WDFL Arklow United vs Rathnew

 Arklow United 2

Rathnew AFC 3

Arklow Credit Union Park

Eoin Horkan 

A double from Adam Byrne proved the difference in this five goal thriller on Friday night in Arklow 

Arklow started on the front foot and could have been out of sight inside the opening quarter. Playing with energy and intent, they carved out three clear chances in quick succession. The first coming to Zach Kilbride who was a danger from the start. A corner minutes later fell to David O’Neill but his header flew wide. A second Kilbride effort was expertly blocked.

That profligacy was punished when Rathnew struck against the run of play midway through the first half. A rare foray forward resulted in a clumsy challenge inside the box and the referee pointed straight to the spot.Bill Moorhouse stepped up to calmly send the keeper the wrong way to put the visitors ahead despite having offered little up to that point.

To their credit, Arklow responded positively and were level soon after. A well-won free kick on the edge of the area gave the home side an opportunity and it was taken with confidence by Shane Connoly who  whipped  the ball beyond the wall and into the corner to restore parity.

Just as it looked like the sides would head in level at the break, Rathnew delivered a sucker punch. Adam Byrne, who was a constant threat all afternoon, got on the end of a long ball just ahead of the home sides goalkeeper to give his side the lead on the half time whistle 

The second half failed to reach the same standard as the first, with the game becoming scrappy and stop-start. Arklow struggled to regain their earlier rhythm, while Rathnew were content to sit in and look to break. On the hour mark, Byrne struck again to put daylight between the sides. He gathered the ball and unleashed a rocket from thirty yards into the top corner sending the village crowd into a frenzy.

That goal appeared to take the sting out of the contest, but Arklow refused to lie down. A double  substitution injected fresh energy and with ten minutes remaining, Aaron Parle made an immediate impact. The substitute reacted quickest inside the box to bundle the ball home, reducing the deficit to one and setting up a tense finale.

Arklow pushed hard in the closing stages, throwing men forward in search of an equaliser, but Rathnew held firm under pressure. Despite a couple of nervy moments in stoppage time, the visitors managed the game well and saw it out to claim a valuable away victory.

Arklow United:Dean Flood Hayes,Shane Connolly,Conor Blaney,Sean Harte,David O’Neill,Matt Dempsey,Zach Kilbride,Oisin Keegan,Mark Nolan,Stephen Kavanagh,Aidan Cox.

Subs Used:Aaron Parle for Matt Dempsey, Graham Watts for Aidan Cox.

Rathnew AFC:Dylan Keogh,Ethan Snell,Jonah Graham,Jamie Snell,John Lester,Jack Healy,Eoin Doyle,Gary Doyle,Toby Curran,Adam Byrne,Bill Moorehouse.

Subs Used;Jordan Graham for Toby Curran,Scott Devlin for Eoin Doyle,Tommy O’Callaghan for Bill Moorehouse 

Referee:Michael Kennedy

WDFL Arklow U vs Wicklow Town

 Arklow United 1

Wicklow Town 2

Credit Union Park

Eoin Horkan 

A stunning strike from the sideline by Jack Cornaluca proved decisive as Wicklow Town edged out Arklow United under the Friday night lights in an entertaining and hard-fought encounter.

Played in front of a lively crowd, it was the home side who burst out of the blocks and set the early tempo. Inside the opening three minutes Arklow had an early sight of goal when Shane Connolly stepped up to a free-kick on the edge of the area, but his well-struck effort was comfortably gathered by Wicklow goalkeeper Ian Murphy.

United continued to press and their positive start was rewarded on the quarter hour mark.Jay Rowlands split the Wicklow defence with a perfectly weighted through ball, allowing winger Zack Kilbride to race clear before calmly slotting past the advancing Murphy to give the hosts a deserved lead.

That goal finally sparked Wicklow Town into life and the visitors began to grow into the contest. Much of their attacking threat came through Andy Earls, who found himself in promising positions on several occasions. His first opportunity saw him fire over the bar, while further pressure began to test the Arklow back line.

Wicklow’s front three were increasingly influential, with Jack Crowley’s pace down the flank causing persistent problems. Crowley went close to an equaliser midway through the half when he cut inside and unleashed a shot that forced a fine save from United keeper Dean Flood Hayes, who was in outstanding form throughout the contest.

Just as it looked like Arklow might carry their lead into the break, a defensive mix-up proved costly. On the stroke of half-time the ball broke kindly to Earls inside the box and the Wicklow forward made no mistake, slotting home the equaliser his side’s pressure merited. Wicklow almost went in ahead moments later, but failed to capitalise on a half chance, leaving the sides level at the interval.

The second half was a much tighter and more tactical affair, with neither side creating clear openings in the opening ten minutes. However, the deadlock was broken in spectacular fashion when Wicklow winger Jack Cornaluca surged down the flank and delivered a hopeful-looking cross that caught the home defence and goalkeeper off guard, looping all the way into the far corner of the net to the delight of the visiting supporters.

Wicklow nearly doubled their advantage on the hour mark when Earls again found space, but Flood Hayes came to Arklow’s rescue with another superb save to keep his side firmly in contention.

The final quarter of the match saw Arklow throw everything forward in search of an equaliser. A series of substitutions injected fresh energy and swung momentum back in the home side’s favour. Darren Dempsey went closest initially, rising well to meet a corner only to head wide. Minutes later, Dempsey tried his luck from the edge of the area, forcing Murphy into a fingertip save that pushed the ball onto the post before it was scrambled clear.

United continued to pile on the pressure in the closing stages. Aaron Parle-Kinsella fired narrowly wide before centre-back David O’Neill controlled possession on the edge of the box and unleashed a final effort that drifted just past the post as the referee blew for full time.

Despite Arklow’s late onslaught, Wicklow Town held firm to claim a valuable away victory.

Arklow United:Dean Flood Hayes;Shane Connolly,Aidan Cox,Sean Harte,David O’Neill,Darren Dempsey, Zach Kilbride,Oisin Keegan,Jay Rowlands,Mark Nolan,Matt Dempsey

Subs Used: Conor Blaney for Aidan Cox,Aaron Parle for Oisin Matt Dempsey, Stephen Kavanagh for Shane Connolly.

Wicklow Town:Ian Murphy,Luke Messitt,Jack Conaluca ,Rob Keogh,Karl Earls,Ian Brannigan,Ryan Burke,Adam Cox,Andy Earls,Chris French,Jack Crowley

Subs Used:Adam Cuddihy for Ryan Burke, Ryan Corrigan for Ian Brannigan.

Referee Joe Byrne.

https://www.independent.ie/regionals/wicklow/sport/soccer/wicklow-town-come-from-behind-to-snatch-premier-division-win/a1425031911.html

U16 SE Cup Final Rugby

U16 South East Cup final 

Wicklow 42

Wexford 5

Despite a weekend decimated by frozen pitches across the province, the Wicklow U16s ensured that their fixture would not only go ahead but would also live long in the memory, as they produced a superb performance to overcome Wexford in Tullow on Saturday afternoon.

From the opening whistle, Wicklow set the tone in emphatic fashion. Straight from the kick-off, Olly Quinn  sliced through the Wexford defence with an unbelievable solo effort, racing clear to touch down and give Wicklow the perfect start. The early score visibly rattled Wexford and, moments later, lightning struck twice. Daniel Connolly gathered possession from the restart and produced an equally sensational individual run, evading multiple tackles to cross the line and leave the Wicklow support in full voice.

With early dominance established, Wicklow began to showcase their structure and cohesion. Alex Tyson was next on the scoresheet following a slick passage of hands that highlighted the side’s growing confidence and teamwork. Luke Connolly added another well-worked try soon after when he charged down a kick before getting to the ball before the endline, finishing off sustained pressure that had Wexford pinned deep in their own half.

The fifth try arrived courtesy of Calum Reid, who powered over after a series of strong carries from the Wicklow pack, underlining the team’s physical edge as well as their attacking flair.  The final try was a clever and well worked move duly finished by Finlay White Throughout the contest, Wicklow’s work rate and discipline stood out, particularly impressive given the challenging underfoot conditions.

Alex Healy was composed from the tee, adding valuable points and ensuring Wicklow were fully rewarded for their dominance.

Overall, this was a statement performance from the Wicklow U16s, a blend of individual brilliance and cohesive team play that ensured, despite the frozen weekend, this was one fixture that truly delivered.

Everyone in Tullow would also like to wish a speedy recovery to Wicklow full back Tamati Rangitaawa  who suffered a nasty injury midway through the second half.

Wicklow Team.Joshua Callery,Adam Armstrong,Oisin Tallon;Archie Wakeford,Calum Reid;Finlay White,Louis Chambers,Olly Quinn(C);Alex Birrell,Alex Healy;Alex Tyson,Dougie Bowie,Luke Connolly,Daniel Connolly,Tamati Rangitaawa.

Subs;Rory Wolohan,Patrick Treanor,Eoin Treanor,Cian Dunne,Alexander Mckenna,Charles Cullen,Daragh Mcgowan,Adam Ryan.

https://www.independent.ie/regionals/wicklow/sport/othersports/magnificent-wicklow-race-to-southeast-rugby-title/a1801547220.html

Bray Titans Swim Club

 Bray (Titans Swimming Club)

Strong Team Representation of Titans Swim Club at Prestigious Meet

Titans Swim Club from Bray enjoyed a landmark weekend at a prestigious national swimming competition, fielding its largest team ever at the event. A total of 11 swimmers, ranging in age from 13 to 31, represented the club, marking a significant milestone in its continued growth and development.

A standout moment came from para swimmer Matthew Harwood, recently named Disability Swimmer of the Year 2025. Harwood delivered a strong performance in the 50m freestyle, finishing in an impressive time of 31.88 seconds and once again showcasing his consistency on the national stage.

The youngest member of the team, 13-year-old Elsa Acconcia Benito, impressed across several events, recording times of 31.7 in the 50m backstroke, 1:00.86 in the 100m freestyle and a swift 27.59 in the 50m freestyle. Fourteen-year-old Muireann Ward gained valuable experience competing in the 200m butterfly in her first appearance at a competition of this calibre.

Strong performances continued across the age groups, with Simon Vovk (16) competing in the 100m individual medley and Rory Hanley (17) racing in both the 50m and 100m butterfly. Myriam Ibarz (18) competed in three breaststroke events and qualified for the B final in the 50m breaststroke with a time of 34.02. Isla Graham (15) reached the B final of the 200m butterfly, touching home in 2:28.51.

Cian Brady Hercock (16) faced a demanding schedule and produced one of his best performances by qualifying for the B final of the 400m individual medley with a time of 4:45.08.

One of the most emotional moments of the meet came from Rebeka Repman (31), who returned to competitive swimming after an eight-year absence. She qualified for the A final of the 50m freestyle and recorded a personal best time of 26.5 seconds.

Seventeen-year-old Jordan Winterbach emerged as the club’s most successful female swimmer, reaching finals in all three breaststroke events. Her standout swim came in the 200m breaststroke, where she placed second in the junior category and third overall in 2:36.38.

Artem Chobot (18) also delivered exceptional results, placing highly against elite competition. He claimed first place in the junior category in the 200m backstroke and multiple podium finishes across individual medley and backstroke events.

These results underline a proud moment for Titans Swim Club. Credit is due to the swimmers, coaches, club management and supportive families whose commitment and teamwork contributed to a memorable and successful competition.

https://www.independent.ie/regionals/wicklow/sport/gaa/bray-swimming-club-in-celebratory-mood-after-fantastic-national-showing/a1521408368.html

Arklow Rugby Club SE Finals

 

U13 SE Plate 

Vikings vs New Ross 

Arklow Rathdrum U13B Vikings hosted New Ross in the South East Plate semi-final last Sunday at Rathdrum RFC, after weather delays pushed the fixture to 21 December. The Vikings started slowly and New Ross capitalised with three first-half tries. Showing great resilience after the break, the Vikings responded strongly, with Luke Cloke scoring a fine try, expertly converted by Henry Doyle. Despite losing two players to injury and being forced to reorganise, the Vikings continued to battle. They finished the match on the front foot, pinning New Ross inside their 22 for the final ten minutes. Although they couldn’t find another score, the Vikings displayed impressive character and commitment, and now look ahead with optimism to the New Year league competition

Team:  Elliot Radford, Sam Moules, Daragh O'Neill, Luke Cloke, Harry Alexander, Hugh MacArdle, Seoirse Curtis, Tadgh Sheehan, Rory O'Connor, Henry Doyle, Fionn ODonnell, TJ Doyle, Colum Snell, Finn OConnell, Oisin Kearns, Peter Cooper, Mason Nolan, Griffin Coyle, Brogan Curley, Johnny Cashman.

Arklow RC All South east semi finals 

U14 Semi Final Girls 

Wicklow 34

Arklow 0

Arklow delivered a strong performance,in a 34-0 defeat in the Friday night lights derby. Wicklow scored four tries in the first half and added two more after the break, but Arklow showed great resilience and commitment throughout.After a tough opening few ten minutes they went nearly ten minutes in the 1st half without conceding.

An even stronger second half defensive display gave the Arklow crowd something to cheer about.

U14 Boys 

Wexford 19

Arklow 29

Arklow U14s produced a superb all-round performance as they travelled to Wexford Wanderers for the South East Plate semi-final on Saturday last and booked their place in the final. Eager to respond after a recent defeat to Dundalk, Arklow started strongly with the wind at their backs. Tactical kicking and strong defence kept play in Wexford territory, and Iarla pounced on a loose ball for the opening try. Further scores from David Quinn Iarla Gunning  and captain Jude Ivanoff conversion from Donagh Gahan  gave Arklow a 17–12 half-time lead despite a quality Wexford response.

The visitors struck first again after the break, with David completing his brace, before a superb team try finished by Jude extended the lead. Wexford rallied late with two tries, but Arklow showed composure, holding possession and closing out an excellent contest. Sean Mannion  earned Player of the Match, with many standout performances in a fine team display.

1.M. Leeson

2.R. Mangan

3. E. Killoran

4. J.Ivanoff (C)

5. I.Gunning

6. D.Quinn

7. S.Manion

8. J.Langrell

9. S Scanlon

10. D.Gahan

11. H Hulin

12. P.Laffan

13. J.Heath (VC)

14. R.Tinsley

15. O Madigan

16. B.Murphy

17. N.Lipsas

18. H.McGrath

U16 Girls 

Arklow 17 

Rhinos 22

Arklow welcomed Carlow/Tullow Rhinos to the Oval on Saturday in extremely difficult conditions and delivered a hugely committed performance in a thrilling contest decided by the narrowest of margins. Just one try separated the sides at the final whistle, with Arklow pushing the Rhinos all the way in a game that could have gone either way.

The visitors opened the scoring after moving the ball wide, but Arklow responded superbly. Georgia Horan produced a blistering run, showing outstanding pace to cut through the Rhinos defence and level the contest. The match continued at a relentless pace, with Arklow repeatedly answering every Rhinos score. Horan crossed for her second try, while Alanna Kulenovic powered over from close range, showcasing Arklow’s strength and determination to keep the game finely balanced.

Although the Rhinos edged ahead with a late fourth try, Arklow fought relentlessly right to the end and were desperately unlucky not to find the score that would have put them in front. It was a massive team performance.

U 18 Girls 

Arklow 28

Wexford 7

Arklow U18 girls advanced to the South East Cup final with an impressive semi-final win over Wexford at the Oval on December 20th. On a wet pitch and in strong winds, conditions appeared to favour the forwards, but it was the Arklow backs who struck first. Ruby Tracey finished a slick passing move for the opening try to set the tone. The scoreline did not fully reflect a competitive contest, with Arklow’s defence standing firm to deny Wexford despite long spells of pressure. Strong forward play saw Olivia Burke cross for Arklow’s second try before Wexford replied to leave it 14–7 at half-time. Arklow took control after the break, with further tries from Freya Brennan and Laragh O’Callaghan Royo. All four tries were converted by Sophia White. Arklow now face Rhinos in the final early in the new year, with strong contributions from Abbie Byrne, Georgia Horan, Olivia  Burke Emery and Lucy Weld, and great support on the day.

https://www.independent.ie/regionals/wicklow/sport/arklow-and-wicklow-secure-places-in-south-east-rugby-finals/a587275764.html

U19 Hurling ARP vs LOT

 U19 B Hurling Championship Round 5

Arklow Rocks Parnells 3-4

Luke O’Toole’s 3-17

Balinakill

Eoin Horkan 

Luke O’Toole’s driven by Adam Lifely and Lorcan Toomey got there the better of the Rocks in Balinakill Sunday morning.

It was the Arklow side that raised the first white flag of the game when Jack O’Reilly spilt the posts early on.The next fifteen minutes belonged to the opposition as they drove forward and fired over eight unanswered points. The first of these came from the hurl of Adam Lifely who opened his account before efforts from Lorcan Toomey,Daniel Byrne, Daniel Duffy, Padraic Lambert and two more from that man Lifely. 

The final thirteen minutes of the half was a much more balanced affair. A great goal and point from Josh Curran dragged the Rocks back into the game. Down the far end Lifely managed to rattle the back of the net twice in a couple of minutes. 

With five minutes left a Cian Redmond goal and Mile Connors minor had the gap down to six.

Just on the stroke of half time Toomey drove down the middle of the pitch to get his side's third goal of the game.

An early Bill Connors sixty-five looked like it would breathe some life in the Arklow side's challenge but O’Tooles had other ideas.

Led by that man Lifely, Toomey and Lambert they kept the score ticking over before wing-back Dominick O’Loughlin got in on the act midway through the half.

In the final quarter the Rocks defence did start to grab a foothold but this didn't stop Lambert eventually doubling his tally for the day before Ross Weld slotted over from a narrow angle.The solitary response from the opposition came from Redmond who raised a second green flag for himself on the day.

Just to add insult to injury, a final free from Lifely meant his side would be heading into the Christmas break much happier.

Arklow Rocks Parnells:Cian Doyle;Tommie Kavanagh,Sé Killoran,Edward Breslin;Mikey Kinsella,Donnacha Murphy,Tiernan Pierce;Padraig Kelly,Miley Connors(0-1),Ryan Redmond,Adam O’Leary,Jack O’Reilly(0-1),;Josh Curran(1-1),Cian Redmond(2-0),Bill Connors(0-1 65).

Subs Used:Robert Waddell for Tommie Kavanagh

Luke O’Toole’s:Rhyan Moules;Darragh Rice,Sean Byrne,Oisin Fanning;Cillian Duffy,Daniel Duffy(0-1),Dominic O’Loughlin(0-1);Lorcan Toomey(1-3),George Doyle;Cormac Sheridan(0-1),Adam Lifely(1-5 2f),Daniel Byrne(0-1);John O’Reilly,Padraic Lambert(0-4),Ross Weld(0-1).

Subs Used:Adam Kearns,Darragh O’Byrne 

Referee James Phelan.

https://www.independent.ie/regionals/wicklow/sport/gaa/luke-otooles-emerge-on-right-side-of-frenetic-six-goal-clash/a1386437072.html

John Lester Piece

 

Feature Piece: John Lester – A Football Life Lived the Hard Way

Sitting in Ratnew, speaking to former League of Ireland midfielder and ex-English youth professional John Lester, it becomes clear very quickly that this is not a tale of easy breaks or smooth progressions. Instead, it’s a career shaped by persistence, bad luck, hard lessons, and an enduring love for the game.

Early Beginnings – Park Celtic to Leicester Celtic

John’s football journey began the way many Irish careers do: on concrete and grass in a local housing estate. At just six or seven years of age, he joined the very first Park Celtic team the club ever formed. From there, a kickabout in a friend’s garden during the 1990 World Cup changed everything.

Invited up to Leicester Celtic almost by chance, John quickly became part of a strong side competing at the top level of the DDSL. Leicester Celtic would be his football home through his formative years, winning trophies, developing players, and eventually drawing attention from across the water.

England Beckons – Trials and Everton

By the age of 12, English clubs began calling. West Ham, Newcastle, Everton, Wolves and others all showed interest. A standout moment came at 14 when John played in the Mill Cup with West Ham, winning the tournament and being named both Player of the Tournament and Fans’ Player of the Tournament.

Despite strong links with West Ham, John ultimately chose Everton. It wasn’t about money or prestige. It was about home. Liverpool was just half an hour away by plane, close enough that his father regularly travelled over on his motorbike to watch him play. John could still return to Ireland most weekends. Everton felt like a “home away from home”.

Setbacks, Injury and Reality Checks

John joined Everton at 15, leaving school behind. Education existed, but it never truly clicked. The football didn’t always fit either. Played out of position and struggling to settle, his career took a major hit when he suffered a broken leg, keeping him out for nine months.

Though he returned and played consistently afterwards, the feeling lingered that he never got a proper chance in his natural role as a box-to-box midfielder. By 19, with another year left on his deal, John made the call to come home.

Coming Home – Bohemians and Monaghan United

Back in Ireland, John’s ambition hadn’t faded. He joined Bohemians, who were full-time and fresh off a league and cup double. After limited opportunities, Stephen Kenny sent him on loan to Monaghan United — a move that changed everything.

Training full-time with Bohs and playing weekly with Monaghan, John flourished. He earned First Division Team of the Year honours and an Ireland U21 call-up. At 20, he was finally playing men’s football week in, week out — and loving it.

Chasing Games – Drogheda, Waterford, Limerick

Despite signing a new contract at Bohs, opportunities dried up. Wanting to play, John forced a move to Drogheda United, who were transitioning towards full-time football. Injuries struck again, including a serious groin issue that required surgery — an operation doctors warned could end his career.

He fought back, featuring for Waterford during a relegation battle before linking up with Pat Dolan in Limerick. A full season followed, but financial instability and fitness struggles meant another move was needed.

Galway United – Fitness, Fight and Survival

A connection through Tony Cousins brought John to Galway United, initially part-time before the club went full-time. Moving to Athenry and committing fully, John finally reached peak fitness. Galway survived relegation, but managerial changes and financial pressures saw him pushed towards the exit once again.

Repositioned at centre-half, written off, and injured, John fought his way back into the team. Galway stayed up — but at season’s end, there was no contract.

The Final League of Ireland Years

A brief stint followed at St Patrick’s Athletic under Jeff Kenna, then Longford Town where John captained the side but was released regardless. A return to Drogheda didn’t last long. At this point, his League of Ireland career had quietly come to an end.

Sheriff YC – Success at Junior Level

What followed was the most successful period of his playing life.

Joining Sheriff YC in the Leinster Senior League, John thrived. Over eight seasons, the club won seven league titles, four FAI Junior Cups, multiple Leinster titles, and completed two clean sweeps of every available trophy.

Sheriff weren’t just dominant — they were historic.

Later Years – Ratnew, North End & Still Going

After Sheriff, John continued playing into his late 30s with Ratnew, North End United, and later back again in Wicklow football. With North End, he added two more Leinster Junior Cups to his collection.

Now in his 40s, he’s still playing Premier Division football in Wicklow, mentoring younger players, and giving back through coaching — something he once said he’d never do.

Quick-Fire Q&A

Best player you played with (Pro):
Andy Reid

Best player you played with (Amateur):
Darragh Donnelly (Sheriff YC)

Best player you played against (Pro):
Thomas Hitzlsperger / Jermaine Jenas

Best player you played against (Amateur):
Seán Barcoe (Evergreen)

Best manager you played for:
Alan Reilly

Best manager you played against:
Pat Dolan

One thing you’d change about your career:
Nothing — no regrets.

Best advice you ever received:
Don’t give managers a reason to leave you out.

Advice to young players going abroad:
Stay at home as long as possible. Get educated. Play men’s football first.

Ireland levels represented:
U14, U15, U16, U17, U18, U21 (every level except senior)

https://www.independent.ie/regionals/wicklow/sport/soccer/wicklow-football-legend-john-lester-on-a-career-shaped-by-his-persistent-nature/a1939959245.html