Mar 7 Slow start costs Town dearly
Football can be a cruel game at times and today was indeed one of those days for our 10B’s who hosted Aughrim in the Enniskerry SFC Cup at the Community College earlier this morning. The physical nature of the opponents and early kick off just didn’t suit the home team. Aughrim were lively from the start and took the lead with their first attack. Ten minutes later they doubled their lead giving Town plenty to do if to get back into the tie. Credit the home team though, as they are a spirited group of players and indeed for the remainder of the game they tried with all their might to reduce the deficit. Town should have pulled one back before half time when when Mattas Lukooenicius broke from the middle of the park only to be pushed wide, with his effort narrowly missing the target. The second half was entirely dominated by the Black & Whites with James Hogan putting in his best game to date, marshalling the midfield and unlucky when James Shannon played a wonderful corner kick to him on the outside of the box, his superb strike drifted just over the crossbar. Tiernan McBride put in a tireless display also and was also unlucky not to see his name on the score sheet. However the Aughrim keeper denied him time and time again. Try as they might Arklow couldn’t grab that goal that would have set up a grandstand finish. Aidan Lyons and Cillian Kavanagh had two fabulous attempts marshalled away by resolute Aughrim defending. At the other side of the pitch Abbie Molloy, Derek Crammond and David Thomas dealt with anything that did come their way with Thomas commanding his backline excellently. The sluggish start cost Arklow today, with the visitors only too delighted to avail of such early hospitality, and they hung on to their two goal lead to progress to the next round leaving Town to reflect on what might have been and leaving them focus on an imminent Shield campaign.
Mar 6 Hard fought win for Town
This proved to be a very tough game for Town. Arklow started well with Ryan O'Donovan shooting narrowly wide after a great cross from Clive Keenan early on. This was quickly followed with an effort from Eoghan O'Neill, that was inches the wrong side of the post. A lot of the battles in the first half were in the midfield with Rory Heffernan and Ryan O'Donovan doing well, followed by some great defending from Quentin O'Reilly, Eoin Cullen and Eoghan Kenny. Town thought they has scored near the end of the first half but the referee adjudged the ball not to have crossed the line, in somewhat controversial fashion. Town were then rocked with the home team taking the lead, half time rapidly approaching. A ball in over the top of the defence left Town keeper Nathan Wolohan with no chance and their striker striker fired home. Town restarted the second half in a higher gear, working a lot harder and were soon creating the better chances. Craig Fox did wonderfully well before threading in a lovely ball to Eoghan O'Neill, whose effort was well saved. However, O'Neill did level matters just moments later in Town's next attack. Town continued to stand strong at the back with Niall Murphy doing very well and Conor Smith also working hard. Clive Keenan smashed home what proved to be the winning goal, an excellent effort from the young striker. Wolfe Tone tried to get back into the tie but all efforts were well saved by the ever reliable Nathan Wolohan in Town's goal. Man of the match though had to be today's captain Rory Heffernan, a superb performance and he inspired his team mates all game. Well done Town!
Feb 28 Town just one game from title
Eagle eyed observers of this season's WDSL league tables will no doubt testify that the U10 Premier Division has been one of the most exciting, and contested, for years with the destiny of the title still in doubt, with just one key fixture remaining. Enniskerry were finally overtaken at the top with Greystones United A beating St. Anthony's A yesterday 1-0 at Woodlands. Town were due to face St. Peter's A today, just seven days after beating the same opposition in Bray. However, the Bray side did not travel resulting in Town being given a walkover. So, with just one game remaining, the title is down to a straight "two horse race". Greystones lie in pole position having finished their ten game programme on 21 pts. With the walkover received Town edge past Enniskerry and on to 19pts with one game remaining to be played at St. Anthony's A. Having beaten the Kilcoole side earlier this season in Arklow the team will no doubt be hoping for a repeat performance when the two sides meet in St. Anthony's Park in Kilcoole, to decide the destiny of this year's Premier title.
Feb 21 Back on track - one down, two to go...
Town's 10A's got the title challenge firmly back on track today with a hard fought 4-0 win over St. Peter's A in Bray to move to within two points of leaders, Enniskerry A. Enniskerry have completed their ten game schedule and lie with 18 points atop the table. Greystones United A are joint top and have one remaining game to play (home versus St. Anthony's A) whereas Town have a home game against St. Peter's A and a trip to St. Anthony's A yet to fulfil. Quite simply, maximum points from the two remaining games will see this Town team secure back to back league titles. In today's game, the visitors enjoyed a lot of possession but failed to convert chances into goals. Niall Murphy came closest in the first half. The home side worked very hard to find a way through Arklow's defence where all players - Eoin Cullen, Eoghan Kenny, Quentin O'Reilly, Ryan O'Donovan, Rory Heffernan, Conor Smith - all excelled. Clive Keenan went close twice to putting Town ahead in the early stages of the second half but the deadlock was eventually broken when defender Quentin O'Reilly smashed home a strike from twenty yards out, an unstoppable effort that flew past the home keeper. Ryan O'Donovan eased Town closer to the points with a second goal and a third followed soon afterwards, with Eoghan O'Neill and Rory Heffernan combining well, the latter slotting home. Ryan O'Donovan then had a good effort ruled out but in the closing stages Niall Murphy, at the back post, slotted home Town's fourth to seal an important win.
Feb 20 Disappointment for B's
Disappointment today for Town's 10B team, playing host to Division 1 title contenders Wolfe Tone B at the Community College. The result didn’t reflect the display as the home side played some great football on a very heavy and wet pitch. Wolfe Tone were very determined from the first whistle as a win today could see them leapfrog over Wicklow Town at the top of the table. Indeed it was the Bray side who took the lead with a quick counter attack finding their number 5 at the edge of the box, thumping the ball past Town’s David Thomas into the back of the net. Town tried hard for an equalizer but it was the visitors who found the net, against the run of play, for a crucial second goal. Being two goals down Town’s heads dropped a little and Wolfe Tone dominated the midfield. Arklow should have scored when Mattas Lukooenicius found himself one on one with the keeper only to see his shot pushed wide of the upright. Arklow were unfortunate when just before half time Wolfe Tone again scored leaving it 3-0 going into the half-time break. The second half saw a more determined game from Arklow with both sides playing good attacking football. Arklow should have scored on a number of occasions but were to be denied by the Bray keeper putting in a fine display, making sure nothing passed him. Efforts from Tiernan McBride and Cillian Kavanagh being marshalled either side of the woodwork and a superb solo run and strike by James Hogan from outside the penalty box agonisingly drifted just over the cross bar. Arklow put in a spirited play with Brian O’Halloran and today's captain Abbie Molloy embodying 10B’s character. No goals to either side in the second half and a slight feeling of disappointment for our 10B’s with the score line not reflecting a good performance.
Feb 14 Setback for Town but title hopes still in Town hands
It was déjà vu for Arklow Town 10A's at the Community College today, entertaining Greystones United A in a key fixture near the top of the WDSL U10 Premier Division. Town having played just six games went into this game just five points behind leaders Enniskerry but with four games in hand. Greystones United themselves harbour league title honours and were lying in second place just three points themselves behind the leaders but having played two games more than Town. Confused? You should be! Town were unlucky in the first half with Clive Keenan, Eoin Cullen, Eoghan O’Neill, Niall Murphy and Craig Fox all agonisingly close to scoring. Unfortunately for Town the Greystones keeper was to enjoy one of those inspirational days when nothing shall pass. Midfielders Ryan O'Donavan and Rory Heffernan fought hard for the team with Quentin O'Reilly, Conor Smyth and Eoin Cullen defending well at all times. Nathan Wolohan pulled off a great save before the break, with the sides level 0-0 at half time. Greystones struck what was to prove the crucial only goal of the game in the fourth minute of the second half and despite Town laying siege to the visitors goalmouth they could not find a way through. The Greystones keeper making excellent saves Eoghan O’Neill, Clive Keenan and Eoin Cullen. Indeed, the visitors almost doubled their lead late in the game, a rapid counter attack ending with Town's Eoghan Kenny and Nathan Wolohan doing well to contain the threat. Despite the obvious setback from the result this was a very positive performance from Town and on another day they would have run out easy winners. Still all very much to play for, with Town knowing that three wins from their three remaining league fixtures (St. Peter's home and away; St. Anthony's away) will secure the league title.
Feb 13 Team spirit proves a winner for determined Town
A thrilling encounter this Saturday lunchtime at the Community College with Arklow Town’s 10B team playing their first game since a draw on December 6 last against the same opposition. Town were short on numbers and called up David Kealy and Nathan Cullen from the9A’s, with both players putting in fine performances. The lengthy spell without competitive action showed as Arklow were slow to start and at times looked lethargic. Indeed it was the visitors who were the livelier from the off. Carnew having won the ball in midfield found Arklow napping and worked the ball well to leave stand-in keeper Mattas Lukooenicius with no options but to watch the ball fly high over his shoulder into the top of the net. This was the wake-up call that Town required and soon we saw a very spirited team display emerge. The rearguard of Derek Crammond, David Kealy and Abbie Molloy fought hard for every ball and soon pressure was on the visitors with Town controlling the remainder of the first half, albeit with no goals to show. A timely drinks break at half-time and then Town found that next gear. Good interplay from midfield led to a neat one-two between James Shannon and Tiernan McBride whose strong shot on goal was pushed onto the approaching feet of Cillian Kavanagh, and his strike only had one destination – the back of the net. 1-1 and game on. Confidence now evident throughout the team, Arklow soon found themselves ahead with Nathan Cullen controlling the right wing and thumping in a tremendous effort from distance resulting in a 2-1 advantage to Town. Tiernan Mc Bride should have made it three when finding space, a sweet strike just drifted upwards over the crossbar. Number three wasn’t long in coming though as again Town pushed forward. Aidan Lyons playing a neat ball across the front of the box to Cillian Kavanagh who again made sure and placed the ball out of Carnew’s keepers reach, 3-1. Carnew didn’t lie down however and both sides kept the pressure on. However it was all over when Tiernan McBride found that goal he richly deserved. Arklow’s never say die attitude and team spirit today shown through. A great game of thoroughly enjoyable football. Well done to all.
Jan 23 Futsal tournament Week 2 schedule
Three Arklow Town FC sides will once again compete in this weekend's WDSL U10 Futsal League at Arklow Sports and Leisure Centre. After a successful opening weekend the divisions have been rejigged. This weekend's fixtures listed below. All players are requested to be in attendance 30 minutes before first kick off. Squads consist of a minimum 7 players and maximum 9.
Divisions:
Wicklow South Red - Arklow Town A, Arklow United A, Rathnew, Wicklow Town.
Wicklow South Blue - Arklow Town B, Arklow Town C, Arklow United B, Wicklow Rovers A, Wicklow Rovers B.
Wicklow South Green - Aughrim, Arklow United C, Wicklow Rovers C, Ashford, Avonmore.
Fixtures, Sunday January 24:
Red 10.30 Arklow Town A v Arklow United A
Red 10.45 Rathnew v Wicklow Town
Red 11.00 Arklow Town A v Rathnew
Red 11.15 Arklow United A v Wicklow Town
Red 11.30 Arklow Town A v Wicklow Town
Red 11.45 Arklow United A v Rathnew
Blue 12.30 Arklow Town B v Arklow United B
Blue 12.42 Wicklow Rovers B v Wicklow Rovers A
Blue 12.54 Arklow Town C v Arklow Town B
Blue 13.06 Arklow United B v Wicklow Rovers B
Blue 13.18 Wicklow Rovers A v Arklow Town C
Blue 13.30 Arklow Town B v Wicklow Rovers B
Blue 13.42 Arklow United B v Wicklow Rovers A
Blue 13.54 Arklow Town C v Wicklow Rovers B
Blue 14.06 Arklow Town B v Wicklow Rovers A
Blue 14.18 Arklow United B v Arklow Town C
Green 14.30 Aughrim v Arklow United C
Green 14.42 Wicklow Rovers C v Ashford
Green 14.54 Avonmore v Aughrim
Green 15.06 Arklow United C v Wicklow Rovers C
Green 15.18 Ashford v Avonmore
Green 15.30 Aughrim v Wicklow Rovers C
Green 15.42 Arklow United C v Ashford
Green 15.54 Avonmore v Wicklow Rovers C
Green 16.06 Aughrim v Ashford
Green 16.18 Arklow United C v Avonmore
Jan 4 Tens all set for Futsal tournament
Arklow Town FC have entered three teams into the WDSL U10 Futsal League which commences next weekend at Arklow Sports and Leisure Centre. The new (non-competitive) WDSL Futsal League has attracted 44 teams from 17 different clubs with the competition divided into two sections - Wicklow North and Wicklow South. The Wicklow North section kicks off at St. Killian's in Bray on Saturday, January 9 while the Wicklow South section kicks off on Sunday, January 10, at the Leisure Centre.
The Futsal League will take place on four successive weekends commencing this coming weekend, January 9/10. As stated, it is non-competitive and regrading of teams will take place every week if necessary. All matches are to be played over a rapid ten minute period of play, with one exception, in Wicklow South Red division where just four teams are due to participate. Those teams will play 13 minute matches. All teams will play four matches every weekend except those teams in Wicklow South Red division, on the opening weekend of play.
All players are requested to be in attendance 30 minutes before first kick off. Squads consist of a minimum 7 players and maximum 9.
Squad details:
Arklow Town A
Nathan Wolohan, Conor Smyth, Quentin O'Reilly, Craig Fox, Harold Stephenson, Aidan Lyons, Eoghan Kenny.
Arklow Town B
Eoghan O'Neill, Tiernan McBride, Clive Keenan, Eoin Cullen, Ryan O'Donovan, Cillian Kavanagh, Abbie Molloy, Mattas Lukooenicius.
Arklow Town C
David Thomas, James Shannon, Rory Heffernan, James Hogan, Niall Murphy, Brian O'Halloran, Derek Crammond.
Divisions:
Wicklow South Red - Arklow Town A, Arklow United A, Wicklow Rovers A, Wicklow Town.
Wicklow South Blue - Arklow Town B, Arklow United B, Wicklow Rovers B, Rathnew, Aughrim.
Wicklow South Green - Arklow Town C, Arklow United C, Wicklow Rovers C, Ashford, Avonmore.
Fixtures, Sunday January 10:
Red 10.30 Arklow Town A v Arklow United A
Red 10.45 Wicklow Rovers A v Wicklow Town
Red 11.00 Arklow United A v Wicklow Rovers A
Red 11.15 Arklow Town A v Wicklow Rovers A
Red 11.30 Arklow United A v Wicklow Town
Red 11.45 Arklow Town A v Wicklow Town
Blue 12.30 Arklow Town B v Arklow United B
Blue 12.42 Wicklow Rovers B v Rathnew
Blue 12.54 Aughrim v Arklow Town B
Blue 13.06 Arklow United B v Wicklow Rovers B
Blue 13.18 Rathnew v Aughrim
Blue 13.30 Arklow Town B v Wicklow Rovers B
Blue 13.42 Arklow United B v Rathnew
Blue 13.54 Aughrim v Wicklow Rovers B
Blue 14.06 Arklow Town B v Rathnew
Blue 14.18 Arklow United B v Aughrim
Green 14.30 Arklow Town C v Arklow United C
Green 14.42 Wicklow Rovers C v Ashford
Green 14.54 Avonmore v Arklow Town C
Green 15.06 Arklow United C v Wicklow Rovers C
Green 15.18 Ashford v Avonmore
Green 15.30 Arklow Town C v Wicklow Rovers C
Green 15.42 Arklow United C v Ashford
Green 15.54 Avonmore v Wicklow Rovers C
Green 16.06 Arklow Town C v Ashford
Green 16.18 Arklow United C v Avonmore
Dec 12 Setback for A team
Arklow Town 10A's played their first game in 9 weeks and were unfortunate not to come away with at least a point from this fixture, against Enniskerry A. Going 1-0 down in the first 10 minutes, with some indecision in defence gifting a goal to the away side, Town were clearly on top for the rest of the game but were unable to take their chances. Quentin O'Reilly had a great game in defence along with Eoin Cullen, Niall Murphy and Eoghan Kenny limiting the away team to long range shots that were dealt with easily by keeper Nathan Wolohan. Ryan O'Donovan played well in midfield making some great tackles along with Rory Heffernan, Clive Keenan and Conor Smyth. Eoghan O'Neill had two great chances in the first half, his first effort blocked and the second narrowly wide. The second half continued as the first ended with the home team on top. Ryan O'Donovan came close to scoring along with Craig Fox early on. Town continued to pile on the pressure with some great football being played at times, Eoghan O'Neill had another chance late on with the Enniskerry keeper doing well. Overall the result was unfortunate but the performance was great from the home side, and it remains all to play for atthe top of the Premier Division.
Dec 5 Town dominate in stalemate
Town's 10B team were in action earlier today at a very wet Carnew, the surface far from ideal for a game of football. Carnew, on a high after defeating title chasing Wolfe Tone B last week, may have fancied themselves before kick off, mindful of Town's position in the table but they were in for a shock if they genuinely believed Town would offer little. When the game eventually started it was Town who looked livelier, making a mockery of their lowly league position. James Shannon fired in an excellent cross early in the first half but with no one in the Carnew area a great opportunity slipped by. Abbie Molloy epitomised Town's excellent spirit, putting in a tireless contribution, chasing every ball, tackling anything that moved and in general commanding the midfield. Mattas Lukooenicius went agonisingly close to opening the scoring for Town with an effort just wide of the post. Town threatened with a number of corners but were frustrated on every occasion, unable to convert possession into goals. Truth be told, Town's problem all season has been finishing in front of goal and today proved no exception. When called upon at the other end David Thomas proved as reliable as ever in Arklow's goal. The general play has been excellent with all players contributing to the growth of the team. Hopefully the New Year will see Town, like last season, getting a break or two in Shield competition and building upon a solid league campaign. Sometimes the league table doesn't paint a true picture! Now, where are those scoring boots....
Nov 28 Unlucky Town edged out at Ferndale
Town's 10B team made the long journey to Ferndale Park earlier today to play Arklow United A in their first derby encounter this season. A dry morning, however the pitch was very heavy and wet. Both sides started well, United were first to have a serious attempt on goal with David Thomas alert as ever marshalling Town's net excellently, making a fine save to deny the home side. After just five minutes Town had to reshuffle as Aidan Lyons was withdrawn due to injury. Short on numbers Conor Breslin was drafted in from the 9A’s and he was thrust into play a little earlier than expected. Not looking out of place at all and putting in a fine performance, it was neat play from Breslin to Abbie Molloy which should have resulted in a goal for Town. Breaking from midfield, the ball played in to Mattas Lukooenicius found him one on one with United’s keeper. However a fine save kept the scoreline even. It was a fast paced game with both sides playing well. It was United who opened the scoring with a good shot on target leaving Thomas with no chance but to watch the ball hit the back of the net. Town were again unfortunate when just before half time United scored a second. The second half started quickly and James Shannon did well to play Mattas Lukooenicius in. Mattas turned the defender and struck home a sweet strike. Town now upped a gear looking for an equalizer and should have been awarded a penalty with both management teams agreeing afterwards. Town pressed and pressed but could not breakdown a good United defence. A very entertaining game with two goods sides matching each on the day with United clinging onto their 2-1 advantage at the final whistle. Town's 10B’s though can be satisfied with a great performance, the result not truly reflecting the effort.
Nov 8 Excellent away win for B team
Town's 10B's travelled to face Wicklow Rovers A earlier today, with the home team holding a slight advantage, having narrowly beaten the Black and Whites 1-0 when these sides last met at the CBS earlier this season, in September. A busy Saturday for the management ahead of the game with no less than four players withdrawing before even a ball was kicked. Short on numbers, two players were drafted in from our 9A squad - namely Darragh Walker and Andrew Maher, both very promising young players. Indeed each put in fine display, Maher upfront and Walker in midfield matching the older opposition and not looking out of place at all. Arklow were the stronger team from the off and were unlucky not to take the lead early on when Tiernan McBride saw his shot hit the upright and then scrambled clear by a hard working Rovers defence. Almost immediately a second attack from Arklow had the same fate, this time Aidan Lyons' strike being denied by the woodwork. Town applied plenty of pressure and had no less than twelve corner kicks during the game however all goal bound efforts were repelled by a hard working well marshalled Wicklow rearguard. The second half was as busy as the first with James Shannon and James Hogan having numerous drives on goal but none finding the back of the net. Town’s keeper David Thomas didn’t have that much to do today but was called upon late in the game when against play Rovers broke free and Thomas was quick off his line having to go one-on-one with the Wicklow striker, making himself big, executing a great tackle and preventing the attacker with the chance to score. From this fine save Arklow worked the ball through midfield and after beating two defenders Tiernan McBride had his shot stopped by the keeper, but he could only push it into the path of substitute Andrew Maher and though his first attempt was stopped he did what good strikers do - he had kept running through and hit the back of the net with his second attempt, a great goal, 1-0 to the Town. Arklow kept pressing for a second goal and were unlucky not to get it however the score line finished 1-0 to Town, a great game, enjoyed by all and a well deserved win.
Oct 17 Town edge closer to title in top two clash
A tense top of the table clash between Ardmore Rovers A and Arklow Town A ended level at Ballywaltrim today to leave the Black and Whites in pole position with just four games remaining in the WDSL U10 Premier Division league campaign. Having beaten the Bray team just seven days previously in a tight encounter in Arklow the return meeting of the top two under ten teams in the WDSL promised to be an intriguing affair and so it proved. Ardmore, to be expected, were fired up from the off but it was the visitors who enjoyed a greater percentage of possession in a tight opening half. Eoghan O'Neill, enjoying a fine vein of form in front of goal in recent weeks went close to putting Town ahead in the fifteenth minute with a good effort well saved. Conor Smyth, hugely versatile in Arklow's midfield quartet, went even closer with a nice goalbound strike, well saved by Ardmore's keeper. The home team were finding it hard to find a way through a solid Arklow defence, ably marshalled by Eoghan Kenny, Rory Heffernan and Quentin O'Reilly. The deadlock was broken early into the second half, with the home side enjoying whatever advantage playing down the hill gives, a well taken goal. Town keeper, the ever reliable Nathan Wolohan showed his class with a remarkable save to deny the home team a second goal and that was to prove a key moment as Arklow found a deserved leveller when Quentin O'Reilly fired home into the top corner. The visitors almost stole all three points late in the game but Clive Keenan was to be denied when firing narrowly wide. The point puts Arklow Town firmly in the driving seat to secure back to back Premier League titles, still clear of Ardmore Rovers A with just four games remaining.
Oct 17 Best performance so far yields just desserts
A beautiful sunny morning made for a great game of football earlier today when Arklow Town’s 10B’s hosted Newtown A at the CBS venue. Having played the reverse fixture some weeks back, both teams knew what to expect from each other. Town lined out with a much changed formation, having worked on positions and set pieces extensively in training this past week, resulting in Town dominating possession right from kick off. The first half was played entirely in the Newtown half with Town’s keeper David Thomas idle for the majority of play. James Shannon tested the Newtown keeper with a fierce left foot strike from distance, just pushed curling over the bar. The Black and Whites played some nice attacking football with neat interplay between Abbie Molloy, Brian O’Halloran and Tiernan McBride almost finding an opener. However a fine save from Newtown’s keeper denied Arklow again. Town kept piling on pressure and were unlucky not to take the lead when running at goal; a neat one two found Cillian Kavanagh one on one with the keeper only to see his shot saved off the line by a quick footed returning defender. Many great efforts in the first half but no goals to show for it. After the half time break, Newtown showed a greater resilience and they took the lead, against the run of play, a high in-swinging shot eluded Town’s David Thomas and hit the top back corner of the net. Town now behind, dug deep and played their best football to date, striving to get that equalizer. Arklow were awarded a penalty when, in a packed goal mouth, a well worked corner saw a Newtown defender raise an arm to deny a shot on goal. With most of the team looking to take the penalty, Tiernan McBride was given the duty to step up to the spot. Cool, calm and collected Tiernan struck a beautiful strike into the back of the net, making it 1 -1. The remaining ten minutes of the game saw the home team press and press, looking to win the game but well done to the visitors who defended in numbers and denied Arklow victory. A fantastic team performance with our 10B’s very very unlucky not to take all the points – well done all.
Oct 10 Key win strengthens Town's position on top
Town 10A further strengthened their grip on the WDSL U10 Premier league title with an impressive 2-1 victory against Ardmore Rovers A at Arklow CBS earlier today. Town have started the season in stunning fashion winning their opening four games with Ardmore close on their heels, with three wins from their first four fixtures. The visitors were impressive in the first ten minutes, with the home side sluggish and it was no surprise when the Bray side took the lead. Town rallied and both Rory Heffernan and Eoghan O'Neill went agonisingly close to levelling matters before the half time break. Town looked a completely different team in the second half and the game changed dramatically. Heffernan, Clive Keenan and Craig Fox were impressive as Arklow drove for an equalising goal and from a powerful Eoin Cullen corner the home side duly levelled, with Conor Smyth rising highest at the back post to plant home a forceful header into the Ardmore net. Ardmore sprung into action and Town keeper Nathan Wolohan was called into action to deny the visitors a second lead goal. The winning goal came with just minutes left, a wonderful ball played through by Clive Keenan saw Eoghan O'Neill bursting onto the loose ball to drive home a glorious winner for the home team who now extend their early season lead in the division to six points.
Town’s 10B’s travelled to Bray to face Wolfe Tone B with a squad short on numbers due to injuries and sickness. No excuses though as Town played a great game of football against a very physical Wolfe Tone side. The Bray side were very quick to start and went ahead with two goals almost from start of play, both being powerful shots which David Thomas managed to get a hand to, but not able to prevent from hitting the back of the net. Town settled and were the dominant side but just couldn't score. Tiernan McBride, running from midfield, beating two defenders, only to see his shot hit the post. James Shannon's left foot drive from outside the penalty area saved by a good Wolfe Tone keeper, Mattas Locuennicus also seeing his effort stopped. Against the run of play Wolfe Tone were awarded a corner and in a packed goalmouth scrambled the ball into the net 3-0 to the Bray side. A very entertaining game, where the score line didn’t truly reflect performance...
Oct 3 Assured Town cruise to victory
Last season's WDSL U9 League champions Arklow Town A further announced their league ambitions for this season, at U10 level, with a thoroughly deserved victory at Greystones United A, in Woodlands earlier today. Having already secured a vital three points with a good win away at Enniskerry, the Arklow side travelled to Greystones in confident mood. Indeed, the Arklow side dominated in the opening exchanges, camping deep inside the Greystones half and fully utilising the width of the pitch the Black and Whites threatened with every attack. Town edged ahead, from a corner in the tenth minute, with Rory Heffernan in position to fire home a deserved lead goal from close range. Town doubled their lead before half time, again from a corner kick, though this time there was an element of misfortune for the home team, with the keeper unable to keep out the corner kick taken by the excellent Eoin Cullen. Cullen had shown his intent just seconds previously when firing in a free kick from distance, superbly saved by the Greystones keeper, tipping the set piece effort to safety. In truth the home side were denied opportunities to get back into the game though the one occasion they did breach the Arklow defence Nathan Wolohan was assured in the Arklow goal to deny the home team. Eoghan O'Neill went close to further extending Arklow's lead but credit the home team for quite simply not giving up and late in the game they grabbed a lifeline with a goal in the last minute. However, too little too late and Arklow secured a well earned three points that sees them sitting on top of the division.
Meanwhile, back in Arklow, the 10B's were entertaining leaders Wicklow Town A at the CBS and must be wondering how they lost. Wicklow's win was secured midway through the opening half, a cruel deflection in a packed Arklow area left keeper David Thomas with no chance. Arklow put Wicklow under immense pressure, peppering the goal, where the Wicklow keeper was undoubtedly man of the match. Tiernan McBride thought he had levelled only to see his strike rebound off the crossbar. Similarly Jason Roche was primed to score only to be denied by the keeper with a fine save. In defeat Town can take solace with another excellent performance.
Sep 27 Great effort from B's in Newtown
Arklow Town U10B’s had an early start today travelling to Newtown for a 10:15 kick-off. Whoever said Sunday was a day of rest? Anyhow, Town were quick out of the blocks and dominating play early on. After just four minutes midfielder James Shannon smashed home a magnificent goal, his drive too powerful for the Newtown keeper and though the keeper got a hand to it, he could not keep it out, 1-0 to Town. Arklow were the more determined team in the first half, and were unlucky not to add a second when Tiernan McBride, who had an excellent game, played a neat ball to the lively Mattas Lukooenicius who turned the defender only to see his shot float agonisingly wide. Shannon almost added a second when his long range free kick drifted just a little to the left and wide of the mark. Newtown regrouped at half time and stared to apply some pressure of their own. David Thomas was called on by his teammates to make some determined saves to keep Arklow in the game. Midway through the half however, after sustained pressure, Newtown found that equalizer with a well worked ball through the centre leaving Thomas with no chance but to watch the ball hit the back of the net. The Black & Whites were called upon shortly afterwards to prevent the home side taking the lead when from a corner kick Abbie Molloy cleared a goal bound ball off the line keeping her team in the game. Town had their chances in the second half also, with Jason Roche unlucky not to score after James Hogan had played a ball over the top finding Roche whose effort was pushed out by Newtown’s keeper. With both sides looking for the win, and good fast paced football being played it was Newtown who looked likelier to find a winner, and they were afforded the opportunity to do so when the referee pointed to the penalty spot after a Town defender was deemed to have handled in the area. David Thomas, a very promising young keeper, remained composed, making himself a big target in the Arklow goal and he did sufficiently well to deny the Newtown spot kick taker, as he slid the ball wide of the target. Town kept playing, looking for the winner, and almost found it in the closing stages. However, the Newtown keeper put in a fine display keeping all late efforts out. A thoroughly entertaining game between two fine sides, the U10B’s showing plenty of commitment and character – well done everyone!
Sep 26 Town continue good start to season
Town were a little slow out of the blocks today, welcoming St. Anthony's A to the CBS, with few chances created in the opening ten minutes. Craig Fox went close on two occasions to opening the scoring with two efforts. The deadlock was finally broken with not one but two great headers from corners putting Town on the road to another good three points. Eoin Cullen, on both occasions, whipped in excellent crosses with Ryan O'Donovan netting the first and Clive Keenan finding the back of the net with the second goal, leaving Town two up at half time and in control of the game. Town opened the second half playing some great football, confidence evident, and Niall Murphy was desperately unlucky not to score, his shot on goal agonisingly wide of the post after superb work from Conor Smith and Craig Fox. Eoghan O'Neill, enjoying a rich vein of goalscoring form, netted Town's third, beating the last defender and slotting home beyond the St. Anthony's keeper. Even with a 3-0 scoreline in Town's favour, it must be noted how well the defence played today with Eoghan Kenny, Quentin O'Reilly and Rory Heffernan all making vital blocks throughout the game. In goal Nathan Wolohan was composed as ever and when called upon he proved highly efficient.
Sep 19 Cruel defeat for Town B team
The first game of the season at the new temporary home venue (Arklow CBS) saw Town's 10B’s hosting Wicklow Rovers A on a bright Saturday morning. The new pitch, in excellent condition, and a good crowd attended providing support, set the scene for an entertaining clash between the two sides. Both teams started well and the wide pitch ensured plenty of open football. Arklow were unlucky not to score early on when Mattas Locuennicus broke from midfield, played a one-two with Brian O’Halloran and then watched as his shot went narrowly wide of the post. Wicklow responded immediately with David Thomas making a superb save to deny the visitors. Both teams played good attacking end to end football with neither side able to grab the opening goal. Arklow should have taken the lead when Aidan Lyons played a ball over the top finding Tiernan McBride, who with a sublime header was denied by the fast approaching Rovers' keeper's punch. Town were called on to defend on a number of occasions but stood firm thwarting all Wicklow’s efforts. Abbie Molloy put in a superb defensive display in her first outing. The game remained scoreless at half time but the Arklow side stepped up a gear after the break with the introduction of Harold Stephenson impressing in midfield - his physical presence adding that extra dimension. Arklow had a number of attacks on goal but were unable to breach a strong Rovers rearguard. With the game nearing conclusion and a stalemate looking the outcome Wicklow were fortunate to steal a goal. Against the run of play the ball broke outside the Arklow box to two Rovers forwards, when an outstretched arm the wrong side of the referee helped the ball on, Town stood still and the visitors lobbed the ball into the top of the net. Arklow laid siege on Wicklow's goal trying to find an equaliser but time just ran out. Frustration all round but a good team display nonetheless. Unlucky in defeat.
Sep 12 Impressive Town lay down early marker
An exciting opening game of the new season pitted last year's top two sides at under 9 level together in the first series of games in this year's WDSL U10 Premier Division. Enniskerry A and Arklow Town A, the meeting of Shield and League winners respectively, duly lived up to its billing, both sides providing a highly entertaining game and no doubt both will aspire to facing each other again at the business end of the season. Town struck in the opening five minutes, with Craig Fox working well out left. Fox found teammate Clive Keenan in space and Keenan showed great awareness to switch the play, finding Eoghan O'Neill across the Enniskerry area, with the Arklow forward netting at the second attempt after the home keeper had done well to block the initial strike from O'Neill. Town doubled their lead midway through the half taking a more direct route to goal, with midfielders Rory Heffernan and Ryan O'Donovan winning possession and launching a ball over the back of Enniskerry's back four, finding O'Neill oncemore and he controlled well before firing home a second for Town. Enniskerry rallied and went close on two occasions to halving Arklow's lead, with defender Eoin Cullen forced to clear off his line and Arklow keeper Nathan Wolohan pushing one goalbound effort onto the bar. Arklow Town went three up in the second half during a spell of good crisp football, a delightful effort from Conor Smith from distance eluding the keeper. The home team were rewarded with a consolation goal late on but on the day the travelling Arklow side proved worthy winners.
Town's U10B team were in action away at Wicklow Town at Finlay Park. The home team opened strongly and soon Arklow keeper David Thomas was involved making a series of fine saves to thwart the home side. Thomas' performance served to highlight why he has made the keeper's jersey his own. It was slightly against the run of play that Arklow Town opened the scoring. Tiernan McBride played a good ball out of defence, finding Mattas Locuennicus and James Shannon. Shannon played in Cillian Kavanagh who turned his defender and then dummied the keeper before slotting home an excellent finish. Wicklow's response was swift though, gaining two corners in quick succession and after a scramble in the Arklow area an unfortunate own goal saw the sides level at the break. Wicklow's enjoyed a stronger physical presence, which was to prove telling in the second half. Town were a player down and seeking attention to the injured player when the home time broke forward, firing past David Thomas to put Wicklow Town 2-1 ahead. Arklow threw caution to the wind in search of an equaliser but were caught very late into the game with Wicklow netting a third goal on the counter.
Aug 10 Squad listings for season 2009/10
The following are the team selections for the new season, 2009/10. The team selections listed below have been based on the recent club trials, Mini World Cup tournament (where applicable), club summer camp and other tournaments involving Town sides. Manager assessments from season 2008/09 have also been taken into consideration, with the squad selections being made in an open and honest manner.
Squad Details - Season 2009/10
U10A
Clive Keenan, Aaron Roche, Nathan Wolohan, Conor Smith, Quentin O'Reilly, Craig Fox, Eoghan O'Neill, Rory Heffernan, Ryan O'Donovan, Niall Murphy, Eoin Cullen, Eoghan Kenny.
Managers: Andrew O'Donovan, Kenneth O'Neill.
U10B
Tiernan McBride, Jason Roche, Derek Crammond, Abbie Molloy, Mattas Lukooenicius, James Hogan, Aidan Lyons, James Shannon, David Thomas, Harold Stephenson, Cillian Kavanagh, Brian O'Halloran.
Managers: Dick Lyons, Ciaran Kavanagh.