IT was a day to savour for Castleisland Desmonds GAA Club last Saturday when they qualified for the All-Ireland semi-final of the RTÉ Celebrity Bainisteoir tournament.

Desmonds defeated Shannonbridge of Offaly by 2-10 to 2-6 after a fiercely contested game. It was evident from the throw in that both, well prepared sides, were determined to win. Despite conceding an early goal Desmond's dominated much of the first half with Pat Fitzgerald, Maurice Hickey, Eric Nelligan particularly prominent. Eric flicked a free to the net and Stephen Bartlett then blasted home a penalty after Kieran Brennan was fouled.

At half time Desmonds lead by 2-6 to 1-2 and seemed to have taken control with two well taken points after the break.

However, the Offaly side made some astute changes and a goal threw them a lifeline. Desmond's backs were heroic as they had to withstand sustained pressure and no more so than Maurice Lynch, in many supporters eyes the man of the match. But the team, individually and collectively, produced a performance worthy of the occasion.

Desmonds will play Killconnolly, Tuam, Co. Galway, in the All-Ireland semi-final. The game has been fixed provisionally for Saturday, October 2. Home venue will again be determined by the result of a face off challenge between the two clubs in the Curragh army camp. Kilconnolly's Celebrity Bainisteoir is Breffny Morgan who has appeared on the TV show 'The Apprentice'. They won their game by 5-12 to 0-6 and will be formidable opposition.

Wildly enthusiastic scenes greeted the final whistle as scores of Desmonds supporters rushed onto the field to congratulate their team. It reminded some of the glory days of the 1980s and Sean McCarthy, current PRO and secretary at the time, commented that he had not seen such support at an away game for many years. Great credit was due to them as they made a 500 klms return journey on a Saturday.

Young and old savoured the moment. Was there a prouder man in Castleisland that night than chairman, Michael J. Kearney? An 85-yearold James Lyons, Main Street, accompanied by his son, John and grandson, James commented that it was a wonderful day for the club and Castleisland.

Afterwards James enjoyed a few moments with match commentator Micheál Ó Muircheartaigh, who fondly recalled his trip to Castleisland in April. Micheál was the epitome of courtesy and patience as he chatted with and signed autographs for all.

Celebrity Bainisteoir, Derek Burke also savoured the moment. Derek's infectious enthusiasm has struck a chord with the players and supporters. He has developed a rapport with the panel and Michael J. Kearney thanked him for his wonderful commitment and energy. He also expressed the club's appreciation of the interest shown by Crystal Swing in the competition. They all came to Castleisland on Friday afternoon to wish the team well before they departed for Athlone. They subsequently mixed freely with supporters during and after the game.

The euphoria was mixed with sadness as thoughts were with the Riordan family following their recent tragic loss. A minute's silence was observed before the game as a mark of respect to the late Aine.

The panel was as follows: 1. Ger Reidy, 2. Niall Mitchell, 3. Shane Walsh, 4. Mike Brosnan, 5. Sean Lynch, 6. Maurice Hickey, 7. John McGaley, 8. Pat Fitzgerald, 9. Ciaran O'Callaghan, 10. Eric Nelligan, 11. Stephen Bartlett, 12. Barry O'Neill, 13. Thomas Hickey, 14. Kieran Brennan, 15. Neil O'Sullivan, 16. Daniel Nelligan, 17. Niall O'Connor, 18. Micheál Walsh, 19. Pa White, 20, Denis O'Connor, 21, Maurice Lynch, 22. Tommy Walsh, 23, Robert Shanahan, Tadhg O'Connell, Tadhg McGillicuddy, Pius Fleming, Mike Walsh, Hugh Herlihy, Donagh O'Connell and Derry Prendiville.