Chapter 2: The 1950's

From winning the Intermediate League, Longstone advanced to the Senior League and in 1951, they finished as Runners-up to Newry.

In 1952, Longstone won a 7-a-side competition at Ballymartin and a Senior challange match at Davitt's pitch in Belfast.

In 1953, the 'Stone won the 7-a-side competition at Dromara sports.

It was in the early 50's that Mal McEvoy joined the team at midfield.

In 1953, the club was honoured to have Major Vivion De Valera as their guest at the annual Aeríodheacht and sports. This eventtook place in Kevin's field on the Valley Road. Thousands attended to hear the oration and to watch a selection of Irish dancing, singing and football.

The major footballing achievement of the 50's for Longstone was reaching the Senior Championship final in 1955. This game was played against Ballymartin at St. Patrick's Park, Newcastle and was refereed by Pat Rooney of Castlewellan. Ballymartin won the game with the score 4-8 to 0-5.

In 1958, Longstone's new park (the present pitch) was formally opened by Mr. Seamus McFerran, the former President of the G.A.A. The field cost £1,000 and most of the work needed to convert it from its old moor state was done by voluntary labour. The main events on the day were:
Senior Challange, DOWN v. ARMAGH. This was refereed by Barney Carr and ended with a win for Armagh.In a Senior 7-a-side competition in which 6 teams took part. Longstone defeated Glasdrumman in the final.

This are the receipts for the purchase of the field: