week’s events, saying: “The close proximity to England really helped get a very strong pool of players on board. “With a tournament in the west of Ireland just last week, it was a chance for the professionals to win money and ranking points over the fortnight”. Irish involvement didn’t last beyond the first round, however. Ireland ladies number one Hannah Craig lost to Egyptian Hana Ramadan (world number 48). The Irish teenager will have gained valuable experience against the Egyptian who actually had turned pro at just 14 years of age back in 2011 such is the prominence of squash in Egypt. Men’s number one Arthur Gaskin lost to eventual finalist in this year’s open, England’s Adrian Waller. The semi-finals on Thursday was one of the best days of squash and was also played to a full house. The top two ladies seeds, Millie Tomlinson (England) and Belgium’s Nele Gilis, both won through to the final. Gilis, pictured above in black, had come from two sets to one down against England’s Julianne Courtice in an epic tie, just shy of 100 minutes. Waller dismissed Egyptian Youssef Soliman in the first men’s semi. He would be joined in the final by another Englishman, the second seed Declan James. James beat another Egyptian, Mazen Gamal, over four sets. Both finals went the full five sets. In the ladies, fatigue wasn’t a problem for Gilis who deposed of the 2016 champion Tomlinson (2-11, 11-8, 7-11, 11-9, 11-4). In the men’s finals, James’s power and reach was too much for Waller (11-9, 6-11, 3-11, 11-5, 11-8).

DEFENDING Ulster Bank League Division 1A champions Clontarf continued their title retention bid as they proved too strong for Young Munster at Castle Avenue, winning 37-29. Clontarf ran in six tries, including a brace from former Leinster winger Mick McGrath, to claim an eight-point success and move within 80 minutes of their third Division 1A title in four years. The north Dubliners will face Cork Constitution in a repeat of last year’s final at the Aviva

Stadium on Sunday, May 7 after they eliminated Lansdowne 19-16. F o r Ta r f , i t t o o k McGrath just three minutes to get them up and running, breaking through a ruck to score under the posts in the third minute with David Joyce converting. T he Limerick side bounced back with teenage out-half Alan Tynan in inspirational form early on, cutting through for a brace of first half tries. The Tipperary starlet danced through the Tarf defence and converted his seventh minute try to bring the visitors level, before he sniped over for a second early in the second quarter.

Crucially, Andy Wood’s home side took advantage of a yellow card to score 10 points in the lead up to half-time, out-half Joyce landing a penalty and converting captain Ben Reilly’s late score after a terrific break from flanker Tony Ryan. A 17-12 interval deficit was suddenly 27-15 in the third quarter as Munsters, who had a 50th minute penalty from Tynan, dug deep to stay in contention. Either side of Tynan’s kick, McGrath burst through for his second try and centre Conor O’Brien also touched down in the corner. Bristol-bound hooker Jason Harris-Wright and current Leinster squad

members Mick Kearney and Bryan Byrne were part of a strong Clontarf pack, the latter coming in for the final half-an-hour along with Connacht’s Ivan Soroka. That strength in depth proved too much for Munsters to handle, Tarf replacement Rob McGrath duly joining his brother as a try scorer on the hour mark and scrum half Mark Sutton acrobatically diving over in the corner for the sixth try late on. A penalty try in the final play supplemented a 72nd-minute converted score from current Ireland Under-20 international Jack Lyons but it was not enough in the final run-in. Lansdowne 16 Cork Constitution 19

Mick McGrath on his way to one of his tries for Clontarf against Young Munster last Saturday at Castle Avenue. Picture: Deryck Vincent

At Lansdowne, the ice-cool Tomas Quinlan converted an 82nd minute penalty to guide Cork Constitution to a gripping 19-16 semi-final victory on the Aviva Stadium’s back pitch, setting up a rematch with Clontarf in the stadium proper in two weeks’ time. 2015 league champions Lansdowne were quietly confident of avenging two regular seasons losses to Cork Con, with Ireland Sevens internationals John O’Donnell, Mark Roche and Matthew D’Arcy joining talismanic number 10 Scott Deasy in the back-line. And young winger Mark O’Keefe’s 10thminute try, inspired by a

bullocking run from lock Stephen Gardiner, gave Mike Ruddock’s men the early impetus. Lansdowne were still leading by the interval but three Quinlan penalties after 18, 24 and 28 minutes had the Leesiders hot on their heels at just 10-9 down. Deasy had turned a 22ndminute scrum penalty into three points amid some intense exchanges between the forwards. It was end-to-end stuff in the second half, Con briefly seizing control thanks to winger Liam O’Connell’s well-taken 53rd-minute try before Deasy answered back from the tee two minutes later. Extra-time was in the offing when Deasy found the target with a 75th minute penalty to square things up at 16-all and Quinlan missed a subsequent drop goal attempt from 25 metres. Nonetheless, the hard graft of his forwards ensured that Quinlan had a one last shot at the posts and he delivered in nerveless fashion, taking his season’s haul to 180 points but few more precious than those last three. Brian Hickey’s Con squad, who retained the Munster Senior Cup in February, will make two return trips to the capital in the next fortnight in search of a potential All-Ireland double – they visit Old Belvedere for next Saturday’s Bateman Cup decider before battling it out with Clontarf.

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30 BLANCH GAZETTE 27 April 2017

SPORT

FASTSport

SOCCER: PROMOTION ASSURED WITH TITLE PUSH NOW THE FOCUS

Castleknock denied big Premier B statement win CASTLEKNOCK Celtic’s AUL Premier B side came within sight of a major blow in the title race before Howth Celtic snatched a 4-4 draw from their tie at Porterstown Park last weekend. Celtic had gone 2-0 down in the first half with Karl Carpenter netting in the 25th minute before Gareth Murphy doubled Howth’s advantage on the half hour. But Castleknock are a resilient squad and have shown many times this season they have the qualities to bounce back. They fought back again to draw level within seven minutes after the half time break with goals from Sylviu Aghinita and Billy Thompson. Joey Crampton was immense in the middle of the park and Castleknock are still wondering how he wasn’t made man of the match. But Howth were back in front on 65 minutes. Back came Castleknock when John Byrne popped up on 70 minutes to put them level. Then, with 12 minutes remaining, Billy Thompson broke through the visitors defence and was heading for goal before being hauled down in the box. Up stepped the brave ghinita for the spot kick. He had to put thoughts of his last spot kick in midweek out of his mind which he did soundly as he smashed his penalty into the bottom left corner. His second goal, pictured above, looked set to be decisive. It seemed like Castleknock had taken a big step toward the league title but their bubble was quickly burst as, within two minutes, a Matic-like strike by Sean Kenny flew into the top right hand corner. There were still chances for the home side to snatch a late winner when Crampton passed to Aghinita but his shot screwed wide of the near post. John Byrne rose to head what looked would be the winner, but his effort was wide of the target and so it ended 4-4, both sides having served up a feast of entertainment in a titanic struggle. Howth stay top of the table with two games remaining. Castleknock, meanwhile, have 11 points to make up but have five games in hand. Win all those and they will be right in the mix for glory.

St Mochta’s prior to their win over Garda

Saint Mochta’s on a roll LSL MAJOR 1C SATURDAY  sport@dublingazette.com

ST MOCHTA’S secured three wins in five days, including one over league leaders Rush Athletic, to close the gap at the top of the LSL major 1C Saturday to four points, and gives themselves hope of still walking away with the title. The Blanch side had already secured promotion the previous weekend - allowing them to focus on the race for top spot. Their latest victory was a 6-0 hammering of Rivervalley Rangers when they made the trip to Ridgewood Park on Mon-

day night. R iver valley had a chance to take the lead in the first minute but their shot went straight into the arms of Adam Kmet. Mochta’s were struggling against a strong wind in the first half so their threat on goal was limited. Mark Sheridan did manage to open the scoring from the spot on 12 minutes after a foul on Aaron O’Brien, but Rivervalley kept them scoreless for the remainder of the half. Dylan Sweeney made it 2-0 shortly after the restart by prodding home Glen O’Donnell’s low cross, before grabbing his second 14 minutes later

SKILLS STAR Peregrine’s Coppinger’s camogie tests silver NAOMH Peregrine’s Aoife Coppinger ended

second at the camogie Feile Skills competition held at Silver Park last week despite some inclement weather. She finished second in a field of 60 girls who took part in the skills test with 145 points, second only to Kilmacud Crokes’ Roisin ni Cathasaigh with Good Counsel’s Jennifer Moore third. The event was hosted by Kilmacud who provided refreshments for the adults and goodies for the girls throughout the afternoon.

to give Mochta’s a commanding lead. Jarod Flynn found the net with a great shot from distance after 75 minutes and McElvaney pounced on some woeful defending for the fifth seven minutes later. Eve n w h e n h e a d ing into the last minute, Mochta’s didn’t let up on the home side and Martin O’Neill rubbed salt in the wounds when he finished Sean Hegarty’s cross. Two days prior to that game, Mochta’s welcomed Garda FC to Porterstown Road and recorded a 3-1 win. The opening stages were scrappy with both sides having chances to score

early on. The game swung from end to end until Mochta’s thought they had taken the lead when Grogan scored from O’Neill’s pass, but it was ruled out for offside. Garda eventually went ahead on 31 minutes but David Simpson equalised two minutes before the break when he finished off Grogan’s pass. Dylan Sweeney then scored from a free kick to give Mochta’s the lead, and a minute later it was 3-1 when Grogan finally got the goal his performance deserved. However, the best performance of their mini run came last Thursday

when table-toppers Rush Athletic paid a visit to Porterstown Road but left with zero points in the bag. The visitors took the lead after 17 minutes following a break up the pitch. Mochta’s responded in positive fashion and created several good chances, but fell 2-0 behind after another counter-attack from Rush. McElvaney pulled one back just before the break and Alan McGreal equalised after a great start to the second half. McGreal grabbed his second with 10 minutes to go when he got on the end of O’Brien’s exquisite through ball.

27 April 2017 BLANCH GAZETTE 31

GAZETTE

FOOTBALL: KILKENNY AND BROGAN MAKE THEIR MARK

CLUB NOTICEBOARD ST BRIGID’S GREAT weekend of club competition for

in Martin Savage Park v St Oliver Plun-

St Brigid’s; all five adult football teams

ketts on April 29 at 6pm, and on April 30

are safely through their first Champi-

at 3pm, the Junior Es are in Russell Park

onship outings.

v Castleknock.,

Well done to players and manage-

Thank-you to all who came to the St

ment. Wishing all the best to all our

Brigids 2020 meeting on Friday, great

hurling teams for the week to come. The

buzz in place for our planning project.

senior hurlers play in Parnell Park on Thursday at 8.15pm. The junior As are

Brilliant Feile showing by Naomh Bríd camogie team in reaching their final.

CASTLEKNOCK NEW members always welcome at our

We are very proud of the girls. Thanks

nursery which continues next week at

to all who helped with hosting feile in

Tir na nOg with thanks to Tigers Child-

Somerton.

care. Nursery enquiries to lisakiernan1@ gmail.com. Castleknock’s Matthew Griffin attempts to stall Templeogue Synge Street’s Killian O’Gara. Picture: Naill O’Connell

Knock, Brigid’s and Plunkett’s advance

SFC FIRST ROUND

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CASTLEKNOCK, St Brigid’s and St Oliver Plunkett’s/Eoghan Ruadh all progressed to the second round of the Dublin senior football championship after close-run battles. Indeed, none of them had things all their own way on a weekend that was otherwise marked by huge scorelines, averaging over 10 points in the difference. Ciaran Kilkenny led last year’s runners-up, Castleknock, to a 0-11 to 0-8 victory over Templeogue Synge Street who got off to a great start. They moved five points clear after 23 minutes but as the half wore on Synger got into the game. B e f o r e t h e i n t e rval, points from Cillian O’Gara and two from Niall Scully made it 0-7 to 0-4 in Castleknock’s favour at the break. There was little between the sides in the second half with Seamus O’Carroll’s late score for Castleknock settling the issue. Kilkenny kicked 0-3

from play for the eventual winners with Ben Galvin adding 0-2 while Denis Bastick lined out for Synger having missed the entire intercounty league as he makes his way back to full match fitness. At Blanch IT, it was derby day for Brigid’s against Dublin 15 rivals St Peregrine’s. Despite leading 0-9 to 0-1 at half-time, the Russell Park men were made battle all the way before overcoming the Blakestown side 0-14 to 1-9. Paddy Andrews and three points for sub Lorcan McCarthy were vital for Brigid’s with Christian O’Hara hitting the Peregrine’s goal following great work by Eric Lowndes. On Thursday evening, Plunkett’s produced the most eye-catching result, beating Ballyboden St Enda’s 2-10 to 0-13 at Parnell Park with Bernard Brogan scoring three points from play and a trio of frees. He also had a hand in both their goals as they held the 2016 All-Ireland club champions score-

less for the concluding 23 minutes of this excellent duel. However, it was Boden who settled first with the opening four points of the game with Darragh Nelson, Donagh McCabe and Ryan Basquel on target. But Plunkett’s responded with a Leigh Herron goal after being set-up by Brogan. Back came the southsiders again and by the break their held a 0-10 to 1-4 advantage but had lost defender Shane Clayton to injury; he was replaced

by fellow Dublin under-21 footballer Colm Basquel. Three minutes into the second half Plunkett’s, for whom former Kerry star Paul Galvin made his Dublin club championship debut, were awarded a penalty which Gareth “Nesty” Smith put away following a foul on Brogan. And it was Plunkett’s who finished the stronger to progress to the second round while Boden will now compete in this year’s Dublin SFC B competition.

Castleknock goalkeeper Morven Connolly makes a save

The senior footballers progressed in championship together with our junior B

Well done to both our camogie feile

and junior C teams while our junior D side

teams who represented the club with

lost out to Templeogue. Senior 2 camogie

pride at the weekend. Fantastic effort.

had a good win over St Brigid’s.

GAZETTESPORT

ALL OF YOUR BLANCH SPORTS COVERAGE FROM PAGE 28-31

D15 ON THE RISE: Castleknock, St Brigid’s and Oliver Plunkett’s/ER all advance to second round of SFC P31

APRIL 27 - MAY 3, 2017

BULLS RUMBLE THROUGH: Clontarf advance to big Division 1A title decider P29

Rebels continue hoodoo Brigid’s trio fall at the hands of Cork in National Football League semiDublin’s Niamh McEvoy is crowded out by Cork’s Brid Stack, left, and Marie Ambrose at St Brendan’s Park, Birr. Picture: Ramsey Cardy/Sportsfile

final as Munster side continue to hold all the aces in their annual duels

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ST BRIGID’S Noelle Healy, Ciara Trant and Deirdre Murphy were left frustrated once again as Cork continued their big game hoodoo over Dublin’s ladies footballers, going down 1-16 to 0-13. Orla Finn and Eimear Scally combined for 1-10 as the Munster side qualified for a tenth successive Lidl Ladies National Football League Division 1 final. It repeated last year’s league semi-final win over Dublin they and have also triumphed over the Dubs in the last three All-Ireland senior deciders. Finn top-scored at Kilkenny’s Nowlan Park

with a haul of 0-7, including four points from play, as Scally collected 1-3 from play. Cork were 1-10 to 0-6 clear at half-time, a run of six points without reply before the break opening up a comfortable interval lead. In the first half, Scally and Finn were Dublin’s tormentors-in-chief, collecting 1-6 between them. Crucially, Finn’s long-range effort for a point came back off the crossbar and Bríd O’Sullivan was on hand to set up Scally for a simple finish. It sent Cork into a 1-3 to 0-3 lead after the sides had been level on three occasions. Midfielder Niamh Cotter roared through for a point to put Cork four clear but Dublin, to their credit, battled back to within one as Sinead Aherne, Rebecca McDonnell and Nicole Owens

scored point. Owens was unlucky that she didn’t find the back of the net in the 21st minute but Cork goalkeeper Martina O’Brien pulled off a fine save to tip her effort over the crossbar. Dublin also suffered a blow in that spell when Niamh McEvoy went off injured, with manager Mick Bohan feeling strongly enough to make his feelings known to referee Niall McCormack, the Sky Blues manager insistent that the St Sylvester’s player had been fouled. McEvoy was fit enough to return for the second half but a seven-point half-time deficit was too much for Dublin to claw back. They did manage to cut the Cork lead to three points with five minutes of normal time remain-

ing but the Leesiders found an extra gear again. Dublin could also thank Trant for a full-length save that kept out a goalbound Scally shot with 13 minutes left. At the other end, and despite some decent approach work, Dublin struggled to break through. All of Cork’s six starting forwards would finish with scores before the finish, while Dublin sub Sarah McCaffrey impressed after coming on, kicking two points. Rowe and Owens managed three points each for Dublin but once again, the Jackies had to play second fiddle once again to Cork, who will aim to secure a fifth successive league crown against Donegal in the May 7 final.