Weekly Match Report 2026
WDSL MATCH REPORT – K&K WINDOWS U12 DIVISION 1 CUP SEMI FINAL
WICKLOW TOWN AFC B 1
COOLBOY RANGERS 2
David O’Keeffe’s brilliant acrobatic header sent Coolboy into the final of the WDSL K&K WINDOWS U12 Division 1 Cup.
With extra time looming at a wet Finlay Park on Saturday afternoon, Rangers were awarded a corner with three minutes of normal time remaining.
Skipper Oliver Gettings swung over the dead ball right-footed off the left wing. It went deep and appeared to be going past everybody at the back post.
But O'Keeffe swivelled his body and got a header which dropped to the net.
It was reminiscent of Javier ‘Chicharito’ Hernández’s famous backward header for Manchester United against Stoke City back in 2011.
The two teams had met at the same venue back in March in League action, with the visitors claiming a 2-0 victory.
Already 1-0 up early on, Rangers had a chance to double their lead. But Wicklow goalkeeper Darren Rowlands made a fantastic save.
Ten minutes into the second period, the home side were awarded a penalty of their own to tie the contest at 1-1.
Rangers went close in the fourth minute. Bursting from his own half on a solo run, and evading three challenges, Paidi Wafer's 14-yard shot clipped the bar and went over.
But the Orange and Black’s hit the front 90 seconds later.
Wicklow tried to play a goal-kick out from the back.
The old adage of not playing a ball across your own box wasn't adhered to. David O’Keeffe intercepted and slotted in low from eight-yards.
The away club has the opportunity to double that cushion in the tenth minute.
A wide right throw into the box was handled by a home player.
But stand-in custodian Rowlands – who only went in goals after the warm-up - made a fine save with Cillian Theobald then scrambling the ball clear.
Rowlands then thwarted sub Ryan Langral in the 18th minute.
At half time, the rain came.
‘Town sub Eli Young lashed a 32nd minute free-kick over the target. Moments later at the other end, Wafer did the same.
But in the 40th minute, from a Yellow and Blue’s corner, an away player handled in the penalty area. Home captain Nicolai Creciun converted the spot-kick.
It took a brilliant headed goal-line clearance by Stephen Thornton off Wafer’s driven free to keep the tie level in the 44th minute.
After what proved to be the winner, Coolboy went close to a third in time added on.
In a break away off a Wicklow corner, David O’Keeffe played Wafer clear. But his low effort flashed across the face of the goal.
In the other Semi Final earlier on Saturday, Arklow Town B defeated Wicklow Rovers B 5-1 at Travers Insurances Park.
WICKLOW TOWN AFC B: Darren Rowlands; Cillian Theobald, Ben Globys, Eoin Doran; Stephen Thornton, Ted Jameson, Nicolai Creciun, Jack O'Connor; Lucy Loughran.
SUBS: Leon Byrne, Jackson Sherry, Eli Young, Scott Delemare Fitz, Jess McCormack.
COOLBOY RANGERS: Freddie Bermingham, Max Elliott, Oisin Whitty, Evan Lancaster; Paidi Wafer, Oliver Gettings, Daryl Hedderman; Ryan O’Keeffe, David O’Keeffe.
SUBS: Jack Ennis, Stephen Barnville, Ryan Langral, James Foley, Daniel Mullen.
REFEREE: Olaluwa Ogunnusi.
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WDSL MATCH REPORT - K&K WINDOWS U13 DIVISION 1
ASHFORD ROVERS B 1
SHILLELAGH UNITED YOUTHS 14
Daniel Blake’s six-goal salvo saw Shillelagh climb up to joint second-place in the WDSL K&K WINDOWS U13 Division 1.
Amid the sunshine and the rain on Wednesday evening at Ballinalea Park, United powered past a brave Ashford side.
The result was never in doubt once Blake scored from 20-yards with just 100 seconds on the clock.
The visitors doubled that lead in the fifth minute when Jonas Gregan tapped in Harry Finucane's left endline centre.
Blake then set-up Finucane in the ninth minute before Finucane netted again just seconds later.
After good work by Lily Nolan, Blake added to the tally in the 13th minute.
With just a single point to show for their efforts from the previous five outings, Rovers pulled one back on the quarter hour as Chris Watters raced clear to blast to the roof of the net.
It was only a temporary respite.
Blake’s 17th minute corner dropped to the net to complete his hat-trick.
He then turned provider in the 19th minute for Hayden Lawrence.
Blake’s free from the right of the centre circle in the home half bounced to the net in the 22nd minute.
Then in the 28th minute, home custodian Warren Cleary saved well from Finucane, but Lawrence converted the rebound.
In fairness, the hosts regrouped at the interval. They had a better shape to their line-up after the turnaround.
But their rearguard action lasted just nine minutes before Blake lashed in a 20-yard half volley.
He then drilled in low from 22-yards in the 43rd minute.
Lawrence then registered his treble moments later with a sweet 16-yard drive.
Then in the 46th minute, having come outfield for the second half, away goalkeeper turned striker Oisin Howard found the net.
With four minutes or normal time remaining, Aidan Byrne became the sixth player from his team to feature on the scoresheet.
Avonmore FC continue to set the pace at the top of the table, with 18 points from eight games.
Shillelagh have joined Arklow Town B on 15 points with both clubs playing six times.
Arklow United B are next on 13 points from seven matches. Roundwood AFC have a maximum 12 points from their four fixtures.
ASHFORD ROVERS B: Warren Cleary; Sam Vickers, Luke Coughlan, Tyler Watters, Tom Harrison, Logan Doyle; Wyatt Doyle, Matthew McConnell, Zach Johnston; Hugh O’Neill, Chris Watters.
SUBS: Maksym Kononchuk, Paul Byrne, Senan Annaloe Scannell, Daniel Martin Peelo, James DeCourcy.
SHILLELAGH UNITED YOUTHS: Oisin Howard; Sam Collins, Darragh Deegan, Ruairi Deegan, Lily Nolan; Aidan Byrne, Harry Finucane, Daniel Blake, Sean Kenny; Jonas Gregan, Hayden Lawrence.
SUB: Billy Murphy.
REFEREE: Francois Jansen Van Rensburg.
Report by Paul Dowling
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WDSL MATCH REPORT - K&K WINDOWS U13 DIVISION 1
WICKLOW ROVERS B 1
GLENCORMAC UNITED 2
Glencormac ended a recent three-game losing streak to record their first WDSL K&K WINDOWS U13 Division 1 away win of the season.
Played under brilliant sunshine at Finn Park in Kilcoole while Whitegates is being redeveloped, the Kilmac outfit edged out Wicklow in a tight contest on Tuesday evening.
Two points had separated the teams before kick-off.
The Green And White’s had suffered three defeats in their previous four games. But had the better chances in the match.
However, it was United who took their chances to claim the points for the first time in four fixtures.
The first and second halves were like day and night.
The opening first half barely had an opportunity. The only opening came in injury time when the hosts’ Aidan Hughes set-up Rusty Lehostaieu. But from 15-yards, the striker dragged his low effort wide of the target.
In comparison, the second period was action packed.
Within two minutes of the restart, Rovers’ Alejandro Rodri through ball saw substitute Liam Kelly challenge for possession. But his 14-yard half volley dropped high and wide.
With their first real opportunity of note, United hit the front in the 34th minute.
From a wide right corner, the set-piece was taken quickly. Paddy Levins ran along the endline before floating a high ball to the back post. The unmarked Nicholas Mannerings guided in a looping close range header.
But Wicklow were back on level terms by the 36th minute.
Hughes won a tackle and the ball rebounded to Kelly. The attacker cut infield to create space before arrowing a stunning 22-yard drive into the bottom left corner of the net.
The Glens went close again in the 41st minute. Mannerings held off a defender on a run to the edge of the box. But Rovers goalkeeper Leo Fahy made a fine kick save.
But the Ryder’s Field based club regained the lead in the 46th minute.
A goal-kick was cut out off the left flank by Arthur Murray. He controlled and steadied himself before firing in from the 18-yard area to the roof of the net.
Wicklow went agonisingly close to another equaliser with four minutes of normal time remaining.
Sub Will Musiol slipped a pass on the right wing to Jake Flynn. He skipped inside a challenge and teed up Nathan Doyle 15-yards out. His low effort bent towards the far corner but curled just wide of the upright.
WICKLOW ROVERS B: Leo Fahy, Sophie Byrne, Jack Dowling, Amin Mohammed, Josh Thompson; Nathan Doyle, Alejandro Rodri, Jake Flynn, Alex Mullen; Aidan Hughes; Rusty Lehostaieu.
SUBS: Logan Byrne, Will Musiol, Liam Kelly, Jay Doyle, Axel Harris.
GLENCORMAC UNITED: Harry Brown; Ben Dempsey, Frankie Fletcher, James Lawless, Cain Connolly; Oisin Reynolds, Paddy Levins, Arthur Murray; Tygh Foot, Nicholas Mannerings, Noah Woods.
SUBS: Ollie Luckie, Darragh O’Brien, Dylan Martin.
REFEREE: Tony Doran.
Report by Paul Dowling
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WDSL MATCH REPORT – GIRLS 2014 DEVELOPMENT LEAGUE TROPHY FINAL
ROUNDWOOD AFC 0
ASHFORD ROVERS 0
(AFTER EXTRA TIME)
(ASHFORD WON 3-1 PENALTIES)
Goalkeeper Isla Lynn was Ashford’s penalty shoot-out hero as they lifted the inaugural WDSL K & K Windows Girls 2014 Development League Trophy.
After one hour of stalemate action on Bank Holiday Monday afternoon at Finn Park in Kilcoole, Rovers overcame Roundwood 3-1 on spot-kicks.
In the League, Roundwood won 2-0 at the Vartry Grounds in January of this year. Then in April, at Ballinalea Park, the visitors recorded a 5-2 victory.
But it proved third time lucky for Ashford – in a contest that could have easily gone the other way between the two evenly matched teams.
Emily Lynch scored Rovers’ first dead-ball before Lynn saved Roundwood’s first penalty.
Sara Doyle slotted in her eight-yard attempt before Lynn made another save.
Rovers missed their third effort while Daisy Mohan netted for Roundwood.
Blake Clarke scored Ashford fourth penalty before Lynn stopped Roundwood’s fourth spot-kick to seal the win.
With both teams wearing blue gear, Roundwood wore purple bibs to sepaprte the colours.
Under the damp conditions, both clubs took time to settle – with both defences on top.
Rovers went close in the 17th minute. Lilihanna Shannon set Sara Doyle free off the right. But her shot on the run flashed wide.
Four minutes later at the other end, a Roundwood corner wasn't properly cleared. Substitute Ana Leigh Harper scooped her attempt just over the bar close in.
In first half stoppage time, Ashford’s Aoife Doyle’s 20-yard free-kick dropped just over the bar.
In a tight second half, it looked set for extra time. Then with two minutes of normal time to goal, Lynn’s goal-kick released Doyle. But Roundwood custodian Emelie Lawlor made a brilliant block save.
The ten minutes of extra time saw both sides cancel each other out.
Lynn then took centre stage to secure the 3-1 penalty success.
ROUNDWOOD FC: Emelie Lawlor; Holly Jenkinson, Frances Flood, Amelia Power; Roisin Donelan, Dayna Brady, Molly Cunningham, Oonagh Fanning; Daisy Mohan.
SUBS: Ava Brady, Laoise Brady, Ana Leigh Harper, Naoise Cullen, Mary Grace Cunningham, Emily O’Connor, Katie Keeshan, Mia Kennedy, Fiadh Cleary, Clodagh Malone, Cara Kavanagh.
ASHFORD ROVERS: Isla Lynn, Emily Leyden; Aoife Doyle, Robyn Pavitt; Blake Clarke, Lilihanna Shannon, Sara Doyle; Emily Lynch, Fiadh Manning.
SUBS: Orla O’Connor, Lauren O’Gorman, Isabelle Clarkson, Sinead O’Brien, Finley Ball, Ella O’Brien, Sophie Gahan.
REFEREE: Padraic Cannon.
Report by Paul Dowling
WDSL MATCH REPORT – GIRLS 2014 DEVELOPMENT LEAGUE CUP FINAL
ARKLOW UNITED 1
WICKLOW TOWN AFC 1
(AFTER EXTRA TIME)
(ARKLOW WON 4-3 ON PENALTIES)
In a dramatic sudden death penalty shoot-out, Arklow did an inaugural WDSL K & K Windows Girls 2014 Development double.
Having been crowned League champions last month, United followed that up on Bank Holiday Monday at Finn Park in Kilcoole with a narrow victory over Wicklow to win the Cup final.
Goalkeeper Luch Doyle saved three eight-yarders as the Green and Black’s won 4-3 on penalties.
But the Yellow and Blue's will look back on what might have been.
They led 3-1 after the first three spot-kick’s.
They then had five chances to claim the win. But couldn’t capitalise on the opportunities.
Izzy Kilroy (Arklow) and Emily Loughlin (Wicklow) exchanged the opening penalties.
‘Town netminder Anna Billington then saved United’s second and third spot-kicks while Olivia Johnson and Charlee Doyle made no mistake from eight-yards.
To keep their side in it, both Aria Hughes and then Michela Kinsella slotted to the net for the Arklow Credit Union Park based club to prevent defeat.
Doyle then saved brilliantly from Wicklow’s fourth and fifth attempts to keep her team alive.
In sudden death, Arklow missed their sixth penalty. But Doyle then saved to deny Wicklow the win.
Lily O’Hart scored United’s seventh spot-kick while Wicklow missed their seventh dead-ball to give the League winners victory.
The opening period of the match itself saw Arklow have the better of the exchanges.
Kilroy fired into the side netting in the third minute.
Ten minutes later, Town’s Loughlin gathered a long throw-in. She showed great close control and got a 12-yard shot away that clipped the bar.
But United had the better chances until the break. Billington denied Kilroy in the 19th minute.
Kilroy then shot narrowly wide in the 22nd minute after being set-up by Molly Dempsey. Right on the interval, Kilroy showed great pace to break off the right flank. Cutting in from the byline, she drove into the side netting.
Wicklow needed just 15 seconds of the second period to break the deadlock.
Loughlin challenged Doyle for a ball over the top. The striker pounced on the loose ball close in. But a covering Arklow player diverted the ball into her own net.
Kilroy went close again in the 36th minute. Bursting past two defenders up the middle, she drilled just off target.
But United restored parity in the 38th minute.
Billington patted down Kilroy’s corner at the near post. From the scramble that followed, Dempsey forced the ball over the goal-line.
With seven minutes to go, Wicklow almost won it.
Isabelle Curtain’s long free from her own half bounced in the box. It looked to be looping in only for Doyle to get a hand to push the ball off the line.
With extra time tense, Arklow went close in the last play of the first period. Dempsey nipped in and flashed a fierce shot just wide from the edge of the box.
ARKLOW UNITED: Lucy Doyle; Evie White, Ciara Fanning, Robyn Hayes; Milly Dempsey, Aria Hughes, Lily O’Hart, Jayce Bradshaw; Izzy Kilroy.
SUBS: Michela Kinsella, Molly Dixon, Melita Zlivanus.
WICKLOW TOWN AFC: Anna Billington; Isabelle Curtain, Ashlei Mitchell, Fiadh Ward; Charlee Doyle, Olivia Johnson, Evie Daly O’Neill; Hannah Shine; Emily Loughlin.
SUBS: Sinead Kingne, Brook Miley, Chloe Delaney.
REFEREE: Padraic Cannon.
Report by Paul Dowling
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WDSL MATCH REPORT – K&K WINDOWS U13 PREMIER LEAGUE
ST. ANTHONY'S KILCOOLE UNITED FC A 3
WICKLOW ROVERS A 2
Living up to the cliché of a game of two halves, St. Anthony’s three goals in the first period sealed the WDSL K&K WINDOWS U13 Premier League victory.
Leading 3-0 at the interval on Tuesday evening under brilliant sunshine at Dermot Wheeler Park in Kilcoole, United faced a different Wicklow side in the second half as the contest finished 3-2.
The two clubs had met last April at Finn Park (Rovers’ current home while Whitegates) is being redeveloped, with the Saint’s winning 3-0.
They appeared well on course to repeat or better that result by half time second time around - with three scores in a sensational ten-minute spell.
United went ahead in the 13th minute.
Cillian Bohan whipped over a cross from the right, which bounced past several away defenders. It dropped to Gavin Byrne with the striker hooking a volley over his head and in off the underside of the crossbar from eight yards.
It became 2-0 in the 17th minute.
From Byrne’s in-swinging corner from the left flank, Gerard O’Brien’s header dropped to George Doyle who fired the ball over the line from six-yards out.
It appeared all over when the Goosebankers notched a third in the 22nd minute.
Byrne jinked between two opponents wide right at the corner of the box. His pull back set up Doyle. His low effort was then inadvertently turned into own net by a covering Wicklow player.
However, after underperforming first half hour, the visitors appeared rejuvenated after the interval.
They deservedly pulled one back one the 42nd minute.
A clearance from their own half was then flicked on by substitute Nathan Quinn. Fellow reserve Daragh Cosgrave raced in to smash a wonderful half volley to the roof of the net from 12-yards.
With the rest of the match very tight, the Green and White’s made it 2-1 three minutes into time added on.
Jack Murphy floated a free kick wide left right footed. It dropped at the far post were the unmarked Ryan Kirwan steered the ball to the net close in.
The result means St. Anthony’s are up to third place, on 16 points from eight games.
They are four points behind leaders Arklow Town A and three points off second placed Arklow United.
Wicklow remain in sixth position on seven points.
ST. ANTHONY'S KILCOOLE UNITED FC A: Olly Kennedy; Aaron O’Toole, Daire Heffernan, Gerard O’Brien, Noah Hennessy; Cillian Bohan, George Doyle, Callum Taylor, Eoghan Lowe, Torin Lyons;
SUBS: Kevin Redmond., Luke O’Riordan.
WICKLOW ROVERS A: Michael Jameson; Rhys Byrne, Tom O’Brien, Jack Murphy, Ollie Behan; Ryan Kirwan, Zach Bell, Ciro Collar, Jamie O’Malley; Larry Brophy, Rian Jameson,
SUBS: Daragh Cosgrave, Nathan Quinn.
REFEREE: Tony Doran.
Report by Paul Dowling
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WDSL MATCH REPORT - K&K WINDOWS U14 PREMIER LEAGUE
WICKLOW ROVERS A 5
ARKLOW UNITED B 7
In a 12-goal thriller, Arklow twice came from behind to claim all three K&K Windows U14 Premier League points.
United trailed 2-0 early on then 3-2 at half time, as well as 4-2 early in the second period.
But rallied with five second half scores to see off Wicklow on Saturday morning.
Played under brilliant sunshine at Dermot Wheeler Park in Kilcoole while Whitegates is being redeveloped, the small and tight pitch ensured there would be goals.
No less than nine different players featured on the scoresheet.
Rovers took an 11th minute when a through ball saw Hugo Bradshaw square inside, as away goalkeeper Mason Forde came out to close the angle,
for Kia Hughes to roll into an unguarded goal for 14-yards.
Bradshaw turned provider again seven minutes later. From the right wing, his low centre saw the unmarked Aaron Cunha slot in from eight yards.
But a piece of opportunism saw the visitors pulled one back in the 21st minute. With the play switched to wide left, David Drarko’s brilliant lobbed shot dropped just under the crossbar from 25-yards.
United were back on level terms in the 31st minute.
Awarded a debatable penalty when a Rovers player appeared to win the ball, Jason McAllion picked himself up to convert the spot-kick.
But Wicklow went back in front in the last passage of play of the period.
Found by Jamie McGowan’s pass, Bradshaw picked up his third assist of the contest when he slipped a pass from the right on the area for Hughes to side foot in from ten-yards.
The second half was only two minutes old when Rovers increased their advantage to two goals again.
From another McGowan pass wide left, substitute Andrew Mitchell got in a cross which was partially charged down. Hughes reacted at the near post to slide his close range effort to the roof of the net.
Under the heat, and instead of wilting, Arklow responded.
Straight from the tip-off, Stephen Merry arrowed a fantastic low 25-yard drive in the far bottom corner of the net from the right wing.
Parity was then restored in the 44th minute.
From a long throw off the left flank, Merry’s attempted cross near the endline was blocked. But Senan Robinosn nipped at the near upright to force the ball in.
The away outfit hit the front for the first time in the 56th minute.
Robinson chased what seemed a lost cause down the right channel. His pull back from the byline found substitute Seán Doyle’s whose first-time right footed effort crashed in off the underside of the crossbar.
It got better for the visitors four minutes later.
From a long Arklow clearance, Carter Kinsella prodded the ball forward. Robinson got in behind the home defence to steer the ball in low from 14-yards.
The points were wrapped up in the 68th minute.
Awarded a free 25-yards out, Jamie McLoughlin Grey struck the dead-ball expertly into the left bottom corner of the net.
With the match four minutes into time added on, Rovers had the final say. And in style.
Spinning away from two opponents in the centre circle, Billy Nolan unleashed a viciously swerving 30-yard drive that sailed into the net.
WICKLOW ROVERS A: Hunter Hennessy; Sam Reade, Aaron Foley, Matthew Costello, Nathan Harris; Jamie McGowan, Charlie O’Neill; Hugo Bradshaw, Aaron Cunha, Billy Nolan; Kai Hughes.
SUBS: Ben Murphy, Bogdan Vork, Goodness Oluwaiuy, Dara Butler, Neev Balaiero, Tomas Cunha, Andrew Mitchell.
ARKLOW UNITED B: Mason Forde; Mason Kelly, Jamie McLoughlin Grey, Ryan Harte; Senan Robinson, Noah McDonald, Stephen Merry, Carter Kinsella, Jason McAllion, David Drarko; Cillian McBride.
SUBS: Eoin Wright, Seán Doyle, Jacob Wisnowski.
REFEREE: Benjamin Currie.
Report by Paul Dowling
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WDSL MATCH REPORT – GIRLS 2014 DEVELOPMENT LEAGUE CUP SEMI FINAL
WICKLOW TOWN AFC 5
AUGHRIM RANGERS 1
Emily Loughlin’s five-goal salvo powered Wicklow in the inaugural final of the WDSL K & K Windows Girls 2014 Development League Cup.
Leading 1-0 at a sunny Finlay Park on Wednesday evening, the striker netted fourth more times in the first ten minutes of the second period to see off a battling Aughrim.
The result means the ‘Town will face-off against Arklow United in the decider on Bank Holiday Monday (June 1) at Finn Park in Kilcoole.
Rangers had inflicted the only League loss to date upon Wicklow when beating them 3-0 at Allen Park back in November 2025.
But before last Christmas, the Yellow and Blue’s won the reverse League fixture 2-0 at Finlay Park.
In the third meeting of the clubs, Loughlin fired the hosts ahead in the fifth minute from close range. The visitors called for offside in the approach play but the goal stood.
The second half was just 45 seconds old when the home side doubled their advantage.
Loughlin linked with Chloe Delaney with the striker turning near the away centre circle. She then showed strength to hold off a challenge on a run towards the left section of the box before angling in a low effort to far right bottom corner of the net.
Yet, Aughrim pulled one back two minutes later.
‘Town goalkeeper Anna Billington came out to stop an attack. The clearance came to Genevieve Brennan whose first time shot from 25-yards bounced into an unguarded goal.
Yet less than 60 seconds later, Wicklow went 3-1 up.
From Sinead Kingne’s long throw near the left corner flag, Loughlin got free off the byline. Esme Hanney made a good block, but Loughlin followed up to force the ball over the line to complete her hat-trick.
It got even better for the ‘Town four minutes later.
Loughlin’s corner from the left flank went deep. Delaney gathered but Hanney made another good save. The loose ball ran towards Loughlin who skipped past a tackle before expertly curling in from 15-yards.
Then within a minute, Delaney’s touch released Loughlin, The attacker burst past an opposing defender to poke low to the net close in.
WICKLOW TOWN AFC: Anna Billington; Isabelle Curtain, Fiadh Ward, Ashlei Mitchell, Olivia Johnson, Evie Daly O’Neill, Charlee Doyle, Sinead Kingne, Hannah Shine, Emily Loughlin, Brook Miley, Chloe Delaney.
AUGHRIM RANGERS: Esme Hanney; Fia Byrne, Lauren Sherlock, Hannah Kennedy, Evie O'Brien, Fiadh McMunn, Hayley O'Toole, Leah McGinley, Saoirse Murphy, Darcey Ryan, Amelia Farrell, Rosie Quinn, Genevieve Brennan, Ella Short.
REFEREE: Jimmy Gilsenan.
Report by Paul Dowling
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Paul Dowling
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WDSL MATCH REPORT – - K&K WINDOWS U12 DIVISION 1
ST. ANTHONY'S KILCOOLE UNITED B 1
ARKLOW TOWN B 6
Aaron Byrne was Arklow’s five-goal hero as they maintained their 100% winning start to the 2026 season in the WDSL K&K WINDOWS U12 Division 1.
The attacker grabbed his amazing tally in the opening 20 minutes of Wednesday’s encounter at Finn Park in Kilcoole.
The Black and White's travelled to North Wicklow after impressive previous victories over Wicklow Town AFC B, Wicklow Rovers B and Ashford Rovers.
It took the Black and White’s just 12 SECONDS to continue that streak as Byrne slotted in from eight-yards Toby Weston Doyle right-wing centre.
Then in the fifth minute, Byrne cracked in a stunning 16-yard free-kick.
He completed his hat-trick in style in the 11th minute. Bursting past three tackles, he evaded the diving Saints goalkeeper Patrick Hickey to roll the ball into an empty net.
Byrne did it again in the 13th minute. He shrugged off an opponent to get into the box and fire in from 12-yards.
In the 20th minute, Byrne crossed from the left endline. A couple of shots were charged down. But Byrne reacted to the rebound to drive low through a crowded goalmouth from ten-yards.
Just before half time, the visitors broke from a corner. Substitute Daniel Corr was released to rifle in low at the left hand upright from 12-yards.
Before kick-off, the Saint’s had only won once from their first five outings. Having really been under the cosh, United could have easily folded.
But they didn’t. To their credit, they rallied.
Instead, they keep playing.
And the Goosebankers were rewarded in the 36th minute.
Alfie Sporling won a challenge 25-yards out and as space opened up before him, unleashed a brilliant right-footed drive to the roof of the net.
Then in the 53rd minute, a home corner from the right came across the face of goal. At the back post, forward Sean Browne forced the ball over the line.
Yet, the away side had the final say. With the hosts calling for a foul, play continued. Tyler Condell nipped in to score low at the near post.
Taking the result into consideration, Coolboy Rangers lead the way with 21 points from their first eight matches.
Arklow Town’s win moved them up to joint second place on 18 points alongside Wicklow Town AFC B.
Shillelagh United Youths are next on 15 points while Enniskerry FC, Newtown Juniors and Roundwood AFC are all on 12 points.
ST. ANTHONY'S KILCOOLE UNITED B: Patrick Hickey; Peter O’Driscoll, Carson Helena, Matthew Keegan; Sam Lester; Alfie Sporling, Oskar Toomey, Declan Phelps; Sean Browne.
SUBS: Floyd Mulholland, Daniel Prendergast, Ezra Messitt.
ARKLOW TOWN B: Kyle Byrne; Pierce Earls, Joshua Reid, Scott Sunderland; Tyler Condell; Toby Weston Doyle, Aaron Byrne, Callum Reilly Byrne; Matthew McGee.
SUBS: Conor Dempsey, Evie Vanderheijden, Daniel Corr.
REFEREE: Jimmy Gilsenan.
Report by Paul Dowling
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WDSL MATCH REPORT - K&K WINDOWS U13 DIVISION 1
AVONMORE FC 6
ST. ANTHONY’S KILCOOLE UNITED FC B 0
Avonmore handed St. Anthony’s their first away loss in the WDSL K&K WINDOWS U13 Division 1 this season thanks to doubles by Patrick O’Rourke and substitute Callum Keogh.
The Rathdrum side picked up their second home victory of the campaign at a sunny but cold Tullylusk on Tuesday evening
Two goals inside a three-minute spell before the opening quarter hour put the hosts on the road to victory.
The slow start cost the Kilcoole visitors who improved after the interval.
Saints goalkeeper Luan Bruggeman also performed admirably, pulling off a series of excellent saves.
The home team hit the front in the 13th minute.
Levi Burke’s right wing cross found O’Rourke who made no mistake from 12-yards with a well-placed finish.
That cushion was doubled by the 15th minute.
Cooper Burke’s corner led to a scramble. Thomas Devitt and Jason Rochford had shots charged down before striker Cian Dalton lashed to the net from eight-yards.
Both O’Rourke and sub Jamie Winterbottom clipped the crossbar after that before Avonmore added to their tally on the half hour.
O’Rourke’s precise pass saw Keogh beat the offside. And slot in low from the right corner of the six-yard box to the far left bottom corner of the net.
Ten minutes into the second period, Keogh gained possession near the away ‘D. He skipped to the right inside the penalty area to cut the ball back for Winterbottom to strike in low from six-yards.
Bruggeman then produced a push onto the post save to deny home sub Gerrard Heffernan on 46.
But three minutes later, an away goal-kick was intercepted by sub Gerrard Heffernan to release Keogh off the left wing. His cross-shot sailed to the net in off the far upright.
With six minutes to go, O’Rourke showed pace to break clear along the left channel and drive a rising right footed shot from 15-yards to the far right corner of the net.
Taking into account the result, Arklow United B currently lead the table, unbeaten with 13 points from their first five matches.
Arklow Town B are second with a maximum 12 points from their first four fixtures.
Avonmore’s success moved them up to joint-third alongside Shillelagh United Youths on nine points.
AVONMORE FC: Adam Connolly; Conal Moran, Jake Barnes, Cooper Burke, Jason Rochford; Levi Burke, Patrick O’Rourke, Thomas Devitt; Johnny Cashman, Cian Dalton, Mason Healy.
SUBS: Gerrard Heffernan, Jamie Winterbottom, Tadgh Sheehan, Callum Keogh.
ST. ANTHONY’S KILCOOLE UNITED FC B: Luan Bruggeman; Ryan Mooney, Tommy Darby, Max Bremer, Dylan Murphy; Jack Foy, Alex Bremer, Cian Lawless, Casey Helenas; Sean Kelly; Matthew Byrne.
SUBS: Eoghan McDermott, Jacob Feeney, Alan Joshy, Sean Driver, Christy Moorehouse, Noah Campbell, Jordi Moncayo, Logan Evans.
REFEREE: Elaine Killeen.
Report by Paul Dowling
=================================
WDSL MATCH REPORT - K&K WINDOWS U13 PREMIER LEAGUE CUP
RATHNEW AFC A 1
ARKLOW UNITED A 6
Arklow powered their way in the last four of the WDSL K&K WINDOWS U13 Premier League Cup with a convincing win over Rathnew.
At a blustery Shamrock Park on Sunday morning, the away side made an extra man count in the Quarter Final game as the home club played two thirds of the match with the player disadvantage.
The two teams had previously met at the same venue last month, with the visitors winning 4-1.
They bettered that result this time round.
But that was partly due to the Villagers being reduced to ten players.
This contest saw no less than ten different players booked – when the nature of the game wasn’t so.
The visitors broke the deadlock in the 16th minute. Evan O’Neill charged down a clearance outside the left of the box. He got to the ball at the byline and cut it back for the inrushing Adam O’Sullivan to side foot in low from ten-yards.
The Yellow and Green’s were dealt a further blow when they had a player dismissed in the 23rd minute for a second bookable offence.
Yet, the hosts were up in arms just 60 seconds later when an United player – already yellow carded – didn’t receive a second one when perhaps it was warranted.
Right on half time, O’Neill conjured up a moment of brilliance. He arrowed a stunning 25-yard drive that flew into the far top left corner of the net.
The tie was virtually decided just two minutes after the interval.
Avery Gould swung over a free from the right. A sliced shot came perfectly to Izaac Kilroy at the near post. Onside despite protects, he brilliantly angled a half volley in from 12-yards
Arklow grabbed a breakaway fourth score in the 38th minute.
Holland fed Niall Collins who slipped Michael Yazalin. Despite being well offside, play continued. The substitute then beautifully finished with a placed 14-yard half volley.
To their credit, Rathnew kept battling. They were rewarded in the 46th minute when Blae Keogh beat the offside to lob the onrushing sub keeper Jaxon Forde, from 30-yards.
But United hit back five minutes later.
Collins’ surging run from his own half along the right flank saw his end-line cross-shot charged down. Sub Henri Holland reacted to nip in and fire in low from a tight angle ten-yards out into the bottom far left corner.
Three minutes before the end of normal time, Collins’ corner from the right was diverted into his own net by a Rathnew player.
RATHNEW AFC A: Scott Howes; Joey Mitchell, Oisín Franey, Charlie O’Reilly, Dara Colohan; Blake Keogh, Riley Crowe, Rian Judge, Tommy Butler; Paddy Merrigan, Armandas Antanavicius.
SUBS: Mikey Forsyth, Aaron Kilbride, Alex Hall, Blake Byrne.
ARKLOW UNITED A: Jamie Byrne; Sam Tutty, Billy O'Neill, Krzysztof Ostrycharz, Adam Knight; Oisin Parle Kinsella, Izaac Kilroy; Avery Gould, Evan O’Neill, Niall Collins; Adam O’Sullivan.
SUBS: Jaxon Forde, Matthew Doyle, Michael Yazalin, Henri Rolland.
REFEREE: Francois Jansen Van Rensburg.
Report by Paul Dowling
===============================
WDSL MATCH REPORT - K&K WINDOWS U12 PREMIER DIVISION CUP
WICKLOW TOWN AFC A 0
ARKLOW TOWN A 1
Arklow edged out Wicklow by the narrowest of margins to book their place in the Semi Finals of the WDSL K&K WINDOWS U12 Premier Division Cup.
At a wind-swept Finlay Park on Saturday afternoon, the visitors came out on top in the Quarter Final battle of the ‘Town’s.
The hosts will look back on a series of missed early chances as the visitors scored with their only shot on target in the opening period.
With the wind a major favour in the home side’s favour after the interval, goalkeeper Joshua Vaccaro’s series of long kick-out’s and goal-kicks caused the away team a series of problems under the bouncing ball.
But the Yellow and Blue’s needed two excellent push onto the frame of the goal saves by their custodian to keep them in the contest.
Arklow’s netminder Harry Hayden produced a great block out save to deny Harbott in the sixth.
Moments later, the striker cut in from the left and curled wide.
Then in the 11th minute. Harbott held off two challenges before angling just wide across the face of goal.
Having survived those scares, the Travers Insurances Park team then went ahead in the 24th minute.
Substitute Finn Travers threaded a pass to Cormac Redmond. He controlled just inside the box before rifling in a half volley via a slight deflection.
Against the wind after the restart, Arklow’s Donnchadh O’Keeffe flashed a shot wide on the run in the 34th minute.
Then in the 38th minute, Leon Foley guided Barra Nolan’s right wing cross towards goal with a header. But Vaccaro superbly tipped onto the bar.
The ball ran loose but wasn’t cleared. Foley then fired a close range effort that the keeper marvellously touched on the left hand post.
There were chances at both ends as the two teams pressed in the closing stages.
Hayden denied Harry Lane in the 49th minute after Tom Donohue’s corner wasn’t dealt with.
At the other end seconds later, Foley shot straight at Vaccaro.
In the last minute of normal time, Wicklow’s Conor O’Brien drove wide of the target from the right corner of the penalty area.
Two minutes into stoppage times, and with the home side looking for the vital equaliser, the visitors broke. Travers fed Redmond but Vaccaro bravely blocked.
WICKLOW TOWN AFC A: Joshua Vaccaro; Aidan Mitchell, Conor O’Brien, Jack Lane, Parker Dunne; Tom Donohue, Jake Lester, Finn Savage; Jacob Harbott, Teddy Lucy, Freddie O’Toole, Aiden Byrne.
ARKLOW TOWN BLUE: Harry Hayden; Jake Molloy, Cormac O’Keefe, Barra Nolan, Cormac Redmond, Rhyd O’Neill, Donnchadh O’Keeffe; Leon Foley, Tyler James Wolohan Thomas Kaye, Finn Travers.
REFEREE: Benjamin Currie.
Report by Paul Dowling
WDSL MATCH REPORT – GIRLS 2014 DEVELOPMENT LEAGUE CUP QUARTER FINAL
ST. ANTHONY’S KILCOOLE UNITED FC 0
AUGHRIM RANGERS 3
On a historic day for St. Anthony’s, Aughrim advanced to the Semi Finals of the WDSL K & K Windows Girls 2014 Development League Cup.
It was United’s first outing as a competitive team having only recently being set-up.
On Monday morning at Finn Park in Kilcoole, Rangers’ experience at game level told in the Quarter Final encounter.
With honest hard work at WDSL committee level, and with the co-operation of the clubs, it clear that all involved are striving to provide football for Girls in County Wicklow. The objective of having a County Wicklow representative side at the SFAI Gaynor Cup is now a reality.
It was clearly the Kilcoole team' first ever match.
They lacked the basics of formation and positions. They needed helped with throw-ins.
But every person, side and clubs started somewhere. This was it.
Ther deserve credit for their honest hard work. By learning, they will only get better.
Rangers showed what the Saints could strive for. The visitors knew that jobs and played like a team who knew each other.
That was the difference. Plus taking their chances when they came.
However, United goalkeeper Eva Deighan put on a master class. She pulled off several top-drawer saves in a woman of the match display
The away club went ahead in the sixth minute. A cross-field pass from the left to the right released Fiadh McMunn. She then rifled in a stunning 16-yard effort to the roof of the net.
The second period was only 30 seconds old when the Blue and White’s doubled their advantage.
Off the right flank, McMunn saw her well struck 12-yard effort parried out brilliantly by Deighan. But Saoirse Murphy followed up to convert the rebound low close in.
Then on the half hour, a break off the right channel saw McMunn burst forward to deftly chip in at the near post from ten-yards.
St. Anthony’s only entered the Cup as it was too late in the Development League to catch up on games.
But it’s a start. And a positive one for which the club and their official must take credit.
Aughrim – established and a well-coached side - will now look forward to an away trip in the final four against Wicklow Town AFC at Finlay Park.
Newtown Juniors will host Arklow United in the other Semi Final at the Community Grounds.
ST. ANTHONY’S KILCOOLE UNITED FC: Eva Deighan; Rose McCarthy, Chloe Cunningham, Maria Alvarez, Lana Barry, Sienna Shortall, Leah Smullen, Caoimhe Flynn, Marie Kate Brien, Lucy Bradshaw, Keeva Walsh, Lauren Gilbert, Nala Tenei, Lexi Harte, Siofra Ositadimma.
AUGHRIM RANGERS: Esme Hanney; Hannah Kennedy, Fia Byrne, Lauren Sherlock, Hannah Kennedy, Evie O'Brien, Fiadh McMunn, Hayley O'Toole, Leah McGinley, Saoirse Murphy, Darcey Ryan, Amelia Farrell, Rosie Quinn, Genevieve Brennan, Ella Short.
REFEREE: Thomas Dowling.
Report by Paul Dowling
WDSL MATCH REPORT – K & K WINDOWS U13 DIVISION 1
ENNISKERRY FC 3
RATHNEW AFC B 4
In a fantastic advert for the WDSL, Rathnew staged a remarkable recovery to claim all three K & K WINDOWS U13 Division 1 points.
Enniskerry led 2-0 in the opening period at Ballyman Road on Thursday evening. But the Villagers rallied to lead 4-2 at the interval.
With an array of chances not converted in the end-to-end second half by both sides, the hosts pulled one back late on to set-up a hectic finish.
The only surprise was that the contest finished 4-3 in the away clubs favour.
With both goalkeepers Benjamin Galligan and Evan Kenny pulling off a string of saves, the amount of opportunities could have seen each team into double figures in scores.
The Red and White’s needed just 90 seconds to find the breakthrough.
Played in off the right flank off a cross-field ball, Hugo Broadberry showed great pace to get behind the opposing defence. And angle in a low 12-yard finish to the bottom far corner.
They doubled that cushion in style in the tenth minute.
The visitors failed to clear with the ball charged down. It came to Ted Collins wide left. Turning infield 25-yards out, his falling right footed attempt sailed just under the bar.
Instead of buckling, Rathnew rallied.
They pulled one back in the 17th minute. Played through off the right channel, Nathan Doyle beat the offside side and beat the onrushing Galligan to slide in from 15-yards.
It took a really special goal to level matters.
Awarded a free-kick 30-yards out, Jack Duffy unleashed a stunning left footed dead ball from the right which found the far top left corner of the net.
The Shamrock Park based outfit then went 3-2 up in the 24th minute.
Again racing clear after latching onto a Harry Murphy pass off the right wing, Doyle drilled in low from 15-yards.
Right on half time. Doyle completed his hat-trick. After winning a tackle, Reuben Downer measured through a pass on the right flank that saw Doyle race clear to slot in low from 12-yards.
Despite a load of chances by both teams, neither could add to their tally in the second half.
Enniskerry finally reduced the deficit with eight minutes of normal time remaining
Adam Farren’s 25-yrd free crashed back off the crossbar. It dropped eight yard outs for Fionn Ginty to fire in an acrobatic volley.
ENNISKERRY FC: Benjamin Galligan; Honor Nevin, Kacper Kyyzowski, Leo Berry Keane, Aaron Dowling; Cian Gately; Hugo Broadberry, Ethan Comiskey, Adam Farren, Ted Collins; Fionn Ginty.
SUBS: Cathal Fitzpatrick, Sam Kelleghen, Callum Kiernan, Aaron Dowling;
RATHNEW AFC B: Evan Kenny; Reuben Downer, Dovydas Inta, Jake White, Jayden Hubbard; Harry Murphy, Jack Duffy, Nathan Doyle, Daniel Reoneac; Fawaz Alkak, Kaiden Kearney.
SUBS: Dylan Killen, Robbie Luby Earls, Alex Armstrong, Badi Alyamous.
REFEREE: Thomas Dowling.
Report by Paul Dowling
================
WDSL MATCH REPORT – K & K WINDOWS U15 CUP
WICKLOW ROVERS A 3
AUGHRIM RANGERS 3
(AFTER EXTRA TIME)
(AUGHRIM WON 6-5 ON PENALTIES)
Goalkeeper Anthony Canosa was the sudden death hero as Aughrim defied the odds to reach the Quarter Finals of the WDSL K & K Windows U15 Cup.
Played at Finn Park in Kilcoole while Whitegates is being redeveloped on Tuesday evening, Rangers won the penalty shoot-out 6-5 after the first round tie had finished 3-3 after extra time.
In an excellent encounter, Wicklow led 2-0 in the first half of normal time. But the Blue’s equalised with just four minutes of normal time remaining to make it 2-2.
With Rovers going 3-2 ahead in the first period of extra time, Aughrim made 3-3 TEN SECONDS in time added on in the second period of extra time.
The Green and White’s had a penalty to win the contest with their fifth spot-kick. But Canosa made the vital save.
With Rangers then 6-5 in front in sudden death, Canosa then saved Wicklow’s seventh 12-yard dead-ball to seal the comeback victory.
The six-goal thriller saw both custodians – Canosa and Matthew Gough – pull off a series of top class saves as both teams attacked throughout the 90 minutes of play.
With the fixture called off after a series of events last week, Rovers took a seventh minute lead.
Will Carey’s in-swinging corner from the right left footed saw Canosa parry the ball down at a crowded front post. Mikie O’Neill reacted close in to score with a half volley as the ball dropped.
That advantage was doubled in the 19th minute.
Gough’s long punt forward wasn't dealt with by the opposing defence. O’Neill nipped in to deftly place a fine finish in from 14-yards.
Play had barely restarted when Aughrim pulled one back.
Gough’s kicked clearance was charged down. Cian Ward then side-footed a low 20-yard attempt that went through a crowded penalty area and rolled into the empty net.
Just when it seemed Wicklow would hold out for the narrow win, Rangers equalised in the 66th minute.
Canosa’s long punt was allowed to bounce. That saw Sean Doyle spin off his marker then get ahead of another defender before flashing in a driven effort from ten-yards in at the near post.
But Rovers regained the lead in the last play of the first period of extra time. Sub AJ Long floated over a cross near the left corner flag. It dropped past the Aughrim defence with the unmarked Daniel Clarke steering in an acrobatic close range header.
However, with the match ticking into stoppage time of the second period of extra time, Eoghan Byrne sent over an Aughrim corner.
It went across the face goal to Ward at the back stick. His initial shot was stopped on the line by Gough. But Ward then forced the rebound over the line to force penalties.
WICKLOW ROVERS A: Matthew Gough; Eoghan Daye, Cian Foley, Jack Collins, Finn Murphy; Davi Loboschi, Ronan Byrne; Daniel Clarke, Will Carey, Michael Carroll; Mikie O’Neill.
SUBS: Eoghan Quinn, AJ Long, Kyrylo Kliucknyk, Casey Brennan, Cian Collins, Ben Morrissey.
AUGHRIM RANGERS: Anthony Canosa; Kearney McLindon, Ross O’Reilly, Daniel Byrne, Luca Sheehan; Caleb Horan, Cian Ward; Joseph McDonald-Healy, Cian Murphy, Eoghan Byrne; Sean Doyle.
SUBS: Dylan Ross, Enda Dechaine, Oran O’Neill.
REFEREE: Colm Keeley.
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WDSL MATCH REPORT - U12 SFAI 2025/26 INTER-LEAGUE SHIELD Sun, 26/4/26
WICKLOW BLUE 0
CAVAN MONAGHAN 1
There was U12 SFAI 2025/26 Inter-League Shield Semi Final headache for Wicklow.
In a tight Semi Final, a first half goal by Cavan Monaghan decided the last four meeting under the sunshine at Travers Insurances Park in Arklow on Sunday afternoon
There was nothing in the game as both teams were evenly matched. Both sides had chances.
The only difference was that the visitors managed to take one of them.
In a tight opening half – with not many clear cut chances - away skipper Joshua Kelly saw his fine 20-yard drive brilliantly tipped over by Kyle Brady in the 22nd minute.
But the Ulster side did break the deadlock in the 24th minute.
After a home defensive mix-up, Cillian Corrigan reacted to poke over the goal line from close range.
The hosts did respond two minute before the interval.
But Thomas Kaye sent a back post header wide of the target off Danny Cronin Kenny’s right-wing corner.
More opportunities at either end came in the second period as the tie opened up.
Three minutes after the restart, Kaye’s burst forward from his own half along the right flank saw the ball played infield to Jacob Habott. Having teed himself up, the substitute flashed a half volley from 15-yards narrowly wide.
The away outfit hit back in the 42nd minute. Sub Sammy McArdle wriggled free off the right byline. His cutback picked out Kelly who fired wide from 16-yards.
Wicklow continued to press for the elusive equaliser after that.
On 47, Paidi Wafer embarked on a superb solo run. Slipping past just challenges, his fierce drive off the right of the box was well parried by netminder Jayden Rushe with the ball then being scrambled out for a corner.
Then in the 51st minute, Wafer launched a long cross-field delivery from the right. Deep left at the back post, sub Asher Horan guided a header back across goal. But the ball dropped just beyond the right hand upright.
Cavan Monaghan will now meet Kildare or Inishowen YSL in the final.
WICKLOW BLUE: Kyle Brady; Thomas Kaye, Jamie Cleary, Cillian Quaid; Luke Hannon, Alfie Horan; Paidi Wafer, Finn Travers, Danny Cronin Kenny.
SUBS: Oliver Gettings, Asher Horan, Jacob Habott, Tom Donoughe, Joshua Vaccora.
CAVAN MONAGHAN: Jayden Rushe; Finn Briody, Matthew Murtagh, Jaxon Haynes; Lucas Arnold, Joshua Kelly; Oisin Finlay, Cillian Corrigan, Mason Brady.
SUBS: Charlie Murtagh, Charlie Clerkin, Mason Cullen, Fiachra Darcy, Ryan McCahey, Ross O’Sullivan, Sammy McArdle, Lochlainn Byrne, Senan Campbell.
REFEREE: Colin Doyle.
WDSL MATCH REPORT - U15 SFAI 2025/26 INTER-LEAGUE CUP Sat 25th April
WICKLOW 0
LIMERICK DISTRICT 3
There was bitter disappointment for Wicklow as their brave bid to reach the final of the U15 SFAI 2025/26 Inter-League Cup ended in defeat.
An inability to defend from corners cost the Garden County side dearly under the sunshine at Travers Insurances Park in Arklow on Saturday afternoon as Limerick District advanced to the decider.
The Munster outfit led 1-0 at the interval in the Semi Final encounter after scoring late in the opening period.
They then doubled that advantage just after the interval before sealing victory ten minutes later.
In a tight opening half, the hosts never got started and tried to hit on the break. They were up against big and physical opponents who looked dangerous off set pieces.
That paid dividends in the 26th minute.
Craig Sheehan’s corner from the left went deep to the back post. Adam O’Shea won possession and crossed back into the box.
It wasn’t cleared by the home team. The ball came to Casey Ryan who placed a 12-yard right-footed effort to the net.
Another away corner from the same flank almost brought another score for the Shannonsiders in the 28th minute. After a front post scramble, the covering Robbie Doyle cleared off the line.
Four minutes later at the other end, Doyle couldn’t get his close range attempt on target after Cian Ward’s corner.
With the next goal always going to be crucial, it went Limerick’s way just two minutes into the second period.
From Sheehan’s surfing left wing run, he picked out Oliver Galecki. His deflected shot in the area dropped to the unmarked O’Shea who made no mistake close in.
It was disputed by Wicklow, with claims for offside. But no flag came.
The hosts tried to respond four minutes later.
From Doyle’s corner, two shots were charged down. Cian Murphy then drilled low. The ball came to Cian Ward. But goalkeeper Lee Ryan made a point blank save.
The visitors then notched a third in the 48th minute. From Samuel Crowley’s corner left footed off the right wing, Sam Sweeney headed in powerfully at the near post.
Home custodian Matthew Gough made a brilliant double save to deny Sheehan and then O’Shea in the 52nd minute.
Gough was replaced by Ethan Duffy in the closing stages. He then thwarted Shane McAnulty on 66 when the winger broke free off the right channel.
Limerick District will now face Kilkenny or South Belfast in the final.
WICKLOW: Matthew Gough; Fionn Jayawardene, Tommie Ryan, Milo O’Toole, Freddie Kavanagh; Robbie Doyle, Will Carey; Rian Ward, Cian Ward, Calvin Doyle; Cian Murphy.
SUBS: Oskar Dominic, Darragh Hackett, Patrick Parker, Evan Gregan, Ciaran Kenny, Seàn Byrne, Ethan Duffy.
LIMERICK DISTRICT: Lee Ryan; Casey Doran, Shay McGuire, Sam Sweeney, Aden France; Samuel Crowley, Ciaran Maher; Shane McAnulty, Oliver Galecki, Craig Sheehan; Adam O’Shea.
SUBS: Danny Graham, Andy Mullen, Shay Ahern, Dylan Keenan, Aidan O’Neill, Sam Bowen, Kacper Poprawski, George Conway.
==========================================================
Under 16s League - Wednesday 22/4/26
RATHNEW AFC 8
ARKLOW TOWN 0
Failim Drew Redmond’s hat-trick powered Rathnew to the top of the WDSL K&K Windows Ltd U16 League charts.
The home side proved too strong for a gallant Arklow Town outfit at Shamrock Park on Wednesday evening.
The Villagers went into the contest with a 100% winning record from their first three matches – having previously beaten Enniskerry FC, Roundwood AFC and St. Anthony’s Kilcoole United FC.
As for the Black and White’s, they’d defeated Enniskerry and drawn with Wicklow Rovers A.
But it proved third time unlucky for the visitors from the time the Yellow and Green’s took an 11th minute lead.
From home goalkeeper Josh Smullen’s long kick, Alex Tyson headed on. Harry Messitt challenged in the box. The ball diverted to Ryan Wildes who rifled in a close range half volley.
That lead was doubled in the 20th minute. A corner was cleared. Marcel Figo won a tackle. The ball came to Drew Redmond who arrowed in a low 20-yard drive.
Just after the half hour, Shane Doyle’s corner from the left flank went deep. The ball was sent back across goal with Doyle arriving to score close in.
Then just before half time, Drew Redmond’s pass saw Messitt’s clever flick release Tyson on the left of the box The striker then thundered a 15-yard shot to the roof of the net.
The second period was just two minutes old when Tyson and Messitt combined off the left wing to set up Drew Redmond who drilled in low. ‘Town goalkeeper Eoin Byrne made a parry. But the ball trickled over the goal-line.
Ten minutes later, Byrne stopped Drew Redmond’s fierce drive. But Tyson followed up to bury the rebound.
Three minutes later, Alfie Wallace’s quick free from his own half saw Messitt bravely get to the bouncing ball and head beyond the challenging Byrne.
Soon after, Drew Redmond was brought down in the penalty area. He picked himself up to convert the spot-kick to complete his treble.
RATHNEW AFC: Josh Smullen; Jayden McGovern, Alfie Wallace, Ryan Dunne, Marcel Figo; Ryan Wildes, Shane Doyle, Failim Drew Redmond, Aidan Kelly; Alex Tyson, Harry Messitt.
SUBS: Yasn Yoldas, Killian Brophy.
ARKLOW TOWN: Eoin Byrne; Sean Doleson, Patrick Byrne Kavanagh, Paul Adeegberemi, Mohammed Barakat; Gabriel Yazilan, Jack Byrne, Tiernan McNally, Aaron Kennedy, Matthew Hayden; Conor Roche.
SUBS: Killian Byrne, Scott Kavanagh, Mahdi Elamad, Callum Walker.
REFEREE: Francois Jansen Van Rensburg.
Report by Paul Dowling
==============================================================
WDSL MATCH REPORT – K & K WINDOWS U14 DIVISION 1 CUP - Sat, 18th April
ST. ANTHONY’S KILCOOLE UNITED FC A 2
NEWTOWN JUNIORS 0
A goal in each period saw St. Anthony’s A advance to the Quarter Finals of the WDSL K& K Windows Ltd U14 Division 1 Cup.
United had the better of the exchanges throughout the first round tie on Saturday morning at Finn Park in Kilcoole as they defeated Newtown.
The home side never looked in trouble as they dominated the play, especially in the final third.
The ‘Juniors lacked an attacking threat. But to their credit, they keep plugging away. And made the Saints earn the victory.
Away goalkeeper Callum Carthy made a couple of good early saves at the expense of corners. It was a sign of things to come.
The Kilcoole outfit broke the deadlock in the 22nd minute.
Ultan McKinney gathered possession midway centrally in the Newtown half. He sprayed play wide left for Rhys Hughes to run onto.
As Carthy came out to close the angle in the box; the winger lofted towards goal.
The ball dropped beyond a covering defender with the waiting substitute Daniel Nolan tapping in from two-yards out.
McKinney went close to adding to that lead just 90 seconds later.
Creating space 20-yards out, his left footed effort clipped the bar and over.
The trend of St. Anthony’s pressing continued after the interval.
Just three minutes in, Torin Lyons’ run and low centre from the right set up McKinney. But Carthy made a fine parried save. The ball ran loose. McKinney’s follow up was going in but Christopher Walshe got back to clear off the goal-line.
But United did double their tally in the 48th minute.
From Matthew O’Brien’s through ball from the right flank, the visitors called for offside (which looked to be the case). Play was allowed to continue. Substitute Jake McHugh then rifled into the roof of the net.
Right on full time, McKinney had another chance. But Carthy made a superb block.
ST. ANTHONY’S KILCOOLE UNITED FC A: Noah Duffy; Ethan Sloan, Evan Keating, Edgar Rodrigues, Reuben Levi Hackett; Vigo Albertson, Eoghan Ryan; Matthew O’Brien, Torin Lyons, Rhys Hughes; Ultan McKinney.
SUBS: Jake McHugh, Alex Finnegan, Daniel Nolan, Federico Di Martino.
NEWTOWN JUNIORS: Callum Carthy; Christopher Walshe, Devin Rushe, Erik Surma, Hugo Shearer; John Paul Dunleavy, Hubert Wybowski, Jack Chapman, Jake McDonald; Cooper O’Reilly, Tyler Ashbury.
SUBS: Ivan Callinan, Oliver Roche.
REFEREE: Darren Temple.
Report by Paul Dowling
=====================
WDSL MATCH REPORT – K & K WINDOWS U13 PREMIER DIVISION - Tue, 15th April
ARKLOW TOWN A 6
ASHFORD ROVERS A 1
With set-pieces all the rage in the game of football at the moment, Arklow Town used it to their full advantage to go clear at the top of the WDSL K & K Windows U13 Premier Division.
All but one of the host goals came off a corner on the bottom grass pitch at Travers Insurances Park on Wednesday evening against a spirited Ashford side.
Their other score came off a free-kick.
When the two teams met in the reverse match at Ballinalea Park back in March, the Black and White’s won a 5-2 scoreline
Arklow set their stall out early to attack and went ahead in the tenth minute when Daniel O’Halloran’s right-footed corner from the left curled straight to the net.
O’Halloran turned provider nine minutes later. His delivery from the opposite flank saw the ball drop deep to Josh Factor. He teed himself up to fire a half volley through a crowded goalmouth.
The ‘Town notched a third six minutes before the interval.
From another O’Halloran flag-kick from the right wing, substitute Cian Byrne challenged at the near post and managed to force the ball over the line close in.
Against the wind, Rovers were second best in the opening period.
But they started the second half well.
Their improve play was rewarded just two minutes in when Selim Topal’s 30-yard free-kick found the roof of the net.
Yet, the home team responded in the 43rd minute.
From another O’Halloran corner, the ball went across the face of goal, with Finn Travers converting from close range.
Their only goal not from a corner came in the 50th minute. But it did come from a free-kick.
Having being fouled on the halfway line wide left, Tom Gavin played a quick ball over the top to release O’Halloran. He raced past a defender before slotting in low from ten-yards.
O’Halloran claimed his fourth assist of the tie in the 53rd minute. From a left-wing corner, O’Halloran’s centre saw Byrne flick on at the near post and just under the crossbar.
The result moves unbeaten Arklow Town to pole position in the section, on ten points from their first four fixtures.
Arklow United A, St. Anthony’s Kilcoole United FC and Rathnew AFC are in second place on seven points.
ARKLOW TOWN A: Jamie Kavanagh; Robbie Szilaghi, Ryan Brennan, Nathan Hannigan, Charlie Gilvary; Daniel O’Halloran; Ryan Walker, Tom Gavin, Josh Factor; Danny Cronin Kenny, Finn Travers.
SUBS: Cian Byrne, Jake Stevens Hannigan, Dylan Smith.
ASHFORD ROVERS A: Eli Fry; Harrison Farrelly, Luka Trofimov, Ezra Mullen, Frank McMahon; Ben O’Donnell, Hugh Doyle, Spencer Osawe,
Andre Tanda; Selim Topal; Alex Barker.
SUBS: Sai O’Brien, Max Lundberg, Alphonse Joseph, Malcom Murphy, Morgan Ferris, Noah Meunier.
REFEREE: Elaine Killeen.
Report by Paul Dowling
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WDSL MATCH REPORT – K & K WINDOWS U12 PREMIER DIVISION - Saturday 11th April
WICKLOW ROVERS A 0
ST. ANTHONY’S KILCOOLE UNITED FC BLUE 4
St. Anthony’s maintained their 100% winning start to their 2026 WDSL K & K Windows U12 Premier Division season thanks to a 4-0 defeat of Wicklow Rovers.
The match on Saturday morning was effectively a home tie for Rovers. But was switched to Dermot Wheeler Park in Kilcoole because of the redevelopment work currently going on at Whitegates.
The Saint’s went into the fixture having overcome Arklow United A (2-1) and Wicklow Town AFC (4-0) at home while beating Ashford Rovers 3-0 at Ballinalea Park.
Under difficult playing conditions on a heavy pitch, the Goosebankers played against the wind to start with.
They came up against an inspired Wicklow goalkeeper Cillian Tighe who pulled off a series of top-notch saves throughout the contest.
But United’s pressure paid off in the 19th minute.
A corner was cleared from the left to wide right. Ardan Jayawardene crossed back into the danger zone.
Charlie Cleary’s nod down dropped to Rian Meenan. The substitute swivelled well to hit a close range shot on the turn. Tighe made the initial parry, but the ball rolled over the goal-line.
They second period was only two minutes old when the Saints doubled their advantage.
From a short corner on the right flank, Jamie Cleary delivered into the penalty area. The ball came to the unmarked Tadgh Murphy who turned and made no mistake from six-yards.
The win was virtually sealed six minutes later. From a goal-kick, Charlie Cleary intercepted outside the box. He burst past two opponents in the area before slotting in with a crisp ten-yard finish.
St. Anthony’s notched a fourth in the last minute of normal time.
A clearance from the right of the Wicklow half came to Jamie Cleary. With space opening up, she struck a stunning 20-yard strike to the top left corner of the net.
After drawing at home 2-2 with Arklow United A at Whitegates, Rovers had then lost 4-1 on their own turf to Arklow Town A
Having failed to pose a goal threat, they finally did so in stoppage time.
After a corner wasn’t dealt with, the ball came to Nathan O’Connor. But his low effort went back across goal and glanced the outside of the post.
Elsewhere in the section on Saturday afternoon, Ashford Rovers overcame previous leaders Arklow Town A to record their first success of the campaign by winning 3-1 at Ballinalea Park.
It was Arklow Town’s first loss and leaves St. Anthony’s at the new leaders on 12 points – three points ahead of Arklow Town A.
WICKLOW ROVERS A: Cillian Tighe; Benji Slater, Arthur Kavanagh; Callum Dillon, Nathan O’Connor, Louis Dobbs; DJ Rafter, Viloid Menas, Tom O’Rourke, Tom Keating, Alessandro Mairi, Dylan Doyle, Graham Lysaght, Robbie Fingleton, Noah Morrissey.
ST. ANTHONY’S KILCOOLE UNITED FC BLUE: Callum Meehan; Ardan Jayawardene, Luke O’Riordan, Jamie Cleary, Cillian Quaid; Luke Hannon; Owen Keating, Sam Keating, Charlie Cleary.
SUBS: Rian Meenan, Tadgh Murphy.
REFEREE: Thomas Dowling.
Report by Paul Dowling
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WDSL MATCH REPORT – GIRLS 2014 DEVELOPMENT LEAGUE - 4/4/26
NEWCASTLE FC 0
ROUNDWOOD FC 1
Roundwood edged out Newcastle in a tight WDSL K & K Windows Girls 2014 Development League encounter on Saturday to earn their first away victory in the competition.
With the match moved from the Vartry Grounds to Dermot Wheeler Park in Kilcoole, the Blue’s first half score proved decisive.
It was a match of contrasts.
The away team had just ten players at their disposal – mainly due to the Easter period, while the hosts – playing for the first time at their new venue – changed their entire team at the interval.
The main chances went Newcastle’s way – especially in the opening period.
But the visitors defended well. More importantly, their created two openings - and took one of them.
The vital moment arrived in the 25th minute.
Ava Brady made a vital interception in her own half. The ball ran through for Laoise Brady, to beat the offside. She then steadied herself before slotting in low from ten-yards.
Up to that point, Newcastle had the better of the exchanges.
Tilly Adams fired narrowly over from 20-yards in the tenth minute.
Then in the 14th minute. Zoe McGovern evaded two tackles before shooting just wide from ten-yards.
In the 16th minute, Laoise Murray intercepted a goal-kick. She skipped past a challenge in the area but drilled low across the face of goal.
And on the stroke of half time, Emily Delaney battled well to win possession. She broke forward from the left but angled his attempt just off target.
With a virtual new team after the turnaround, the hosts - again - did have more possession. But lacked their clinical threat in front of goal.
But the Vartry outfit swapped Laoise Brady as goalkeeper. She was commanding between the sticks.
Having come outfield, Emila Lalor (who performed well in goal) linked well with Daisy Mohan in the 45th minute. But Mohan’s well placed effort from the edge of the box shaved the outside of the post.
The result moves Roundwood up a place above Newcastle to fifth position – 12 points to ten points – having played a game less.
Elsewhere in the section, Arklow United extended their lead at the top of the table on Saturday.
They defeated Aughrim Rangers 3-2 at Allen Park.
Arklow now have 25 points from their ten fixtures.
Aughrim Rangers (nine matches) and Wicklow Town AFC (six games) occupy second place on 15 points. Newtown Juniors (six games) are fourth on 13 points
NEWCASTLE FC: Issabella Ronayne; Sarah Hall, Daisy Murphy, Emily Delaney, Aoife O’Neill, Tilly Adams, Laoise Murray, Milly Masterson, Zoe McGovern, Caolin Fitzgerald, Heidi Duffy, Juno Schuleistrat, Sarah Magee, Chloe O’Toole, Ivy Murphy, Ada Conroy, Aoillen O’Neill, Megan Dunne.
ROUNDWOOD FC: Emila Lalor; Daisy Mohan, Mary Grace Cunningham, Fiadh Cleary, Naoise Cullen, Ava Brady, Laoise Brady, Molly Cunningham, Clodagh Malone, Frances Flood.
REFEREE: Shay Byrne.
Report by Paul Dowling
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WDSL MATCH REPORT - K&K WINDOWS U14 DIVISION 1 LEAGUE - Fri 28th March
RATHNEW AFC 2
ENNISKERRY FC 5
In a remarkable game of football, Ethan Gormley scored a dramatic late hat-trick in the space of four minutes to give Enniskerry their first WDSL K&K Windows U14 Division 1 of the season.
The visitors led 2-0 at the interval on Friday night at Shamrock Park thanks to Wil Clucas’ double.
Either side of half time, Rathnew goalkeeper Mikey Forsyth saved two penalties. The Villagers then rallied to tie the contest at 2-2 thanks to Ollie Dickenson’s brace.
The hosts had recently dropped down from the Premier Division while their opponents had lost their first two fixtures against St. Anthony’s Kilcoole United and Avonmore FC - both at Ballyman Road.
It took just 14 SECONDS for the Red and White’s to hit the front.
Slipped clear wide right by David Conroy, Clucas angled in a low ten-yard finish.
Moments later at the other end, Alex Tyson struck the bar for the Yellow and Green's.
The away outfit were then awarded a 21st minute penalty. But Forsyth made a great block with his knees.
However, Enniskerry did go 2-0 ahead in the 32nd minute. Played through by Tom Crowley, Clucas burst past a defender on the right flank before clipping high to the roof of the net.
It took a wonderful goal-line clearance by Crowley in stoppage time to keep out Oisin Brown’s shot from outside the box. The defender headed the ball onto the crossbar and managed to scramble it clear.
The second period was only five minutes old when Rathnew pulled one back. Paddy Merrigan was brought down in the box with Dickenson rifling in the spot-kick.
But the visitors were awarded their second penalty of the tie in the 55th minute. Again, Forsyth saved with the close range rebound blasted over.
The match was then back on level terms in the 57th minute. Tyson squared from the right with Dickenson firing in a stunning 22-yard shot to the net.
Rathnew went agonisingly close to turning the game around in the 64th minute. From Tyson’s solo run down the left, he cut-in but saw his effort clip the bar.
Just as it seemed the spoils would be shared, Gormley took centre stage.
In the last minute of normal time, Kyrylo Nikitina crossed from the left. The ball came to Gormley who drilled in low from ten-yards.
Then in the first minute of time added on, Gormley unleashed a brilliant low 25-yard shot that went in off the foot of the left upright.
Two minutes later, Forsyth parried out Clucas’ cross-shot from the right of the area. Gormley reacted to the loose ball and slotted in low from six-yards.
RATHNEW AFC: Mikey Forsyth; Ollie Dickenson, Joey Mitchell, Mohammed Dbarmash, Aaron Murphy; Rocco Lyons, Oisin Brown, Blake Keogh, Alex Tyson; Paddy Merrigan, Fionn Murphy.
SUBS: Adham Aljamous, Samule Morrissey.
ENNISKERRY FC: Pierre McWalter; Tom Crowley, Andrew McKenna, Luke O'Reilly, Rohan Allman; Wil Clucas, David Conroy, Kyrylo Nikitina; Thady Baumann, Ethan Gromley.
SUBS: Sidney Baumann, Tadgh Vines, Jamie McGuinness.
REFEREE: Jimmy Gilsenan.
Report by Paul Dowling
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WDSL MATCH REPORT - U12 SFAI INTER-LEAGUE TROPHY
Sunday 22nd March
WICKLOW YELLOW 0
MAYO RED 2
Two second half goals ended Wicklow’s brave bid to reach the Semi Finals of the U12 SFAI Inter-League Trophy.
After a score-less opening period on Sunday afternoon at Travers Insurances Park in Arklow, Mayo scored just after the interval, and then in stoppage time, to secure a hard-earned 2-0 Quarter Final victory.
The visitors did have the best chances throughout the encounter. But came up against in-form home goalkeeper Leon Byrne who pulled off a string of saves.
The Garden County outfit did defend well. But lacked the attacking threat to put pressure on the Westerners.
Byrne pushed out Ethan O’Reilly’s low drive in the second minute. Then two minutes later, O’Reilly’s effort was deflected up high. Noah Dyar watched the ball drop but angled his close range volley wide of the target.
The hosts’ first attempt arrived in the 14th minute. But away custodian Elijah Kizoy gathered Kaspian Bubacz’s attempt from outside the box.
The contest was in first half time added on when Dyar cut in from the right flank. He squared for substitute Mattie Kelly to place a low 10-yard shot. But Byrne produced a fine leg block save.
Yet, Mayo made their opportunities’ count five minutes after the turnaround.
Having just received treatment on the left of his own half, defender Mativ Sakhnenko returned to the pitch on the right of defence.
He then latched onto a through ball, holding off a Wicklow opponent, before bursting towards goal and blasting to the roof of the net with an angled drive.
Seven minutes later, Alex Dolan slipped in Dyar off the left wing. He squeezed the ball past Byrne. But it came back off the upright with Byrne reacting to smother the loose ball.
The home outfit responded seconds later at the other end. However, sub Jake Stevens Hanningan saw his 20-yard free-kick parried out.
Byrne again made another stop, this time in the 46th minute, to claw out Kelly’s long range attempt.
The visitors sealed the win in stoppage time.
From Kelly’s corner from the right into a crowded goalmouth, Kealan Glavey managed to force the ball over the goal-line.
WICKLOW YELLOW: Leon Byrne; Thomas Kinsella, Cormac O'Keefe, Gary Kennedy; Evan Peterson; Basid Apdirahman, Senan Healy, Daniel Clucas; Kaspian Bubacz.
SUBS: Daniel Luduv, Jake Stevens Hanningan, Louis Coen, Lexi Byrne.
MAYO: Elijah Kizoy; Mativ Sakhnenko, Iarlaith O’Donnell; Jack Halligan; Ismail Dekhadov, Ethan O’Reilly, Kealan Glavey; Alex Dolan, Noah Dyar.
SUBS: Joe Tiernan; Cian Lavin, Daniel Forkin, Mattie Kelly, Darragh Kitching, Conor Doherty, Shay Glavey.
REFEREE: Colm Keeley (Wicklow ISRS).
Report by Paul Dowling
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WDSL MATCH REPORT – K&K WINDOWS U13 DIVISION 1
Friday 13th March
ARKLOW TOWN B 11
ARKLOW TOWN C 0
In the first official match of the new 2026 WDSL K&K WINDOWS season, Kayden O’Brien was Arklow Town B’s four-goal hero as they took all three U13 Division 1 points.
In the all-club affair under the lights on the all-weather at Travers Insurances Park on Friday evening, Donnacha Murphy also claimed match ball rights by chipping in with a hat-trick.
The result was never in doubt as the hosts proved too good for the brave ‘visitors’ on the opening day fixture.
But with a clash of colours in both teams Black and White colours, the ‘C’s were part maker of their own downfall.
Twice – in the fifth and then eighth minutes, their goal-kicks were cut-out. They were punished on each occasion by O’Brien then Devon Forde.
O’Brien’s 16th minute corner helped add to the tally. It wasn’t cleared three times with Charlie Byrne drilling low through a crowded goalmouth.
O’Brien again crossed in the 22nd minute. Vinh Le’s shot saw ‘C goalkeeper Ollie Ryan’s clearance rebound back to the net off the challenging Joey Keogh and over the goal-line.
Then Murphy got in the act right on half time as his 20-yard effort found the net.
After good work by Forde in the 28th minute, O’Brien expertly curled in from 15-yards.
The ‘C’s regrouped at the interval and defended well in the opening stages of the second period.
But the B’s re-found their scoring touch from the 44th minute.
Murphy set-up O’Brien who completed his treble with a brilliant 22-yard finish.
Keogh was next to claim an assist as he crossed from Murphy to notch his second score in the 48th minute.
Substitute Callum Kane became the sixth ‘B team player to get on the scoresheet with a fantastic 25-yard effort in the 50th minute.
Seconds later, O’Brien found the target again – this time from a distance.
Murphy had the final say in the last minute of normal time. Sub Charlie O’Leary crossed from the right for Murphy to register his third goal with a close ranger conversion.
ARKLOW TOWN B: Jack O’Reilly; Scott Nolan Lee, Charlie Byrne, Bobby O’Leary, Darragh O’Reilly; Aaron Murphy, Vinh Le; Devon Forde, Donnacha Murphy, Kayden O’Brien; Joey Keogh.
SUBS: Callum Kane, Charlie O’Leary, Brandon Brady, Jason Drozdiel.
ARKLOW TOWN C: Ollie Ryan; Ivan Dumanskyi, Mark Redmond, Mason Nolan, Keelan Fitzgerald; Logan Bowes, Lovely Isobar, Scott Walker Kavanagh; Aaron Doyle, Darragh Kavanagh, Evan O’Brien.
SUBS: Thomas Webster, Mohammed Shadid, Oisin Higgins, Dylan Costello, Bart Gluza, Amir Abdi.
REFEREE: Kayden Brody.
Report by Paul Dowling
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Paul Dowling
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