Midlands Kennedy Cup 2025 (TT)

 Monday 

Midlands 5

Cavan/Monaghan 0

Two first-half goals set the tone as the Midlands secured a convincing win in their opening group stage match on Monday.

It was the perfect start for the team in lilac, who took the lead with their first attack. Daniel Blanc broke down the wing and finished confidently to give his side an early advantage. The Northern team responded by gaining more control of the game but couldn’t find an equaliser. The Midlands continued to threaten on the counter, and just before the 20-minute mark, Blanc capitalised on a defensive error to double the lead.

A lengthy stoppage followed due to the opposition goalkeeper being stretchered off, which disrupted the rhythm of the game. Neither side could add to the scoreline before the break.

The result was effectively sealed ten minutes into the second half when Ryan Coughlan smashed in a goal from a corner. With fifteen minutes remaining, Blanc was in the right place to complete his hat trick, capping a standout performance. The scoring was rounded off by Kalvin Flynn, who confidently converted a penalty.

It was an emphatic performance that gave the Midlands the ideal start to their group campaign.

Tuesday 

Midlands 0

Clare 1

Clare secured a late 1-0 win over Midlands in a match where Midlands clearly played the better football but were left frustrated by missed opportunities and a costly mistake near the end.

Midlands controlled large parts of the game, displaying greater composure on the ball and sharper attacking movement. They dominated possession and created several clear chances but were unable to break through Clare’s defence. Their fluid attacking play made them the more threatening side throughout, while Clare struggled to assert themselves and spent much of the match defending deeply.

Despite Clare applying pressure in the closing stages, Midlands’ goalkeeper was outstanding, making a series of crucial saves to keep his team in the contest. He denied Clare from close range early in the second half and produced a remarkable diving stop in the 75th minute, preventing what looked like a certain goal.

Yet, in the 88th minute, Clare found a breakthrough. A swift counterattack caught Midlands off guard, and a low cross found Clare’s substitute striker, who calmly finished from close range.

It was a harsh blow for Midlands, who did almost everything right except score. The victory ultimately favors Clare, who were second best for most of the match but capitalized on their late opportunity to claim all three points.

Midlands 0

Waterford 2

Waterford claimed a 2-0 victory over Midlands thanks to two late goals in the second half, but Midlands can take pride in being the stronger side for much of the game. Despite the defeat, Midlands dominated possession and created most of the scoring opportunities, only to be repeatedly denied by an outstanding display from their own goalkeeper.

From the outset, Midlands controlled the pace of the match, circulating the ball confidently and consistently testing Waterford’s defence. Their attacking play was sharp and effective, yet they were frustrated time and again by the goalkeeper’s remarkable saves, which kept the scoreline close throughout the contest.

Waterford, with less possession, remained efficient and clinical when it counted. Both goals came in the latter stages, as they took advantage of rare counterattacks that caught Midlands off balance. Though Midlands controlled much of the game, those crucial moments allowed Waterford to secure the win.

Midlands will feel unfortunate after their strong showing and dominance. Their failure to convert chances and the timing of the goals conceded ultimately defined the result. With their goalkeeper in excellent form and a solid overall team performance, Midlands have a strong foundation to build on moving forward.

Wednesday

Midlands 1

South Belfast 0

Midlands earned a hard-fought 1-0 win over South Belfast in a closely contested encounter, thanks to an excellent first-half goal and a strong defensive display in the second half.

Right from the kickoff, Midlands demonstrated great intent and control, commanding possession and creating several opportunities. Their persistence was rewarded midway through the first half when Cooper Lynch expertly finished a well-executed team move to put Midlands ahead. The goal showcased Midlands’ attacking prowess and clinical finishing.

Once in front, Midlands focused on maintaining defensive discipline and structure. South Belfast responded with increased pressure after the break, eager to find an equalizer, but Midlands’ defense remained solid and well-organized. They absorbed sustained pressure with determination, effectively thwarting South Belfast’s attempts to break through.

Despite South Belfast’s persistent efforts, Midlands maintained their shape and composure, showing great resilience to hold onto their lead until the final whistle. The victory highlighted Midlands’ effective blend of attacking threat and defensive solidity, laying a strong foundation for the semi final.

Thursday 

Shield Place Match 

Midlands 0

Kilkenny 1

A goal late in the first half proved the difference in the Leinster derby on Thursday afternoon.

The game's decisive moment came just before half-time when Kilkenny’s MJ Carroll struck from a corner, capitalizing on a brief lapse in the otherwise disciplined Midlands defence. Up to that point, the home side had looked composed at the back, with their goalkeeper pulling off two superb saves earlier in the half to keep Kilkenny at bay.

After the break, Midlands came out with intent, controlling possession and putting Kilkenny under sustained pressure. They carved out a number of promising chances, but the Kilkenny keeper stood firm, producing key saves to preserve his side’s lead. Despite their dominance in the second half, Midlands couldn’t convert their efforts into goals.

While the result didn’t reflect their efforts, Midlands can take encouragement from a spirited and disciplined display. Their energy, pressing, and attacking movement were impressive, and with sharper finishing, the outcome could have been different. It was a frustrating afternoon in front of goal, but the performance offered plenty of positives moving forward.

Friday

Shield Place Match 19th/20th 

Midlands 0 Penalties (4)

Longford 0 Penalties 5

In a match that was always expected to be closely contested, nothing could divide the local rivals on Friday morning – until the lottery of penalties provided the final verdict.

The opening half featured early chances for both teams, with Midlands coming closest just before the interval. Their striker found space inside the box but dragged his effort narrowly wide, squandering a prime opportunity to take the lead.

After the break, the game tightened even further. Both sides battled hard in midfield, but attacking moments were few and far between. Midlands carved out the only notable chance of the half, drawing a sharp save from the opposition goalkeeper midway through the second period.

Despite the intensity and determination on display, neither team could find a breakthrough in normal time. With the score still goalless after sixty minutes, the match moved to the penalty spot – a cruel but inevitable conclusion for such an evenly balanced contest.

Though goals eluded both teams in open play, the game showcased defensive discipline and tactical focus from start to finish. In the end, it took the calmest heads from 12 yards to decide the outcome of a fiercely fought local derby.

Midlands Penalties

1st Ryan Coughlan (Scored)

2nd Cooper Lynch ( Miss)

3rd Kalvin Flynn (Scored)

4th Ruadhan O’ Higgins (Scored)

5th Frank Pettit (Scored)

At the conclusion of the tournament, head coach Darren Whelan shared his reflections on the team's performance. He highlighted how tournament football often comes down to fine margins — a single bounce of the ball or a moment of fortune can make all the difference. This was certainly true for his side, who, with a bit more luck, might have finished much higher in the standings.

“It’s all about the margins down here – most of the group games and especially the knockouts are decided by just the kick of a ball,” Whelan remarked.

He went on to praise his players for their commitment and discipline throughout the campaign. “The boys performed well and carried out everything the coaches asked of them from start to finish,” he added. “In a competition as challenging as this, that’s all we can really ask.”

Midlands Squad:Midlands Squad:Tadas Širvaitis Portlaoise AFC, Fionn Burke Mountmellick Utd, Diarmuid Sammon St. Joseph's Athlone, Kaiden Monahan Killeigh FC, Ryan Coughlan Mullingar Ath, Daniel Blanc Mountmellick Utd, Conal Buggy Tullamore Town, James Brazón Walsh Island Shamrocks, Harry Doyle 

Mountmellick Utd, John Duignan St. Joseph's Athlone, 

Aaron Maher Tullamore Town, Kalvin Flynn Mullingar Ath, 

Cian Mc Goldrick St. Joseph's Athlone, Harry Hewitt 

St. Joseph's Athlone, Ruadhán O'Higgins St. Joseph's Athlone,

James Boland Birr Town, Fionn Macken St. Francis Athlone, 

Cooper Lynch Kinnegad Juniors, Frank Pettit St. Francis Athlone,

Sean Norton St. Francis Athlone.

Manager: Tommy Hewitt

Coaches: Darren Whelan, Dermot Lennon, Oliver Sammon, Sean Óg Campbell.

Goalie Coach Conor Whelan

Midlands Kennedy Cup 2025 (WI)

 Monday 

Midlands 5

Cavan/ Monaghan 0

Two first half  goals helped the Midlands run out comfortable victors on Monday in their opening group game.

In what was the ideal start the side wearing lilac took the lead with the opening attack when Daniel Blanc broke down the wing before firing home. The northern side then started to wrestle back momentum in this tie but couldn't level it. The main chances were coming on the break for the Midlands and eventually just before the twentieth minute Blanc doubled his tally after a mix up in the defence. After a lengthy stoppage due to the opposition goalkeeper being stretched off the game turned quiet as neither side could find a goal before the break. 

The game was put to bed as a contest ten minutes into the second half when Ryan Coughlan fired home from a corner. With fifteen minutes left in the tie Blanc found himself in the prime positon to complete his hat trick. The final goal of this game was a penalty which was expertly converted by Kalvin Flynn.

This gave the Midlands the perfect start to the group.

Tuesday 

Midlands 0

Clare 1 

Clare snatched a late 1-0 victory over Midlands in a game where the visitors were clearly the better side but were left to rue missed chances and a single lapse near the end.

Midlands dominated large spells of the match, showing more composure on the ball and sharper movement going forward. They controlled possession and created multiple opportunities, but couldn’t find the breakthrough. Their attacking play was fluid, and they looked the more likely to score throughout. Clare, in contrast, struggled to impose themselves and spent much of the match defending deep.

Despite Clare’s pressure late on, Midlands’ goalkeeper delivered a superb performance, keeping his side in the game with a string of outstanding saves. He denied Clare from close range early in the second half and pulled off a brilliant diving stop in the 75th minute that looked destined for the top corner.

However, in the 88th minute, Clare struck. A quick counterattack caught the Midlands defence stretched, and a low cross found its way to Clare’s substitute, who made no mistake from six yards out.

It was a sucker punch for Midlands, who had done almost everything right except score. The result flatters Clare, who were second-best for much of the match but took full advantage of their late chance to seal the win.

Midlands 0

Waterford 2

Waterford secured a 2-0 win over Midlands thanks to two second-half goals, but Midlands can take pride in their performance as the better team throughout the match. Despite the loss, Midlands dominated possession and created the majority of chances, only to be denied by a brilliant performance from their own goalkeeper.

Midlands controlled the tempo from the start, moving the ball confidently and threatening Waterford’s defence on numerous occasions. Their attacking play was fluid and incisive, but they were repeatedly frustrated by their goalkeeper’s exceptional saves, who kept the scoreline respectable with a string of key interventions throughout the match.

Waterford, although limited in possession, proved clinical when it mattered most. Both of their goals came late in the second half, capitalizing on rare counterattacks that caught Midlands off guard. Despite Midlands’ dominance, those two decisive moments were enough for Waterford to secure the victory.

Midlands will feel hard done by given their superior performance and control during much of the game. Their inability to convert chances and the late goals conceded overshadowed a display full of promise. With their goalkeeper in top form and the team’s overall performance, Midlands have plenty to build on moving forward.

Wednesday 

Shield Quarter Final 

Midlands 1

South Belfast 0

Midlands secured a hard-fought 1-0 victory over South Belfast in a tightly contested match, thanks to a brilliant first-half goal and a resolute defensive performance in the second.

From the start, Midlands showed great intent and control, dominating possession and creating several chances. Their hard work paid off midway through the first half when a well-crafted move ended with a superb finish from Cooper Lynch that gave them the lead. The goal highlighted Midlands’ attacking quality and clinical edge in front of goal.

After taking the lead, Midlands shifted their focus to maintaining discipline and organization at the back. South Belfast came out strongly in the second half, looking to break down the Midlands defense, but Midlands stood firm. Their defensive unit was well-structured and determined, successfully repelling wave after wave of pressure.

Despite South Belfast’s efforts to find an equalizer, Midlands held their shape and showed great resilience to protect their lead until the final whistle. The win was a testament to Midlands’ balance of attacking threat and defensive solidity, providing a solid platform to build on in upcoming matches.

Thursday 

Shield Place Match 

Midlands 0

Kilkenny 1

Midlands put in a strong performance but were narrowly defeated 1-0 by Kilkenny in a tightly contested match. Despite the result, the home side showed plenty of promise and created several good chances throughout the game.

The only goal of the match came just before the break, when Kilkenny’s MJ Carroll managed to find the net from a corner. It was a rare lapse in concentration for the Midlands defence, who had otherwise looked solid. Earlier in the half, the Midlands goalkeeper made two excellent saves to keep the scores level, showcasing sharp reflexes to deny Kilkenny further opportunities.

In the second half, Midlands pushed forward with renewed determination. They created several decent efforts, but the Kilkenny goalkeeper was equal to them, pulling off key saves to maintain his side’s lead. Midlands dominated much of the possession after the restart and kept Kilkenny on the back foot, but they were just unable to find the finishing touch.

It was a frustrating day in front of goal, but Midlands can take plenty of positives from the performance. With more clinical finishing, the result could easily have gone the other way. The team’s work rate and spirit were undeniable throughout the match.

Friday 

Shield Place Match 19th/ 20th

Midlands 0 Pens 4

Longford 0 Pens 5

In what was always going to be a tight affair nothing could separate the local neighbors on Friday morning bar the dreaded penalties.

he first half saw promising early chances for both sides. Midlands had a golden opportunity just before the break, but their striker failed to convert from close range, sending the ball just wide of the post.

The second half was even more cagey, with both teams cancelling each other out in midfield and clear-cut chances proving rare. Midlands managed the only real effort of note after the restart, forcing a smart save from the opposing keeper midway through the half.

Despite plenty of effort and grit from both sets of players, the deadlock couldn’t be broken in regulation time. The game inevitably headed to penalties – the dreaded decider in such closely fought affairs. With nerves stretched and the pressure mounting, it came down to composure from the spot to separate the two sides after an evenly matched 90 minutes.

While there were no goals during open play, the match was a testament to strong defensive organization and disciplined football, leaving it all to be decided from 12 yards.

Midlands Penalties

1st Ryan Coughlan (Scored)

2nd Cooper Lynch ( Miss)

3rd Kalvin Flynn (Scored)

4th Ruadhan O’ Higgins (Scored)

5th Frank Pettit (Scored)

At the end of the tournament we got the thoughts of the coach Darren Whelan.

He explains how tournament football can be decided by the bounce of the ball or by the narrowest of margins. This was certainly the case for this side as if the luck had gone with them they could have finished my higher. “ It's all about the margins down here its only the kick of a ball in most of the group games and especially the knockouts.”

Whelna added that “ the boys performed well and did what the coaches asked of them from start to finish and that's all they could ask for in such a tough competition.”

Midlands Squad:Tadas Širvaitis Portlaoise AFC, Fionn Burke Mountmellick Utd, Diarmuid Sammon St. Joseph's Athlone, 

Kaiden Monahan Killeigh FC, Ryan Coughlan Mullingar Ath, 

Daniel Blanc Mountmellick Utd, Conal Buggy Tullamore Town, 

James Brazón Walsh Island Shamrocks, Harry Doyle 

Mountmellick Utd, John Duignan St. Joseph's Athlone, 

Aaron Maher Tullamore Town, Kalvin Flynn Mullingar Ath, 

Cian Mc Goldrick St. Joseph's Athlone, Harry Hewitt 

St. Joseph's Athlone, Ruadhán O'Higgins St. Joseph's Athlone,

James Boland Birr Town, Fionn Macken St. Francis Athlone, 

Cooper Lynch Kinnegad Juniors, Frank Pettit St. Francis Athlone,

Sean Norton St. Francis Athlone.

Manager: Tommy Hewitt

Coaches: Darren Whelan, Dermot Lennon, Oliver Sammon, Sean Óg Campbell.

Goalie Coach Conor Whelan

Physio Laura Doyle.

League Rep: Derek Collins.

Roscommon Kennedy Cup 2025

 Roscommon Group Matches 

Monday 

Roscommon 0

Galway 5

It was the local neighbours that were the winners in the first group game.

Despite the heavy defeat, the outcome benefited Roscommon due to group dynamics, goal difference, or prior results. Galway’s sharp attack overwhelmed their opponents early on netting three first half goals.

Roscommon, while suffering a tough loss, may advance or maintain position depending on the competition structure. The match highlighted Galway’s offensive prowess even though the Roscommon defence started to get on top in the second half . While the scoreboard was harsh, the bigger picture offers a silver lining for Roscommon, who may still progress despite the setback. Group standings remain wide open.

Tuesday 

NDSL 4

Roscommon 2

In what an exciting 6 goal game in the second game of the group two second half goals proved the difference.

It was Dublin who started the better netting twice inside the opening quarter . This didn't seem to deter the Roscommon side as they battled back in and a Jonathan Grenee double had them level at the break.

Once the tie resmed both sides created chances but eventually it was Dublin who netted twice before the fiftieth minute. Even with the result the promise showed signs of promise for this Roscommon side.

Roscommon 1

Longford 2

This game flew out of the blocks with both sides netting early. Longford took the lead four minutes in when Patrick Wallace found the net. On the tenth minute mark the tie was level when Michael Higgins found himself in space to fire in. As the half went on Roscommon battled back momentum but through a mis of good goalkeeping and defining they couldn't manage to take the lead.

The decisive moment in this game was when the opponents added a second to their tally. In a final push forward the District side couldn't find that elusive equalizer to get their first point in the group.

Wednesday 

Trophy Quarter final

Roscommon 2

South Tipperary 1

Roscommon edged out South Tipperary in a tightly contested 2-1 victory, a result which got them their first win of the tournament.

Roscommon struck early, finding the net through Samuel Godfrey  within the opening ten minutes to seize control of the game. However, South Tipperary responded well and managed to level the score before halftime, setting up an intense second half. 

Both sides pushed for a winner, but it was Roscommon who found the breakthrough, scoring with just eight minutes remaining on the clock when James Costello fired home. 

The late goal proved decisive, sealing a deserved victory  in the quarter final The win boosts Roscommon’s chances of advancing, especially after a challenging group campaign.

 Their resilience and timely finishing under pressure made the difference in a match that could have gone either way. With this result, Roscommon remain firmly in the hunt for silverware in UL.

Thursday 

Roscommon 2

WWEC 1

Roscommon secured a vital 2-1 win over WWEC in a dramatic encounter that ensured a trophy final.

This was a very entertaining  semi final with both goals for Roscmmmon  coming at crucial moments.The first half looked like it was going to end goalless..However, Roscommon struck just before the break with a well-taken goal from James Costello  that shifted the momentum in their favour 

The second half saw both sides push forward. This early pressure led to an equaliser, but it was Roscommon who found the decisive breakthrough with Michael Higgins scoring three minutes from the end to seal a hard-fought victory. WWEC battled bravely but couldn’t find a reply in the closing moments.

Roscommon’s clinical finishing at key moments proved the difference in a closely fought contest, earning them a valuable win in this competitive clash.

Friday Trophy Final 

Inishowen 2

Roscommon 1

Roscommon's spirited second-half display wasn’t quite enough to overturn an early two-goal deficit as they fell 2-1 to Inishowen in a tightly contested final.

espite a slow start, Roscommon grew into the game and showed impressive resilience, pushing their opponents to the limit.

Inishowen struck twice in the opening stages, capitalizing on defensive lapses with clinical finishing. The early setback left Roscommon with a mountain to climb, but they refused to back down. After regrouping at the break, Roscommon came out with renewed intensity, dominating possession and forcing Inishowen onto the back foot.

Their pressure paid off midway through the second half when they were awarded a penalty, which was coolly converted  by Eoin O’ Shaughnessy to bring the score to the minimum . Sensing an opportunity to level and send the match to penalties, Roscommon pushed forward relentlessly in the closing minutes.

Despite several late chances and a valiant team effort, the equalizer remained elusive. While the result was disappointing, Roscommon’s determination and second-half performance showcased their quality and character, leaving supporters proud and optimistic for the future.

After the final we get the thoughts of manager Steve Murphy.

He first praises his new side's performance  from the week as they squad have only come together recently. “ This squad was only brought together in the last three months, almost 50% were new.”

Murphy then detailed how proud he was of his side and how they had surprised many at the tournament . “ After finding their feet in the group games they got their first ever win as a group in the quarter final on Wednesday.”

The week in UL has been a great experience for the boys, Murphy explained.” The lads have had a great week down in UL, they have really bonded over the time they had together and did themselves along with the clubs and families proud.”

Roscommon District Squad: Ewan Devine Castlerea Celtic, Jamie O’ Keefe Castlerea Celtic, Oisin Cheevers Moylough 79, Matthew Gardiner Moylough 79, Eoin O’ Shaughnessy St John’s Athletic, Jonathan Greene Roscommon Town, Samuel Godfrey Roscommon Town, Eoghan Higgins Dunmore Town, Daithí Finn Ballaghadreen, Dylan Madden Dunmore Town, Finn O’Mahoney Glen Celtic, James Costello, Cloonfad United, Elia Gannon Moore United, Michael Higgins Kilkerrin United, Daniel Hyland Moylough 79, Lawrence Martin Shiven Rovers, Harry McDermott Castlerea Celtic, Kaden Cassidy St Cuan’s United , Cillian Donoghue St Cuan’s United, Mikey Forde Dunmore Town.

Manager Steve Murphy.

Coaches Kierna Higgins, Shane Higgins, Stewart Malseed.

Head of Delegation Paul Green

Wexford Kennedy Cup 2025 (WW)

 Monday 

Wexford 5

Mayo 1

Despite an early scare, Wexford emerged as convincing four-goal winners in their latest group match.

The game started at a frantic pace, with both sides nearly opening the scoring in the opening minutes. Wexford saw a breakaway effort well saved, while Mayo hit the post at the other end before the rebound was bravely blocked.

The breakthrough came in the seventh minute when Patrick O’Leary fired home a composed finish. Less than ten minutes later, the lead was doubled as Ade  Adedji muscled past a defender before slotting the ball into the net. Just before the break, O’Leary struck again, rounding the advancing goalkeeper to make it 3–0 and giving Wexford full control at halftime.

Mayo came out fighting in the second half and began to grow into the game. However, Wexford struck again on the counter, with Adedji finding space and calmly finishing to notch his second of the match.

Although Mayo started to create more chances, Wexford’s defence held firm. The Westerners did eventually pull one back, with Aidan Gaughan expertly controlling a long free kick and finishing to reduce the deficit. But any hopes of a comeback were quickly dashed when Evan  Thorpe added a fifth, finishing off a well-worked move created by Ryan  Duncan.

It was a clinical and disciplined performance from the Southeast side, who started their campaign with confidence.

Tuesday 

Wexford 2

Inishowen 1

Wexford continued their strong form in the tournament with a hard-fought 2-1 victory, thanks to a quickfire double in the first half from Thorpe and Adyeyosola Adedeji. The result was built on a disciplined defensive performance and clinical finishing in the opening exchanges.

The game started with real intensity as both sides looked to stamp their authority early on. Wexford settled fastest and made their pressure count in the 10th minute. A well-worked move found  Thorpe in space just outside the box, and the midfielder made no mistake with a composed finish that gave the goalkeeper no chance.

Just four minutes later, Wexford struck again. This time it was Adyeyosola Adedeji who got on the scoresheet, showing great pace and awareness to latch onto a through ball and calmly slot home to double the lead. At 2-0, Wexford looked in full control and began to dictate the tempo of the game.

After the break, the game became a battle of attrition, with Wexford’s backline standing firm under growing pressure. The midfield, led by Thorpe, worked tirelessly to close down space and disrupt the opposition's rhythm, while goalkeeper and defenders remained alert to snuff out any danger.

To their credit, the opposition responded well and pulled a goal back late , taking advantage of a brief lapse in Wexford’s concentration. The goal injected new energy into the contest and set up a tense final few minutes 

Despite the narrow margin, Wexford showed maturity beyond their years to manage the closing stages. They stayed compact, maintained their shape, and looked to break on the counter whenever possible. A few half chances came at both ends, but neither side could add to the scoreline.

Wexford 1

Limerick District 4

Wexford put in a spirited performance in a challenging fixture that ended in a 4-1 defeat, with Adyeyosola Adedeji grabbing a well-taken equaliser midway through the first half.

The game opened at a high tempo, with the opposition striking early to take the lead. However, Wexford responded with confidence and determination. Rather than letting the early goal affect them, they grew stronger as the minutes passed, settling into a rhythm and gaining control in midfield.

Their persistence paid off in the 14th minute when Adedeji, always lively in attack, timed his run perfectly to meet a clever through ball and calmly slotted home the equaliser. It was a deserved reward for Wexford’s growing influence in the game.

With the score level at 1-1, Wexford enjoyed a promising spell, applying pressure high up the pitch and playing with composure. The midfield worked tirelessly, and there were encouraging signs across the pitch as they looked to take the lead.

Unfortunately, a second goal before the break and two more in the second half saw the opposition pull away. Still, Wexford refused to back down. Their defence stood strong in moments of pressure, and the team showed real grit as they continued to push forward, looking for a way back into the match.

Adedeji’s goal stood out as a highlight and a reminder of the attacking quality Wexford possessed. Despite the final scoreline, the match featured several positive takeaways—resilience, work ethic, and a refusal to give up even when the odds were against them.

The performance offers a solid foundation to build upon, and with continued focus and determination, Wexford will be aiming to bounce back in their next fixture on Wednesday.

Wednesday 

Shield Quarter final

Wexford 1

West Cork 0

Wexford edged out West Cork with a narrow 1-0 win in a closely contested match defined by solid defending and pivotal moments of skill. 

The match’s only goal arrived in the twenty first  minute when Patrick O’Leary expertly put the ball in the net, giving Wexford an early advantage. This goal proved vital as both teams fought intensely for control throughout the first half and into the second.

Wexford held onto their lead at halftime despite some controversy when an offside goal was ruled out, keeping West Cork firmly in the game. Nevertheless, Wexford stayed composed and controlled much of the play. They created two more promising chances but couldn’t increase their lead.

In the final minutes, West Cork launched a strong push to find an equalizer. However, Wexford’s defense stood strong, capped by a crucial last-minute save from Sam Hourihan that preserved their clean sheet and clinched the victory. The game showcased Wexford’s disciplined defense and the significance of O’Leary’s early goal.

Ultimately, it was a hard-fought win that secured Wexford’s position near the top of the competition standings.

Thursday 

Shield Semi Final 

Wexford 0

Kildare 2

Two second half goals proved the difference in this tight Leinster semi final on Thursday 

Wexford showed plenty of promise in the early stages of this hard-fought encounter, creating two golden chances in the first half that could have set the tone for a different outcome. Their attacking play was sharp and inventive, testing the Kildare defence with pace and precision. The home side’s midfield dictated much of the first half, with Wexford pressing high and winning key battles across the pitch.

Despite their dominance, Wexford were unable to convert their early opportunities—an unfortunate theme that would cost them dearly. The second half saw Kildare capitalise on rare moments of space, netting twice against the run of play. Both goals came during a brief spell where Wexford lost their defensive shape, allowing Kildare to strike clinically.

Nonetheless, Wexford’s performance was far stronger than the scoreline suggests. Their work rate, tactical discipline, and determination kept them in the contest throughout. With a bit more luck in front of goal, this could have easily been a different result. The match ultimately underlined the potential in this Wexford side, who will take plenty of positives from a brave display despite the final scoreline.

Friday 

Shield Place Match 

Wexford 3  Pens 4

North Tipperary 3 Pens 3

In what was the craziest last five minutes of a game in the tournament Wexford eventually ran out winners on penalties.

Wexford went into half-time 1-0 up, courtesy of a composed early finish from their in-form striker Patrick O’Leary. The southeastern side dominated much of the first half but were unable to extend their advantage before the break.

North Tipperary responded with determination in the second half, drawing level with a well-placed header from a corner just before the 40-minute mark.

What followed in the final four minutes was nothing short of madness. In the 86th minute, Wexford surged ahead once more as Cian Keranon fired home a stunning strike from outside the box after a swift counterattack. Moments later, a shot from O’Leary deflected into the path of Evan Thorpe, who made no mistake in making it 3-1.

Victory looked assured for Wexford, but North Tipp had other ideas. A well-timed half-volley pulled one back before an incredible long-range free kick found the net in the dying seconds, levelling the game just as the referee blew for full-time.

In the ensuing penalty shootout, both sides missed early chances, but Wexford kept their cool. They slotted home their final spot-kick, and their goalkeeper produced a brilliant save to deny North Tipp’s last attempt.

Wexford finished eighteenth after an unforgettable encounter, though both sides were rightly applauded for a gripping, high-octane showdown.

After the final whistle we get the thoughts of manager Des Byrne. He explains how they performed well all week and only lost two games one of which could have gone either way. “ I was happy with the team this week. We finished up with four wins and two losses, one we were unlucky in the semi final against Kildare.”

Byrne applauds the young lads' behavior during the whole week of the competition.” I have to say all week they have behaved excellently and this win was a nice way to finish the three years of hard work.”

Wexford squad: Sam Hourihan (Gorey Rangers), Billy O’Connor (Shamrock Rovers), Jack Murdiff (Gorey Rangers), Eoin Reynolds (Glynn Barntown); Conor Hyland (Moyne Rangers), Will Dunphy (North End United), Ryan Finnegan (Wexford Albion), Billy James (Gorey Rangers), Macdara Quinlan (Gorey Rangers), Devin Rowe (Campile United), Dylan Rowe (Campile United), Luke Driscoll (North End United), Tadgh O’Connor (Cushinstown), Páidí Bernie (Gorey Rangers), Evan Thorpe (Ferns United), Ade Adajeji (Moyne Rangers), Patrick O’Leary (Curracloe United), Cian Kearon (Gorey Rangers), Ryan Duncan (Gorey Rangers), Patryk Dzwonnik (Courtown Hibs).

Manager David Byrne

Coaches Donal Mythen, Mike McCabe, Joe McNulty, Rhyss Smyth.

Administrator; Mandy Byrne,

First Aid: Michael O’ Neill.

Head of Delegation Anne Marie O’ Neill