Moroney's Bar

2nd Mike Mac Golf Classic

Tuesday, 17 January 2012

Plans are already afoot for the second Mike Mac Golf Classic at the Ennis Golf Club with Saturday 14th April been penciled in for the tournament. Following last years outstanding success the committee is confident that the classic will be well supported once again this year.

Last year nearly €7,000 was distributed to Cahercalla Hospice, The John Giles Foundation, Ennis Old Folk, The McMahon Fund,The Clare Crusaders and Clarecastle Day Care Centre. While that figure was beyond our wildest dreams we hope once again this year to help out many local charities in the area. Of course the star of the show last year was the appearance of John Giles at the classic and once again contact had been made with John and the committee are hopeful he will once ahain grace us with his presence.

The committee is arranging a meeting in Moroneys on Thursday 26th January to kick start the event and anyone that wishes to help is more than welcome to come along. Even if you can't get involved you may have a idea for the event and we would be only too glad to hear from you.

Ennis Chelsea Supporters Club Social On 21st Jan

Tuesday, 10 January 2012

The Ennis Chelsea Supporters Club which meet in Moroneys for live televised games are holding a social on Saturday 21st January 2012 in The Templegate Hotel, Ennis at 8pm. Guest at the social is Chelsea legend Ron Chopper Harris ,a Chelsea player from the 60's and 70's and captain of their 1970 winning FA Cup final team. In the 70's there were some great battles between Chelsea and Leeds United and he will be speaking about these and this will be followed with a Question & Answer session.

There will be a meal, raffle ,spot prizes and also a comedian accompanying Ron on the night. Tickets cost €25 for adults and €10 for Juniors. Anyone interested in attending can contact Club Secretary Jim McMahon at 086-8119086 for further details.

Ennislusc Coming Home

Sunday, 08 January 2012

After a absence of 5 months Ennislusc will return to Moroneys for tomorrows nights televised 3rd Round FA Cup game away to Arsenal. While Moroneys was closed we returned to Considine's in Parnell St and all the members and committee of Ennislusc would like to thank Mark Kelly and his staff for the hospitality they afforded the club while we were homeless.

New man in charge of Moroneys, Charlie O Mara is looking forward to meeting all the Leeds supporters and assures them they will be welcome with open arms. He admits to not knowing the words to the Leeds anthem, Marching On Together but he won't be long finding out when Ennislusc start singing me think !

Christmas Greetings And New Year Wishes To All Our Customers

Saturday, 24 December 2011

After a year in which Moroneys was closed from the 24th June to 25th November due to Brian John retiring from business and renovations taking place it's great to be back open for the festive period. It's four weeks since Charlie O Mara took over the reins at Moroneys and he's been thrilled with the response he's received from his old customers in The Usual Place and the loyal following that BJ had built up.

Charlie his wife Susan and all his staff John, Majella, Diane, Hanna and Irene would like to wish our loyal customers, their families and friends a Happy and Peaceful Christmas and hope that the New Year brings health and happiness to you all. Hopefully we will get to meet a lot of our friends over the holiday period and especially those who have returned home for the Christmas. You can be assured of a great welcome, smile, craic and and some super trad sessions if you come down to Moroneys over the Christmas.

Supporters Clubs Return To Moroney's

Saturday, 24 December 2011

Following on from the AGM of the Chelsea Supporters Club on Tuesday night last they have now confirmed that they will be returning to Moroneys for all their televised games. The club is run by a great committee comprising of Jim McMahon, PJ Gilligan and Tony Guilfoyle to mention but a few.

Also returning to Moroneys will be the Ennis Leeds United Supporters Club and Charlie will have his first experience of the club for the televised 3rd Rd FA Cup game on Monday 9th January vs Arsenal. One think for sure is he'll have to get to know the words of the Leeds anthem Marching On Together. Both clubs would also like to acknowledge the kindness and generosity of Brian John McCarthy and his staff over the years and hope he's on the road to a full recovery.

Welcome Charlie

Tuesday, 22 November 2011

On Friday night next 25th November Moroney's will re open it's doors and the new gaffer in charge will be none other than Charlie O Mara. Many of you will know Charlie from The Usual Place in the Upper Market which he has ran in one capacity or another since Clare All Ireland winning year of 1997. There is not a lot that can be said about Charlie other than the Moroney family are extremely lucky to have him on board such is his standing in the bar trade. He has been extremely professional in his approach and has been hands on with changes in the bar.

Charlie has a great team around him in the Usual Place in John White and Diane Clohessy ,both of whom have been with him for years and will now be behind the counter of Moroneys. Also some old faces will be seen with Ger Hanrahan and Irene Hehir lending a hand and smile while our famous Wednesday night trad sessions with the great Marcus Moloney will be returning. As always there will be a Cead Mile Failte to all our old and new customers who walk through the door and you can be assured of a smile, craic and of course a great pint from Charlie and his team.

See in Photo Gallery under New Moroneys for some photos

Moroney's Undergoes A Facelift

Tuesday, 22 November 2011

Following the retirement of Brian John from Moroneys the pub has been closed since the 24th of June but thankfully will reopen on Friday night next under the stewardship of Charlie O Mara. While closed we took the opportunity to do some work on the premises and we were very lucky to have the services of some top class tradesmen on hand. When one decides to do some renovations you always seem to find something extra to do but none of that phased our top team of Brian Fitzgerald (Builder and Carpenter), Tony Guilfoyle ( Painter & Decorator),TJ Scanlon ( Steel Fabricator) and Marty Ryan ( Electrician).

Interestingly Tony, TJ and Marty are townies and although Brian hails from Inagh his offices are overhead Cahill's Shoe Shop across from the pub so we didn't have to go far for talent. While a lot of the changes are in the background such as the store rooms and new kitchen area the addition of a new fireplace which was part of the original house is a welcome addition and gives a lovely feel to the lower bar area. In the main bar some seating and tables were removed to give a more open feeling to the bar and new stools and table tops were added. While the changes are subtle, hopefully they will be welcomed by our loyal clientel who are eagerly looking forward to the reopening.

A sincere thank you on behalf of the Moroney family to Brian, Tony, TJ and Marty for their superb skill, time, patience and were always at the ring of a phone away when called upon. There was no point in telling these men what to do as they were always a step ahead of the job in hand and experts in their fields. Lastly I would like to take the opportunity of thanking my great friend Ger (Hanna) Hanrahan for his support while the work was going on and we look forward to seeing him back pulling pints in Moroneys once again.

See in Photo Gallery under New Moroneys for some photos

The Townies Are Back

Sunday, 23 October 2011

Clare Intermediate Hurling Final Eire Og Ennis 1-14 Ruan 0-06

After three years in the Intermediate ranks Eire Og are back in the senior hurling championship. The final which was played in a constant downpour on a superb surface in Clarecastle, the Townies proved too strong for Ruan who were tasting defeat in the final for the second year running. On a day when scores were hard to come by freetaker Danny Russell was superb as were ex Inter County Seniors Barry Nugent and Fergus Flynn who was nominated as Man Of Match. On the other hand Ruan's freetaker John Punch had a off day but in the conditions this was quite understandable.

Great credit must go to the team management of Michael ( Chief) Chandler, Tony and Martin Nugent and team trainer John O Mara who hails from Sixmilebridge. As captain Mark Fitzgerald said in his acceptance speech they have been in training since last February and the panel consists of 37 players who gave everything to get back to senior rank. We congratulate all involved with the team ,not forgetting the legendary club man Mattie Murphy on their great success and all at Moroneys wish them well in the senior ranks. Townies Abu

Thanks And Good Luck BJ

Tuesday, 11 October 2011

It was with deep regret last June that Brian John McCarthy (know to all his friends and customers as BJ) let it be known that he would have to retire from managing Moroneys due to health problems. When BJ took over the reins in 2005 he quickly established Moroneys as a popular pub for sport, trad music and a great pint. BJ always prided himself in cleaning all the beer, lager and guinness lines every ten days and it was this diligence that insured you received a top class pint.

Of course every man needs a good team around him and in Tracy, Colm McNevin, Cathal McCarthy, Ethan McCarthy Irene Hehir, Ger Hanrahan and many more too numerous to mention (but not forgotten) BJ had the A Team. Gerry Moroney and all the Moroney family wish to thank BJ for his outstanding and tireless work and are indebted to him for putting Moroneys back on the map as a great pub. Thanks for everything BJ, a true gent.

Our Friend JB

Thursday, 04 August 2011

It was with deep sadness we learned of the passing of our dear friend John Butler RIP, know to all as JB on Sunday evening last. JB although a fanatic Man United fan was always seen at Leeds televised matches in Moroneys along with his great friend Colm McNevin. He loved the slagging with the Ennislusc supporters and if the truth be told I would say he was slightly envious of our club despite our lack of success on the playing field.

One day which we remember fondly in the company of JB was the 3rd Jan 2010 when Man United played Leeds United in the televised 3rd of the FA Cup. It was decided that Ennislusc would travel to Teach Ol in Tulla for the game so JB was enlisted to drives us there and back. He arrived to pick us up in Moroneys decked out in his Man U gear and the slagging began in earnest. Little did we expect Leeds to dethrone the mighty Reds at Old Trafford and when the game ended JB was on the receiving end of some stick as the only Man U person in the pub.

Not to be outdone when the camera came out to taking photos to celebrate the occasion he put his Man U hat on Club President Francis Spinky White while he donned the Leeds hat and no one copted the change until the photos were developed. Needless to say JB got some great mileage out of that stunt for quite some time. True to form when we arrived back in Moroneys he parked up the mini bus and joined us for his favorite tipple, a pint or two of Guinness.

JB had always a smile for everyone in his working life with Aer Lingus in Shannon, on the road in his mini bus or on the golf course in Ennis he certainly was one person who's company you enjoyed. When JB was diagnosed with his illness he didn't let it stop him getting out and about and was still a regular for Leeds games and trad sessions in Moroneys complete with his oxygen tank. One had to admire his fighting qualities and most importantly his positive outlook right to the end.

To his wife Breda, sons Keith and David, daughters Yvonne and Laura, brother Michael and great friend Colm we extend our deepest sympathy on their great loss. JB will always be remembered when Ennislusc gather for televised games and no doubt he'll be looking down with a wry smile when we start singing Marching On Together, a song he even knew the words of as a closet Leeds fan. Ar Dheis De go raibh a Anam.

New Home Needed For ENNISLUSC

Thursday, 30 June 2011

Tonight Moroney's will close it's door for the last time as Brian John reluctantly has to retire for health reasons. Since BJ took over the pub in June 2005 it has been our home for all televised matches and if the walls could talk some tales would be told. Not least our despair at relegation and play off finals, our ecstasy at gaining promotion to The Championship, the visit of the Leeds United coaching staff,the mighty sing songs we had and of course all the friends we made over the years in Moroneys.

On a sad note we also remember those true friends who enjoyed those night in our company and are sadly gone to their eternal rest and will in our eyes never be forgotten. Brian John has asked me to convey his sincere thanks to all the Ennislusc supporters for the custom, generosity, wit, songs and friendship over the years and now that he's retired he hopes to come on one of our trips in the near future. Well he should know the words of Marching On Together at this stage as we sung it often enough for him ! Good luck and best wishes BJ, health and happiness from all your friends in Ennislusc.

Happy 50th Birthday Mary

Friday, 27 May 2011

Tonight in Moroney's Mary Fenton from Ard na Greine will celebrate her 50th birthday in the company of her brother's Tony, Jimmy Jnr, Brendan and her sister Veronica along with her many friends. The Fenton name has been synonymous with Moroney's for over 70 years as Mary's late father Jimmy was a regular on his way to bingo in the CYMS in Chapel Lane and has often been said was the best dressed gentleman of his day.

Like her later father Jimmy, Mary too worked in Shannon Airport Catering Division for over 25 years until she retired some years ago and now has the time to pursue many of her hobbies. All at Moroney's and her many friends wish Mary a sincere Happy Birthday and remind her that at 50 you are only reaching your peak :-)

41st Fleadh Nua Ennis 22nd - 30th May 2011

Sunday, 22 May 2011

You know the Leaving Certificate Examinations are looming when the Fleadh Nua comes to town. Even as a young lad I looked forward to the Fleadh more so then for the magical parade on the final Sunday than the music as the town would be packed to the wrafters and we always seemed to get great summers back then. Now it's all about the music as the crowds have dwindled to a trickle but the musicians and singers are still coming in their droves.

The Fleadh Nua has been held every year in Ennis since 1975 and now is one of the main events of the year in the town. As always Moroneys will be featured on the Session Trail and you can be assured of a Cead Mile Failte and some great music and singing during the week. Brian John, Cathal, Ger and Irene look forward to seeing all their old friends and regulars during the Fleadh for a bit of banter,ceol agus craic.

Wed 25th Marcus Moloney, Kieran Kissane, Dermody and friends. Session starts @ 21.30.

Fri 27th Barry Kerr, Michael Queally,Seanie Fitz and friends. Session starts @ 21.30.

Sat 28th Neil Byrne, Eamonn Riordan,Darragh Murphy and friends. Session starts @ 21.30.

Sun 29th Laura Kerr,John Joe Kelly,Aodan Coyne and friends. Session starts @ 21.30.

Ennis Oldest Resident Passes Away

Tuesday, 03 May 2011

It was with deep sadness that we learned on Sunday evening last that our neighbour Mae Quinlivan ( nee Frawley) of 33, Lower Market Street had passed to her eternal rest at the fantastic age of 102 ! Mai lived all her like across the road from Moroneys and indeed was at the re-opening night of the pub on 30th May 2005. She was great friends with Gerry Moroney ( who is now in his 91st year) and to listen to both of them talk about old Ennis was a history lesson of epic proportions. Mai's late husband Jim was a well know Clare hurler in his early days and was a native of Tulla but won a county medal with Ennis Dalcassians in 1941 ( beating Clooney in the final) alongside such great townies as Larry Blake, Michael Aoner Sheridan and Christy Glynn.

Mae was a deeply religious woman and without doubt The Market have their own saint to pray to now when in need of help and guidance. To Mae's family, sons Brian, Ken, Eddie and Dermot and daughter Rita we expend our deepest sympathy and thank God for the privilege of knowing such a lovely lady.Mae will be buried after 11am Mass in Drumcliff on Wednesday 4th May. May she rest in Peace.

Mike Mac Classic Is Outstanding Success

Thursday, 14 April 2011

Mac Would Have Loved It (Script-Paul Nuggy Nihill)

On Saturday April 9th last, the greatest day in the short history of Ennis LUSC took place at Ennis Golf Club. Some months ago The Ennis Leeds United Supporters Club (www.ennislusc.com) announced that “The Mike Mac Memorial Golf Classic” would be held this year in memory of our much loved former President Mike Mac. Mike sadly passed away last summer and has been missed by all his friends and family since. Originally from Newmarket-on-Fergus, Mike spent most of his working life in Ennis where he worked with Tool and Mould in Beech Park, and became widely known and very popular amongst friends and colleagues alike over a long number of years. Mike played soccer for Newmarket Celtic and Lifford among others, and also starred for Ennis RFC on many occasions. He was a keen sportsman and a lifelong follower of all things Leeds United.

A memorial golf classic was held in his honour last week with the intention of raising much needed funds for local causes. At our initial meetings we expressed a fervent hope that in excess of 50 teams would take part resulting in a tidy windfall for Cahercalla Hospice and The John Giles Foundation who were this year’s main beneficiaries, although other very deserving causes will also receive a donation once we have received all the moneys pledged. In the end, we had to “settle” for only 49 teams but this “disappointment” was offset by a phenomenal effort by the committee ensuring that over €2000 was raised in tee box sponsorship alone. When all is said and done, the event will have donated approximately €6000 to charity. I’m sure you'll agree that this will take some topping next year, but (un)like our beloved Whites, we are aiming for the top!

As an added bonus to the prestige of the event this year the great Johnny Giles, who was one of Mike’s idols over the years, very kindly offered to play on the day and attend the presentation of prizes that evening in the clubhouse.

A truly remarkable day kicked off at just after 7am when head green keeper Kevin Browne hoisted the Leeds United flag high and this signaled time for Slim and Kieran Ryan to take to the fairways in a buggy, ready to adorn the tee boxes with signs of our many generous sponsors on the day. Play began soon after when Fergal McNamara’s team hit the first shots up the fairway. They were followed quickly by a hungry Paudie Carmody, and the first “Mike Mac” as it is now known was well and truly underway. A steady stream of competitors filed through the clubhouse all day, all ready to fill up Dom’s magic red box with their entry fees as things progressed like the well-oiled machine it had to be, given the committee involved.

Guest of honour John Giles arrived at 12.45 and duly posed for his first photograph of the day which was the result of a security lapse which allowed Gilhooly in the gate wearing a Man United Supporter’s Club shirt – a lesson for next year! Mr Giles was then presented with a piece of crystal by Tommy Brennan of Ennis Town Council before welcoming him to Ennis on behalf of the people of the town. Following a quick cup of tea, and many more photos and autographs, Mr Giles finally made his way to the first tee at 1.50 ready for play. While neither he nor his playing partners played their best it was a most enjoyable round and to see all the groups on the course stop and admire Nuggy’s swing the legend that is Johnny Giles as he walked the fairways was a great sight and one that we’ll always remember. He even had time for hugs with Carmel Verling’s team as they came off the 17th green. After the golf, where he was accompanied by Slim, John Finn, and Nuggy, a fantastic night ensued in Ennis Golf Club. Mr Giles displayed what a class act he is by posing for photographs and signing autographs for all comers and having a kind word for everybody who approached him. His humility and generosity of spirit have to be seen to be believed. We sincerely hope that he returns next year, and maybe he’ll bring Eamon with him. After all, it’s not a “”good event” it’s a “great event”!

The presentation of prizes and speeches were marshalled by the one and only John Finn and one has to say, what a job he did! It’s the Oscars next year for you John. Representatives from the McNamara Family, Cahercalla Hospice and Ennis Golf Club spoke before Mr Giles regaled us with tales of the glory days at Leeds United. The formalities were completed when Alan Murphy took the stage to lead us all in a rousing rendition of Marching on Together – certainly a first for Ennis Golf Club but hopefully not a last if we have anything to do with it.

DJ Pat Murphy then got things moving as everyone relaxed and really got into the swing of the occasion. It was fantastic to see the clubhouse bursting at the seams as people from everywhere waited to get an opportunity to speak to their hero. There was a carnival atmosphere all night as the singing and dancing took off. Facebook is going to be a lonely but funny place when all is said and done! Some ate, some drank, some slept, some danced, some sang, some played air guitar with a pitching wedge – but everyone laughed, and then laughed some more until the wee small hours when finally the batteries ran out. Even in Johnny’s camera – now when that happens it’s certainly time for the cot.

With our sincere thanks to everyone. Until next year..... Oh, and the Roll of Honour as is follows:-

1st Sam Doyle Niall Healy Stephen Guilfoyle Liam Behan 97pts

2nd Adrian Kearney Cormac Walsh Seamus Kelly Brian Kearney 95pts

3rd Alan Butler Sean O’Gorman Mike Torpey John White 92pts

4th Stephen Keane Noel Kenny David Rushe Adrian Rushe 90pts

5th David O’Connor Ian Myatt Ronan Ryan Noel O’Connor 90pts

6th Robbie Dormer Jason Dormer Mikey Kelly Martin Dormer 90pts

7th Tony Roche Malachy White Coley Smith Martin Corry 89pts

8th Tim Sheehan Kieran D’Arcey Mark Timmons James Divine 88pts

9th Eamon Kelly Michael Butler Brendan Considine Cha McEnery87pts

10th Tom Glynn Gary Stack Jack Normoyle Ollie O’Loughlin 85pts

Photos from the day can be found in the ennislusc.com ( a link can be found on the home page of this site)gallery under the heading Mike Mac Classic. As there were over 370 photos taken on the day please bear with us while we upload them over the coming days. Many thanks to Flann Howard who provided 25 photos of The Classic for the gallery and gave of his time on the day.

Lockie's And Pat's Walk In The Burren

Friday, 11 March 2011

On Sunday next 13th March Christopher O Loughlin (or Lockie to all his friends) and Pat O Connell who are scout leaders in the Ennis Scouts are organizing a 10K walk in The Burren for their friends in Moroneys. The boys who are well used to outdoor hiking have a gear list drawn up for those wishing to join them on the walk and this can be checked out when signing up in the bar. The one no no for the hike are jeans and it's also advisable to bring a packed lunch.

On the way home the group will be stopping in Bofey Quinn's for soup and sandwiches and of course the odd pint of porter. They plan to be home around 7pm and will adjourn to Moroneys for a debriefing :-) Hopefully the weather will pick up for Sunday and a enjoyable day will be had by one and all.

The Classic Is Marching On

Wednesday, 09 March 2011

We are now just a month away from our Mike Mac Golf Classic at Ennis Golf Club and things are progressing well. Presently we have 15 teams on the timesheet, our main sponsors are on board, the tee box sales are somewhat slow but as has been said at many of our meetings these only take off in the last ten days. The Dunne family have sponsored a beautiful trophy for the winning team and we got confirmation last Saturday that Johnny Giles would most definitely be there on the day.

We will be having both a raffle and auction on the day and our staunch clubman Steve Underwood has secured both signed Republic of Ireland and Leeds United jerseys for the occasion.Great work Steve ! And not forgetting the Johnny Giles signed jersey which will also be on offer on the night. Our posters for the event are up around town and in Newmarket on Fergus ( Mike's birth place) and everyone that has seen them has commented how well and professional they look. Hat's off to Dara for his efforts there on our behalf. So it's all systems go now for the next month and make sure even if you are not playing that you make it up on the night for the celebrations

Ennislusc Launches Mike Mac Golf Classic

Friday, 11 February 2011

Last night in Moroneys the Ennislusc committee that has been designated with running the inaugural Mike Mac Golf Classic met and got the wheels turning for the classic tee off on April 9th in Ennis GC. As one would expect there is a wealth of experience on the committee who have lent their time and effort to insure the success of this classic where the funds will be evenly divided between Cahercalla Hospice Ennis and the Johnny Giles Foundation (theses funds will be spent only in Clare area ).

The committee are now in the process of getting four main sponsors for the event, tee box sponsorship, posters printed and of course most important a time sheet in place for the event. To further publicize the event Phil Brigdale has a page on Facebook ( under events section, Mike Mac Classic) and regular updates will be found on moroneysbar.com and this site. With Johnny Giles gracing us with his presence it has kick started the classic and he has also kindly donated a shirt from the FA Cup 1972 winning team for auction on the night.

There is a timesheet being put in place and Kieran E Ryan ( of Avenue Utd fame) 087-8055306 and Kieran Ryan ( Hermitage and Cloughleigh Celtic) 087-2340378 will be only too happy to accommodate you with your preferred tee time. Any of the following committee members can be contacted if you wish to play on the day:

Paul Nihill 086-8346091

Dom O Rourke 086-2401126

Phil Brigdale 087-623303

Johnny Moroney 087-6749855

Frankie Woods

Eoin Doohan

Ger Hanrahan

Johnny Giles To Play In Mike Mac Golf Classic

Tuesday, 08 February 2011

Having got out of bed at 4.50am this morning I wasn't looking forward to my first day back at work after a weeks holidays but then again I didn't expect the call I received at 11.23am either ! You know when you see a number appear on your phone with no name it's someone looking for something,a long lost friend or else a wrong number. As my ringtone Marching On Together rang out I wondered who could be at the other end of the line.

When I heard the words Hello Johnny, this is John Giles I didn't know whether to roar or start singing Marching On Together. He had promised us on Saturday at the launch of the Walk Of Dreams in the Auburn Lodge that he would let us know by Wednesday if he was available to take part in our Mike Mac Memorial Golf Classic on the 9th April at Ennis GC. True to his word he got back to us and a day early too with the brilliant news that he not alone would be there on the day but for the night also.

It is certainly a great honour for Ennislusc to have a true legend and gentleman of Leeds United and Irish soccer fame take part in our inaugural Mike Mac Classic tournament. One can only wonder what Mac would think, having his hero honour him with his presence in his home town. It's now all hands on deck in our efforts to get 50 teams of 4 (cost €120 per team)to tee off on the day when all monies collected will be split with Cahercalla Hospice and the Johnny Giles Foundation. As Mike God Rest him used say See you there Old Bean !

Meeting Our Hero Johnny Giles

Saturday, 05 February 2011

Today five members of Ennislusc (who's home base is Moroney's) had the pleasure of meeting ex Leeds great and Republic Of Ireland captain / manager Johnny Giles at a private audience in the Auburn Lodge. Johnny is in town to launch the Walk Of Dreams which is being promoted by the John Giles Foundation and will take place on March 27th and also to present the schoolboy/girl awards.

We were invited by CSSL Chairman Ronnie Pyne and Vice Chairman Mickey Guilfoyle to meet Johnny in relation to our proposed Golf Classic on 9th April at Ennis Golf Club and for their kindness we're eternally grateful. The classic which is being run in memory of our ex friend and club President Mike McNamara is also collecting funds for the Johnny Giles Foundation and Cahercalla Hospice in Ennis.

With this in mind we asked John about his availability to play on the day and he promised to let us know by next Wednesday when he's checks his diary. It would be a tremendous coup to have John present and fingers crossed he'll be there on the day. Also present in the Auburn Lodge was Fine Gael leader Enda Kenny who took the opportunity for a photo shoot with the great man as he prepares for the upcoming general election.

It's not every day you meet your boyhood hero but the true measure of the man is that he lives up to your expectations and that's exactly what Johnny Giles did for Steve Underwood, Paul Nuggy Nihill, Dom O Rourke,Tommy Kelly and myself today. Hopefully we'll get him down to Moroney's for a pint or two on the 9th April to meet the club members.Marching On Together

Harp And Eagle Tours Visit Moroneys

Friday, 21 January 2011

On Wednesday night while the trad session was in full swing Peter Clements ( Director Of Irish Tours, harpandeagletours @yahoo.com)) from Milwalkee wandered into Moroneys with some of his friends who were staying in the Old Ground Hotel. As luck would have it they had been in John O Dea's for a drink when they bumped into Anthony ( Bulldog) Pigott who said he was heading down the Market to Moroneys for the weekly Wednesday night session and they were welcome to join him.

Peter runs the County Clare Irish Inn & Pub In Milwalkee ( www.countyclare-inn.com) and they based their Irish Tours in the Flynn owned Old Ground Hotel. They will be running tours to Ireland so wanted to sample some of the pubs in the Ennis area and Peter exchanged his business card with Brian John on the night. He also met some of the local Ennis Leeds United Supporters Club members who were in on the night for the televised FA Cup game vs Arsenal and the banter was good. Peter was also presented with four Moroney mugs on the night by Johnny Moroney and was also introduced to well know musician Marcus Moloney who knew some of Peter's musician friends in the States.

Hopefully links can be forged with Peter's tours and as he was told on the night there will always be a Cead Mile Failte to him and his group ant time they visit Moroneys.

Moroneys Christmas Draw Results

Monday, 17 January 2011

As always there was a great crowd in Moroneys for the Annual Christmas Draw and Brian John and all the staff were delighted to welcome many of their regulars,friends and indeed some cousins who were at from home for the holiday period on the night. Stories were told ,songs sang, crack was had and porter drank on what was as one of those great night. As the saying goes Go mBeirimid Beo ar an ainm seo aris.

Moroney’s Christmas Draw 2010

1) Weekend for 2 in Kilford Arms Kilkenny – Ronnie Delaney 2) 19 Inch LCD TV – Chris Shannon 3) Massive Christmas Hamper- John McInerney 4) Slab of Heineken- Michael Durack 5) Slab of Bulmers- Conor O Sullivan 6) Slab of Budweiser – Willie Donnellan 7) Bt of Brandy- Aine Derrane 8) Bt of Jameson – Bella Hehir 9) Bt Of Vodka – Fiona Lyons 10) Bt Of Bacardi – Flan Mangan

Happy New Year To All Our Loyal Customers

Thursday, 30 December 2010

Despite the trials and tribulations of 2010 with the banks fiasco, builders going bust, frozen pipes, water rationing and a horrendous Budget that was announced just two weeks before Christmas we are now looking forward to 2011 for some positive and uplifting news. It was great to see so many faces home from far and wide for the Christmas and New Year as this is a time for family and friends. Here we'd like to make a special mention for Sean (Bombs) McCarty and his wife Maureen and family who are home from Colerado for the festivities. On the 31st December there will be a big Trad Night in Moroneys to usher in the New Year so if you are around pop in and you'll be assured of a Ceid Mile Failte.

To all our loyal customers and friends we sincerely wish you and your families a Happy and Prosperous New Year. Brian John, Tracy, Ethan, Zara, Irene, Cathal, Hanna and Colm look forward to your continued support in 2011.

BJ On The Mend

Thursday, 30 December 2010

Thankfully Brian John has made a full recovery from his recent illness scare and is looking forward to the New Year with gusto. We'll be seeing him pounding the roads in the new year as he begins a new fitness regime so when you see him walking the bypass give him a beep or a wave of encouragement. Unfortunately Brian's dad Sean broke his elbow in a fall just before Christmas and he too thankfully is now on the road to a full recovery. Good luck with the training BJ from all your supporters in Moroneys.

Get Well Soon BJ

Monday, 13 December 2010

It was with some shock we learned on Sunday morning that Brian John McCarthy who runs Moroney's was rushed to the County Hospital Ennis. Brian had suffered a severe nose bleed which continued to bleed despite treatment and after some hours in hospital was finally under control. He is now undergoing a barrage of stress and heart test and will be in hospital for a few more days.

All the staff and his many friends both at Roche and Moroneys wish BJ a speedy recovery and look forward to seeing him back on his feet shortly.

Wedding Bells For Kiki And Majella

Friday, 03 December 2010

On Saturday at 2pm in Corofin the lovely Majella Kenny will walk down the aisle to marry well know Ennis townie Christopher (Kiki ) Shannon. The happy couple will then head to the Woodstock Hotel in Ennis for the wedding reception and no doubt the party will go on into the small hours.

Brian John and staff along with their many friends in Moroneys wish both Kiki and Majella many years of health,luck and happiness and look forward to meeting them for one or two sociables over the coming weeks.

Emmet Marches To The Top

Monday, 22 November 2010

Our good friend Emmet Moloney who is a regular in Moroney's for Leeds games has just been appointed Chief Executive Of The Clare People newspaper. This is a tremendous accolade for Emmet who began his career in London with the Irish Word and then progressed to the Kerryman as Deputy Editor. After that it was on to the Farmer Journal as Editor, a role he has excelled at and received high praise for his excellent articles and positive reaction from all the farming community.

Emmet is also involved with the well know GAA internet forum An Fear Rua which has over 8,500 signed up members and is a great source of information for our exiles all over the world particularly with regards to match reports. On behalf of all his friends at Ennislusc we sincerely wish Emmet our best wishes in his new role and look forward to catching up with him at televised Leeds game in the near future.

Tulla Road Ceili Band Takes The Honours At Ennis Trad Festival

Thursday, 18 November 2010

On Saturday night last at Glor the Árd Ghaisce na mBuíonta (the Great Céilí Band Challenge) took place with 14 of the best ceili bands in Ireland competing for the overall title and a cash prize of €5,000. A good ceili band should knock the socks off you and have you begging for more and this is what the Marcus Moloney Tulla Road Ceili Band achieved at a packed Glor on Saturday night. Marcus is recognized as one of the best banjo players in Ireland and is a firm favorite with all Moroney regulars ever Wednesday night for the past six years. Everyone that knows Marcus will tell you he is always smiling and brings so much energy to each session that it's no wonder he's a legend in the trad field.

However the Tulla Road Ceili Band is made up of some of the best exponents of trad music in their choose field in this country and along with Marcus on bango the members are as follows: Brendan Vaughan on drunms, Ann Marie Rynne, Carmel O Dea and Finnola Ryan on fiddles, Trish Clarke on piano, Teresa O Dea on concertina, Tracy O Dea and Niamh O Dea on flutes and last but not least Murt Ryan on button accordion. After receiving their accolade as the Best Ceili Band they retired to Moroneys to celebrate a truly marvelous achievement with one mighty trad session which was appreciated by all that had the privilege of witnessing theses superb musicians at their best.

Once again on Sunday night many of the musicians returned to play with the great John Joe Kelly on bodharan and we were treated to another foot stamping ans awe inspiring session. Sincere congratulations to Marcus and the Tulla Ceili Road Band on their tremendous achievement from Brian John,staff and all your friends in Moroneys. Also a word of thanks to the organizers of the Ennis Trad Festival who put on another superb programme of events for the 17th year. Go Merimid Beo Ar An Am Seo Aris

Ennislusc 22nd Trip To Elland Road

Thursday, 11 November 2010

Tomorrow morning 37 members (7 more are departing from Dublin on Saturday) of Ennislusc (who meet in Moroneys for matches) will set off from the Auburn Lodge, Ennis on a bus to Knock Airport for our 11am flight to Leeds / Bradford airport. Unfortunately there are no available flights from Shannon on Friday so hence our early morning rise. The only consolation in this case is we won't have any traveling when arriving like here to fore when we arrived in East Midlands, Manchester or Liverpool and had a two hour bus journey to look forward to. Furthermore we'll be in Leeds at 12.30pm,our earliest arrival time yet and when flying home it will be into Shannon from Manchester.

As always these trips would not be possible without the tremendous and unselfish work of our superb secretary Paul (Nuggy) Nihill. It's no mean feat collecting all the money for flights, printing the boarding cards ( which is a comlpete nightmare for those of you who travel with Ryanair as one mistake and it could prove costly with name spelling etc),booking buses, match tickets and not forgetting hotel rooms. It is quite a task multitasking like this and it must be stressed that this is not just for one trip but the preceding 21 also.So now you get an insight into the work that Nugs does for the club and I hope that each and everyone appreciates his committment and dedication to Ennislusc.

Obviously we are hoping for a home win after a run of three losses and one draw against Bristol City who themselves had a great win on Wednesday night away to Swansea City. Unfortunately one of our stalwart supporters Francis Spinky White will be unable to make the trip due to illness. Also out through doctors orders is John Dooley and all at the club wish both lads a speedy recovery.No doubt the trip will not pass without a thought been spared for our dear departed friend and ex President Mike (Mac) McNamara RIP and we all now he'll be with us in spirit.

Here's to a super weekend and three points! Marching On Together

17th Ennis Trad Festival 11th to 15th November

Sunday, 07 November 2010

It's hard to credit that a year has passed by since the last Ennis Trad Festival took place and as the old saying goes time does seem to be flying by these days. And so we are here once again looking forward to another great week of fantastic music, renewing old acquaintances and enjoying the company of top class musicians. Moroney's has a great tradition of trad sessions and one must compliment Brian John McCarthy in this respect. On taking over the management of Moroney's over six years ago Brian made it one of his missions to promote top class trad sessions on a regular basis and to this day the Wednesday night session are legendary.

Musicians such as Marcus Moloney, Michael Butler, Martin Breene, Kieran Kissane, Murty Ryan, Dermot Lernihan, John Joe Kelly, Martin Dermody and Ann Marie McCormack to mention but a few have all been regular contributers to many memorable sessions in Moroney's over the years and to which we are eternally grateful for their wonderful musicianship. As usual Moroney's will have many regular and impromptu sessions over the festival and the list of musicians playing is as follows;

Wed 10th Nov. Marcus Moloney, Kieran Kissane, Dessie Kelleher and friends @ 10pm.

Fri 12th Nov. Brian Mooney, Kieran Kissane, Dessie Kelleher and friends @ 10pm.

Sat 13th Nov. Kieran Hehir, Ronan Moloney, Elaine Hogan and friends @ 10pm.

Sun 14th Nov. Marcus Moloney, Murty Ryan, John Joe Kelly and friends @ 10pm.

As always all musicians are welcome and will be Cead Mille Failte by Brian John and all his staff. So we look forward to seeing all our friend for some magical sessions, ceol agus crack. Best wishes to all the the organizers of Ennis Trad Festival for your continued dedication to promoting this festival from all your friends at Moroney's.

Our Zara In Fair City

Sunday, 10 October 2010

Last Tuesday night our very own Zara McCarthy made her TV debut in the well know Irish soap Fair City, swapping Moroneys for McCoys ( the bar in the series!). Zara who has a degree in TV & Film Production along with a Diploma in Acting is well know to all Moroney customers as she has been working in the bar when on holidays from college. So on Tuesday night at 8pm all the locals tuned in to RTE 1 for episode 154 ( this is year 21 of the series) and none were more prouder of Zara's than dad BJ of her great achievement.

Hopefully this is the start of a great career for Zara and all her friends, colleagues and customers in Moroneys wish her every success in her future career.

Banner Ladies Win All Ireland Sevens Championship

Tuesday, 28 September 2010

On Saturday last the Banner Ladies got some compensation for their recent county final defeat when they won the All Ireland Intermediate Sevens title after seven tough games in Dublin. The Kevin Greene managed Banner Ladies were winning the title for the first time and emulated the achievements of the clubs U 14 teams who won All Ireland Feile na nOg titles at A and B level in the last decade. In their first game they beat Kinnegad (Westmeath) by 7-09 t0 0-09 and followed this up with victories over Garda( Dublin) by 9-09 to 2-07, Grainne Mhaol ( Galway) by 6-05 to 0-07 and St Brigit's (Antrim) by 4-08 to 2-05 to teach the quarter finals.

In the quarter finals they came up against a fancied Kilmacud Crokes (Dublin) but came through on a 1-09 to 0-04 scoreline. Their opponents in the semi final were Railyard (Kilkenny) and after a tough encounter the Banner came away with a 6-08 to 4-05 victory and in the final they beat Cappawhite (Tipperary) 8-05 to 4-05 to secure a famous victory. Captain Louise Henchy collected the cup amid great celebrations which continued long into the night.

On Sunday night Kevin Greene along with members of the panel and management paid a visit to Moroneys on their return from Dublin with the cup as a thank you for sponsoring the ladies leisure tops. Despite being shattered after all the games, celebrations and traveling the gesture was much appreciated by Brian John and all staff and customers of Moroneys. We look forward to cheering the ladies on to victory in the League Final which is due to be played in the next fortnight. Congratulations to all the management and panel from all at Moroneys on your fantastic achievement. Onwards and upwards for The Banner Ladies.

All-Ireland Intermediate Sevens Winning Panel Emma O’Driscoll, Laurie Ryan, Sarah Hoey, Aoife Martin, Niamh Walsh, Mary Tierney, Megan Haugh, Louise Henchy (C), Sonya Maher, Naomi Carroll, Niamh Keane, Niamh O’Dea. - Kevin Greene, Claire Walsh and Alan Copley.

Glory For John Finn And Ennis Senior Golf Team

Sunday, 12 September 2010

Today in Woodenbridge in The Garden County of Ireland the Ennis Senior Golf Team won the JB Carr All Ireland Title after a titanic struggle with a gallant Galway team. One of the stalwarts of the team is our very own Ennislusc member John Finn and we sincerely congratulate him and his colleagues (Noel Pyne, Michael Culliney, Sean O Gorman, Aidan Lynch, Eamonn Corry, Tony Keogh,Luke and Tony Coote,Paul Higgins, Paddy Cahill and Tim McAllister and manager Jimmy McNamara ) on such a tremendous achievement. This competition is a Men's Team event for the Over 60's and it is played in the Scotch Foursomes format.

Ennis won on a 3-2 score line with Noel Pyne and Michael Culliney winning on the 19th to ensure victory. Also there shouting on the Ennis men was another Ennislusc member Eoin Doohan ( himself a scratch golfer) and it's said that our anthem Marching On Together got a airing in the bar afterwards. The captain of the Galway team, Jeff Brennan had himself connections with Ennis as in 1955 he won a county senior football medal with the famous Ennis Faughs and indeed named out the entire team to John Finn. One man he inquired about was Gerry Moroney and John was only too happy to tell him that he was alive and well and that he'll be having a pint in Moroneys pub on Friday night next.

Obviously the celebrations will go on long into the night and no doubt Master Finn will perform his famous party piece that was last heard on another great day last January when his beloved Leeds beat Man U in the FA Cup. That was in Teach Ol on the windswept hill of Tulla and boy did he give some oration that had everyone enthralled. We look forward to seeing John on Friday night next for the live Doncaster Rovers game and congratulating him on his tremendous achievement

A Bridge Too Far The Banner Ladies

Sunday, 12 September 2010

Despite a brave second half comeback the Banner Ladies relinquished their county crown to West Clare Gales, who were winning their first senior title on a scoreline of 4-10 to 1-14. As the old adage goes,goals win games and so it was in this case but the Banner Ladies can be very proud of their efforts. Indeed they were back training on Thursday night last in preparation for the League Semi Final where once again they will meet West Clare Gales and the All Ireland Sevens which takes place in Dublin in two weeks time.

The girls were thrilled with their new casual tops which they wore on the night and were sponsored by Moroneys Bar. Indeed after the game the girls made their way back from Cooraclare to Moroneys and despite their loss partied into the night. They also made a presentation to Moroneys of a crest of the Banner Ladies and Moroneys which will now be mounted on the wall of the bar. There is still a lot for the girls to play for and hopefully we'll have a few more parties to look forward to in the near future, all be with a trophy.

Three In A Row The Target For Banner Ladies

Thursday, 02 September 2010

On Saturday evening next in Doonbeg the Banner Ladies will try to emulate Clonbony and Fergus Rovers in completing a hat trick of Clare Senior Ladies Football titles when they play West Clare Gales. This year the Banner are coached by Kevin Greene who led his native Newmarket to their only senior title in 1991 and is determined to add another title to his managerial CV. The Banner beat Cooraclare last weekend to reach the final and will be captained by Louise Henchy who also led Clare to the TG4 All Ireland Intermediate title last September.

The Ladies have a very experienced panel with a host of well known players including Sonya Maher, Emma O Driscoll, Niamh Keane ,Michelle Delaney and Niamh O Dea to mention but a few. However it must be emphasized that it's the panel that is the strength of this Banner team and each girl on it has put in a superb effort this year as the seek to create their own bit of footballing history. And they will need to be at their absolute best on Saturday to beat the West Clare Gales who are the current Munster Junior Champions and will be seeking their first senior title.

Of course all at Moroneys will be keeping an eye out for our own Irene Hehir who works behind the bar every weekend ( we'll give her this weekend off !) and as well as being an accomplished footballer is equally adapt on the soccer pitch with Lifford FC as are many of the Banner Ladies. Moroneys ( Brian John McCarthy and Johnny Moroney) are sponsoring a set of training tops for the entire panel for Saturdays final and sincerely wish all the ladies and their management best wish in their three in a row quest. Ironically Moroneys has always been know as a football pub as Gerry Moroney won four senior county titles with the Faughs, captaining them in 1952 so here's hoping we will be celebrating a Banner Ladies victory on Saturday night into the wee hours.

Squad and Management of Banner Ladies Senior Final 2010

Emma O'Driscoll Laurie Ryan Jane Kennedy Aoife Cavanagh Sarah Hoey Michelle Delaney Aoife Martin Louise Henchy (Captain) Emma Glynn Mary Tierney Niamh Keane Sonya Maher Irene Hehir Niamh O'Dea Rebecca Coughlan Maria McMahon Naoimi Carroll Shónagh Enright Megan Haugh Niamh Walsh Louise Woods Catriona Hennessy Clare walsh Susan McNamara Rachel Grogan Rebecca Culligan Niamh Cavanagh Shauna Crowley Orlaith Lynch Eleanor Carey Helen Hehir Orla Hennessy Roisin Crowe Eadaoin Fitzgerald

TEAM MANAGEMENT Kevin Greene - Manager Jim McMahon - Selector Claire Walshe - Selector Siobháin Hennessy - First Aid Laura Brennan - Team Kit Alan Copley - PRO Pat O'Driscoll - Mentor

Missing Owing To Family Committment Paul McKenna Maura Cavanagh

Aches,Pains, Fun and Laughter At Noelie Ryan Tournament

Monday, 30 August 2010

The inaugural Noelie Ryan tournament took place at St Flannan College ( courtesy of Vice Principal John Minogue) on Saturday 21st August and despite a torrential downpour before proceedings the day turned out to be a tremendous success. In total 16 teams took part in both the O/35 and O/45 sections with teams from Kilrush, Corofin, Shannon Airport and many of Noels ex playing colleagues making up the remaining Ennis teams. Indeed Noel son Barry who plays in goal for Galway United entered his own team for the event. The monies raised will go to the Sunset Foundation who help the visually impaired and will help fund a trip to Lourdes later on in the year. This was a cause close to Noel's heart as it was set up by his good friend Paddy Murphy who worked with Aer Rianta Catering in Shannon and was himself struck down with a serious illness that has affected his sight.

In the 0/45 section the winners were the John Lavery led Glenstar who beat BJ's (Moroneys Bar) in the final with Moroneys Vets and the Screening Brothers ( Shannon APO's) the beaten semi finalists. The 0/35 section was a keenly contested tournament with the APO's Shannon beating surprise packets Moroneys Youths in the final 0n a 2-0 scoreline. The highlight of the game was the superb opening goal from Clare Oscar Traynor member Brian Jocks Kelly who hit a screamer from twenty five yards that was worthy of winning any game. Other teams taking part were Hammonds Hereos, Avenue Utd, Kilrush Rangers, Corofin Harps, The Alymers Rest, PJ Kellys, Ediie Walshes Boys,Ryans Rebels and Barrys Boys. The presentation of the trophy was made in the Eire Og Clubhouse ( another team dear to Noel's heart) by Noel's daughter Gemma to APO captain Brian Kelly. Many sore limbs could be found here but the sight of the BBQ and a few drinks seemed to revive the spirits.

It is intended that this will be a annual event and already plans are being put in place to make it a real family day out with BBQ's, bouncing castles, face painting etc being part of next years event. Special thanks must go to organizers Alan and Paidge Murphy, Eddie Walsh, Noel McCarthy and his colleagues in the Airport Police Fire Service and referees Frankie Coote, Brian Corry and Noel Bennett who helped make the event a such a success in honoring one of Ennis and Clares finest sportsmen.

See picture gallery under heading Noelie Ryan Tournament for photos of event.

The Noelie Ryan Memorial Tournament

Friday, 20 August 2010

On Saturday morning at 10am in St Flannan's College sports fields the first Noelie Ryan Memorial Tournament kicked off. The soccer tournament is split into two sections for O/35,s and O/45,s and will be run on a league basis. It was the brain child of his colleagues in the Airport Police Fire Service who have put up a beautiful plaque for the occasion and the money collected will go to the Sunset Foundation. This is a cause that was close to Noel's heart as it's run by his great friend Paddy Murphy ( who also worked in Shannon Airport ) and will help over 30 people with visual problems travel to Lourdes later on in the year.

Noelie, one of Ennis greatest sportsmen was born in Summerhill and played hurling and football at all grades for Clare and Eire Og. However he is probably best know for his soccer exploits playing for Braids, St Michael's and of course Cork Celtic in the League of Ireland. His sons Barry and David are both goalkeepers and play in the LOI with Galway and Limerick respectively. At last count there were 16 teams entered so a great days football looks on the cards. Afterwards there is a BBQ in Moroneys and no doubt many stories will be told of sore limbs, missed chances and goals scored on what is a great way to honour one of Ennis finest gentlemen.

Coming Home To The Market

Friday, 13 August 2010

Market native Bob Kearney who left Ennis in the early 50's for Kansas was home on a visit to his birth place recently and used the opportunity to catch up on some old friends. Two of the people he looked up were Mai Quinlivan ( who resides across the road from Moroneys) and in October will be 101 making her Ennis's oldest resident and his great friend Gerry Moroney. Bob who's sister Peggy and brother Tommy still live in Ennis said that Ennis has changed out of all proportions especially in the last twenty years. Bob home house was on the site of the Post Office beside Willie McCannon's so he's a true Market man in every sense of the word.

He called into Moroney's during his stay and took many picture of the posters on show with all the old shop bills that are long gone but well know to him during his youth. While looking at the pictures he was delighted to see a picture of himself along with his late brothers Paddy and John and being served three pints of Guinness by Gerry. If that was a surprise to him, then the picture of his going away party taken outside Jack Connolly's in the Turnpike ( now Gleeson's) in 1953 was some shock. This picture is on display in the lower bar and is often commented upon as there are over 25 people in the photo but not a lady in sight. Obviously ladies didn't frequent public houses in those days!

Before returning to the USA on Wednesday last Bob called to his life long friend Gerry Moroney on Monday evening and the conversation was like being taken on a historical tour of old Ennis and its inhabitants. They discussed all the old families, shops, greyhounds and hurling clubs such as the Dals, St John's etc and of course the Faughs. All one could do was sit and absorb this history class of the town. Bob of course did enjoy a pint or two of Guinness in Moroney's and professed that it was as good as in Gerry's day, praise indeed. He also said that his son Brian keeps abrest of things by logging on to moroneysbar.com and indeed his own photo appears on the site with a Moroney's polo top. Great to see you Bob and best wishes from all your friends in Ennis and the Moroney family.

Blazing A New Music Trail At Moroneys

Thursday, 12 August 2010

On Sunday night last Brian John changed the music scene at Moroney's from the traditional sessions when he booked the group Blaze to play. It was like a blast from the past as Blaze features Joe Mulcahy formerly of the Limerick group The News who played in Woody's, Darcy's and Brandon's in the 90's and his wife Nuala. The session went down very well with the locals and Joe was delighted to meet up with his great friend Ger Hanrahan on the night and enjoyed being back gigging in Ennis. It's now hoped that Blaze will be a regular feature at Moroney's in the coming weeks and months.

This Saturday night Dave Mulcahy will play in Moroneys ( gig starts at 10.30pm) and his fabulous repertoire of songs should go down a treat with the regulars and visitors alike. So now you know where to go for a good sing song !

New Display Units For Moroneys

Sunday, 25 July 2010

Two new display units have been fitted in the smoking area of Moroneys which can now display 120 photos. They were designed and fitted by local man TJ Scanlon and today will see them display photos from the Hermitage 50th Anniversary Dinner Dance. A special thank you must go to Willie Donnellan who took these photos and played for The Tage as a scoring forward for many years. Many regulars and locals have offer us pictures to display over the last few years but it was not always been possible to do so as our previous display unit was not of adequate size.

Now that these units are in place we hope to have regular photo updates both of old and new events which should generate some talking points. Already we have received offers of photos to display so if you have any that may be of interest be sure to drop them into to Moroneys where they will be gratefully received and returned in pristine condition after the display period.

Clare Are Munster Minor Hurling Champions

Monday, 12 July 2010

What a contrasting weekend for Clare hurling supporters with the seniors beaten by thirteen points in Croke Park by the Anthony Daly managed Dubs while in Thurles yesterday the minors bridged a gap of 21 years to bring back the Munster crown. Being one of a small band of Clare supporters to travel to the home of hurling one has to be very proud of these young men who were beaten in the first round on 29th April by this Waterford side on a scoreline of 1-21 to 0-16. They then had to go the backdoor route beating Kerry, Tipperary and Limerick before beating The Deise 1-16 to 1-11 yesterday.

On the 1989 winning team Davy Fitzgerald and Jamesie O Connor went on to further honours and one would like to think that in the years to come some of these young lads will made the senior team. It was great to see young Eire Og hurler David O Halloran ( son of ex Clare footballer and St Michael's soccer team Jarlath) win the Man of The Match award and his goal will long live in the memory and put the Banner on the road to victory. They are now into the All Ireland semi final which is down for decision on 15th August and hopefully they will get a bigger Clare following behind them in Croker.

Great credit is due to the joint managers Gerry O Connor (Eire Og) and Donal Moloney (Scariff), selectors Eamonn Fennessy (SMB), Jimmy Browne (Clonlara) and trainer Paul Kinnerk who had these young lads playing a superb brand of hurling with a never say die spirit. Well done to all concerned.

Clare Minor Team: 1) Ronan Taaffe (Tubber) 2)Haulie Vaughan ( Inagh Kilnamona) 3)Paul Flanagan ( Ballyea) 4)Seadna Morey (SMB) 5)Enda Boyce (Cratloe) 6)Kevin Lynch (SMB) 7)Stephen O Halloran ( Clarecastle) 8) Colin Gavin ( Clonlara) 9) Tony Kelly ( Ballyea) 10)Cathal Malone ( Ennistymon) 11) Paudge Collins ( Cratloe) 12) Jamie Shanahan (SMB) 13) David O Halloran ( Eire Og) 14) Niall Arthur ( Inagh Kilnamona) 15) Daire Keane ( Kilmaley)

Subs 16) Niall Woods (Newmarket), Noel Purcell (SMB), Aaron Cunningham ( Wolf Tones), David McInerney (Tulla), Alan Mulready (SMB), Cathal O Connell ( Clonlara), Jarlath Colleran ( Doora -Barefield), Cathal Doohan (Ballyea),24) Darragh Corry (Tulla).

Farewell To Our Dear Friend Mike Mac

Monday, 28 June 2010

On Friday last, news filtered through just after 5pm that our great friend, member and ex President Mike McNamara had gone to his eternal rest. Mac as he was known to all of us had only been in hospital for little over a week so it came as a tremendous shock. Ironically at the club AGM in Moroneys a week previous, his best friend Slim Corry was elected President, something which Slim took great pride in telling Mac on visiting him in hospital.

To us Mac was a true gent whose smile and wit we will miss. But most of all it's his company on our trips to Leeds or watching live matches in Moroneys(when he would give full commentaries on the failings of his beloved Leeds)that we will miss most of all. When the club was formed in Nuggys ( Fafa Considines in Parnell St) in 2001 the first man at the inaugural meeting was Mac and he was duly elected our first President, something he was intensely proud of and never let us forget !

Many did not realize what a great sportsman Mike was in his younger days. He was a top class goalkeeper with Newmarket Celtic, Lifford and lined out for the Clare Oscar Traynor Cup team. Rugby was another sport Mike excelled at, with St Senans Shannon and Ennis RFC where he lined out with Tim McAllister, Peadar Cosgrove, Aidan Guilfoyle, Liam Murphy. Being from Newmarket and growing up in the sixties one would expect that Mike had to tog out with the Blues on the hurling field,and so he did playing in goal up to Clare Cup level until bureaucracy intervened in the form of local GAA officials.

One evening while waiting for hurling training to begin Mike, Pat Cassidy and Mike Malley started kicking a football around aka soccer style and as the Ban was in at the time this was frowned upon. The upshot was that what was Newmarket hurling's loss was Celtics gain as none of the lads ever caught with a hurley again and went on to many honours on the soccer field.

Mikes other passion when his sporting life was over was to travel. Over the years he has been to the States with Phil Brigdale who does the driving with Mike acting as co pilot. On their last trip to the States when they were traveling down to Virginia Phil said he had to pull in and Mike said what's wrong. Phil said that flashing light behind us is a police car and we are being pulled over. For what said Mike, speeding said Phil. Well you can't blame me as you're the driver! However true to form Mac paid the bill for $130.

His great friends Liam, Alan and John Murphy brought Mike to France and in the last year they went to the States together. One must remember that to be in Mac,s company was a tonic and a constant laugh. No matter where he went he'd strike up a conversation with someone and this was no different when we went on our annual trips to Leeds. It was his idea to drink in the Prince Of Wales in Leeds and over the years the proprietors Paul and Angie have been over to Ennis on invites from Mike. I think that anyone who was on an Ennislusc trip would tell you stories of the slagging that went on between Mike, Slim, Spinky, Phil and Richie were better than any soap opera and his presence on future trips will be sorely missed. However it's true to say Mac will be mentioned often and not forgotten.

Mike thanks for all the memories, great laughs, words of wisdom and above all that welcoming smile when we met. Now that you have a ringside seat with the man above don't forget to have a word with him about Leeds. Always in our thoughts, your friends at Ennislusc and Moroneys. Marching On Together

Happy 50th Frank

Friday, 18 June 2010

Today is a very special day in the life of our good friend Frank Mitchell as he celebrates his 50th birthday. Now Frank is not the type of guy that likes a fuss and no doubt he'll be shocked when we sing Happy Birthday to him tonight when he comes in for his regular pint but I'm sure he'll take it in good spirits.

Best wishes Frank, long life and happiness from all your friends and staff in Moroneys.

Hermitage FC 50 Years And Counting

Thursday, 10 June 2010

On Saturday night last in the West County Hotel the culmination of months work came to fruition for Hermitage FC when they celebrated their 50th year in great style with over 300 guest at the clubs Dinner Dance. Many great players and committee members from past eras were present including Mickey Kenny, Arthur Greer, Gerry Gilligan, Seanie Clohessy Joe Shannon, Ollie O Loughlin, Mike Leahy and PJ Dilger who traveled home from Kentucky for the event. Guest of honour on the night was FAI Chief Executive John Delaney who praised the club on their milestone and presented the founding members families (Johnny Quinn, Paddy Woods, Anthony Higgins, Tex Corry and the late Haulie Molloy) with tickets for the forthcoming soccer international on 27th Nov in the new Aviva Stadium ( formerly Lansdowne Road) between the Republic Of Ireland and Argentina. He did'nt stop there as he also presented 50 tickets to the Hermitage A and B teams for the same event. A lovely gesture and much appreciated by the large attendance.

Among the speakers on the night were club Chairman Freddie Dinan, Vice Chairman Gerry Scanlon, Mickey Quinn ( who's uncle Johnny founded the club and traveled from England for the event),Joe Shannon , Frank Healy ( Clare League) Mickey Guilfoyle ( Ennis Urban Council) and Paddy Dunne ( Clare Soccer Referees). Former Club Chairman and current referee Frankie Coote gave a brief history on how Hermitage was founder, some of the characters in the area including the late Michael Tierney and he also thanked all those who supported the club down the years and here he made special mention to our late Presidents Sean Casey and Michael Howard and also to local business man and former councilor Michael Guerin. Frankie also made a special point of thanking the Ryan family from Circular Road for their contribution and highlighted the fact that in the 1983 Haughey Cup Final four Ryan brothers ( Declan, Liam, Fintan and Kieran) togged out for The Tage vs the dominant team of that era Newmarket Celtic. This achievement has never been equaled before or since.

Presentations were made to the club founders on the night along with trophies for the A and B Players of The Year and of course medals to the A team who won the League 1 title under the steward ship of Lennie Franks and Mark Cronin. They will now play Premier football next season and with such a young team we look forward to them pitting themselves against the best teams in Clare and beyond. Interestingly the B team player of the year was Eoin O Loughlin and his dad Ollie who himself won a League title with Hermitage in 1981 was also a former Youths Player of The Year. The first presentation of the night was made to long serving Club Secretary Sinead Moloney for her outstanding contribution over the years in keeping the club moving forward. There was also a special presentation to Michael Guerin accepted by his son Johnny for his sponsorship and kindness to the club and its members over a thirty five year period. The final presentations were made to Mark Moloney, Derek Frazer and Mark Moloney who have been a the helm with the Tage since 1995 and are Hermitage men to the core.

Finally to all the committee, players and supporters of Hermitage FC many thanks for a superb night and continued success to The Tage for the next 50 !

Photos from the night are in the Gallery under title Hermitage 50th. A special thank you to Willie Donnellan who is responsible for many of the photos taken on the night.

Bon Voyage Eoin

Monday, 31 May 2010

On Saturday last Eoin O Loughlin said goodbye to all his friends in Moroneys as he headed across the Atlantic to work in California for the summer. Eoin who recently qualified as a Civil Engineer from NUIG hopes to pursue a Masters Degree in his choose field when he returns after his summer vacation. Eoin had just finished pulling his last pints of Guinness in Moroneys when it was time for a few hours sleep and then off to Shannon Airport to board a plane to the US.

All his friends and customers in Moroneys wish him the best of luck Stateside and trust he'll show them how to pull a real pint of porter.

Fleadh Nua Ennis 23rd - 31st May

Thursday, 27 May 2010

It's that time of the year again when the Fleadh Nua returns to the capital of the Banner County. First held in 1970 the Fleadh has been held in Ennis every year since 1975 and although it does not draw the huge crowds off old it still a very important commercial and tourist attraction for the town. As usual there will céilithe, music, song and dancing workshops, street entertainment and of course the parade through the streets on Sunday 30th.

During the Fleadh Moroneys will be hosting trad sessions along with it's now famous Wednesday night session with Marcus Moloney. The programme in Moroneys is as follows:

Friday 28th May : Noely Ryan, Laura Kerr and Grace Kelly, Session Begins at 9.30pm

Saturday 29th May : Alan Kelly, Fabian Joyce, Jessie Healy, Session Starts at 9.30pm.

Sunday 30th May: Maebh O Hare, Ann Marie McCormack, John Joe Kelly,Session Starts at 7.00pm

Looking forward to seeing all our old friends over the weekend and to some great sessions.

Let's Go To The Dogs

Tuesday, 18 May 2010

Our good friends in the Rineanna Syndicate are really gone to the dogs now. Having purchased their first greyhound two years ago and named him Oscar Two they have now gone along and bought two pups from Kieran Browne of the famed Burnpark Kennels near Kilmihil. All the lads work in Shannon Airport and now that Oscar has recently been sold ( he'll continue his career racing in Scotland) the lads felt it was time to purchase once again. Having scoured the papers and internet for possible new recruits for the syndicate news finally filtered through that there may be a chance of purchasing a pup from the Burnpark dynasty.

On Tuesday evening Austin Clair, Mike McNamara (who was born next door to Moroneys but now resides in Tulla) and Johnny Moroney went back to Kilmihil with the intention of buying a 11 month old pup for the syndicate. Two hours later the syndicate were the proud owner of not one but two pups and now look forward to racing in the new Limerick Greyhound Stadium which is due to open in September. When the others in the syndicate ( Paddy Ryan, Enda and Noel Howard, Jason Roche, Stephen Wynne, Val O Sullivan, Gerry O Connor and Declan Cullinan) heard the news that they were now the owners of two greyhound pups they were somewhat surprised but delighted that we had secured such quality breeding.

In three months time the dogs will start training and hopefully next October they will be having their first races. Until then it's fingers crossed that the stay injury free and now we have to choose some names for these dogs. That should be fun !

See in Picture Gallery under heading Rinneanna Syndicate 4 for photos of the new purchases.

Clare Soccer League Chase Oscar

Friday, 14 May 2010

On Sunday next in Doora the Clare Soccer League team will endeavor to win the Oscar Traynor Trophy for the second time in their history (their fist success was in 2005) when they entertain the Wexford League with kick off at 2.30pm. When Davie Russell leads out the team on Sunday they will be thinking of their late great manager Hughie Kelly who sadly passed away little over three weeks ago and has been a driving force in Clare soccer for over 25 years. Indeed Hughie managed the team to it's 2005 triumph and as the present team will testify was more like a father figure than a manager.

Last Sunday in Turners Cross (Cork) the Clare League beat the current holders Cork AUL by 1-0 with inspirational captain David Russell scoring the all important goal just before half time. With selectors John O Malley, Don McMillan, Donie Garrihy and Pat Basil Whelan (First Aid) in charge this Clare team is superbly prepared and with Hughie looking down on them I expect a huge performance from the boys on Sunday. Hopefully the Clare public will turn out in force and give the lads the extra lift. It promises to be a great day tinged with sadness but hopefully come 4.30pm the Oscar Traynor will be coming to Clare for a second time. Good luck to all the management and players.

Squad: John Healy (Avenue Utd), Liam Crusher Murphy (Newmarket Celtic),Richie Lillis (Bunratty), Mattie Nugent (Avenue Utd), David Russell Capt (Avenue Utd), Con Collins (Bunratty),Trevor Maxwell (Bridge Utd),Mike O Malley ( Newmarket Celtic),Derek Fahy (Bridge Utd),David McCarthy (Avenue Utd),Adrian McDonagh (Avenue Utd),Daryl Eade (Avenue Utd),Ger O Connell (Bridge Celtic),Eoin O Brien (Newmarket Celtic),Eamonn O Reilly (Avenue Utd),Michael Devitt (Newmarket Celtic),Aly McMillan(Bunratty),Gary Collins (Newmarket Celtic),Barry Nugent (Avenue Utd) and Kieran McGlynn (Newmarket Celtic).

Welcome To Moroneys Hanna

Wednesday, 12 May 2010

Tonight we welcome Ger Hanrahan ( better know to one and all as Hanna) to the staff of Moroneys and we are delighted he was come on board. Ger is well know in Clare sporting circles as one of the best footballers ever to grace the soccer fields having lined out for St Michaels, Villa United, Newmarket Celtic and Avenue United winning numerous League titles and Cup medals. In a week where Clare play Wexford in the Oscar Traynor Final I'm sure Ger like all the rest of us will be in Doora on Sunday to shout on the boys as Hanna played for many years on such Oscar teams for the county.

Ger retired from Element Six ( former De Beers) last year and has since been seen regularly on the bypass cycling mad and he's also playing more golf another sporting passion of his. Many will know Ger's brothers Kieran and Michael from the famed Stockton's Wing band so he'll enjoy the trad nights in Moroneys. As Ger himself is a Moroneys regular this new experience will be an easy transition and I'm sure he'll be given a great welcome by the regulars. Good luck from all at Moroneys , Ger.

Off To Wembley

Tuesday, 11 May 2010

All roads lead to Wembley next weekend for eight of the Ennis Chelsea Supporters Club members and volcanic ash or not Jim McMahon, Eugene Ryan, Colm Gallagher, Pat Dingle Daly, Mike Considine, Matt and Darragh Kelly along with Ger and Ethan Butler will be there to shout on The Blues. Having secured the Premiership on Sunday last the elusive double is now on and it will be some experience for the lads if Frank Lampard and the boys defeat Portsmouth to win the cup.

As everyone knows it next to impossible to get your hands on cup final tickets but with Jim McMahon in charge and the standing of the supporters club this did not pose a problem. All at Moroneys wish you the best of luck, safe travel and bring home the cup. Blue Is The Colour

Congratulations To Leeds And Chelsea Supporters Clubs

Tuesday, 11 May 2010

It was a great weekend in Moroneys for both the Ennis Leeds United Supporters Club and the Chelsea Supporters Club who both had plenty to celebrate. After three years in League 1 and having endured misfortune in the play offs for the previous two season the Gods finally smiled for Leeds fans on Saturday and boy how the needed it. With Brian John, Colm McNevin, Paul Nuggy Nihill, Dom O Rourke and Gearoid Moroney working all morning to get an internet connection for the game ( as it was not being shown on the normal channels) all seemed fine until just before kick off. Then we lost the pictures but we had commentary and looking back it probably added to the tension on the day.

A man down after 30 minutes, a goal down three minutes into the second half and Moroneys looked like a morgue with desperation etched on all the Leeds fans. Then suddenly we got the pictures back, substitute Johnny Howson who was just on the field five minutes scored a brilliant goal from 25 yards and Leeds were back in it. Four minutes later the roof was nearly lifted off the pub when top scored Jermaine Beckford scored his 31st goal of the season and the miracle was on. Thirty minutes later and the Leeds anthem Marching On Together was ringing around Moroneys.

The celebrations lasted long into the night with Spinky White, Cyril Slim Corry, Dom O Rourke, John Brooks, Alan Murphy and co singing their hearts out. Immediately after the game Brian John broke open the bottles of champagne and after three years on ice they tasted fantastic. All the locals in Moroneys were delighted for the Ennislusc boys after all the agony and slagging they have had to put up with since being put into administration over five years ago.

The focus then was on Super Sunday when the Chelsea Supporters Club were hoping to win the Premiership at home to Wigan and as is norm they gathered in Moroneys for the clash. Before the game Jim McMahon presented a hand made mounted Chelsea crest to Brian John to display in the bar and this was very much appreciated and will be going up this week. Unlike the Leeds game there were no need for nerves from the Chelsea supporters as the romped to a 8-0 victory and a third Premiership title. For Jim, Colm Gallager, Eugene Ryan, Colm Fitzgerald and the boys this was a sweet victory as they denied Man United the title by one point and also a four in a row. As always the Chelsea anthem Blue Is The Colour rang out in Moroneys and celebrations lasted long into the evening. It's now off to Wembley for Chelsea when they try to win the double with victory over already relegated Portsmouth and no doubt some of the Ennis Supporters Club will be heading over for the occassion.

Sincere congratulations to both supporters club from all at Moroneys and many thanks for your continued custom.

The Late Aoner Sheridan

Wednesday, 05 May 2010

On Sunday 24th April the late Aoner Sheridan was laid to rest in Drumcliff and with his passing the town lost one of it's great characters. He served for 27 years on the Urban Council and was Chairman in 1975 but it was his prowess in GAA circles that he first came to prominence. He grew up in Barrack Street and played hurling with the Market in the town leagues and later with the Turnpike where he resided for most of his life at 22 Dalcassian Park but it was with Ennis Dalcassians or The Dals as they were better know as that he made his name.

Aoner won two County Senior Medals with The Dals in 1934 and 41, a Clare Cup medal in '37 and an Intermediate title with Ennis Faughs in 1945. Among those on the Faughs team of '45 were Paddy Duggan ,Ralphie Burns, Brudsy NcCarthy, Miko Ball, Tony Strand with Tim Smyth and Jack Buster Carroll as team mentors. While small in stature Aoner was renowned as a excellent corner forward and played senior hurling with Clare from 1936 to 41.

While most people knew him as Aoner he was in fact christened Michael. In Ollie Byrnes excellent book Around The Square-The Story Of Ennis Hurling, Aoner relates how he got his nickname. A soldier asked him was he a Free Stater or a Sinn Feiner ( De Valera was a Sinn Feiner then) as Barrack Street and The Market area were all Sinn Fein at that time. Thinking fast he said he was an Aoner and as we all knew the name stuck.

To his sons Tom, Gerry and John, daughters Mary and Breda we send our sincere sympathy and remember a true Townie and great friend to all.

The Townies Are Back

Thursday, 29 April 2010

No one in Cusack Park would have given the Eire Og U21 hurlers a chance when they trailed Sixmilebridge by 8 points ( 1-05) to no score after fourteen minutes in the County U21 hurling final but as team mentor Declan Coote ( himself the last man to captain a winning Eire Og U21 team in 1977) said in an interview afterwards, this team has character in abundance. It was a tremendous game played in a true sporting manner and with superb performances and scores from both sides. Eire Og could be backed at odds from 3/1 to 5/1 depending where you went and many of the team themselves could not resist a flutter and who could blame them.

The Bridge had beaten Clarecastle by over 30 points in the semi final whereas Eire Og had to beat Clonlara and Inagh Kilnamona to reach the final, two extremely tough games that stood to them in the long run. In his acceptance speech Kevin Brennan spoke highly of mentors Declan Coote, Colm Mahon and team trainer Alan Dunne and also thanked all those who helped with this team from it's infancy with the Urban Board.

This was a superb team effort but special mention must be made of Stephen O Halloran ( grandson of Eire Og President Paddy and son of dual star Jarlath) who score 13 points and Man Of The Match Kevin Moynihan who gaves a Seanie McMahon performance at centre back for The Townies. Hopefully this will spur on the club to win the Intermediate Title and bring back Senior Hurling to the town again. It was great to see the red and white parade through the town as the team walked from the Queens Hotel ( their sponsors) to the club house on Clonroadmore where the celebrations when on until the small hours. Well done to all concerned.

Best Wishes To Eire Og U21 Hurlers

Sunday, 18 April 2010

Today at 3.45pm Eire Og will do battle with arch rivals Sixmilebridge in the Clare U21 hurling final at Cusack Park. Having defeated Inagh /Kilnamona and Clonlare in the semi final the Townies are very much up against it as the BRIDGE destroyed Clarecastle in their sem final and are rank outsiders with the bookies.

However this will suit Kevin Brennan ( Capt and goalkeeper) and co down to the ground and with Alan Dunne having them in tip top shape don't write these guys off. With talent such as Kevin Moynihan ( surely this years county U21 centre back), David O Halloran, Danny Russell, Graham Glynn and Ciaran Hanna in their ranks an upset is on the cards. It's all of 33 years since Eire Og won the cup with a team that had Declan Coote as captain and formed the bases of the teams that won the Senior Championships in 1980 and 82 so heres hoping the Townies bring back some long awaited success to Eire Og.

Boys, Boarding Cards, Wine, Songs And Celtic

Thursday, 01 April 2010

Well the Edinburgh 16 are home and can look back on some great memories and laughs from a great weekend in Scotland. The drama started before we even departed these shores when on arriving at Shannon Airport we found that Brian John had no boarding pass printed. Panic set in, computers were found thanks to kindness of the Airport Police but as we had not the correct email address our plight looked doomed. With twenty minutes to take off BJ was told to go back to the Ryanair desk and see could he purchase a late ticket. Just as the aircraft door was closing who appeared like a mirage but BJ complete with suitcase and boarding card. Even now a week later we are still wondering how he pulled off this miracle traveling with Ryanair but he's putting it down to his charm !

On arrival at Edinburgh airport we had a mini bus waiting thanks to the contacts of Frankie Woods who had also sorted out our accommodation at the Capital Hotel on the outskirts of the city. After breakfast we went on a mini tour of the city followed by some shopping and of course socializing were the order of the day thereafter. Some of our more adventurous members including John Hanrahan, John Casey, Paul Cusack and Phil Brigdale went on a underground tour of the old city which by all accounts lived up to it's billing as a must do tour. Later that evening following a relaxing swim and sauna and even a gym session by Pat Hennessy it was out on the city for some pints and in Mickey Conlon's case some wine ! It's safe to say Mickey will remember this trip and as he proves is a great man for hide and seek in a packed car park at Celtic Park.

The highlight of the trip was our trip to Celtic Park and watch Celtic play Kilmarnock in the Scottish Premier League. We had secured Executive Suite tickets which were fantastic value at £60 and allowed us the freedom to come and go from our leather seats and enjoy the facilities of a bar and complimentary food at half time. Only two of our party ( Colm McDonagh and Pat Hennessy) had been to Celtic Park previously so to the rest of us it was an eye opener. While the game itself was quite poor save for a super opening goal by Robbie Keane it was also the first game in charge for stand in manager Neil Lennon who received a tremendous reception from the home fans. When the lads were seated the got a surprise when looking at the big screen and seeing a birthday wish to Brian John ( Monday 29th was actual day) from themselves and accompanied by a group picture. If this caught them by surprise this was followed shortly after on the screen by a good lucky message from Moroneys Bar who are also home to the Ennis No 1 Celtic Supporters Club. Following the game while making our way back to the bus some of us were lucky enough to meet Celtic playeres Lee Naylor, Scott Brown ( Capt.) Darren O Dea and Robbie Keane ( although he stayed in his jeep).

On the Saturday nigh dinner was organized for the group in the hotel and this was superb and lead to some great slagging. All one can say is that no one was immune from the slagging and founding member Martin O Brien gave a short speech. As Fergie O Loughlin says he would not be short of words if he pulled you over for speeding so few were the words from OB but such was the banter. The city center beckoned then, taxis ordered and it was off to the Royal Mile for some sociable pints. Later that night in the hotel bar Tom Tobin, Phil (Boulagovue) Brigdale, John Casey, Paul Cusack, Ger and John Hanrahan, Pat Docka Donlon, BJ and Cyril Cusack had a sing song and despite some strange looks from a group of English guest attending a black tie reception the boys rose the roof with their songs.

What started out as an inter pub soccer team 23 years ago is still going strong and the friendships and camaraderie has endured all those years is a tribute to those involved and I feel proud to call each and every one of the lads a true friend. Where to for our next tour was the talk in Moroneys on our return home on Sunday evening and places such as Westport, London and many sun destinations were mentioned. However for now we will be back training for our return to indoor football in Flannan's next September for our 24th year, more slagging, more tackling, fighting but as always when the hour is up it's handshakes all round. As the Swarbriggs song went " That's what friends are for ".

Pictures from the trip can be seen in Picture Gallery under heading Edinburgh March 10

Edinburgh Here We Come

Sunday, 21 March 2010

Next Friday it's off to Edinburgh for Martin O Brien's Indoor Soccer Boys who are now in their 23rd year playing footie together. What started off as a serious attempt at winning the Ennis Inter Pub competition many years ago has now lead to some long lasting and loyal friendships. While the years have passed and we've got slower the skills and will to win can be seen every Tuesday night in St Flannan's when for an hour we do battle in a six a side game.

When Edinburgh was decided upon as the destination for a weekend away it was only natural that we couple that with a football game and what better place to go than Parkhead and watch Celtic play. Our decision to go to watch them play Kilmarnock has proved a great one especially since Robbie Keane has signed. We will be watching the game from the Executive Suites and hopefully it will be a day to remember for all of us.

It's an early start for us on Friday with our flight departing Shannon at 6.40am but being in Edinburgh early has it's advantages. A special word of thanks to Frankie Woods for organizing a bus for us over the weekend and sorting our hotel accommodation. It promises to be a great weekend and on Sunday night we'll be back in Moroneys to relive the highlights and drink some pints.

Traveling Squad: Martin O Brien, Tom Tobin, Ger Hanrahan, John Casey, Cyril Cusack, Mickey Conlon, Colm McDonagh, Phil Brigdale, John Hanrahan, Pat Donlon, Johnny Moroney, Brian John McCarthy, Paul Cusack, Frankie Woods,Fergie O Loughlin and Pat Hennessy.

Happy St Patrick's Day and Best Wishes Kilmurray Ibrickane

Tuesday, 16 March 2010

Well St Patrick's Day is upon us and everyone is in good spirits following the great spell of fine weather we've had for the last four weeks. Hopefully it will keep up for the parade tomorrow which starts at 11.00am and finishes in the Market. Paddy's Day is also a huge day of sport and tomorrow is no different with racing from Cheltenham and most of all the All Ireland Club Hurling and Football Finals in Croke Park.

However it's the football final which will capture all Clare people attention with Kilmurray Ibrickane being the first ever Clare team to contest a football final. Their opponents are the experienced St Gall's from Antrim who where beaten in the 2005 final and will be hot favourites on the day. That will suit the men from the Quilty / Mullagh parishes who relish the roll of underdogs and will not be found wanting. You can be sure all in Moroneys will be routing for our arch rivals from the West for a hour at least. Come on Ibrickane.

Well where ever you are tomorrow here wish you and yours a very happy St Patricks Day from all in Moroneys and if you feel like singing remember do sing an Irish song.

Our Thoughts Are With John Joe

Saturday, 27 February 2010

It was was with deep regret during the week that we learned of the death of Hughie Kelly father of John Joe Kelly the well know and highly acclaimed bodhrán player. All trad fans will know John Joe for his great sessions here in Moroneys and although we all know him as a extraordinary bodhrán player he is well able to play the banjo too as Marcus Moloney will testify to.

All at Moroneys wish John Joe and his family our sincere sympathy and are thinking of him at this sad time.

We're All Behind You JB

Saturday, 27 February 2010

All at Moroneys were shocked and upset to hear that our good friend JB Butler was diagnosed with a serious illness recently and had to enter the Galway Clinic for treatment. JB who is an avid Man United fan had driven 16 Leeds fans out to Tulla on 3rd Jan for the FA Cup game between both sides which was shown live on Sky and just to irk the boys he dressed up in full Man U gear. Needless to say he endured some slagging on the way out but when Leeds scored and went on to win he was given the mother and father of a going over from the boys.

However in true spirit JB dropped the boys back to Moroneys, parked up the bus and then went down to drink porter with them and endure more slagging. Little did we know then that JB was so ill. However last Wednesday night he appeared in Moroneys with his great friend Colm McNevin and was a sight for sore eyes. While he has a lot more treatment to come he was in good form and we hope and pray that things will go well for a true gent and friend to all at Moroneys in the coming months.

Hermitage AFC 50th Anniversary

Thursday, 11 February 2010

This year Hermitage football club will celebrate fifty years in existence with a host of events culminating in a Dress Dance in the West County on Saturday 5th of June. The Tage as they are better know throughout the county and beyond were founded in 1960 by Johnny Quinn, Haulie Molloy, Paddy Woods, Tex Corry and John Hayes. It's home ground was originally the Fairgreen and then they transfered to the One Mile Inn thanks to the generosity of the late Club President Senator Michael Howard and today they play their home games back in the Fairgreen. Over the years the club was in the guiding hands of people like Joe Shannon, Arthur Greer, the late Tommy Blake, Frankie Coote, Mike Quinn , Freddie Dinan and many more great people too numerous to mention.

Down through the years Hermitage was a great family club with numerous brothers playing alongside each other such as the Kennys, Woods, Ryans, Murphys, Gilligans, Considines, O Loughlins,O Briens, Dilgers, McCarthys,Corrys, McAllisters, Skerritts, Moloneys, Clohessys, Moroneys, Dinans and many more that are gone to their eternal rest. In 1967 a youths team was formed and when Clare won the Inter County Cup in 1971 it was backboned by Hermitage players Michael and Stephen Kenny, Martin Woods, Tony Considine, Gerry Gilligan and the late goalkeeper Billy Greer (R.I.P). Unfortunately today Hermitage does not have a youths team, something it hopes to rectify in the near future but does have two junior teams competing in the Clare League.

When celebrating the clubs 21st Anniversary in 1981 the club held a Dress Dance in the West County on Friday 27th February with ex Limerick and Republic of Ireland goalkeeper Kevin Fitzpatrick as guest of honour. This year the committee including Chairman Gerry Scanlon, Eddie Walsh, Mark and Joe Moloney and Robbie Kenneally have gone for the same format with FAI chief John Delaney as guest of honour for the dinner dance. In April a golf tournament will take place at the Ennis Golf Club with proceeds going to a local charity and this promises to be a great day for past and present members to catch up on old times.

In 1981 Hermitage won the Youths Cup, FAI Area and League and the junior side won the League 1 Championship but beaten in the Haughey Cup Final by Newmarket Celtic. The present Tage A team is 2nd in League 1 and still in the Cup so all will be hoping that there could be more to celebrate at the end of the season and particularly promotion to the Premier League. So all in all it looks like the Tage are on their way back to the pinnacle of Clare Soccer, a position they richly deserve.

Roll Of Honour List :Division 1 League 1962, Fergus Cup 1969 (now Haughey Cup),Div 1 Shield 173 and 1975, F.A.I. Area 1975, Division 1 League 1981.

Tournaments : Ennis Harvest 1975, One Mile Inn 1975, 1979, 1980. Newtown 1981.

Youths best season was 1980/81 when they won the Munster Youths ( Clare Area), F.A.I. (Clare Area), Youths Cup and Youths League and were beaten by Southend Utd ( Waterford) in the Munster Youths Cup Final in Ozier Park Waterford. The club was also honoured that season when Noel Galvin was selected for the Munster Youths.

Rival Supporters Marching On Together In Moroneys

Saturday, 06 February 2010

On Wednesday night last Moroneys was rocking for the FA Cup replay between Leeds United and Tottenham Hotspur. As most people in Ennis know Moroneys is the home of the Ennis Leeds United Supporters Club and Brian John McCarthy who runs Moroneys is a die hard Spurs fan as is his son Ethan so obviously the crack was going to be good. After the first game ended 2-2 with Leeds scoring from the penalty spot in the 95th minute, the roof nearly lifted off the pub when Beckford scored so this game was always one not to be missed.

With Ennislusc fans having their flags up in the lower bar, the front was decked out with Spurs flags so the scene was set for some fun. With standing room only in the bar Spurs took a deserved lead through Jermaine Defoe but in first half injury time Leeds equalized and the place erupted. The banter and crack at half time was something else but in the second half Defoe completed his hat trick and Leeds went out of the cup. Bragging rights were with BJ on the night and he certainly enjoyed slagging us Leeds boys.

After the game Marcus Moloney and friends kept everyone entertained with some superb trad music and a good night was had by all. On Tuesday night next Leeds play in the 2nd leg of the Johnstone Paints Trophy ( Northern Section ) vs Carlisle and it's true to say the Ennislusc boys will be out in force once more. As their anthem goes Marching On Together and these supporters are true to the cause and always welcome in their spiritual home Moroneys.

Jack Frost Closes Moroneys

Sunday, 17 January 2010

Last weekend when the whole country was brought to a standstill on the roads and people struggled with frozen and broken pipes we too at Moroneys had our own troubles thanks to the freezing conditions. On Saturday morning (9th Jan ) after temperatures dropped to minus 11 overnight the pipes going to the ladies and gents toilets froze even though they were doubly lagged. Despite the best efforts of Colm McNevin, Paddy Dunne and Dara Moroney they were unable to free the pipes and the decision was reluctantly taken to close the bar on Saturday until such times as they could be freed.

Despite been closed over the weekend we were very luck in that the pipes did'nt burst unlike our neighbouring businesses Tony's Fashions and The Wine Rack who opened their doors on Monday morning to be greeted by the sight of water. On Monday morning TJ Scanlon (Ventilators & Ventilation Systems, Lissane East Clarecastle ,Ennis ) arrived and spent two days enclosing and lagging the pipes and his good friend Mikey Ryan (McNamara Park) showed all his expertise as a plumber to free the pipes and sort out any airlocks. To both lads we are deeply thankful for their quick responses in our time of crises and their expertise in their particular fields.

A big thank you to Colm, Paddy and Dara also and to everyone who enquired and offered assistance during the closure. It's at times such as these that one appreciated the goodwill of neighbours and friends who when called upon were not found wanting. Mile Buiochas to you all. On Tuesday evening the pub opened it's doors once again and not a happier sight was there to see.

Moroneys Christmas Draw Results

Thursday, 31 December 2009

Moroneys party night is always a great event to thank customers for their continued support during the year and one of the highlights of the night is the annual Christmas draw. With music, food and crack the order of the night it needs not be said that it was a huge success once again. Congratulations to all the winners and sincere thanks to all our loyal customers,looking forward to seeing you in 2010.

Draw Results

1st Deirdre Hussey ( Weekend away in the Kilford Arms Hotel,Kilkenny)

2nd Barry O Loughlin ( TV and DVD Combo)

3nd Pat O Connell ( Massive Christmas Hamper)

4th Paddy Daffey ( Slab of Heiniken)

5th Trevor Chandler ( Slab of Bulmers)

6th Conor Dempsey ( Slab of Budweiser)

7th Lockie ( Bottle of Brandy)

8th Edel Murphy ( Bottle of Jameson)

9th Louise Dunleavy ( Bottle of Vodka)

10th Ethan McCarthy ( Bottle of Bacardi)

Moroneys Christmas Party 29th Dec

Tuesday, 29 December 2009

Tuesday night the 29th December will be another great night in Moroneys as the annual customer party and draw will take place. With lines selling at €2 a go for the 200 Club there has been a great take up by the locals and with a top prize of a weekend away in the Kilford Arms Hotel Kilkenny it's easy to see why they are being snapped up. Other prizes include a TV and DVD Combo, slabs of Budweiser,Bulmers,Heiniken, Guinness along with numerous bottles of wine, whiskey and brandy. As always there will be plenty of food and music and a great night is assured. So come along and join us for a evening and night to rememer in Moroneys.

Seasons Greeting To All Our Customer And Friends

Friday, 18 December 2009

Despite the doom and gloom over 2009, the Ennis floods and the terrible Budget that was announced last week Christmas is now little over a week away. It's a time for familys and friends to get together, welcome relations home and above all for the kids the coming of Santa Claus on the 25th.

To all our loyal customers and friends we sincerely wish you and your families a Happy and Peaceful Christmas and Happy New Year. Brian John, Tracy, Ethan, Zara, Irene, Cathal, Trevor and Marita look forward to your continued support in 2010. D

Doonbeg A Jewel In The Banner County

Friday, 18 December 2009

When I think of Doonbeg I always think of playing football there with Hermitage and the wind blowing a storm on Doughmore Beach and wondering what on earth I'm doing here on a Sunday morning instead of staying in bed. However nowadays it's associated with the five star Doonbeg Hotel and Golf Club and it was with anticipation that I traveled there (on Sun 6th Dec) via the villages of Kilmihil and Cree to meet my good friend Travis McDonagh. Travis who now resided back in Canada came to Ennis in the early 90's and set up a thriving chiropractor practice in the town opposite the Vocational School. Today they are based in the Grove Shopping complex on the Tulla road and it was through my wife Marian who works for the clinic that I got to know Travis.

Travis to those that don't know him is a true all rounder having played basketball with the Ennistymon Admirals, won the South of Ireland tennis Championships a record seven successive times, boxed for his home country Canada at International level and ran the Dublin Marathon with the Clare Crusaders. However it's his easy going disposition and his fantastic knowledge of the working of the human body that made him so popular with friends and clients alike. Indeed he treated all the panel of the Clare 95 and 97 teams over the years and to this day is still great friends with Dalo, Jamesie and Sean McMahon in particular. He is also partial to a pint of Guinness and tells some great stories of his days at the Galway races with his hurling friends from Clarecastle.

So I didn't know what to expect when I got to Doonbeg as I'd never been inside the door before but to say it's a different world would be an understatement. As the saying goes "this is how the other half lives". That said I was made to feel at home in the members bar ( there were only 4 other people there) and both Marian and I had a beautiful lunch there looking out on the 18th green with fifteen foot waves in the background. This was picture postcard type of scenery and at €20 for two course ( you wouldn't eat any more with all the food) it was tremendous value in such a luxurious setting. It made me think that perhaps the recession has now made such places accessible to the ordinary public and not the helicopter set we were led to believe frequented such places.

This point was borne out last weekend when 8,000 people turned up there for the French Christmas Market where everything from food to hand made gifts were for sale.When one thinks of beaches in Clare Lahinch, Spanis Point, Fanore, Seapoint and Kilkee are always mentioned but Doughmore Beach is one that never springs to mind. To me it is a well kept secret as the best beach by far in Clare to go for a stroll and the scenery is spectacular but unfortunately it's not safe to swim due to the currents.

That evening both Marian and I came home refreshed and in awe of Doonbeg and it's surroundings. True to say we have some spectacular scenery in the Banner County but from now on I'll be making more frequent visits to Doonbeg for a strool on the beach and to chill out and watch the golfers stressing themselves out on the Championship course. As always Travis was an excellent host and now he has a Moroneys polo top and mug to take home to Canada which will remind him of The Banner County. Keep in touch Travis and that pint of Guinness awaits you in Moroneys on your return.

Maura O Connell Nominated For A Grammy

Friday, 11 December 2009

Well know Ennis singer Maura O Connell who hails from the Upper Market has been nominated for a prestigious Grammy Award for her latest album Naked with Friends. This is Maura's second time to be nominated fot this award having been previously nominated in 1991. Unaccompanied singing has been a part of Maura's music since her earliest days and on this album she is joined by a host of well know musicians including Dolly Parton, Alison Krauss, Kate Rusby, Paul Brady, Mary Black, Jerry Douglas, Tim O'Brien, Darrell Scott, Aoife O'Donovan (Crooked Still), Sarah Dugas (The Duhks), Mairéad Ní Mhaorigh, Moya Brennan, Liam Bradley, Declan O'Rourke, and her sister Áine Derrane. This is a bold move by Maura to launch such an album but those of us who knew her mother Amby ( nee Costelloe ) will testify to the great singing voice she possessed and was obviously inheritated by both Maura and Aine.

Nowing living in Nashville since the late 80's Maura was home this summer to play a gig in Glor where she was also joined on stage by Aine. The Grammy Awards ceremony will take place on January 31st and all her friends in The Market and Moroneys will be cheering for Maura on the night.

Happy Birthday Marie

Thursday, 26 November 2009

Last Saturday night was a special day for the lovely Marie O Byrne as she celebrated her 30th birthday in Moroney's. As Marie and her boyfriend John Joe Kelly are very well know in the trad circles what better way to celebrate your birthday that with a good old session ! All who had the fortune to be in Moroney's on the night enjoyed the session and boy can John Joe play that bodhran.

Sincere best wishes to Marie from all her friends at Moroney's.

Ennis Floods Worst In Living Memory

Thursday, 26 November 2009

On Thursday evening last Ennis experienced a one in a hundred year flood when after constant rain since Tuesday evening coupled with strong winds the River Fergus could take no more and burst its bank in the Lower Abbey Street Car Park. Unfortunately this was only a prelude of what was to come and over the next 24 hours areas such as New Road, Willow Park, Oak Park, Honeywell, Tobastascain, Castle Lawn, Foir Uisce, Ard Aoibhinn, Francis Street, Gort Road and St Flannans College were all experience flooding. Indeed part of the grounds of St Flannans were flooded to a depth of 5 feet and the water flowed out over the main wall on to the Limerick Road and flooded the estate of Ard Aoibhinn directly across from the college.

Over the years one always associates flooding in Ennis with Parnell St and it's car park along with the Mill Road but thanks to the councils much maligned drainage scheme which is a work in progress operation for the last two years these areas escaped the floods. Unfortunately the residents and business people of the Abbey Street, Francis Street area were not quite so lucky as the Fergus gushed out at a breach in the wall near the Beagle Factory restaurant. This occurred around 10 pm on Thursday night and resulted in the Library Bar, Cahirs Gift Shop, The Queens Hotel, Ciaran's Bar and many other business and residents being flooded without any notice. The newly renovate Rowan Tree hostel (formerly Maurer's) on the banks of the river at the Club Bridge was particularly badly hit and this after it only reopened in July after extensive renovations being carried out. Everyone in these areas was taken by surprise as even in the worst of flooding over the years these areas were never affected. It now looks like all the remedial work in the Maid Of Erin/ Parnell St / Quay Area has worked quite well but has only shifted the problem further down river.

Already there has been 400mm of rain for the month of November and with more rain expected the problem is far from over. The council has evacuated 105 people and put then up in the West County Hotel and another 50 residents left their homes voluntarily. The councils 24/7 emergency plan has been in operation since early Friday morning and one must sincerely compliment all the volunteers who are bursting a gut helping their fellow residents, Ennis Urban and County Council staff, Gardai, Ennis Fire Brigade, Civil Defence, ESB and the Army personnel from Limerick who are work in three cycle shifts in order to alleviate the flooding.

It's obvious questions will be asked in the aftermath of this horrendous flooding and fingers will be pointed at our planners for allowing so much housing and commercial premises to be built on here to for designated flood plains for the River Fergus. God only knows what the outcome would be if the proposed county GAA grounds was built in Doora as that is now a sea of water up to 10 feet deep in places. As the experts have said this type of flooding is going to be the norm with climate change so we've got the wake up call now let's see some action .

Photos in Picture Gallery under heading Ennis Floods

16th Ennis Trad Festival 5th to 9th November

Tuesday, 03 November 2009

Yes it's going ahead despite all the speculation that the 16th running of the Ennis Trad Festival would have to be cancelled due to lack of funding. Thanks to the dedication of the committee the festival is not being lost and one can look forward to some great sessions in the coming days. There are over twenty pubs and hotels where nightly sessions will be going on as well as all the usual CD launches, recitals, instrument and singing masterclasses and céilís.

One of the highlights of the festival is the Árd Ghaisce na mBuíonta (the Great Céilí Band Challenge) which will take place on Saturday 7th November from 7pm in the West County Hotel, with fear-an-tí for the night, Brendan Begley. Ten of Ireland's top ten ceili bands will compete for a first prize of €5,000 in a public setting designed to test their mettle against each other. There are also substantial prizes for 2nd €2,000, 3rd €1,000 and 4th €500 so a big thanks nere must go to organiser John Rynne. The Bands who will be performing and competing are as follows:

Inis Craggy Céilí Band Triogue The Corofin Céilí Band The Midlanders The Awbeg Céilí Band Ceolteoirí na Mainistreach Ceolteoirí Nama Oranmore Céilí Band Banna Cheoil CCE Timpeall an Ghleantáin Listowel CCE.

As usual Moroney's will have their Wednesday , Thursday and Friday night sessions along with many other impromptu sessions over the festival period. There is no need to worry about the weather so come along and enjoy some tremendous trad music and meet up with some old friends. Below is the Trad session programme for Moroney's .

Wed. 4th Nov. Marcus Moloney, Kieran Kissane, Karol Lynch and friends @ 10pm.

Thur. 5th Nov. Kevin Ryan, Kieran Hehir, Tommy Carew and friends @ 10pm.

Fri. 6th Nov. Carmel O Dea, Brian Mooney, Meabh O Hare and friends @ 10pm.

Sat. 7th Nov. Jason O Rourke, Martin Breen,Eamon McCarthy and friends @ 10pm.

Sun. 8th Nov. Marcus Moloney, Murt Ryan, Sean Fitzpatrick, John Joe Kelly and friends @ 9pm.

Please note that all the above sessions are AMPLIFIED GIGS.

Go On Oscar

Thursday, 29 October 2009

It was a great night at Galway Greyhound Stadium on Thursday night for The Rineanna Syndicate boys as their dog Oscar Two raced to victory in his second ever race. Having failed to be placed in his first race on the 8th October last there was no doubting his determination to put things right this time out. When the traps rose he broke very smartly, led to the first bend and extended his lead to 4 lengths going down the back stretch. Having faded coming home last time round Oscar did'nt disappoint this time round and galloped home in a good time of 29.59 and won by 3 3/4 lengths. To make the night even better Oscar was returned on the tote at odds of 6/1 ( 5/2 with bookies) thus ensuring a nice payout for the syndicate members that were present on the night. Unfortunately some of the lads were unable to made the journey as they were on evening duty in the airport but the text messages and calls were quickly made to tell them of Oscar's success. Great credit must go to trainer John Browne who had Oscar in great fettle on the night and he completed a double later on in the night when Drimeen Crash won the 9th race at odds of 3/1. His inside information here also meant that the syndicate boys who attended on the night benefited at the tote. It's not often one beats the bookies but twice in the night makes for a very pleasant drive home despite the awful weather !

See some pictures from the night under Rineanna Syndicate 3. The first 7 photos are from Oscar's first race, the rest from Thursday night.

New Moroney Mugs

Saturday, 24 October 2009

On Monday night last Moroney's launched a new mug with the logo emblazed on them. The logo was the original won found on tea and sugar bags when the pub / grocery first opened it doors in 1840. One of the original tea bags can be founded framed in the lower bar as one exits to the smoking area. The mugs were designed by Tulla woman Mags Lysagh and such was the demand that a repeat order was put in on Tuesday morning.

As one exile home on holidays from London commented on receiving a mug " The tea will taste all the nicer in the morning as I'll always think of Ennis when I see the mug". We'll all drink to that :-)

See Gallery under Moroneys Mugs

Mai Quinlivan is 100

Saturday, 24 October 2009

On Tuesday last 13th Oct our neighbour Mai Quinlivan (nee Frawley) who lives directly across the road from the pub celebrated a milestone few of us will ever see ,her 100th birthday. Indeed when the pub was reopened after being renovated over four years ago Mai was a special guest on the night. Mai is now the oldest living native in Ennis and is a pleasure to talk to with all her history of the town. Mai late husband Jim was a well know figure in the town having worked in Shannon Airport Catering for over 40 years and he also won a county hurling medal with the Dals. Mai and Jim raised four sons Brian, Ken, Eddie and Dermot and a daughter Rita who lives in the family home. All in Moroney's wish our great neighbour many more years of health and happiness and also could she tell us her secret to longevity.

Rineanna Syndicate Go To Traps

Saturday, 10 October 2009

Last Thursday night in Galway Greyhound Stadium the Rineanna Syndicate ( Austin Clair, Val O Sullivan, Declan Cullinan, Noel and Enda Howard, Gerry O Connor, Mike McNamara, Jason Roche, Paddy Ryan, Steve Wynne and Johnny Moroney ) finally got to see their greyhound Oscar Two make his racing debut. As you will see from previous articles the dog was expected to be named Delta One but when the official name came back from the greyhound board it was our second choice Oscar Two that was accepted.

Having purchased the greyhound over 18 months ago is was with nervous expectations that we headed to Galway. Oscar is being trained in Ballyea by John Browne (a member of the well know Browne family associated with the Burnpark prefix) who has done a tremendous job for the syndicate as Oscar had some health problems early on. The Syndicate has commissioned lovely rugby style tops with a lovely crest depicting a greyhound and scenes from an airport as all but one of us work in Shannon Airport.

Oscar was drawn in trap 6 in the seventh race and went to post at odds of 2/1.We had been told that it was unlikely he'd win as there was a hot favourite in trap 3 so most of the syndicate put money on him for a place ( either 1st or 2nd). He was slow away from traps being third at the first bend but showed great pace down the back stretch to close to within two lengths of the leaders. However from here on he faded and finished 5th in a time of 29.95. The winner clocked 29.57 and Oscar was 5 lengths further back but bettered his qualifying time by 5 lengths. While we were initally disappointed with the result on closer looking his time was quite good for his debut and the conclusion we came to is that he would be better suited to sprinting.

With this in mind we are off to the coursing meeting at Miltown Malbay on 24th Oct and after that it's back to the track. As the saying goes Rome wasn't built in a day and we're in this for the excitement and crack. We intend to purchase more greyhounds in the future and possible will go to some sales in the New Year to acquire an experienced tracker. It's great to be part of a syndicate and now that we've the taste for racing all be it a losing experience we are already looking forward to many more days out.

As an aside I'd like on behalf of the Syndicate to congratulate Paddy Ryan and Siobhan Kelleher on their recent engagement. Indeed Siobhan was in Galway to cheer Oscar on and hopefully it won't be too long before she sees us in the winners enclosure.

Pictures from night in gallery under Rineanna Syndicate 3.

Marching On Together Or You'll Never Walk Alone !

Saturday, 19 September 2009

Tuesday evening next the 22nd September at 7.45pm there should be some atmosphere in Moroney's when Leeds host Liverpool in the live League Cup game. As everyone knows the Ennis Leeds United Supporters Club consider Moroney's their home venue as they hold their meeting and watch live games there. While all their supporters will acknowledge that Leeds have no aspirations of winning this competition it will be a good barometer as to how much progress they have made in footballing terms this season. With a crowd of 30,000 plus expected at Elland Road it promises to be a good game and will no doubt bring back many memories of their days in the Premiership.

With many Liverpool supporters also regulars in Moroney's and others coming down for the slagging the crack should be mighty. So get on down to Moroney's on Tuesday evening and enjoy some great grub (at half time) and of course the bragging rights!

Superb U21's All Ireland Champions

Wednesday, 16 September 2009

Sunday the 13th of September 09 will live long in minds of all Clare people that were lucky enough to be in Croke Park to see John Minogue's charges win their first ever All Ireland U21 Hurling title. In a epic battle that went down to the wire the young Banner Boys held out for a one point victory on a scoreline of Clare 0-15 Kilkenny 0-14. While it was a superb team effort one must mention the contribution of Colin Ryan, John Conlon, Eamon Glynn, Nicky O Connell and outstanding goalkeeper Donal Tuohy who brought off a stunning save from Richie Hogan. Once again the Croke Park officials had to resort to Plan B as there was no way off stopping the Clare followers from invading the pitch after the final whistle to see captain Ciaran O Doherty lift the Celtic Cross trophy.

After the game it was down to The Celt Bar on Talbot Street for some lovely pints of Guinness and a fabulous meal. There was a great music session on there and we were fortunate enough to hear Anthony Kearns (one of the Three Irish Tenors and named Ireland's greatest living tenor) sing some songs. It's Anthony's local when he's not touring and it's easy to see why such is the atmosphere in the pub. A special thanks to the bar staff Willie and Barry for a great end to a great day. And not forgetting Erin who also works in The Celt and was in Croke Park supporting The Faithful County ( Offaly) as they won the Junior Camogie Title. She has some voice as well! So now you know if you are ever in Dublin for a weekend made sure you visit The Celt, a real gem of a pub.

Clare U21 Squad 1) Donal Tuohy (Crusheen) 2) Eamon Glynn ( Inagh -Kilnamona) 3) Cian Dillon ( Crusheen) 4) Ciaran O Doherty ( Crusheen ) Capt. 5) Domhall O Donovan ( Clonlara) 6) Nicky O Connell ( Clonlara) 7) James Gunning ( Broadford) 8) Enda Barrett( Newmarket) 9)Cormac O Donovan ( Clonlara) 10) Camin Morey ( Sixmilebridge) 11) John Conlon ( Clonlara) 12) Sean Collins ( Cratloe) 13) Conor Tierney ( Inagh-Kilnamona) 14) Darach Honan ( Clonlara) 15) Colin Ryan ( Newmarket on Fergus) 16) Derek Fahy ( Sixmilebridge) 17) Conor McGrath ( Cratloe) 18) Cathal Chaplin ( Broadford) 19) Patrick Kelly ( Clarecastle) 20) Eoin Hayes ( Newmarket on Fergus) 21) Cillian Duggan ( Clooney) 22) Liam Markham ( Cratloe) 23) Pat O Connor ( Tubber) 24) Joe O Connor ( Parteen)

All Roads Lead To Croker

Friday, 11 September 2009

On Sunday next the 13th September Clare will take on reigning Champions Kilkenny in the U21 Hurling Final in Croke Park. While Clare will enter the game as underdogs their tremendous spirit and will to win allied with a superb forward line will I believe see them over the line. Over 5,000 Clare supporters are expected to travel for a game that throws in at 4.30pm following the camogie finals. It is also being shown on TG4 so if you can't make it to the big smoke come down to Moroney's and enjoy the atmosphere. Here's wishing the young Banners Boys best wishes on Sunday and hopefully we'll see them in O Connell Square on Monday night with the U21 trophy. ( It's not a cup as the GAA did'nt want to promote drinking out of a cup , yes it's true.)

Gentleman Jim

Tuesday, 08 September 2009

It was with great sadness that early on Friday morning last we learnt of the passing of Jimmy Fenton, Ard Na Greine Ennis. Jimmy was one of life's true gentleman in every sense of the word and for over forty years he worked in Shannon Airport as a wine waiter in the Lindbergh Restaurant.Jimmy as was recalled at his funeral Mass on Monday met Muhammad Ali among many other celebrities in the airport long before it was every know his relationship with Ennis. His spare time was devoted to pitch and putt, golf and of course gardening. I as a young boy can recall Jimmy coming in to Moroney's for his pint of Guinness on his way to and from bingo in the Community Center Chapel Lane and as always he was the best dressed man in the place.

With the passing of his beloved wife Vera five years ago Jimmy could be seen walking the roads to Drumcliff each day and no matter what the weather he would always decline a lift. To his sons Tony, Brendan and Jimmy Jnr ,daughters Mary and Veronica we extend our deepest sympathy to the Fenton family and thank God we had the privilege of knowing Gentleman Jim.

The Day The Greatest Came To Town

Friday, 04 September 2009

The 1st September will go down in history for the townsfolks of Ennis and Clare as the day the greatest sportsmen of all time Muhammad Ali was made a free man of Ennis, the first person ever in the town's history. Ennis was festooned with bunting, Irish and American flags and most of the businesses on Abbey Street and O Connell St had their own tributes to the one the called The Greatest. However it was in the Turnpike area where Ali's great grandfather Abe O Grady had left 149 years ago to emigrate to America that he received a tremendous welcome. The whole road up to the Alymers Rest was thronged with people young and old and was a sea of colour with flags, bunting and posters. One such poster read Welcome Cousin Ali.

On the green area opposite the Alymers a plague was unveiled which formed part of a large sculpture by well know Clare man Michael McTigue titled Wonder of the World. Here Ali got out of the car along with his wife Lonnie and insisted in taking some earth from The Pike with him back to Phoenix. Incidentally Ennis is twinned with Phoenix , Arizona for the last 21 years and this came as a great surprise to Ali and his family. They were presented with a letter from the Phoenix Sister Cities committee inviting Ali and his family to visit them and learn more about Ennis at its Irish Cultural Centre and this they were thrilled to hear. Lonnie commented that the were overwhelmed with the reception they received and her parting words were We'll Be Back. In the Abbey Street car park Mundy, Sharon Shannon and the Kilfenora Ceili Band played on a huge stage with a televised link to Waterpark House where the conferring ceremony was taking place. MC for the day was well know RTE sports commentator and Clareman Marty Morrissey.

Mayor of Ennis Frankie Neylon and his fellow councilors along with Ennis Town Manager Ger Dollard can be rightly proud of themselves and indeed the citizens of Clare owe them a depth of gratitude for their endeavours in getting Ali to Ennis.We look forward to The Greatest return to the Banner County.

See picture gallery under Ali In Ennis for some photos of the day. Special thanks to Moroney regular Jimmy Fenton for his excellent picture of Ali in the Turnpike.

Superb Display By Clare U21 Hurlers

Sunday, 23 August 2009

On a superb playing sod that is Thurles the Clare U21 hurlers produced a magnificent display to beat a gallant Galway team after extra time in what has been hailed as one of the best hurling games of the last thirty years. The now qualify for the All Ireland Final vs (you guessed it) Kilkenny which is to be played in Croke Park on September 13th next. As the final score line of Clare 3-23 Galway 5-15 this game had everything. Superb scores from play , frees, penalty's and two unreal sideline cuts from the fantastic Joe Canning ( he ended the game with 4-07 to his credit)and some brilliant goalkeeping on both sides left everyone in attendance in awe of these fantastic young hurlers. The standing ovation the received at the end from both sets of supporters was indeed warranted.

It seems unfair to pick out some Clare players from this outstanding performance but special mention should be made for goalkeeper Donal Tuohy, Nicky O Connell, Ciaran O Doherty (Capt.), John Conlon ,Conor Tierney ( suberb when introduced) and of course Darach Honan who ended the game as Man Of Match and 2-03 to his credit. Indeed the management were very quick to make substiutions and the introduction of Cian O Donnell ( just recovered from broken ankle)at full back to curb the influence of Joe Canning had a major bearing on the game.

There was a great buzz in Thurles after the game and when one got back to Ennis the celebrations got going in earnest. Those who had'nt gone to Thurles enjoyed the game on TG4 and the Banner Roar was heard more than once when they replayed the game in Moroney's. Now let's go and skin the Cats. Come On The Banner I hear you say!!

All Roads Lead To Thurles

Thursday, 20 August 2009

On Saturday the Clare U21 play near neighbours Galway in the All Ireland U21 Hurling S/F in Thurles with throw in at 2.30pm. Indeed this is The Banners first appearance at this stage of the competation and they will face a Joe Canning inspired Galway team. However the Clare management team of John Minogue, Cyril Lyons, Alan Dunne and Sean O Halloran have been with this team since U16 level and will be well prepared for Saturday's game.

As always if you can't get to Thurles on the day you can see the match live in Moroney's and hopefully see Cathal O Doherty, Nicky O Connell, Darach Honan and co point the Banner boys to a famous victory.

Muhammad Ali Comes To Ennis

Thursday, 13 August 2009

On the 1st September the former World Heavyweight Champion Muhammad Ali will visit Ennis the birthplace of Abe Grady , his great grandfather. He has accepted an invitation from the Town Council and the Mayor of Ennis Frankie Neylon to visit the Turnpike area where Abe lived before emigrating from Cappa Pier in Kilrush to the USA in the 1860's. Ali who is now 68 will be the first person ever to be given a civic reception by the council and an oak tree will be planted in the Turnpike area near where a local family reside.( the O Donovans ,live opposite O Dowd's shop are distant relations of Ali. The late Mrs O Donovan was O Grady)

Abe on arriving in the USA settled in Kentucky where he married an African -American woman. Their son also married an African-American and one of the daughters of that union was Ali’s mother, named Odessa Lee Grady. She married Cassius Clay Senior, and they settled in Louisville, where their son was initially given his father’s name on his birth in 1942. However on winning the World Title in 1964 and joining the Nation of Islam he changed his name Muhammad Ali.

Ali is due to arrive in Shannon Airport at 2pm on 1st September and from there will go to Waterpark House on the Drumbiggle Road from where he will be taken on a tour of the town. On the day it's expected that many of the roads in the town will be closed to traffic in order for as many people as possible to see The Greatest. This indeed will be a great day for the town and let's hope the God's smile on us with some beautiful weather for this historic day.

Welcome Trevor

Tuesday, 11 August 2009

There is a new face behind the counter of Moroney's in the person of Trevor Chandler from Hermitage. From a very popular town family Trevor for his sins is also a Leeds United fan and last night found himself serving the Ennis Branch of the Leeds United Supporters Club who were holding their AGM in Moroney's. On the night Trevor joined as a member so he can now get used to hearing the Leeds anthem Marching On Together sung while he's pulling pints of Arthur !

Good to have you on board Trevor and all at Moroney's wish you an enjoyable time behind the bar of one of the town's oldest public houses.

U21 Title At Last For The Banner

Friday, 31 July 2009

At Fraher Field in Dungarven on Wednesday evening last the Clare U21 hurleres finally broke their duck after 46 years in winning the Munster U21 title in a thrilling game vs Waterford. To John Minogue the manager and his management team of Sean O Halloran, Cyril Lyons and Alan Dunne ( himself a Waterford man and teacher in St Flannan's) there is enormous credit due especially after the heartbreak of last year's defeat to Tipperary in Cusack Park.

The game was televised on TG4 and there was a vocal support in Moroney's for the game and obviously a great atmosphere in the bar after Ciaran O Doherty ( his father Gerry is from the Turnpike ) lifted the trophy. Hoprfully this will kick start a revival in Clare hurling fortunes. Next up for the U21's is Galway in three weeks time with a venue to yet be announced. Congratulations to these magnificient young hurlers and their management from all at Moroney's. Come On The Banner !

Come On The Banner

Friday, 10 July 2009

All roads lead to Cusack Park, Ennis tomorrow evening for the eagerly awaited All Ireland Hurling Qualifier between Clare and Galway which has a throw in time of 7pm. This is the last chance saloon for Mike Mac's men after a disastrous League campaign and defeat to Tipperary in the Munster Championship three weeks ago.

As always the game will be shown live in Moroney's on the three screens so the atmosphere should be electric. As we write I just received a text from Whitegate hurling fanatic Liam Jones who says he'll be in Moroney's before the game with eight others East Clare men so have the sandwiches ready. Not a bother Liam we'll sort ye out as always. Now lets hope we hear The Banner Roar ringing out on Saturday evening after a Clare victory.

It's A Boy

Wednesday, 17 June 2009

Congratulations to our good friend and Ennislusc member Enda Howard and his lovely wife Mags on the birth of their son at 6.30am today. The little bundle of joy weighed in at 7lb 4 oz and both mother and son are doing well. It looks like the names Luke and Tom are top of the list and all at Moroney's send the Howard family their good wishes. Oh and yes Enda has said he's a Leeds supporter !

Happy Ruby Anniversary Michael And Vera

Wednesday, 10 June 2009

On Saturday night last Michael and Vera Dunleavy celebrated their 40th Wedding Anniversary with a party for their family and friends in Moroney's. Their daughter Louise, her brother Michael along with his wife Rachel were all there on the night to enjoy the celebrations. There were songs and storys, plenty of food and drink during the night and a unique achievement in this day and age was celebrated in style.

All at Moroney's congratulate Michael and Vera on their Ruby Anniversary and wish them long life health and happiness for the next forty.

Murph Marry's A Murph

Wednesday, 10 June 2009

On Saturday next the 13th of June Paidge Murphy, Circular Road ( who ran The Corner Bar in Parnell St ) and his fiancee Valerie Murphy from Newmarket On Fergus will get married. Paidge is well know in the cycling circles having been a All Ireland Champion in his teens and cycled against none other than Lance Armstrong. As well as running the Corner Bar Paidge also worked in The Firkin Bar ( formerly Pauline's ) in the Upper Market and as anyone that know's him is not short of a story or two.

Valerie who's father Sean hail's from The Turnpike ( near The Alymers Rest) works with EFG in the Airport and in an ironic twist of faith she worked with Paidge's father Paddy for many years in Aer Rianta. Their wedding reception is in Magowna House Hotel, Inch and all their friends and colleagues are invited to the evening reception which kicks off at 9pm. Best Wishes from all your friends at Moroney's .

Moroney's Get's A Facelift

Wednesday, 10 June 2009

As they say you need fine weather for painting and certainly that was the case last week when the outside of Moroney's got a makeover. For five days painters John Brasil and Tony Roche washed, sandeded and painted the walls, windows and timberwork and now the front is the envy of the Market. Along with that four new window boxes adorn the first floor window sills and this certainly gives Moroney's a very colourful look heading into the summer months. Incidentally Tony is 72 years old and to see him three storys up on a ladder painting away happy as larry gives a new meaning to as young as you feel. Míle Buíochas lads on a job well done.

Wedding Bells For Pat and Karrieann

Friday, 29 May 2009

Today Ennis loses one of it's most eligible bachelors Pat Hennessy when he marry's the gorgeous Karrieann McDonald from Clarecastle. Pat is an adopted Ennisman having arrived in the town from Dublin ( he was posted to Moneypoint with the ESB ) in the late 70's and played with Hermitage and later served as an officer with Cloughleigh Celtic. To all who know Pat they will know that his only love over the years was for Man United but that's all going to change now me think. Both Pat and Karrieann are fitness fanatics so it's safe to bet their honeymoon will involve a lot of exercise ! All their friends at Moroney's wish the happy couple long life ,health and happiness. Congratulations - United at last.

From Barca To Kilkenny

Thursday, 14 May 2009

Last year to celebrate 21 years playing soccer together Martin O Brien and Ger Hanrahan decided that we should honour the occassion and go to Barcelona to watch Barca play in the famous Camp Nou. Such was the success of the trip that it was decided to try and make these an annual event and this weekend we are off to the home of hurling Kilkenny. We will be staying in the Kilford Arms which has great connections with Ennis through the Dinan family from St Michael's Villas. Indeed it was through this connection that Ger Hanrahan got in touch with his old next door neighbour Michael (Champ) Dinan and now everything is planned for a great weekend.

As always one can expect some great laughs and the odd sing song but is'nt that what friendship is all about. Squad For Kilkenny ; Ger Hanrahan, Martin O Brien, John Casey, Mickey Conlon, Phil Brigdale, Johnny Moroney, Willie Donnellan, Brian John McCarthy, Billy Woods, Fergie O Loughlin, John Hanrahan, Cyril Cusack, Pat Donlon, Colm McDonagh and last but not least Tom Tobin.

Football Fever Hit's Moroney's

Wednesday, 06 May 2009

At lunchtime on Saturday next Moroney's should be rocking when two supporters clubs meet to see their favourites do battle in two do or die games. The Celtic and Leeds United Supportes Clubs which both have Moroney's as their local will be glued to the TV's when Celtic play arch rivals Rangers in the top of the table Premier League fixture and Leeds play Millwall in the 1st leg of the League 1 play off.

As both games are timed only fifteen minutes apart, the Celtic (KO 12.30) followers will encamp in the lower bar while the Leeds (KO 12.45) faithful will take to the front bar and also the smoking area. The banter should be good and if both teams win then you can be sure The Fields of Athenry and Marching On Together will be heard ringing around the Market.

Probably The Best Painting

Wednesday, 29 April 2009

Two new paintings that are due to adorn the walls in Moroney's shortly are paintings by well know Ennis artist Harry Guinnane. Indeed regulars on the website will be acquainted with Harry's work as he has done two paintings already relating to the pub one of the front of Moroney's and the other of Gerry and Mary Moroney which can bee seen in the picture gallery.

On this occasion the first of the paintings depict one of the original bottle labels that was used when Moroney's bottled their own stout. The date shown on the painting is the 13th of September 1923 which is from the original bottle label and was bottled by Gerry's father John. Bottling in Moroney's was carried out until 1964 and when the pub was renovated over four years ago 100 dozen bottles were disposed of from that era.

The second painting is of an original paper bag that was used in the grocer business and can still be seen in one of the display units as one goes out to the smoking area. Today the emblem from that bag can be seen on staff shirts and on the Moroney polo tops which are very popular with regulars. With so much changes going on in the world today it's nice not to forget one's past and in Moroney's the past era will not be forgotten.

Check out the Picture Gallery under Probably The Best to see the paintings and polo tops.

Avenue 200 Night A Great Success

Saturday, 25 April 2009

Well the last weekend of March '09 will last long in the memories of Leeds football coaches Terence Potter (Chief Academy Scout), Christopher Coates (Under 12 Academy Coach), Philip Wilson (Under 16 Academy Coach) and Denis Oates (Under 14 Academy Coach) thanks to the hospitality of the Avenue United club and members of the Ennislusc club. The coaches were in Ennis to conduct a coaching weekend at the Lees Road Complex and also to sample some of the Ennis nightlife. On the Friday night they visited Moroney's along with Gearoid Mannion, Kevin Keenan, Gary Seery, Gerry Costelloe and Gearoid Walsh of Avenue United for their monthly 200 Club Draw. Incidentally the winner of the €1,000 top prize on the night was Patricia O Donnell who is physio with Avenue United and in a very gererous gesture she bought a round of drinks for the house.

Representing Ennislusc on the night were Kevin Green, Johnny Murphy, Alan Murphy, Richie Lynch, John Galvin and Tommy Kelly. A presentation to the four coaches on behalf of Ennislusc was made by Kevin Greene which took them by surprise but was very much appreciated. They then mingled with the locals and really enjoyed the trad session by Siobhan Peoples and friends so much so that they took to the floor in Moroney's for some dancing. Unfortunately 19 members of Ennislusc club were over in Leeds that weekend to see their favourites play the MKDons but on their return on Sunday evening they met up with the coaches for some beverages and chat. Indeed they made a presentation on behalf of Ennislusc to club President Spinky White of a dog bowel in the Leeds United colours for his beloved hound Minty. At the end of the night only Terry Potter knew Spinky by his nickname as the other coaches were calling him Minty!

They also came back on Saturday and Sunday evening for some more refreshments as they really enjoyed the banter with the locals. One thing that amazed them was the mix of supporters in the pub from Man Utd, Liverpool, Chelsea, Everton, Leeds and of course Celtic as this would not be the case in English bars for fear of trouble. They were surprised at the skill level of many of the youngsters they saw over the weekend and who knows perhaps one day we'll see a player from Clare over at Elland Road. Now would that not be a dream.

A special word of thanks to the Avenue United club and in particular to Gearoid (Mannix) Mannion and Kevin Keenan who were instrumental in bringing the coaches to Ennis and to Moroney's the home of Ennislusc. Also mile buiochas to our own Kevin Greene and all the Ennislusc members who turned up on the night in the absence of so many other members who were on international duty. Indeed Kevin has maintained great links with Terry Potter since he returned to England through email and phone conversations and on our next trip over to Leeds we have been invited on a tour of the training facilities at Thorp Arch in Wetherby. Terry is also comeing over for the Kennedy Cup U14 tournament in Limerick in June and hopes to base himself in Ennis once again so no doubt we'll meet up. As the Leeds anthem goes and which was sung for the coaches on Sunday evening to much applause Marching On Together.

Pictures from the night in Picture Gallery under the title Avenue 200 Draw

Avenue United 200 Draw Friday 27th March

Wednesday, 11 March 2009

On Friday 27th of March at 9pm in Moroney's Avenue United will hold their 200 Club Draw. There to make the draw on the night will be Leeds United football coaches ( Terence Potter Chief Academy Scout, Christopher Coates Under 12 Academy Coach, Philip Wilson Under 16 Academy Coach and Denis Oates Under 14 Academy Coach) who are in town for the weekend as guest of Avenue and will be holding coaching sessions in Lees Road on Saturday and Sunday.

Given that Moroney's is home to the Ennis Leeds United Supporters Club it's ironic that over twenty five club members will be in Elland Road on that weekend for the clash of Leeds and the MKDons. However Ennislusc will be well represented on the night and it's hoped to make a presentation to the coaches on behalf of the supporters club. Ennislusc and Moroney's are also sponsoring the Avenue Utd U11A team which is managed by Leeds fans Alan Murphy and Richie Lynch for a coaching sessions with the Leeds Academy coaches.

Kevin Greene who is a life long Leeds fanatic will make the presentation on behalf of Ennislusc and on the night Johnny Murphy, John Galvin, Mike McNamara, Gerry and Tommy Kelly along with many more Leeds supporters will be there to welcome the coaches. As always one is assured of a great night and the trad session with Sharon Peoples that follows won't be bad either !

Delta One Gets Ready For Traps

Thursday, 05 March 2009

Last September we brought you the story of the Rineanna Syndicate and the greyhound pup the bought from the Buckley family in Doon, County Limerick. Well the greyhound is now fourteen months old and has been named officially with the ICC as Delta One. Now for those of you not in the know Delta might mean a plane ( belong to Delta Airlines ) or a financial brokerage company and you would be correct in your assumption. However to the syndicate which is made up of many Airport Police officers and Moroney regulars it is one of the taxiways in Shannon Airport which they patrol many times a day as part of their duty.

Now it's time for the syndicate to decide who they will get to train Delta and this will be decided before the end of the month as it's hoped Delta will start training in April. Then it's all guns blazing and it is hoped that his first race will be in Galway in July all going well. Today when we went down to visit Delta we were told by Mary Buckley that his pet name was Austy, now I wonder where she got that name from ! For the syndicate members Enda Howard his dad Noel, Declan Cullinan, Mike McNamara, Gerry ( Murt) O Connor, Stephen Wynne, Austin Clair, Jason Roche, Johnny Moroney, Paddy Ryan and Val O Sullivan the long wait is nearly over and the fun begins. We'll keep you post on Delta's progress throughout the comeing momths. Hul a hul as the doggie people say.

See today'd pictures of Delta One in the picture gallery under Rineanna Syndicate 2.

Hanna Retires

Tuesday, 24 February 2009

On Friday next Ger Hanrahan ( ex Avenue Utd, Newmarket Celtic and Villa Utd star) will retire from Element Six ( former De Beers) after over 31 years service. Ger however does'nt intend to give up work completely for the good life and has some plans up his sleeve. However he does intend to play a little more golf ( a dab hand he's at that too), continue to play indoor soccer on Tuesday night's in St Flannan's and spend time with his good wife Mairead and their daughters Janice and Sarah along with grandchildren Colin and Sean Thomas. Looks like Hanna will have a full diary ahead of him .

All at Moroney's wish Ger a long happy and healthy retirement and hope to see him for a few celebratory pints !

Moroney's Second Annual Sports Quiz

Friday, 13 February 2009

Put the Tuesday the 3rd of March in your diary as Moroney's Second Annual Sports Quiz in aid of Cahercalla Hospital will take place at 9.00pm. Teams will consist of three members at €30 per team and last year over 20 teams took part. This year it is hope to at least equal if not better this figure for such a worthy cause that touches all in our society. As always you'll be guaranteed a great night with food, spot prizes and plenty of crack on offer. HOPE TO SEE YOU THERE !

Trad Sessions Now On Friday Nights

Friday, 13 February 2009

Along with our regular Trad Sessions on Wednesday and Thursday nights which have been a great success since Moroneys was refurbished, Brian John McCarthy has added a Friday night session to the schedule. This have been running for the past number of weeks and it has proved such a success with Siobhan Peoples and friends that Brian has made this a permenant session. Now one can enjoy three nightly sessions in a row with top class musicians in a quaint atmosphere. Thanks to Brian John and all his staff, Moroney's is securing a great reputation for traditional music. Well done to all concerned.

Chelsea Legend Kerry Dixon Visits Moroney's

Friday, 13 February 2009

On Friday 31st of January last the Ennis Chelsea Supporters Club brought over Kerry Dixon, the great Chelsea striker of the 80's to meet their members and visit the town. The club who meet in Moroney's for matches and meetings introduced Kerry to their members and locals alike and the hero obliged by signing autographs and posing for photographs.

It was all thanks to the efforts of Jim McMahon, Tony Guilfoyle, Colm Fitzgerald, Michael Ryan and Donie Walsh that took Kerry over to Ennis and he also attended their social evening in the Templegate Hotel on the Saturday night. Kerry was fascinated that in the pub supporters of Liverpool, Man U, Everton, Leeds and otheres mixed freely with Chelsea fans something which in his experience would not happen in an English pub. As their was a trad session in the pub at the time ( Siobhan Peoples and friends) he thoroughly enjoyed the music and as one would expect drank a few pints of Guinness. There were so nice he stayed until closeing time and beyond. His commented on leaving that he really enjoyed his first night in Ennis. And so well he might. A true legend who scored 193 goals in 440 games for Chelsea,one can only guess what his value in todays football maket would be.

Well done to all concerned in the Ennis Chelsea Supporters Club for bringing back memories of our boyhood hero.

Moroney's Christmas Draw Results

Sunday, 04 January 2009

Monday the 29th of December turned out be be a great night with a big crowd in for the annual Christmas draw. Tickets had been on sale for the previous three weeks and as usual the 100 club sold out in double quick time. the results are as follows :

1st Prize Weekend away for 2 at the Kilford Arms,Kilkenny - Eddie Johnston / PJ O Leary

2nd Prize Dinner for Two (€100) plus two tickets to Stockton's Wing - Geoff Spellman

3rd Prize Massive Christmas Hamper - Chloe Purtill

4th Prize Slab of Heineken - Mairead Moloney

5th Prize Slab of Bulmers - Sharon Ball

6th Prize Slab Of Budweiser - Chris Shannon

7th Prize Bottle Of Brandy - Ian Mounsey

8th Prize Bottle Of Jameson - Brendan Woods

9th Prize Bottle of Vodka - Gary Twoomey

10th Prize Bottle of Baccardi - Sharon Ball

Many thanks to all our patrons who subscribed to the draw and for your continued loyalty and custom from all at Moroney's.

Welcome Home Millie and Bombs

Sunday, 04 January 2009

Two well know townies and Tage men Pat Millie Ryan and Shaun Bombs McCarthy spent Christmas at home in Ennis. Pat is living in Hamburg with his wife Marian and three kids while Shaun lives in the USA with his wife Maureen and their two daughters. Maureen's dad is Simon O Donnell one of the founders of Eire Og and of course Shaun brother Brian John runs Moroney's.

It was Pat first time spending Christmas in Ennis in twelve years and he really enjoyed his time meeting all his old friends and family and also drinking a pint or two in Moroney's. Shaun on the other hand is a regular visitor home since his transfer from Roche in Clarecastle to their base in the States some years ago. He met up with his friends Paul Nihill, Eoin Doohan and Enda Howard over the Christmas and no doubt they discussed the fortunes of their beloved Leeds United.

Best wishes to both of you and your famalies from all your fellow townies in Moroney's.

Moroney's Christmas Draw

Monday, 22 December 2008

Tickets are now on sale for the Moroney's 100 Member Christmas Club where there are some fabulous prizes to be won. Ticket's are priced at €2 and first prize is a weekend away in the Kilford Arms in Kilkenny. Also on offer are second prize of €100 plus two tickets to see the one off reunion of the famous Stockton's Wing in the West County Inn at the end of January. Third prize is a massive hamper and there are also slabs of Heineken, Budweiser, Bulmers along with bottles of brandy and whiskey on offer. So get your ticket early and be in with a great chances of one of these great prizes. Thanking all our customers for their continued and loyal support.

Christmas At Moroney's

Wednesday, 10 December 2008

We are comeing to the end of another year and despite the doom and gloom around with the economy at the moment you are assured of great night if you choose Moroney's for your Christmas party or just drop in for a festive drink. Brian John and all his staff would like to take this opportunity to thank all our loyal customers and friends for their continued support and look forward to meeting them over the festive period.

As usual there will be trad sessions every Wednesday, Thursday and Friday nights and complimentary food will be given to any groups haveing their Christmas Party's in Moroney's. All the big sports fixtures will be catered for and on Sat. 27th Dec the Ennis No1 Branch of the Celtic Supporters Club will be in Moroney's as usual for the Old Firm game (K.0. 12.30pm). Surely a game not to be missed !

If it's a good night in an old world atmosphere you want then Moroney's is the place to be this Christmas. You never know Santa might make a guest appearance if your lucky.

Fourth Floral Display In A Row For Moroney's

Friday, 21 November 2008

The Ennis Tidy Towns Awards for 2008 are being presented in the Clare County Council New Headquarters on New Road this evening and it marks a four in a row award for Moroney's. This is a fantastic achievement considering Ennis won the overall National Award for large urban areas and also the county award so it's nice to have played a small part in achieving these awards. Moroney's prides itself in have a year round floral display of window boxes and it's always nice to get positive feedback from customers and the general public alike. Well done to all concerned and now let's strive for number five next year.

Ennis Trad Week A Great Success

Monday, 17 November 2008

The fifteenth Ennis Trad Festival which ran from November 6th to 10th inclusive was an outstanding success with visitor numbers and musicians reaching new levels. As always Moroney's played it's part and had some outstanding sessions from Wednesday through to Sunday evening. The list of musicians that played is as follows :

Wed 5th Nov. Marcus Moloney, Kieran Kissane, Martin Dermody, Kevin Ryan and friends.

Thurs 6th Nov. Martin Breen, Michael Butler, Anne Marie McCormack and friends.

Fri 7th Nov. Siobhan Peoples, Murty Ryan, John Kelly and friends.

Sat 8th Nov. Ronan Moloney, Carmel O Dea, Kieran Hehir and friends.

Sun 9th Nov. Marcus Moloney, Mags Moloney, Murt Ryan and friends.

The Friday night gig turned into a mega session with at one stage fifteen musicians giveing it their all ( see picture gallery) and everyone present had a whale of a night. All the sessions where packed out and it's a tribute to Brian John and his staff for putting Moroney's on the map as a great trad venue. Long may it continue.

Moroney's Bar Soccer Shield

Monday, 13 October 2008

Preparations are at an advanced stage for the charity soccer tournament for the Moroneys Bar Shield which will take place in the Fairgreen on Saturday, October 18th. Members of the Avenue Ramblers led by Pat Basil Whelan and Jacko McMahon and the Jim McMahon led Chelsea Supporters Club are training hard for the match which is the 10th Anniversary of an event organised to collect money for local charities.

The winners of that game will take on the Eddie Walsh managed Moroneys All Stars in the final. Kick off in the Fairgreen is at 4pm and all are welcome wheather you want to take part or just enjoy the crack. For further information contact Basil at 086-3859003 or Jim McMahon on 086-8119086.Good on you lads. Guess we'll have a party in Moroneys on Saturday night - be there !

Well Done Irene

Thursday, 09 October 2008

Last Sunday was a day of double delight for our own Irene Hehir. The very popular Irene who serves in Moroneys every weekend celebrated winning a county senior football medal with the Banner Ladies and also her birthday. Irene who lined out at corner forward also scored a goal in their defeat of the West Clare Gaels. This was a great victory for the Ennis team who were winning their first senior title since their foundation in 1994.

One person who derived great joy from Irene's achievement was Gerry Moroney who is now in his 80's and is himself the holder of four senior football medals with the Ennis Faughs. Hopefully this is the first of many senior titles to come for the Banner Ladies in the years ahead and all at Moroneys congratulate Irene and her team mates on their first title.

Banner Ladies Squad : Emma O Driscoll, Niamh Martin, Claire Walsh, Laurie Ryan, Louise Woods, Michelle Delaney, Niamh Cavanagh, Louise Henchy, Jane Kennedy, Katie Cahill, Sonia Maher, Niamh Keane, Irene Hehir, Niamh O Dea, Megan Hough, Naomi Carroll, Niamh Walsh, Aoife Cavanagh, Jackie Woods, Rebecca Coughlan.

The Rineanna Greyhound Syndicate

Saturday, 06 September 2008

Last May ten work colleagues from Aer Rianta ( now DAA) got together to form a syndicate with the intention of buying a greyhound pup. Included in the syndicate are Moroney regulars Enda Howard, his dad Noel, Austin Clair, Johnny Moroney and an old next door neighbour from the Market and ex Clare hurler Michael McNamara. Along with Gerry (Murt) O Connor, Pat Ryan, Declan Cullinan, Val O Sullivan, Jason Roche and Stephen Whynne the syndicate decided on the name Delta One as the greyhounds racing name.

The dog was purchased from the Buckley family from Pallasgreen,County Limerick and is by Droopsy Kewell ( hope he's nothing to injury prone Harry of Leeds and Liverpool fame )and out of a bitch called Velvet Kizzy. He is a beautiful blue January dog and it's hoped to have him racing in Galway and Limerick in April or May next year. Obviously one always hopes for the proverbial winner but the aim of the syndicate is to have some crack and if Delta turns out to be a good one all the better.

One thing for certain is that we'll be heading back to Moroneys after the races to face the banter that is sure to happen when Delta One set foot on the track for the first time. Gerry Moroney is delighted to hear that greyhounds are still part of the Market and pub as he kept them for over seventy years. We'll keep you updated on his progress. Hul a hul.

See pictures of Delta One in gallery

Charity Soccer Match

Saturday, 30 August 2008

This evening in the Fairgreen there will be a charity match in aid of the Ennis Old Folks between an Avenue Wanderers X1 and a Moroneys Bar X1. The Avenue team will be managed by Pat Basil Whelan while the Moroney's team will be in the hands of ex Hermitage player Eddie Walsh. All the players involved will be non league players so as the ad for the game says make sure you have an insurance ploicy , next of kin are advised and oxygen will be available on the sideline to those who require an extra boost during the game.

Afterwards there will be a night in Moroneys where the crack should be mighty and the stories great. At the end of the day it's hoped that a substantial amount of money will be raised for this worth cause of our fellow townfolk. Well done to all the players and management for your great efforts.

Avenue Wanderers Lineup Basil Whelan Capt,Brendan O Daly,Dave Evans,Jacko McMahon,Sid McMahon,Mickey Byrnes,Richie O Grady,Jim McMahon ( on loan from Chelsea Supporters Club),John Molloy ( loan from Moroneys Bar),Mickey McMahon.

Team Mascot: Two year old Evan Cahill Kilmurray Ibrickane who is also a Leeds Supporter.See his picture on Ennislusc in his Leeds kit at ten weeks old and today holding the Charity Shield won Avenue Wanderers in Moroneys Photo Gallery. John Lavery,

Wedding Pics Up

Wednesday, 27 August 2008

Finally the pictures from BJ and Tracy wedding can be see in the photo gallery. Hopefully they will bring back some of the memories of what was a super day in County Sligo. If you have any comments to make feel free to put them on the guestbook. A special thank you to Louise Dunleavy and Irene Hehir who supplied the pictures of BJ and Tracy's big day.

Bon Voyage Adie

Thursday, 21 August 2008

On 6th September next Adie Murphy son of the late Christy Murphy from Hermitage who was founder of the 1st Ennis Boy Scout Troop will head to Chad for six months duty as part of his role with the Irish Army. This will be nothing new to Adie as since joining the army after leaving school these overseas duties have become part and parcel of his life in the forces.

All your friends in Moroney's are very proud of your achievements with your career in the forces and wish you sincere good wishes during your time abroad. If you ever get lonely for home you know all you have to do is log on to Moroneysbar.com and it's sure to bring a smile to your face looking through the picture gallery. You'll even see a picture of your lovely wife Deirdre.

Good luck and safe return from all your fellow townies in Moroneys.

Hurlers and Honeymooners Are Back

Friday, 25 July 2008

Sunday next promises to be a great day in Moroneys with the Clare hurlers playing Cork in the All Ireland Quarter Final on the big screens and more importantly the return of the honeymooners BJ and Tracy from the holiday paradise of Mauritius. A big party awaits the newly married couple and there should be a great buzz around the place with the hurlers into action at 4pm.

All BJ's and Tracy's friends will be there to welcome them home along with many of their trad musician friends. So one can expect that it will be like having the Strawboys in Moroneys for the happy couple. So if it's fun, crack, food and drink you want all roads lead to Moroney's on Sunday. Welcome home Mr and Mrs McCarthy from all your friend in your favourite local.

It is hoped to have some pictures from the wedding on the website in the next week to ten days so stay tuned and see all the glamour from BJ's and Tracy's big day.

Hurling Feaver In The Air

Thursday, 10 July 2008

This weekend promises to be a great occassion with two very important events taking place. First up is the wedding of Brian John and Tracy on Saturday in Sligo while on Sunday at 4pm in the Gaelic Grounds in Limerick ,Clare and Tipperary will contest the Munster Senior Hurling Final.

It is ten years since Clare contested a Munster Final so one can expect a huge Clare following urging their charges on come Sunday evening. As usual the match will be live on the big screens in Moroneys so if you can't make the game you know where to watch it.

You might also be luck to meet some of the guests on their way back from the wedding and catch up on BJ's and Tracy's big day. Best wishes to all on their respective big days from all your friends and fans in Moroneys.

Tracy and BJ 's Big Day

Thursday, 26 June 2008

On the 12th July in Markree Castle, Collooney, Co. Sligo the man responsible for the well being and running of Moroneys, Brian John McCarthy will wed the lovely Tracy McNevin. Knowing the couple this promises to be a spectacular day and if the setting is anything to go by it will be a five star affair. Interestingly BJ's future father in law Colm is an integral part of the Moroneys operation and this indeed will be a proud day for him and his family also.

All the staff and most of all loyal customers wish Tracy and BJ long life, health and happiness and look forward to toasting the happy couple on their return to Ennis.

Bring On Tipp

Thursday, 26 June 2008

After an exciting tussle with Limerick last Sunday in Thurles, Clare qualified for a Munster Final meeting with arch rivals Tipperary on 13th July at the Gaelic Grounds in Limerick. While Clare never reached the dizzy heights of the Waterford game their never say die attitude got them through after weathering a great Limerick comeback.

As you would expect there was a great crowd in Moroneys for the game and for those unlucky not to get a ticket for the final are welcome to shout on their countymen on the three TV's in the bar. Win , lose or draw you'll be guaranteed a great afternoon and evening of crack and great porter. Come On The Banner

Great Day For The Banner Hurlers

Thursday, 05 June 2008

Last Sunday in the Gaelic Grounds in Limerick the Clare hurlers gave a tremendous display to defeat reigning Munster Hurling Champions Waterford in the first round of the MSH Championship. It's five years since Clare last won a first round so to win by nine points was something unexpected but welcome by the many Clare supporters that traveled to Limerick for the 2pm throw in.

Many who were unable to make the early throw in watch it in their local and Moroneys was no exception on this occassion. With the Eire Og and Clare flags flying high outside the pub the atmosphere inside was once of optimism rather than confidence. Mind you many of the locals made a handsome profit on the generous odds of 9/4 on offer from local bookmakers and when the final whistle was blown the pub erupted in a crescendo of noise.

Nothing is won yet and with Limerick next up on 22nd June in Thurles expect Moroneys to be rocking once again if you can't be there on the day.

Rock Claim The Cup

Thursday, 22 May 2008

A determined Rock Rovers who played an exciting brand of football upset the favourites Bunratty to claim the Clare Cup at Doora on Saturday evening last. It was one of the better finals over the last few years and the Tommy Leahy managed Rock deserved their day in the sun. While it was a team effort, Luke Coote was awarded Man Of The Match but in truth it could have gone to an one of the starting eleven.

Rocks first goal was an own goal when a Dean Gardiner cross was turned into the net by a Bunratty defender but their second was of the spectacular variety. Niall McNevin better known as Niggles scored with a rocket from twelve yards following a cross from Ashley Glynn and only the crossbar denied him a second. With ten minutes remaining Bunratty pulled one back but despite being under constant pressure and six minutes of injury time Rock prevailed.

The celebrated their victory that evening in the Alymers Rest, home of their captain Francis Daniels and fellow team mate and brother Shane. They also paid a visit to Moroneys that evening and again on Sunday as a thank you to Brian John for sponsoring them kit bags for the occassion. Congratulations lads and continued success in the future from all in Moroneys. Now to retain the cup!

Rock Rovers: Eric Murphy, Greg Howard, Shane Daniels, Luke Coote, Ronan Judge, Barry Woods, Francis Daniels, Ashley Glynn, Niall McNevin, Dean Gardiner, Marty McLoughlin. Sub Brian Fitzpatrick

Good Luck To Rock Rovers

Friday, 16 May 2008

On Saturday evening at 6.30pm in the County Grounds at Doora, Rock Rovers will line out in the Cup Final against cup specialists Bunratty. This is a great achievement for Tommy Leahy's boys who play in Division 1 of the Clare & District Soccer League and have beaten Newtown, Shannon Olympic A, Corofin and Rineanna Rovers on their way to the final.

Rock will have new kit bags for the final sponsored by Brian John McCarthy of Moroneys and here's hoping we see the boys win the cup over the weekend. Now that the weather is tropical like go on down to Doora and support the Rock boys in their quest for cup glory. Best wishes from all your supporters and friends in Moroneys.

Barca Boys Are Back

Sunday, 27 April 2008

Having decided to travel to Barcelona to celebrate 21 years of playing soccer together The Barca 14 are back and in recovery after a super three days in Europe's No 1 city. Each member of the party was given a beautiful polo top courtesy of Brian John McCarthy which had the Moroney emblem, Barcelona '08 and a footballer with 21 years on the sleeve. Theses were also worn to the game on Saturday night and really made us stand out. Some of the locals heard stories that we were celebrating having played Barcelona 21 years ago and were unlucky to loose on a penalty shoot out but that's for another day.

The highlight of the trip for many of the lads was the tour of the Camp Nou and surprisingly enough not the match between Barcelona and local rivals Espanyol which turned out to be a drab affair. Our Hotel Fira Palace was a superb hotel and located in the centre of Barcelona with a taxi rank outside the door. There was a swimming pool in the hotel but only a handful of the guys felt compelled to use the superb facility and were to be know for the remainder of the trip as the Michelles for their swimming prowess.( think of the once famous Irish Olympian swimming sensation , hence the name)

Of course we did the usual tourist things like taking a bus tour, visiting the Olympic Stadium and going on a cable car along with visiting some local pub. As one would guess we have some fine singers in the group and some mighty songs were sang over the weekend by Phil Brigdale, Fergie O Loughlin, John Casey, Pat Donlon and Pat Doran.

Every member of the party will take their own memories from the tour but what stands out most of all was the great togetherness of the lads in making sure that every one was involved in all the activities. We will be having a slide show on Friday 13th June in Moroneys, our last night playing soccer this season so that should provide some laughs on the night. Here's to the next trip, hopefully for our 25th !

Take a look in the Picture Gallery under Barca Trip for a flavour of the upcoming slide show.

Squad For Barcelona ; Ger Hanrahan, Martin O Brien, John Casey, Mickey Conlon, Phil Brigdale, Johnny Moroney, Willie Donnellan, Brian John McCarthy, Billy Woods, Fergie O Loughlin, John Hanrahan, Cyril Cusack, Pat Donlon and last but not least Pat Doran.

Road Lay Out Change In Lower Market Street

Thursday, 10 April 2008

Just under two weeks ago the Ennis Town Concil erected an island in the centre of the road in the Lower Market area know as The Mall and directly outside Moroneys Bar. This has ment that there is now no parking on either side of the road in this area and gives easier access to Lysaghs Lane car park know locally as Quinn's Lane car park. Also access to O Connell Street has been closed off to cars and this has helped make the area very safe for pedestrians.

Included in the island is an area where flowers will be planted and this will enhance the Lower Market area no end. It also opens up Moroneys as there are no cars parked in front of the door, although it has made it difficult to get deliveries. On the whole it's a positive move on behalf of the council and is the first step in the whole Market area upgrade.

Moroney's Gets A Makeover

Friday, 21 March 2008

What better day than Good Friday to give a pub a facelift with a day's painting and so it was that Noel (Squaw) McCarthy and Colm McNevin got the brushes out and got to work. At 8 o'clock this morning when most people were asleep, the boys got to work taking down all the pictures and preparing to paint. When most are trying to get into a pub on one of two closed pub days in the year the lads had the pub to themselves.

They finished at 7pm and the pub looks really pristine. Added to this a new 37 inch TV was installed on the wall over the fireplace in the lower bar and this should go down really well with all the footie and hurling fans. Also six new speakers were put up in the pub along with one in the smoking area so surround sound is the order of the day. So now you know where to go to watch a match of listen to some great live Trad music, yes MORONEYS.

Hwyl Cymru - Cheers Wales

Sunday, 09 March 2008

Yesterday in Croke Park the Welsh rugby team defeated Ireland 16-12 to win the Triple Crown and set up a tilt at the Grand Slam next week in Cadiff against France. The win also set off wild celebrations in Moroneys where a group of Welsh supporters had gathered to watch the game after their coach driver Mickey Meere had dropped them off for the game. It was the groups third visit to Ennis for a rugby weekend but their first visit to Moroneys and they thoroughly enjoyed themselves.

They were full of praise for the staff on duty (Irene and Zara ) and were very appreciative of the food and hospitality they received and also for the butterballs compliments of the house to celebrate their great victory. They were also presented with three Moroney polo tops on their departure which they were thrilled to receive. On their departure they sang a Welsh song outside the pub and this was well received by the passing locals who smiled at their celebrations. Indeed the Welsh Flag hung on the window of Moroneys all weekend and added to the days atmosphere. Today the group is off to Galway hoping to do some sight seeing and we look forward to seeing them again as do all the locals who met them. From all in Moroneys Iechyd Da Diolch Yn Fawr Iawn ( Good Health and thanks very much ).

See Picture Gallery under Welsh Fans for some photos.

Spurs Fans Celebrate Carling Cup Success

Sunday, 24 February 2008

Well as they say everything comes to those who wait and this is certainly true in Spurs case when they defeated London rivals Chelsea in todays Carling Cup Final at Wembley.Having only defeated their great rivals on three occassions in the last 42 attempts one can understand how Spurs fans Brian John McCarthy , Mickey Clohessy, John Casey, Anthony Daly and website designer Gearoid Moroney felt when the final whistle was blown.

The Chelsea Supporters Club meet in Moroneys so the banter was great this evening especially when Chelsea took the lead only for Spurs to level from the penalty spot. Then in extra time the unthinkable happened and ex Leeds United star Jonathan Woodgate headed the winner much to the delight of proprietor BJ. Expect the drinks to be on the house this evening.Come on ye Spurs will be the cry!

Celebrating Twenty Years Off Football

Friday, 22 February 2008

What started off nearly twenty years ago as a group of friends getting together to play inter pub soccer for Cheers Bar ( formerly Darcys Bar and run by Cyril Cusack and Kieran Gleeson ) will be celebrated in Barcelona in April (18th -21st) when a group of 14 will fly over and watch the mighty Barca play in the famous Camp Nou against local rivals Espanyol. Over the years players have come and gone and regettably one of our stalwarts Seamie O Sullivan is gone to his eternal rest but he is always with us in spirit when we play our indoor football during the winter and spring months. Always our No 3 , that's Seamie.

Over the years the group played inter pub soccer for Cheers, Woodys, Brannagans and Knox's where after years of near misses the coveted inter pub trophy was finally won beating Murty McMahon's from Ennistymon in the final at the Fairgreen . In the semi final they beat their arch rivals PJ Kelly's ( 4 time winners ) in the semi final on penalties with the late Noelie Ryan and Mike Sheridan on board for the losers. It certainly was a proud day for founder Martin O Brien and captain fantastic Tom Tobin and our loyal sponsors Cyril Cusack and Kieran Gleeson.

During the winter and spring months indoor soccer was the order of the day in preparation for the inter pub summer tournament but now that it is ceased the indoor goes on. With no indoor venues in Ennis in the 90's it was off to Gort for the footie and stories can be told of great nights travelling up in all sorts of weather. Then we were luck enough to get the Colaiste Hall in Ennis and for the last four years we have decamped to the new sports hall in St Flannan's College.

Despite the onset of ageing limbs everyone looks forward to Tuesday nights where you are sure of a competative game, friends can shout at each other, fellows square up to each other but once the game is over friendships resume. It's a testimony to all who played with us over the years wheather they are still involved playing or not are all considered great friends. The idea of going to Barcelona was mooted by the football aristocrat Ger " Barasi" Hanrahan who felt we should celebrate the great comradarie that is within the group and do it before many of us hang up our boots. He did'nt have to ask a second time and now the dream will become a reality in April.

The flights, hotel, match tickets are booked and the squad is in strict training for a tough three days of sightseeing ! As they say friendship is affection arising from mutual esteem and good will and that is certainly true in our case. To all those who played with us and against us down the years, to all the pubs that sponsores us and to those who can no long be with us with thank most sincerely for all the fantastic friendships and memories you have given us. As Hanna's talk of retirement that's all it is because we are like the Rolling Stones we intend to carry on for another while just yet.

Squad For Barcelona; Martin (Ouch)O Brien, John (What's he on tonight) Casey, Ger ( Barasi)Hanrahan, Phil (Boulavogue) Brigdale, Willie ( Nutmeg) Donnellan, Brian John ( BJ's working) McCarthy, Johnny (On the floor again) Moroney, Mickey ( The Terrier) Conlon, Pat ( Pass the ball) Doran, Fergie ( We have em now boys )O Loughlin, Cyril (The Ref ) Cusack, Billy ( The Pool)Woods, Pat(Handball play on)Donlon, John (The Knee)Hanrahan.

See picture gallery under Indoor Football for some pics of the boys.

Moroneys In Croker

Friday, 15 February 2008

On Wednesday week last the Moroneys Bar On Tour flag was flying high in the Cusack Stand in Croke Park for the international soccer friendly between the Republic of Ireland and Brazil. Up there for the occassion were Irene Hehir ( top player with the famed Lifford ladies soccer team ) and James Fenton who incidentally was still celebrating his 40th birthday. This was because the match tickets for the game were a present from Irene which one must say was a very kind gesture from a avid Man U fan to a Liverpool supporter.

Despite the 1-0 defeat thanks to a Robino effort a great time was had by all and preperations are well in hand for a repeat visit in September for the World Cup qualifying ties when once again the Moroneys flag will be flying. Any chance we'll see it in Thurles on 1st June for the Waterford vs Clare Munster Hurling Championship game as Clare will need all the support they can get on the day. Only time will tell! See picture in gallery under Moroneys On Tour.

Happy 40th James

Monday, 04 February 2008

On Friday night last the one and only James Fenton celebrated his 40th birthday with a party in his local Moroneys. James along with all his family and friends including some of his fellow Liverpool supporters had a mighty night that went on until late! A great sing song was the order of the day and even the bould James sang a song and no it was'nt You'll Never Walk Alone. And of course James was back in on Saturday evening to cheer on The Pool when they took on Roy Keane's Sunderland and their 3-0 win here completed a great weekend for our good friend.

Wishing you James many more years of health and happiness from all your friends in Moroneys.But please don't keep tell us the Pool are going to win the league not any time soon anyway.

Come On You Spurs

Wednesday, 23 January 2008

Well Spurs fanatic Brian John has waited a long time to shout about his beloved team. It has taken Tottenham Hotspur 22 games to defeat their deadly rivals Arsenal but they did it in style last night winning 5-1 and qualifying for the Carling Cup Final on 24th February. BJ was watching it live in the pub and could'nt believe what he was seeing as Spurs ran riot.

Now the search is on for a ticket for the Wembley final but failing that Moroneys will be rocking for the final be it against Everton or Chelsea. As the Chelsea Supporters Club meet in Moroneys on a regular basis it should be a very interesting day on the 24th. One thing for sure BJ will not be behind the bar but sitting with the fans be it in Wembley or in a non segregated Moroneys.

Sports Quiz - So You Know It All !

Monday, 14 January 2008

On Tuesday night 5th February there will be a Sports Quiz in Moroneys with all proceeds going to Cahercalla Hospice. The quiz is the brain child of Martin McGuane who works in Roche and there will be spot prizes and plenty of food on offer during the evening. It is for teams of 3 with an entry fee of just €30 for this worthy cause. Everyone knows some relation, neighbour or friend who has benifited from the care and compassion that the nurses and doctors give in Cahercalla so come along and enjoy the crack. A great night is assured and now we'll see if you really are the next Jimmy McGee !

Ringing In The New Year

Wednesday, 02 January 2008

Well Brian John and his staff certainly ushered in the New Year at Moroneys in style with Marcus Moloney and nine of his friends playing out the old and welcoming in the New Year with some great music. The bar was decked out for the occassion and at 12 o clock the champagne bottles were uncorked and a great hooley began. Credit also must go to Tracy who fed a packed pub and was also responsible for all the bunting, streamers etc that added to the night.

Here's hoping that 2008 will be another great year for Moroneys and that all our loyal customers will continue to enjoy their favourite local.

United - Pat and Karrieann

Thursday, 20 December 2007

Well it's true Pat Hennessy has got engaged to the gorgeous Karrieann McDonald. To say this is one of the fittest couples in Ireland would not be a exaggeration. Karrieann is a well know fitness instructor and can often be seen pounding the roads of Ennis and beyond. Many's a male driver that has been distracted by this lovely sight.

As for Pat, one knows that he's in residency at the West County gym such is his dedictation to the pursuit of supreme fitness. One look at Pat will tell you he'a a serious guy where training is concerned and his other love Man Utd is a poor second to his training. One expects that it will only be a matter of time before Karrieann has Pat jogging the roads of Ennis also.

Well the happy couple have not yet set a date for the big day but all their friends and staff at Moroneys wish both Pat and Karrieann sincere best wishes in their future life together. Hope you support United Karrieann!

Happy Christmas One And All

Friday, 07 December 2007

Well it's hard to credit that twelve months have passed since last Christmas but as they say time does not stand still and we're all a year older now. Despite a terrible summer made up somewhat by a mild and dry October plus November here we are again waiting for Santa to arrive.

Already here in Moroneys Brian John and his loyal staff have the bar decked out for the festive season and the front window looks really well with Santa having a fiddle, rugby ball, hurley and football to signify the sporting and musical nature of Moroneys. As always if you want to celebrate your Christmas party in the bar you can contact Brian John or Mary Daffy and they will cater for all your needs.

At the close of another year Brian John ,Tracy, Mary, Colm, Cathal, Irene and all the staff at Moroneys wish all their loyal customers a warm and Happy Christmas and a Peaceful and Prosperous New Year. Do drop in and say hello over the festive period as you are sure of a great welcome.

Dieter Comes To Town

Thursday, 06 December 2007

On Friday night last Dieter Langer (Louis Lovett) of RTE Killinascully fame visited Moroneys for a few pints of Guinness. While it was a long way from Dinny's Bar in the TV comedy programme he did feel at home when he saw the pictures of greyhounds on the wall. He really enjoyed his stay and came back again on Saturday night for a few more pints after the show in Glor ( Improbable Frequency ) where he starred alongside Carrie Crowley ( ex RTE News reader).

On hand to take some pictures with her camera phone was Mary Daffey and these can bee seen in the picture gallery under Dieter.

Trad Pictures Up

Thursday, 06 December 2007

On Sunday 11th November as part of the Ennis Trad Festival there was a mighty Trad Session in Moroneys and there to take pictures of the event was our very own Brian John. Among the artists playing were Marcus Moloney, John Joe Kelly, Murty Ryan, Shane Mulvey, Niamh O Dea, Marie O Beirne, Mags Hehir, Liam Joyce, Noelie Ryan, Derek Hickey, Tony O Connell, Siobhan Peoples, Grace Kelly, Carmel O Dea, Michel Siko (alias Paris), Silvan ( Brittany on flute) and Flo (France -Harpist).

All at Moroneys would like to thank all the musicians most sincerely for the efforts over the year at the weekly trad sessions on Wednesday and Thursday nights and also for making this years Ennis Trad Festival one to remember. See in gallery re Trad Session 07 for pictures of the session.

Happy Birthday Nicola

Friday, 23 November 2007

Tonight we give a hearty welcome to Nicola Dormer, her husband Jason and all their family and friends to Moroneys to celebrate her birthday. Now as everyone knows one should'nt ask a lady her age and in this case we'll just say she does'nt look a day over 25! Nicola is a qualified fitness instructor as is hubby Jason so as one can see this is a very fit couple.

All at Moroneys wish Nicola congratulations on her big day and hopefully we'll get a song from her before the night is over. If not I'm sure we can rely on Tom Dormer and Kieran Ryan to sing a song or possibly two!

Three In A Row For Moroneys

Thursday, 15 November 2007

At the Annual Ennis Tidy Towns Awards Moroneys Bar has won a third consecutive award for it's window box floral display. The awards are being presented at the De Valera Library on Friday night and it's great for Brian John ,Tracy and all the staff who help to keep the premises in such pristine condition that this honour was secured.

The awards will be presented by the Mayor of Ennis Tommy Brennan and will be accepted by Marian Moroney on behalf of everyone connected with Moroneys.Well done to all concerned.

Ennis Trad Festival

Friday, 09 November 2007

It's that time of the year again when the trad festival hits town starting on Thursday 8th until Monday 12th November. As usual Moroneys will play their part with sessions on each night with the likes of Marcus Moloney, Michael Butler and company ringing out the tunes. On of the highlights of the festival will be the awarding of a Gradam Award to the great Sonny Murry from St Michaels Villas at Cois na hAbhna on Saturday night.

Sonny who is originally from Kilmihil is one of the greatest exponents of the concertina and is also well know for his love of the greyhounds and indeed is a life long member of the Ennis and Clarecastle Coursing Club. All at Moroneys wish the festival well and congratulate Sonny on his award.

Harry's Painting Of Moroneys

Sunday, 04 November 2007

Local artist Harry Guinnane recently completed a painting of Moroneys and this was a labour of love for him as his late father Sean who was a founding member of The Faughs and County Board Secretary was a great friend of Gerry's. Indeed many is the match that was played in the bar when these two got together. Harry spent over two months painting the picture and I think you'll agree that he did a tremendous job. Note the greyhound in the picture something that Harry always associated with Gerry, seeing him walk the dogs up the Market and felt it should included in the picture.

The family in the picture were just passing at one point when Harry was sketching and he put them in to add life to the painting. See picture gallery under Harry Guinnane.

Long Standing Customer Of Moroneys

Saturday, 03 November 2007

Going on over 50 years Jimmy Fenton Snr from Ard Na Greine in Ennis has been a customers of Moroneys. Always dressed in a beautiful suit Jimmy would make his way up to the Market and have a few pints in Gerry's while also attending bingo in the Community Centre in Chapel Lane.

Jimmy is a dab hand at pitch and putt being a long standing member of the Clare Road Club while also being a shark on the Ennis Golf course. While not venturing out much at nigh now Jimmy occasionally joins his son James jnr in Moroneys for a pint of Guinness and looks over the many pictures on display of old Ennis.

On Friday 2nd November Johnny Moroney presented Jimmy with a new Moroneys polo top which no doubt will get plenty of wear around the Ennis links.See picture gallery.

Eire Og Senoir B Champs

Friday, 26 October 2007

Finally a piece of silverware for the Eire Og hurlers when on Sunday last they beat Ogonnelloe on a scoreline of 0-20 to 0-15 at Cusack Park. On the day they had big performances from Danny Russell, Mark Fitzgerald, Kevin Moynihan, Barry Nugent and captain Fergus Flynn.

After receiving the cup the Eire Og team lined up to form a guard of honour for the Eire Og team of 1982 who were being presented with trophies on the 25th anniversary of their victory over Sixmilebridge. This is a relatively young Eire Og team and hopefully they can build on their success for next year and follow in the footsteps of Tulla who claimed victory in the Senior A final after a 74 year wait on Sunday last also.

Hurlers Aim For Senior B Championship

Sunday, 21 October 2007

On Sunday Eire Og will do battle with Ogonnelloe in the Senior Hurling B Final in Cusack Park and John Russells boys will be hoping for victory for what is a very young senior team. Also on the day the Eire Og senior championship winning team from 1982 will be honoured and players such as Declan Coote, Jack and Francis Heaslip, Pa Lynch, the Barrys Joe, Pete and Gerry will be honoured.

Hopefully they can bring home the Ryan Hannon Trophy and give a much needed boost for hurling in the town.

Congratulations To Lissycasey

Sunday, 21 October 2007

The famine has finally ended for the footballers of Lissycasey when they defeated Eire Og in last Sundays County Football Final. Having been beaten in two county finals in recent years there was no stopping them on Sunday and it was apt the Martin Daly was named Man of The Match as he is one of the finest footballers Clare has ever produced. Celebrations have been going on all week in the Lissycasey parish and all us Townies which them well in their quest foe Munster Club honours.

The Monty Mint Boys

Wednesday, 10 October 2007

For some of Moroneys younger brigade Tuesday proved a fruitful day at the Tipperary races. Cathal McCarthy who works in the bar and his colleagues Ross Griffin, Chris Shannon, Ian Guilfoyle, Stephen Dinan, Danny Russell and Eamon Callinan had a day only some of us can dream about that is fleecing the bookie. The boys headed down in two cars and unfortunately were late for the first race where they were going to back Prospectorous and you guesses it he romped home.

Not to be detered the boys asked a bookie friend of theirs for some tips and by the end of the race meeting the boys had four winners to their name. Indeed one of the lads had got a loan of €5 and ended up the day with €190 to his name. They reserved their biggest cheer for Monty Mint who obliged them in the last race and sparked a stampede to the bookies to collect their winnings. Well done boys but remember it won't always be as good as this at the races!

See picture in gallery.

Eire Og Chase Two in a Row

Wednesday, 10 October 2007

On Sunday next Eire Og take on Lissycasey in the County Senior Football Final in Cusack Park in what is a repeat of last years final. On that occassion The Townies emerged winners having overcome a stubborn Lissycasey fight back in the second half. Once again there should be nothing between the sides at the final whistle and all at Moroneys wish captain Shane Daniels and the boys every success in their efforts to bring back the Jack Daly cup to Ennis on Sunday evening.

Good Luck to Greenlight Driving Instruction

Tuesday, 25 September 2007

On October 1st Mike Fahy will launch his new venture Green Light Driving Instruction based in Newmarket on Fergus. Mike who along with his good wife Jacquie are regulars in Moroneys will offer 1 & 2 hour lessons in your own car or theirs, students welcome ( discounts available), intensive driving courses and pre test assessments. We in Moroneys wish both Mike & Jacquie best wishes and success in their new venture from all their friends. Mike can be contacted as follows; Tl No: 086-8322122 or @ www.greenlightdrivinginstruction.ie There is a picture of the happy couple in the picture gallery under the heading people.

John Joe Kelly at Glor Aug 29th

Wednesday, 22 August 2007

Bodhran player extraordinaire John Joe Kelly will play Glor along with accordianiast Dermot Byrne, fiddler Ciaran Tourish, flute player and piper Mike McGoldrick and guitarist John Doyle. This promises to be a great night for traditional music and expect Glor to have the full house signs up.

John Joe is a regular visitor to Clare and one can expect to see him in Moroneys catching up with old friends like Marcus Moloney and of course Brian John. As he spoke to Gerry Quinn for an article for this week Clare People John Joe explained " I've been over and back to Ennis a bit lately,Ive got lots of friends there. I often go to the session in Moroney's bar on a Wednesday night. The Landlord in there, Brian John McCarthy is a good mate. Marcus Moloney, a banjo player who plays there, is another friend of mine.

I've know Marcus since I was 10 or 11 because I used to compete against his brother Ronan at the fleadhs-we go back quite a bit. Moroney's is a bit of a favourite spot on a Wednesday night. There are good tunes there" he hints But then again there are good tunes all over Ennis"

So don't say you have'nt been warned get down to Moroneys and see traditional music at it's best any Wednesday or Thursday night and you won't be disappointed with the fair on offer.

Happy 40th Christy

Wednesday, 22 August 2007

Now most of us like to take things easy for our 40th, others would prefer to let the day pass un noticed but not our good friend Christy Nestor. Instead Christy and his friends went to Lanzarote for themselves and even found an Irish bar run by a Ennis man to celebrate the great occasion.

Frank Burns runs Murphy's Bar in Lanzarote and to compound matter further his father also Frank was born next door to Moroneys bar in the Market where the Burns family also had a public house,so Christy and the crew must have really felt at home. All the gang wore their Moroneys tee shirts for the big night and their was plenty of ol, craic agus ceoil during the evening and long into the night. If you want to hear more of the going on you'd better talk to the crew, although I expect the motto of what goes on tour stays on tour will apply here.

On tour with Christy were James Fenton, Seanie O Sullivan, Edel Murphy, John Dooley, John Kelly, the Hehir family Flan, Bella, Irene, Denise, Helen and her boyfriend Fintan. Judging from the tans the crew got they spent some time in the sun after all. Wishing Christy a belated 40th and best wishes from all at Moroneys.Drinks are on you next time Liverpool are playing,Christy. Also a big thank you to Irene who took pictures of the night and they can be seen in the picture gallery.

Soccer Season Back In Full Swing

Thursday, 16 August 2007

Despite the terrible summer we had weather wise it seems an eternity since the soccer season ended. On Sunday next one of the clashes of the season takes place when Liverpool and Chelsea clash at Anfield and expect Moroneys to be rocking come kick off at 4pm. The Scottish Premier League is also back with another mouth watering clash on Sunday when Aberdeen take on Celtic at Pittordie.This is one for the Celtic boys who meet regularly at Moroneys for the Celtic games. The following is a list of the games that will be shown on Sky Sports over the coming months.One can also see all the Setanta soccer fixtures in Moroneys once again this season.Now hurry on down and support your team .

AUGUST Thu 16 Rotherham v Sheff Wed (7.45pm) 7.30pm Carling Cup Sat 18 Portsmouth v Bolton (12.45pm) 12.30pm Premier League Sat 18 Stoke City v Charlton Athletic (5.20pm) 5pm Championship Sun 19 Man City v Man Utd (1.30pm) 1pm Premier League Sun 19 Liverpool v Chelsea (4pm) 3.30pm Premier League Tue 21 England v Romania (7.45pm) 7.30pm U21 Int Wed 22 Bulgaria v Wales (6pm) 5.30pm ECQ Wed 22 Scotland v South Africa (8pm) 8pm Friendly Wed 22 Denmark v Rep of Ireland (7pm) 8pm ECQ Wed 22 England v Germany (highlights) 10pm Friendly Sat 25 Sunderland v Liverpool (12.45pm) 12.30pm Premier League Sat 25 Sheff Utd v West Brom (5.20pm) 5pm Championship Sun 26 Ipswich v Crystal Palace (1.15pm) 1pm Championship Sun 26 Man Utd v Tottenham (4pm) 3.30pm Premier League Tue 28 Carling Cup Round 2 7.30pm Carling Cup Wed 29 Carling Cup Round 2 7pm Carling Cup

Times are subject to change.

SEPTEMBER Sat 1 Sheff Wed v Bristol City (12.45pm) 12.30pm Championship Sat 1 Coventry v Preston (5.20pm) 5.15pm Championship Sun 2 Arsenal v Portsmouth (1.30pm) 1pm Premier League Sun 2 Aston Villa v Chelsea (4pm) 3.30pm Premier League Mon 3 Blackpool v Hull (7.45pm) 7.30pm Championship Fri 7 Rep of Ireland v Portugal (TBA) TBC ECQ U21 Sat 8 D'ham & R'bridge v Barnet (12.15pm) 12pm League 2 Sat 8 Scotland v Lithuania (3pm) 2.30pm ECQ Sat 8 Latvia v Northern Ireland (5.15pm) 5pm ECQ Sat 8 Wales v Germany (7.30pm) 7.15pm ECQ Sat 8 Slovakia v Rep of Ireland (7.30pm) 7.30pm ECQ Sun 9 Wycombe v Brentford (1.30pm) 1pm League 2 Sun 9 Swindon v Yeovil (4pm) 4pm League 1 Sun 9 Masters Grand Final (6pm) 6.30pm Masters Wed 12 Iceland v Northern Ireland (TBC) 7.05pm ECQ Wed 12 Slovakia v Wales (5.30pm) 5pm ECQ Wed 12 Czech Rep v Rep of Ireland (7.30pm) 7.20pm ECQ Wed 12 France v Scotland (7.50pm) 7.30pm ECQ Sat 15 Portsmouth v Liverpool (12.45pm) 12pm Premier League Sat 15 Plymouth v Cardiff (5.20pm) 5.15pm Championship Sun 16 Live Spanish Football 9pm La Liga Sun 16 Watford v Southampton (1.30pm) 1pm Championship Sun 16 Man City v Aston Villa (4pm) 3.30pm Premier League Sun 16 Live Spanish Football 7pm La Liga Sat 22 Cardiff City v Preston NE (12.45pm) 12.30pm Championship Sat 22 Ipswich v Coventry (5.20pm) 5.15pm Championship Sun 23 Newcastle v West Ham (1.30pm) 1pm Premier League Sun 23 Man Utd v Chelsea (4pm) 3.30pm Premier League Sun 23 Live Spanish Football 7pm La Liga Sat 29 Man City v Newcastle (12.45pm) 12.15pm Premier League Sat 29 Norwich v Sheff Wed (5.20pm) 5.15pm Championship Sun 30 WBA v QPR 1pm Championship Sun 30 Everton v Middlesbrough (4pm) 3.30pm Premier League Times are subject to change.

OCTOBER
Fri 5 Wales v Scotland 7.30pm Victory Shield Sat 6 Man Utd v Wigan (12.45pm) 12.30pm Premier League Sat 6 Bristol City v Sheffield United (5.20pm) 5.15pm Championship Sun 7 Reading v Derby (2pm) 1.30pm Premier League Sun 7 Fulham v Portsmouth (4.10pm) 4pm Premier League Sun 7 Live Spanish Football 7pm La Liga Mon 8 QPR v Norwich (7.45pm) 7.30pm Championship Thu 11 England v Northern Ireland (7.45pm) 7.30pm Victory Shield Fri 12 England v Montenegro (8pm) 7.30pm Euro U21 Sat 13 Scotland v Ukraine (3pm) 2.30pm ECQ Sat 13 Rep of Ireland v Germany (7.45pm) 7.30pm ECQ Sat 13 England v Estonia (highlights) 10pm ECQ Sun 14 MK Dons v Lincoln (1.30pm) 1pm League 2 Sun 14 Doncaster v Huddersfield (4pm) 3.30pm League 1 Mon 15 Luton v Northampton (7.45pm) 7.30pm League 1 Tue 16 Rep of Ireland v England (TBA) 7.30pm Euro U21 Wed 17 Russia v England (TBC) 4.30pm ECQ Wed 17 Rep of Ireland v Cyprus 7.30pm ECQ Sat 20 Everton v Liverpool (12.45pm) 12.15pm Premier League Sat 20 Scunthorpe v Leicester (5.20pm) 5.15pm Championship Sun 21 Southampton v Cardiff (1.15pm) 1.15pm Championship Sun 21 West Ham v Sunderland (4pm) 3.30pm Premier League Mon 22 Hull v Barnsley (7.45pm) 7.30pm Championship Sat 27 Charlton v QPR (12.45pm) 12.15pm Championship Sat 27 Burnley v Southampton (5.20pm) 5.15pm Championship Sun 28 Bolton v Aston Villa (1.30pm) 1pm Premier League Sun 28 Liverpool v Arsenal (4pm) 3.30pm Premier League

Times are subject to change.

NOVEMBER Fri 2 England v Wales (7.45pm) TBC Victory Shield Sat 3 Arsenal v Man Utd (12.45pm) TBC Premier League Sat 3 Colchester v Leicester (5.20pm) TBC Championship Sun 4 Norwich v Ipswich (12.45pm) TBC Championship Sun 4 West Ham v Bolton TBC Premier League Fri 8 Northern Ireland v Scotland (7,45pm) TBC Victory Shield Sat 10 Sunderland v Newcastle (12.45pm) TBC Premier League Sat 10 Stoke v Sheffield Utd (5.20pm) TBC Championship Sun 11 Birmingham v Aston Villa (1pm) TBC Premier League Sun 11 Portsmouth v Man City (4pm) TBC Premier League Mon 12 Coventry v West Brom (7.45pm) TBC Championship Sun 18 Yeovil v Gillingham (1.30pm) TBC League 1 Sun 18 Carlisle v Nottingham Forest (4pm) TBC League 1 Fri 23 Wales v Northern Ireland (7.45pm) TBC Victory Shield Sat 24 Newcastle v Liverpool (12.45pm) TBC Premier League Sat 24 Preston v Charlton (5.20pm) TBC Championship Sun 25 West Ham v Tottenham (1.30pm) TBC Premier League Sun 25 Fulham v Blackburn (4pm) TBC Premier League Mon 26 Leicester v Cardiff (8pm) TBC Championship Thu 29 Scotland v England (7.45pm) TBC Victory Shield

Come On The Banner

Saturday, 28 July 2007

Sunday is a big day in the hurling year with Clare and Limerick meeting in the All Ireland Q/F in Croke Park.While many will make the trip those of you who stay at home can join us in Moroneys where the Banner Roar will be heard throughout the afternoon hopefully cheering Clare to victory. Come on and join us and enjoy the Trad session after the games when the crack will be great.

More Wedding Bells on The Way

Monday, 02 July 2007

Congratulations to Cyril White ( Young Spinky) who got engaged on Saturday last to Carole Ann McNamara in the romantic city of Paris.It looks like Spinky Snr won't be going on any Leeds trips this season as he'll be saving hard for the big day. With Cyril also changing jobs this week it has certainly a hectic week for him and all at Moroneys wish the happy couple years of long life and happiness.And of course the next generations of Spinkies !

Welcome Home Tony

Wednesday, 27 June 2007

To coincide with the Ennis Street Festival Clare Hurling All Star Tony Griffin will arrive home in Ennis on Sunday evening following his epic 7000km cycle across Canada in aid of cancer research. Tony undertook the journey in memory of his late father Jerome who died of cancer in December 2005 and he hopes to raise €1 million for the Ride For The Cure Foundation. Tony will arrive in Ennis on Sunday evening after completing the Irish leg of the journey by which time the festivities in Ennis will be in full swing. All at Moroneys congratulate Tony on his fantastic achievement and remind him that his great friend Travis McDonagh who was a driving force behind the cycle and himself are welcome to those pints of porter that were promised long before the cycle was dreamed. Cheers guys!

Ennis Street Festival Sunday 1st July

Wednesday, 27 June 2007

What started two years ago as a small event in Lower Market Street has now evolved into a annual festival. Along with musical workshops,puppet shows, face painting, the Galway Circus Project will showcase their skills at a workshop to be held in the Holy Family School. In addition to these events a gig rig will be set up in the Upper Market with five live bands performing between 2-8pm finishing with a performance by the Ennis Brass Band. Hopefully the weather will not spoil what promises to be a great days entertainment.

Saying Good Bye To Single Life

Sunday, 27 May 2007

On Saturday next the 2nd June in St Mary's Church Mullagh Pat "Basil" Whelan will walk down the aisle with Patricia Cahill followed afterwards with a reception in The Bellbridge Hotel,Spanish Point. Basil is a staunch Leeds United supporter and a member of the Ennis Leeds United Supporters Club which meets in Moroney's. Basil has extended an invite to all his friends in the club to attend the evening reception if they wish.

Less than a week later on Wednesday 6th June in far away Sorrento Italy Enda Howard will marry Marguerite "Mags" Murphy from Clarecastle. Enda is also a member of Ennislusc and of course a true Eire Og supporter. It will be interesting to see what happens if Eire Og meet The Magpies in the hurling championship in that household.

Everyone in Moroney's wish both couples long life, health and happiness and we look forward to meeting you on your return from honeymoon for a drink or two !

Double for Celtic

Sunday, 27 May 2007

The Ennis Branch of the Glasgow Celtic supporters club were in jubilant mood yesterday evening when Celtic completed the double by beating Dunfermline in the Scottish Cup Final. As usual they celebrated in style and they had a great sing song going well into the evening.Congratulations to all concerned from Brian John and staff.

Fleadh Nua Time Again

Sunday, 27 May 2007

This weekend the Fleadh Nua reaches it's climax with a cultural prade through the streets of Ennis at 4pm. The time has been changed to let the natives watch the Munster Hurling Championship game between Clare and Cork which is being shown live on RTE at 2pm. Despite the mixed weather this week, crowds are expected in Ennis as musicians from all over Ireland decend on the town to showcase their talents. On Sunday evening their will be a trad session in Moroney's from 6-9pm and all are welcome.

EnnisLUSC Down but not OUT

Saturday, 12 May 2007

Our friends in the Ennis Leeds United Supporters Club who meet and watch games in Moroney's may be downhearted with their beloved Leeds being relegated to Division 1 of the Football League but they are already planning for next seasons trips. Despite the slagging from the Man United,Liverpool & Chelsea fans the Leeds fans are a hardy group and are staying loyal to their team.

Paul "Nuggy" Nihill,Johnny Moroney & Slim Corry are already planning their trips for next year with Millwall & Huddesfield Town their favoured options. Already they have taken 20 bookings for their first trip even though the fixtures are not yet out. Looks like the Leeds boys are here to stay. Now that's what I call loyalty.

Celtic Champs Once Again

Wednesday, 25 April 2007

On Sunday last Moroneys was heaving with supporters of the famed Hoops gathering for their potential Championship winning game vs Kilmarnock. A win for Celtic would guarantee the League title and Colm McDonagh,John Lavery,John Reynolds,Chris & Ann Dobbins of the Ennis Supporters Club along with many more members bedecked in the Celtic jerseys were there to shout on their heroes.

With the game entering injury time up stepped Celtic's Player of the Year Shunskuke Nakamura to curl a left footed free kick over the wall and into the net.As you can imagine the supporters when wild and celebrated accordingly.Songs were sung, beer was drank and the slagging was mighty.Congratulations to all the Celtic supporters on your great year from all in Moroneys and we look forward to seeing you once again for the Scottish Cup Final on 26th May vs Dunfermline when we hope you complete the DOUBLE.

Abbey Trophy Update

Wednesday, 25 April 2007

In the battle for Abbey Trophy hounours seasoned veteran Ger Hanrahan defeated first time competition entrant Kieran "Ginger " Ryan on the 18th after an epic battle. Ger is a previous winner of the trophy so Kieran can be well proud of his achievement in taking Hanna all the way to the last hole. Incidentally Ger was beaten in the next round by his playing partner and ex Hermitage footballer Eamonn Kenny,himself a noted shark on the fairways.

In the other clash of Moroney patrons Senan Ryan beat his good friend Davy Considine 3/2 but unfortunately went out in the next round like Ger. So no trophy to celebrate in Moroneys but plenty of good stories of how things might have been if this putt dropped or that drive found a fairway.Funny old game that golf.

Shoot-out at Ennis Golf Club

Friday, 23 March 2007

In the qualifying round for the Abbey Trophy,one of the oldest competitions played at the Ennis Golf Club five regulars from Moroney's qualified for the last 16. Interestingly four of the lads have been paired to meet each other in the match play section which had added a bit of spice to the proceedings.

Top qualifer Ger "Hanna " Hanrahan has been drawn to play Kieran " Ginger " Ryan and this has all the hallmarks of an old St Michael's vs Hermitage match in which both these guys starred in down the years. Now the battle is on the fairways but no doubt the intensity of battle without the flying tackles will be just as hard fought.

Also drawn together are great buddies and regular Sunday partners Senan Ryan and joker Dave Considine. It would be worth going to watch this pairing even it was only for the laugh as these two are entertainers as well as good golfers. Lastly Mike Butler who plays regularly at the trad sessions in Moroneys and is no mean golfer will play Kieran "The Avenue " Ryan.

All that remains to be said it let the best man win,stay friends and hopefully the Abbey Trophy will be seen in Moroney's in the near future.

Happy St Patrick's Day

Friday, 16 March 2007

If you are in town on Saturday after the parade which finishes in The Market why not drop in and join us in cheering for Ireland in their Six Nations Rugby match vs Italy. The atmosphere will be electric and you will also be able to see the All Ireland Club Hurling and Football Finals during the afternoon. Happy St Patrick's Day to all our customers home and abroad from all the gang in Moroney's.

Good Luck to Ennislusc Supporters

Tuesday, 06 March 2007

On Friday next 9th March 23 supporters of the Ennis Leeds United Supporters Club will travel over to Elland Road for the Championship game vs Luton Town. The club is based in Moroneys and we wish the club best wishes in their quest for three points and their fight against relegation.See you all Sunday evening for the updates on the weekend.

Where's My Whiskers

Sunday, 25 February 2007

Well Friday night lived up to expectations and there was a great turnout for Liam's beard shave in aid of St Anne's School in Ennis. There to enjoy the night were many of his friends from Whitegate along with the usual support from the Moroney regulars. Among them were his fellow Leeds supporters in the Ennislusc Branch including Mike McNamara,Paul Nihill,Tommy Kelly and Dom O Rourke who were there to give him support on the night.

Also among the guest were Linda Guilfoyle who is in charge of St Annes and her daughter Julie of The Guillotine Hair Studio who performed the beard shave on Liam. The Guilfoyles are synonymous with Moroneys as Julies grandfather Paddy"Polo"Guilfoyle was a great personal friend of Gerry Moroney and indeed her father Paddy is a great greyhound supporter and visits Gerry regularly.

The night brought a surprise as instead of one beard shave we had two. Clares well known dog warden and soccer referee Frankie Coote also had his famous beard shaved for a bet and St Annes benefited to the tune of €100. Well done Frankie but I wonder what Wendy said to you when you went home!

With music,food and spot prizes the night was a great success and Liam would like to thank all who supported him. In his speech he especially thanked Ger Sweeney of Clare FM for his help and courtesy in promoting the event and the staff of Moroneys including Brian John & Johnny. There are pictures of the night in the gallery.

Liam To Have A Close Shave

Monday, 15 January 2007

Our good friend and avid Leeds United supporter Liam Jones from Whitegate will have his famous beard shaved in aid of St Anne's School ,Ennis on Friday night 23rd February in Moroney's Bar. This is a kind gesture by Liam and there will be music ,food and lots of spot prizes on the night. Do come along as a great night is in store.

Some of his Man United friends are saying that because Leeds are in danger of relegation to the 1st Division he does not want to be recognised in the future but we'll leave Liam to answer that one!

New Year's Eve in Moroney's

Sunday, 31 December 2006

To welcome in the New Year there will be a massive trad session in Moroney's with Marcus Moloney, John Joe Kelly and friends starting at 7.30pm.Looking forward to ringing in the new year with all our customers and friends. Brian John ,Tracy and staff would like to wish all their customers,musicians,suppliers and friends a Happy New Year and look forward to seeing you in 2007.

Wedding Bells On The Horizon

Sunday, 17 December 2006

Congratulations to Marcus Moloney and Mags on their engagement from Brian John and all the staff at Moroney's.On Wednesday night next,which is Marcus's resident night there will be a party in Moroney's and one can expect a lively trad session from Marcus and all his friends as they celebrate the occasion in style.

Christmas Greetings

Friday, 15 December 2006

Brian John and all the staff at Moroney's would like to wish all their loyal customers a very Happy and Peaceful Christmas.There will be many party nights over the festive season so do drop in and say hello and you'll be sure of a great welcome.

All the way from Leeds

Saturday, 02 December 2006

Over in Ennis for the weekend were our good friends Angie and Carol from the Prince of Wales pub in the heart of Leeds.Unfortunately Angie's husband Paul could'nt join her as he was on duty in the pub for the Leeds vs Barnsley game.When the Ennis Leeds United Supporters go over for games we go to the Prince of Wales for the beer, crack and friendly welcome.

As it was Carol's birthday at the weekend our PRO on tour Slim Corry invited the girls over to sample the delights of Ennis.The girls could'nt have picked a worse weekend weather wise to come over but they did'nt let that dampen their spirits. As Paul and Angie are retiring (unfortunately for us Leeds supporters) from the pub in March they had a surprise in store for Johnny and all the Ennis Leeds United Supporters when they presented him with the engraved mirror from their pub the Prince Of Wales. This is a beautiful mirror which will grace the wall of Moroneys from now on and will be a reminder to all the Leeds supporters of some great nights we had in the pub while over for games in Leeds.It was a lovely gesture and much appreciated by all concerned.

There are pictures from the night in the picture gallery.

Glasgow Celtic Supporters Club Ennis

Saturday, 02 December 2006

If it's Celtic you support you can be sure to find their supporters in Moroney's on match days.The Hoop followers including Colm McDonagh, John Lavery, Chris Dobbin and John Reynolds would only be too delighted to welcome you to join them in cheering on The Bhoys.

Second Successive Award In Tidy Town's

Friday, 17 November 2006

For the second year in succession Moroney's Bar were successful in the Ennis Tidy Towns Award cermony held in the De Valera Library Ennis on Friday 17th November. The award was for the Shop Window Floral Display and was presented by Rory McAllister of Oliver Walsh Motors and Dermot Whelan of Mid-West Fireplaces to Johnny Moroney.This was a tribute to Brian John ,Tracy,Colm and all the staff who continue to mainatain the highest of standards in keeping Moroney's in pristine condition.

To win awards is great but to maintain the standards is really what such awards are about and we at Moroneys feel proud our efforts have been rewarded.Once again thanks to everyone concerned and here's to the hat trick next year.

Jack Comes To Moroney's

Wednesday, 15 November 2006

On Tuesday 1st November Alan Malone and his team mates visited Moroney's with the Jack Daly Cup.Having beaten Lissycasey in the County Senior Football Final on the previous Sunday it was great to see the cup back in the pub.It was indeed fitting as Gerry himself won four county senior football meadles with the Faughs and captained the victorious Faughs team in the 1952 final. Also as Jack Daly himself was a regular in the pub it was like a coming home party.

Brian John filled the cup with brandy and as is traditional this was passed around the bar.It was great for the locals to get a glimps of the cup and congratulate their fellow townies.There are pictures in the picture gallery of the night Jack came home.

Many thanks to Alan and all the lads for calling,it was much appreciated by all at Moroney's.

Good Luck To Lifford Ladies

Wednesday, 15 November 2006

On Sunday next the Lifford ladies soccer team will travel to Castlebar to take on Mayo in the semi final of the Senior Cup. Our very own Irene Hehir will be part of the squad and all at Moroney's wish the girls the very best of luck.If they can play as well as they can party they'll have no trouble marching on to the final.The game kicks off at 1pm in Milebush Park,Castlebar.

Take a look at the picture gallery to see the girls celebrate their quarter final victory over Cork.

Ennis Trad Festival Thurs 9th - Mon 13th Nov '06

Wednesday, 08 November 2006

It's that time of the year again when the Ennis Trad Festival kicks off with Festival Director John Rynne promising a feast of music with over 500 musicians employed to play in 25 pubs in the town.As usual there will be afternoon,evening and late night concerts,workshops,ceilis,CD launches not forgetting the ever popular Trad Disco.

Here in Moroneys we have an impressive line up of top class musician playing over the festival and one is assured of some great and lively sessions.The line up for the Trad Festival is as follows:

Wed. 8th Nov.@ 9.30pm Marcus Moloney,Kieran Kissane,Mossie Griffin & Michael Dermody

Thurs.9th Nov.@9.30pm Kieran Breen,Dermot Lernihan & Denis Liddy

Fri.10th Nov.@ 9.30pm Kevin Ryan,Mossie Griffin & Kieran Hehir

Sat.11th Nov.@ 9.30pm Martin Dermody,Ann Marie McCormack & Sheila Garry

Sun.12th Nov.@ 7pm Marcus Moloney,Mags Hehir & Martin Dermody

Brian John and all his staff would like to take this opportunity to wish the festival every success and promise you a great night of music & crack if you happen to drop in for one of the sessions.

Halloween Party

Saturday, 28 October 2006

On Tuesday night 1st Nov there will be a Halloween Party in Moroney's where staff will be in costume and patrons are invited to do likewise. This was a super night last year when staff from Roche in Clarecastle had their staff party in Moroney's and the range of costumes on display was hilarious. If you're around drop in and BJ is sure to give you a great pint if you're not too frightened to drink!

Best Wishes to Eire Og

Saturday, 28 October 2006

On Sunday 29th Oct Eire Og will taken on Lissycasey in the County Senior Football Final at Cusack Park in what promises to be a great final. Brian John ,staff and patrons of Moroney's would like to wish The Townies well and hopefully bring back Jack (Daly Cup).

Tribute Night To Christy Murphy and Ennis Scouts

Tuesday, 29 August 2006

A special tribute night to the Ennis Boy Scouts and in particular to one of its founding members the late Christy Murphy was held in Moroney's on Monday night.Two framed pictures were unveiled by Christy's youngest daughter Kaki depicting her Dad's contribution to the Scouts and that of others.The first Ennis Troop was founded in Ennis in 1932 and the Scouts has been an integral part of the town and it's youth since then.Noel Halpin could recall events and outings going back over 50 years as if they were only yesterday.The one constant in all the stories was Christy as he lived for the Scouts and brought so much joy to the towns youth.

It must be remember that Ennis in those early years during and after the war and into the 50's and 60's was a lot different to the Ennis of today.People take it for granted now that you go abroad on holidays but in those times Lahinch was the Costa Del Sol for Townies.Most youths in the town joined the Scouts looking forward to their summers camping in Lahinch where Christy ensured that memories of those times and friendships made were never lost.

There is a great love and history of the Scouts in Ennis and by having a small pictorial gallery to those people who gave so much of their time we are saying your not forgotten and thanks for the memories.On the night there was a great turnout with Kaki,Sarah and Kieran Ryan,Tom, Susan,Jason and Robert Dormer ,Aidie and Deirdre Murphy,Christy Murphy junior and his sisters Pauline and Marie.A special word of thanks must go to Christy O Loughlin ,present day leader with the Scouts for his help and to all his friend who came along and helped to make the night so enjoyable.Also to Brian John for his courtesy,great porter and good food.

The night finished up with Adie Murphy the youngest member of the family saying a few words.Aidie himself is just home for overseas duties with the Irish Army and obviously got the love for such a career from his Dad.In his speech he said that his Dad was a pioneer and he will get such a kick out of the fact that he is looking down on us when we're having a pint.He thanked everyone involved on behalf of the family and said that they were deeply honoured by the gesture.

Pictures from the night can be seen in the picture gallery.

Leeds United Supporters Club AGM

Monday, 28 August 2006

On Sunday 27th August the Ennis Branch of the Leeds United Supporters Club held their AGM in Moroney's.A good turnout of members were present following the live showing of the Sheffield Wednesday vs Leeds Championship game.Better still Leeds won the game courtesy of a David Healy penalty and all present stayed on for the All Ireland Football Semi Final between Dublin and Mayo. This turned out to be one of the best football games in recent times with Mayo winning by a point.At 6 o clock a Trad Session (see pics in gallery) began and this was a fitting end to a great days sport.

Welcome Home Harry

Thursday, 10 August 2006

After leaving Ennis over 25 years ago to study art and follow his dream Harry Guinane from Carmody St (lived opposite ESB) has returned to his roots. His late Dad, Sean, was a staunch and founding member of the Faughs football team and Eire Og, while also having the post of County Board Secretary.

Harry is now an accomplished artist, illustrator and designer specialising in potraits, illustrations, caricatures and company logos. With this in mind Harry was commissioned to do a potrait of Gerry Moroney, his late wife Mary and to include a greyhound in the potrait to signify their love of the long tails. The potrait can be seen in the picture gallery under the heading Harry Guinane artist supreme. Take a look and see what you think.

Polo Tops and Tee Shirts Available

Thursday, 10 August 2006

Following many enquiries as to where the staff got their lovely tops,Moroney's now have polo tops and tee shirts for sale.Both tops have the crest of the pub on the front while on the back of the polo shirts only in gold writing is the pub website address. The emblem on the shirts was taken from an old message bag (see picture gallery under Bar)that was used in the grocery where tea,sugar,biscuits etc were on sale.It's existence dates back to when the grocery / pub first opened it's doors in 1840. Photos of the polo tops can be seen in the picture gallery under the headings A Team and Bob Kearney ex Market Street now domicile in the USA since the 50's.It was his son Brian who ordered the top as a surprise for his Dad and needless to say Bob was delighted to feel so close to his home town. Prices are as follows :Polo Tops €22 Tee Shirts €15 plus postage. If interested contact Brian John 087-9977405

Good Luck to Clare

Wednesday, 09 August 2006

If you can't get to Croke Park on Sunday next (13th August) for the All Ireland Hurling semi final between Clare and Kilkenny why not watch it in Moroney's and enjoy the electric atmosphere.Throw in is at 4.00pm.The match will be shown again on Monday evening when all the post mortems will take place.

New-Look Gallery

Wednesday, 09 August 2006

The photo gallery has been re-vamped with a new look, and also behind-the-scenes, adding new photos will be quicker, so you can look forward to more pictures soon!

We're Back!

Thursday, 27 July 2006

We realise that the site has been down for the past few weeks and we have been working to get it fixed. We are pleased to say that the site is now back to normal and updates are on the way!

Heineken Cup Final

Thursday, 18 May 2006

On Saturday 20th May, Munster take on Biarritz at 3pm in Cardiff in the Heineken Cup Final, and are hoping for victory after two previous final defeats. Many of our loyal locals are heading over, including Cyril Corry, Liam, Alan & John Murphy, Mike Mac, Senie Ryan, Donie Neylon, Enda Howard etc. We wish them well and hope the bring home the spoils.

Here in Moroney's, the Munster flag is flying high on the front of the pub. If you are not going to Cardiff, why not join us in shouting Declan Kidney's men on to what one hopes will be a famous win...

Ennis Leeds United Supporters Club

Sunday, 14 May 2006

On Friday 5th May and Monday 8th, the Ennis Branch of the Leeds United Supporters Club gathered in Moroney's for the play-off semi-finals in the Championship vs. Preston. Although the pub caters for all sports from soccer, rugby, GAA etc., it was a Leeds pub on these two nights. Over 60 fans met to shout on the Whites, and after a 1-1 draw on Friday night, the action switched to Monday night where tension was at a high until Leeds scored in the 56th minute. They added a second five minutes later and held out for a famous victory despite having two men sent off.

The boss Brian John McCarthy, himself a self-confessed Spurs, fanatic played "Marching on Together" for the fans before, during, and after the game. The supporters were also fed at half-time. As the one and only Mike Mac commented "We've the best pub, best grub, best craic, worst team" - sentiments we'd all agree with, bar the last. It was great to see father and son, Michael and Paul Nihill enjoying the craic and even Liverpool (Kieran Ryan, James Fenton), Man Utd (Pat Hennessy, Noel Considine), Celtic (Colm and Johnny McDonagh, John Lavery, Chris Dobbin) and Spurs (Mike Clohessy, BJ) fans shouted for Leeds. After the game, a singsong began, and anyone passing would have wondered what was happening on a quiet Monday night in town.

Both the Chelsea and Man United fan clubs have held get-togethers in Moroney's on match nights, so as you can see, there are no exclusive rights to club status there! On Sunday 21st May the play-off final is on in Cardiff vs. Watford, so another mighty day is in store and also the first day of the Fleadh Nua.

Waterboys in Moroney's!

Thursday, 23 March 2006

On Wednesday 1st March Mike Scott & The Waterboys played the first of their two sell-out concerts in Glor and afterwards adjourned to Moroneys to listen to the weekly Wednesday night trad session. There were not to be disappointed as Marcus Moloney, Martin Dermody, Alan Kelly & Mossie Griffin had them stamping their feet and clapping their hands to the music. It did not take much persuasion from Mike and the lads to join in and what a session it turned out to be for those lucky enough to be present.

Along with Mike there was Steve Wickham (Fiddler extraordinaire), Carlos Hercules, Steve Walters & Richard Naiff (Keyboard dynamo) of The Waterboys and crewmembers Steve and Bomber. Also there were members of their support band on the night Guggenheim Grotto and John Butler who couldn't resist the call from his good friend Colm McNevin when he heard the session was on.

It turned out to be a great night for the loyal locals including Richie McLoughlin, James Fenton, Pat Joe O Leary & co who gloried in knowing that they were witness to the mother of all sessions and indeed have not let a day pass without telling those that were not in attendance what they missed. Suffice to say that after their second gig in Glor on Thursday night only Steve & Bomber made it back as the rest of the band were wrapped up in bed catching up on some badly needed sleep before heading to Dublin for their gig in the Olympia on Friday night. They were loud in their praise for Brian John & his staff and have promised to be back (see message on guest book).

One thing is for sure we'll all be there next time!

Ennis Trad Festival 10th - 14th November 2005

Saturday, 12 November 2005

This event which is now in its 12th year, attracting thousands to Ennis from far and wide who come to enjoy the music, craic and drink is on to another winner this weekend. Traditional music is growing in popularity with each passing year and for the first time since its inception Moroney's is delighted to be associated with the festival. Since Moroney's reopened (after extensive renovations) last June, Wednesday & Thursday nights are dedicated as trad nights and theses have proved very popular with the local public. Brian John has used all his connections in the music business and assembles some great local artists for these nights.

On the regular Thursday night gig for the opening of the festival Martin Breen and friends played and had the crowd baying for more. Martin is from Summerhill so is as local as they come. The set for Friday night had some great performers in P.J. King, Geraldine Cotter, Liz Kane, and Emmet Gill who were joined by 8 (yes) other musicians for the mother of all sessions. How they kept going is a tribute to their dedication and love of traditional music, which was warmly received by all those in attendance.

After seeing Ireland on the receiving end of a bad defeat from the awesome All Blacks Joe Rynne, Seamus Hynes, John O Neill, and Hugh Sullivan lifted some of the doom and gloom with some powerful music. Once again one can only watch & admire their tremendous skills and dedication to their profession and realise how lucky one is to see such artists (each and everyone over the weekend) in your local pub. The Saturday night gig has Ciaran Mooney, Danny Mahoney, Ryan Graham, and Claus Steinort displaying their talents and there can be no doubt but they will be appreciated in the same vein as all the other artists.

Sunday brings the festival to a close at Moroney's when Nuala Hehir, Mark Mohan, Jim Kerrigan, and Davy Graham will revive your spirits if you've had a late one on Saturday night. No doubt this gig will carry on well into the afternoon and beyond. Even though Sunday closes the festival Monday is usually a great day for music as the musicians like to mingle amongst themselves and have some sociable drinks before departing to the four corners of Ireland and beyond.

The Banner County has a great tradition of traditional music and Ennis is helping foster that love and here's to next years event.

Award for Moroney's

Saturday, 12 November 2005

In the annual Ennis Tidy Towns Awards ceremony held in the County Library on Friday evening 11th November, Moroney's Bar were successful in gaining an award for the shop front and their floral display. This was a tribute to all those who helped restore Moroney's to its former glory from Gerry Dunne (Engineer), Pat McComiskey (Builder), John Brassil & Tony Roche (Painters) and all those other great workmen too numerous to mention. Míle Buíochas.

Obviously the project would have failed without the contribution of Brian John, Tracy and staff who run the bar to the highest of standards and hopefully will continue the great tradition associated with the pub. At the ceremony were Marian & Dara Moroney, Brian John & Tracey and the award was presented by Dermot Whelan (Sponsor) along with Bishop Willie Walsh. Dara collected the award and was given a hearty round of applause when he bowed & waved to the audience who enjoyed the moment of fun.

This is a great honour for the pub and hopefully will give all the encouragement to keep up the highest standards that befits our great town.

New Pictures Added to Gallery

Tuesday, 23 August 2005

We have added some new pictures to the Picture Gallery. Check them out here.

Welcome

Tuesday, 28 June 2005

Welcome to moroneysbar.com, the website for all you need to know about Moroney's Bar.

The site is still under construction at the moment, but feel free to look around. Some links don't work right now, but be sure to check out the history of the bar, and if you have any comments, be sure to sign our guestbook.

If you come across any technical errors, please e-mail us.