Raphoe Mens 1st XI had a difficult away trip to University College Cork in the first round of the Irish Hockey Trophy.
The journey men got off to a bad start as poor marking lead to an early goal. 1-0 UCC.
Raphoe responded fantastically, equalising within minutes, through Matthew Lecky, who drove at the UCC defenders before riffling a reverse shot into the roof of the net. 1st quarter 1-1.
Raphoe had most of the possession in the first second quarter and the pressure showed as Raphoe took the lead, again through Lecky who finished of a fine penalty corner routine. 2nd quarter 1-2.
The third quarter saw Raphoe come under some pressure, some sloppy passing lead to UCC pulling out a double save from Raphoe keeper David Moore. Raphoe held on to take the lead heading into the final quarter.
As news broke of the sad passing of club legend and friend Tommy McKean, Raphoe were determined to get over the line and back to Raphoe with a win & they rightly did so. A hard fought win for Tommy.
Back at home, as our 3rd XI men were getting ready to play their game v Instonians, the sad news of the passing of Tommy Mc Kean was heard.
Tommy, mainly known as Tommy Pads, was the perfect clubman. He loved his hockey and he loved Raphoe hockey club.
A fantastic goalkeeper who was fully committed and never missed a game. He had a great career spanning over 45 years and played for every team from 1st XI to 6th XI!
A fantastic committee member who attended everything that the club organised. If you asked Tommy to sell 20 tickets. Tommy sold 50.
If every club had a Tommy, you would have very little problems.
Tommy touched so many hearts here at Raphoe Hockey Club especially the younger players who would be taking the step up from junior to senior teams.
Always making sure they were lifted for matches and left home again. He took so many under his wing and always made sure they were enjoying playing hockey.
Tommy will be so sadly missed by all at the Club and indeed anyone who knew him. Condolences to all of Tommy’s family and may he rest in peace now.
His remains will repose at his late residence tomorrow Sunday. Funeral service at his home on Monday 17th at 2pm followed by burial in the family plot in Ballylennon Presbyterian Church graveyard. House private on the morning of the funeral.
