12 of the lads made their way down to Guernsey on Friday facing up against rocky water, and terrifying plane landings, whilst Darren and Kenny enjoyed the renowned tourist highlights of Guernsey.....going round on Bus No. 7 all day!
After early rises to watch the Ireland-Wales rugby game, the team set off and got ready for their opening match of the day against reigning 2010 European Shield Champions Copenhagen. However being the in-form team, Amsterdam enjoyed the lions share of possession and took the match by 18 points with a 3-11 to 0-2 scoreline.
Next up were former European Champions Paris, who were looking to avenge their 5 point defeat by the Amsterdam B's in Belgium in September. The victory wasn't in too much doubt after some early goals, and this time it was a 16 point victory to the Dam lads, 2-12 to 0-2.
Hosts Guernsey & Jersey were the opposition for the final group match, but at this stage Amsterdam were revelling in their goal-scoring prowess and took a 22 point win, 5-11 to 0-4.
The final awaited and once again, Copenhagen were the opposition and nearly pulled the shock of the day after a nervous first half display. In a tough match, Amsterdam came out the victors with a four point win, to make it four wins out of four on the day and another trophy to add to the cabinet. Full credit to Copenhagen who were great sports, and all their team made a point of coming over to every Amsterdam player to congratulate them...exactly the type of guys we need representing gaelic football in Europe.
Big performances all around the pitch, especially Colm Brennan and Neville Ducie in the backs, but a special mention has to made for Simon Palmer who deservedly picked up his first ever player of the tournament award...I think the English soil had something to do with it :) He played cracking football all day long and was constantly running back to help the defence, as well as picking up some nice scores.
So all roads lead to the final tournament of the year in Limerick on November 5th, where a top 10 finish will secure Amsterdam's first ever overall European trophy...bring it on!!!!
