Arklow Town FC Under 18s

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June 13 History created with momentous LFA Youth Cup Final success
The tension had been unbearable, the adrenalin flowing. St. Kevin’s Boys’ Eoin Murray had just sent his penalty kick inches wide of Cormac O’Brien’s left post. If Town could convert their next penalty kick, the fourteenth attempt in an amazingly dramatic shoot out, then they would be crowned Leinster FA Youth Cup winners, 2010. Up stepped the powerful figure of Keith Armstrong, upon his broad shoulders rested the hopes of not only a team but the army of club supporters present in Dalymount Park, hoping to witness a piece of history with Arklow Town aiming to land a first ever Youth Cup title. The instant celebrations that erupted on and off the pitch at Dalymount with Armstrong’s successful spot kick will live long in the memory of all those who were there to witness this joyous occasion.

The action had begun two hours earlier, with Town playing towards the old Tramway End. Both sides started brightly, with Arklow marginally enjoying greater possession. Dara Verney steered a header into the path of Jonathan Kelty in the tenth minute, with the latter firing high and wide. Sixty seconds later captain James Scallan blazed over the bar from a set piece twenty five yards from goal. Daniel Ledwith won a ball on Town’s left and whipped across a dangerous ball with the St. Kevins’ keeper John Kelly beating Verney to the ball. Town had settled into the game very well, noticibly so with their very next move. The ball was spread across the middle of the park with Town’s wide players creating space. The central midfield pairing of Daniel Ledwith and Domhnall Minogue was increasingly in the ascendancy, both players operating well. A threaded pass from Ledwith found Jonathan Kelty advancing through the middle. Kelty spotted a strong direct run from Adam Hanlon and he split the Dublin side’s central defence with a nicely weighted ball, with keeper Kelly once again quick to react to deny Hanlon an opportunity to fire Town ahead. St. Kevin’s Boys responded swiftly, a neat move from out wide left. The ball was well worked back inside with their number six being unmarked and afforded an opportunity to fire wide from just outside the Arklow penalty area. Town went agonisingly close to scoring in the 18th minute. Full back Byrne whipped in a corner kick from Town’s left. Dara Verney rose to glance goalwards, finding Jack Tim Murphy, his shot cleared off the line by defender Robert Dowling-Byrne, under pressure from Town’s Domhnall Minogue. Five minutes later Town were knocking on the door again. A lovely ball from Adam Hanlon, switching play from right to left, found Jack Tim Murphy unmarked out on the left touchline. Murphy drove down the line, winning a second corner kick for Town, but the resultant cross was wasted. The Dublin side’s next attack saw Arklow keeper Cormac O’Brien taking a good catch amidst a sea of bodies. O’Brien then found Hanlon with a clever punt upfield, unmarked, and the winger had only one thing on his mind, as he pushed the ball forward before unleashing a thunderous drive that fizzed just inches over the crossbar. Arklow had a scare of their own just three minutes later, with James Scallan clearing on the six yard line. Defender Paul Rice was cautioned for a late challenge by the touchline with ten minutes remaining in the half as St. Kevin’s were once again forced to try their luck from distance, the number six firing in his third speculative effort of the half wide. Just on half time Aaron Barry was afforded space to drive forward and he chanced his luck from distance, with the keeper unfazed as Barry’s effort sailed high and wide.

Heavy rain during the half time interval saw the arrival of a freshening wind, very much in favour of the Dublin side for the second half. However, it was Town who were asking all the key questions, a ten minute salvo where they could possibly have netted not once but four times. In just the second minute Daniel Ledwith found himself driving at the St. Kevin’s Boys area and his right footed shot drew a fantastic save from keeper Kelly. Two minutes later Adam Hanlon burst through, again on Town’s right and spotting Jack Tim Murphy unmarked on the left edge of the area he chose to switch the ball across the area instead of taking a shot himself. Murphy collected Hanlon’s pass, controlling well and he drove his angled effort underneath the despairing outstretched keeper, the ball fizzing just inches wide of the far post with Adam Hanlon a split second too late to connect and steer the ball home, a lucky escape for the Dublin side. Hanlon himself then spurned a glorious opportunity just sixty seconds later, driving in from the right and shooting from inside the area, his effort well blocked by the keeper. The rebounding ball fell invitingly to Hanlon and his goal-bound effort was incredibly cleared off the line. Domhnall Minogue was next to test the keeper with a drive from distance shepherded wide of the goal. Clive Crammond replaced Jack Tim Murphy in the 13th minute, as Arklow continued to apply constant pressure on the St. Kevin’s Boys back four. Daniel Ledwith carried the ball from central midfield before weighting a through ball into the path of Dara Verney. Verney’s effort though was well blocked by the St. Kevin’s Boys captain Jason Dwayne, resulting in an Arklow corner. The Dublin team themselves almost grabbed that elusive first goal with an effort on target tipped over the bar by Town keeper Cormac O’Brien. Darragh Culleton was introduced with just over fifteen minutes remaining, replacing Dara Verney, and he was soon involved in a lively Town attack alongside Adam Hanlon. Hanlon again beat the keeper, rounding the netminder but yet again, much to Arklow disbelief, his goal-bound effort was again cleared off the line. The Dublin keeper was well placed again minutes later, saving a snap shot from Clive Crammond out wide left, his effort destined for the top left hand corner. Thirteen minutes from time Aaron Barry put in a challenge on the touchline that epitomised Arklow’s defensive strength on the day. The back four, and keeper, had been superb throughout, as Barry did superbly well to avert danger on Town’s left wing. Jonathan Kelty was the replaced by Keith Armstrong, forced off through injury, ending with the winger being transferred to the nearby Mater Hospital (where he was later released in the evening). Right at the death, deep into injury time, St. Kevin’s Boys were given a corner. Typical of his performance all game, James Scallan rose highest to clear the danger, leaving the deadlock unbroken and extra time required. Despite Arklow domination in extra time neither keeper was beaten ensuring that the destination of the 2010 Leinster FA Youth Cup would be decided by penalty shoot out. The Dublin side won the toss and opted to kick first and successfully converted their first two spot kicks. Town replied in kind with Domhnall Minogue and Daniel Ledwith firing home Town’s opening two strikes. St. Kevin’s Boys added a third but Adam Hanlon was unfortunate with his attempt, denied from twelve yards by keeper Kelly as he had been throughout normal time. Advantage St. Kevin’s Boys. Their fourth spot kick was superbly saved by Cormac O’Brien but Arklow’s parity was short-lived as Darragh Culleton looked on in disbelief as his penalty was blocked by the Dublin keeper. Culleton’s miss teed up St. Kevin’s Boys with a glorious opportunity to win the cup with their last spot kick. The tension inside Dalymnount Park could not have been more evident as Colm Greenan stepped forward to fire the Dublin side to victory. Amazingly, his effort went inches wide of O’Brien’s left post and Arklow Town were granted a lifeline. Still, the pressure on Aaron Barry was immense, as he stepped forward to take Town’s fifth spot kick. Calm head required, composure essential and there are none better than Barry for such a moment, his placed spot kick steered into the far left corner. Into sudden death, the Dublin side edged ahead oncemore. James Scallan stepped up to take Town’s sixth spot kick and he coolly drove home, the finish of an assassin. Cometh the hour, cometh the man, Cormac O’Brien then made a save he will never ever forget, diving low to his right, to get a fingertip to Eoin Murray’s drive, pushing the ball onto the post. Up stepped Keith Armstrong, holding his nerve, and with a steely determination he drove home the winning goal to send Arklow Town supporters into ecstacy. The final chapter in one of the most thrilling stories had been completed in typical dramatic fashion, an ending, a glorious ending for a superb team, a great collection of players, and people.  Emotions high, naturally so, it spoke volumes for one of the finest teams ever to don the Arklow Town jersey that in their moment of sheer exuberance that they, to a player, all chose to sprint over to the main stand at Dalymount, the "Jodi" as it is affectionately known, to share their moment with the travelling Town support, including many, oh so many, young Arklow Town players.  They'll not admit it, but how many of those watching children went to bed on Sunday evening not dreaming of following in the footsteps of youngsters just a few years their senior, slotting home a winning penalty to lift the cup.  Wonderful celebrations indeed, bringing down the curtain on another fabulous season.  Captain James Scallan duly received the LFA Youth Cup alongside the mercurial Daniel Ledwith, both players planting the biggest pucker possible on the cup before holding it aloft.  In truth, a deserved success on the day with Town the better team.  Empathy with an obviously disappointed St. Kevin's Boys side, as Town know only too well the thin margins that define success and otherwise.  Today was to be Town's day and how wonderful a feeling is that?  Arklow Town Football Club, Leinster Football Association Youth Cup Winners 2010.  Today felt like a long journey in search of a rainbow's end, finally reaching the last point and indeed finding the elusive pot of gold waiting there to be claimed.  Thoroughly deserved and equally wonderful...

Today's dramatic penalty shoot out can be viewed here.

Images from today's Leinster FA Youth Cup Final versus St. Kevin's Boys at Dalymount Park:

Our thanks to photographer Garry O'Neill for kindly allowing us to publish some of his images from the LFA Youth Cup Final below.  You can view Garry's work on his website - click here. 

May 22 Leinster Final for dominant Arklow Town
Arklow Town Youths recorded an emphatic 3-0 win earlier today in their Leinster FA Youth Cup semi final meeting with FC Carlow at Bridgewater Centre Park.  The searing heat was matched by the home team's opening blitz, Clive Crammond outstanding, with the Arklow side playing an attractive brand of free flowing football and laying siege upon the Carlow goal.  Despite dominance over the opening twenty minutes the home team failed to convert any of their openings, from set piece situations or open play.  Carlow rallied, getting a foothold in the game after Arklow's frenetic start, and asked a few questions of Town's defence, where captain James Scallan put in a man of the match performance.  The deadlock was broken seven minutes before half time, with Town deservedly edging ahead.  Aaron Barry found Domhnall Minogue on halfway, with the central midfielder firing a crossfield ball to Adam Hanlon out wide right.  Hanlon showed great pace and determination on the flank before firing across the Carlow area, finding Daniel Ledwith unmarked and the Colleges international shifted from right to left foot before firing Town into the lead.  Two minutes before half time the home team doubled their advantage with a simply delicious goal from Minogue.  Defender Ciarán Byrne superbly dispossessed a flying Carlow forward, launching a swift Arklow counter attack, finding Ledwith in central midfield.  A reverse pass from Ledwith sliced open the right flank for Adam Hanlon to exploit and the Arklow winger did brilliantly to get to the byline before whipping over a quality cross for Domhnall Minogue, arriving like a train at the back post, to powerfully head home.  A clinical goal, on the stoke of half time, with the home team turning defence into a telling second goal in a matter of seconds.  Arklow continued to dominate in the second half with Jonathan Kelty and Dara Verney putting in a superb effort up front.  Arklow's third goal came with just six minutes remaining with Ciarán Byrne crossing from the right.  Midfielder Minogue again won the aerial ball in the Carlow area but this time he directed his header into the path of striker Darragh Culleton, whose close control allowed him to switch feet and steer home a fitting third goal for the Arklow side.  Town then spurned two late chances with both Keith Armstrong and Daniel Ledwith going close.  Town now face Dublin side St. Kevin's Boys in the final.

Images from today's LFA Youth Cup semi final win

Pictures courtesy of Garry O'Neill.

May 8 Town dismantle Shamrock Rovers
A casual passer-by, sticking a head through the gates at Bridgewater Centre Park this afternoon, could be forgiven for taking for granted that the team wearing black and white shirts were a League of Ireland side tearing asunder a junior club, in this the quarter final meeting in the Leinster FA Youth Cup of Arklow Town and Shamrock Rovers.  However, the green and white hooped shirt of Rovers is instantly recognisable and as famous a club as undoubtedly are they proved no match for an eager Arklow Town youth side.  The home side started off brightly, laying instant siege upon Rovers' netminder Eoin Doherty's goal.  Jack Tim Murphy blazed over the bar in the tenth minute after good work down Arklow's right flank from Adam Hanlon.  On the quarter hour mark Daniel Ledwith mixed tenacity and skill to create an opening from nothing, shooting narrowly wide from distance.  Seven minutes later the deadlock was broken.  A good Arklow move out wide left saw advancing full back Aaron Barry fire in a cross from deep with Jack Tim Murphy quickest to react, beating the Rovers central defence and keeper to slot home Town's opener.  Just three minutes later Town had a good shout for a penalty denied them when Daniel Ledwith appeared to be taken down in the Rovers' area. With half time looming the home side doubled their lead, with Murphy netting from close range after Ledwith's weighted pass found the Arklow forward unmarked three yards out.  Arguably Town's finest move throughout the ninety minutes came just four minutes into the second half.  Captain James Scallan delivered a precise cross-field ball finding Adam Hanlon who then swung across a vicious ball met by Jack Tim Murphy, his header inches over the crossbar.  With Arklow dominance increasing and confidence in their play very much in evidence it was only a matter of time before the home team increased their lead.  In the 57th minute Domhnall Minogue met an in-swinging corner from Jonathan Kelty forcefully, steering home a powerful header from six yards out.  Just two minutes later Town were awarded a penalty with Jack Tim Murphy felled, as he was primed to net his hat trick.  Up stepped midfielder Ledwith to net Town's fourth.  Town's supremacy was confirmed with just fifteen minutes remaining, a clinical drive from the right edge of Rovers' area from Keith Armstrong giving keeper Doherty no chance in the Rovers' goal.  Defender Aaron Barry twice went close to adding a sixth goal for Town late in the game, denied superbly on both occasions by the ever busy Doherty.  Town now await news of this week's draw before knowing who they will face in the semi final.

Images from today's LFA Cup quarter final win:

Apr 25 Valiant Wicklow bow to Galway Youth
Heartbreak and disappointment in equal measure as Wicklow Youth lost out to Galway Youth in the final of this season's FAI Youth Inter League Cup, played at Salthill Devon's Drom Park venue in Galway today.  Having lost out in dramatic circumstances in last year's final to Dublin AUL (on penalties after extra time) the home team were determined to atone this time around and on a very tight narrow pitch they most certainly made the most of the conditions in the opening half, as the Garden County side struggled to cope with an aerial bombardment.  Mervue United's Pat Huban headed Galway into a third minute lead, getting on the end of a wicked cross from Salthill Devon's own Brian Conlon.  The hosts doubled their advantage when Huban's clubmate Mike Elwood was quickest to react to a loose ball in Wicklow's goalmouth after a corner kick from clubmate Daniel Cunningham, prodding home from close range despite the best efforts of Ciarán Byrne on the Wicklow line.  The wind had played havoc with Wicklow's free flowing passing game, chances at the other end were few and far between, Irish Colleges international Daniel Ledwith going closest with a cross easily claimed by Galway netminder Ronan Forde.  Wicklow's woes could easily have been greater at half time, largely due to a brilliant goal line clearance from Irish Schools international Adam Hanlon.  Trailing 2-0 at half time, the feeling within the ground, at least amongst the sizeable travelling Wicklow support, was that if Wicklow could hit the ground running in the second half then hope just might spring eternal.  Almost instantly Wicklow put the Tribesmen on the back foot, notably through play down the right flank where full back Ciarán Byrne and Hanlon worked tirelessly to create openings.  One criticism perhaps of Wicklow's play in the second half, aerial balls into the area were taken comfortably more often than not by keeper Forde.  However, substitute Domhnall Minogue, replacing midfielder Keith Armstrong just shy of the hour mark, made a nuisance of himself inside the Galway area, contesting a ball with two Galway defenders that he had no right to win.  Minogue's desire to win the ball afforded him the chance to shield the ball and play it back into the path of forward Dara Verney who fired from the edge of Galway's area, a precise effort that was magnificently saved by Forde in the Galway goal - a remarkable save.  Wicklow had the bit between the teeth, the tempo had been raised a notch or five, and an indicator of Galway's state of mind was no doubt reflected with home players asking the linesman how long was left to play.  Verney, having previously served notice of his intentions in front of goal, raised the temperature in the heat of battle with a sublime strike in the 67th minute with a cleverly crafted shot from outside the Galway area, steering his effort outside the post, his strike with the outside of his right boot then drifiting into the top corner of Forde's net with the Mervue United man beaten all ends up.  Game on, and Wicklow pressed for a leveller.  However, the margins between success and not can be incredibly thin at times and though Wicklow clearly sensed this could yet be their day, the home team, no doubt wiser from last year's disappointment, held their nerve to carve out the clearer opportunities to score late in the game.  Wicklow, no pun intended, considering the windy conditions, threw caution to the wind, leaving the back door open.  Galway spurned two glorious chances to seal victory late in the game with Wicklow keeper Cormac O'Brien standing tall to deny the home team.  However there was little or nothing he could do to prevent local Conor Murray putting the final nail in Wicklow's coffin with a strike seven minutes from time - a killer blow to Wicklow hopes after laying siege down at the other end.  With many of this season's Wicklow squad still eligible to participate in next season's tournament the hope is obviously to go one better and though today's defeat was painful to take, Wicklow need look no further than today's opponents Galway who have experienced similar disappointments in the past.  To paraphrase a certain Mr. D. Trotter from Peckham, "this time next year, Rodney...."

Images from today's FAI Youth Inter League Cup Final

Apr 21 Wicklow Youth set for All Ireland Final encounter with Galway
All roads lead west this coming Sunday as Wicklow U18 Youths set their sights firmly on a first ever FAI Youth Inter League Cup title against Galway.  The Connacht county will be keen to erase memories of last season's defeat in the Final against a strong Dublin AUL side who defeated Galway in dramatic circumstances, on penalties after extra time failed to seperate the sides.  Will this weekend's final prove equally as dramatic?  Who knows!  One thing is certain, managers Brian Byrne and Daragh Murray will have left no stone unturned in their preparation with the Wicklow Youth squad who travel to Galway in high spirits after an emphatic victory over Cork in the semi final, played here in Arklow just a fortnight back.  Wicklow's route to the All Ireland decider began with a convincing 3-1 win away at Kildare in their opening Group 4 fixture.  That win was followed up with a frustrating share of the spoils with Carlow in a 2-2 draw.   The Garden County side secured top place in the group with a 1-0 win over Wexford in the key fixture, with a bullet header from midfielder Keith Armstrong proving good enough to ease past the Slaneysiders.  Galway's route through the group stage, in Group 2, was relatively straight forward easing to a 3-0 win in their opening game against Combined Counties.  They then thumped Clare 8-1 before recording a third successive victory, 3-1 over Roscommon to top the group and advance to the next round, where they received a bye straight into the quarter finals.  Wicklow on the other hand welcomed Limerick Desmond to Arklow, edging past the Munster side thanks to a Darragh Culleton winner in extra time.  Galway welcomed neighbours Mayo for their quarter final clash and again recorded a 3-1 victory.  Wicklow travelled a long way to the north west, to face a good Donegal side and arguably played some of their best football to date, recording a very impressive 4-0 win.  Into the semi final, Wicklow were drawn to face Cork at home.  A first half blitz left the Leesiders with too much to do, the Wicklow side racing into a commanding 3-0 lead on the back of some, at times, exhibitional football.  Though Cork pulled on back from the penalty spot in the second half it was Wicklow's day.  Galway travelled to Waterford and were equally as impressive, indicated with a scoreline reading 3-0 in their favour.  So, two fine sides come face to face this Sunday afternoon in Drom, Co. Galway - at the home of Salthill Devon FC.  The game kicks off at 3.00pm and a healthy travelling support is anticipated as the Garden County goes in search of that elusive first national title at this level.  East Coast Radio will have regular live updates from Drom on Sunday for those unable to travel west.  Full match report here on Monday.

Apr 18 Minogue double sees Town into quarter final
A moment of pure magic with just one minute remaining from Arklow Town midfielder Domhnall Minogue earned the Town a deserved place in the last eight of this season's Leinster FA Youth Cup after an engaging encounter with Crumlin United at the DDSL side's astro pitch at Pearse Park in Crumlin today.  With extra time looming it was the visitors who were pressing for a winning goal and it duly arrived with central defender Paul Rice powerfully heading a cross from full back Ciarán Byrne back across the Crumlin six yard line, midfielder Minogue beating the keeper to the ball, deftly heading over the despairing reach of the Crumlin netminder and rounding him to slot home a goal worthy of winning any cup tie.  Town had kicked off with all guns blazing, the home team slow to get into their stride.  A good spell of pressure led to Town winning four corners in a six minute spell, going closest with an Adam Hanlon strike just narrowly wide.  The Irish Schools international linked up well with Colleges international Daniel Ledwith to create Town's opening goal moments before half time. A fine move along Arklow's right flank saw Ledwith whipping in a left foot cross that was met forcefully on the volley by midfielder Minogue, his thunderous effort steered home in unstoppable fashion to edge the Wicklow side into a half time lead.  Ten minutes into the second half the home team began to dictate matters and pressed keenly for an equaliser.  From a corner kick they were granted a glorious chance to level when an Arklow defender was harshly adjudged to have handled an incoming cross.  Crumlin's centre half stroked home the equaliser past Town keeper Cormac O'Brien to level the tie.  Arklow introduced substitutes Darragh Culleton and Jonathan Kelty to give the away side an added edge and vigour resulting in the away side gaining the upper hand oncemore as the game entered the closing stages.  With just one minute remaining, the home side appeared to have settled for an extra thirty minutes as Arklow tried to unlock the Crumlin defence.  Enter defender Ciarán Byrne with a probing cross, met by defender Paul Rice, and wonderfully controlled and executed by Domhnall Minogue to win the game for Arklow Town, a trip to Shamrock Rovers in the quarter finals now awaiting Town.

Apr 11 Garden blooming as Wicklow reach national decider
A wonderful day for Wicklow football with the county's U18 Youth team reaching the final of the FAI U18 Inter-League after a most impressive destruction of a fancied Cork AUL side.  The Leesiders arrived in Arklow having comfortably beaten Dublin's DDSL team in the quarter final and though Wicklow themselves recorded an impressive 4-0 win away at Donegal in the last round the Munster kingpins no doubt fancied themselves to advance at Wicklow's expense.  Any such belief surely evaporated in the opening exchanges as Wicklow hit Cork for the proverbial six, a whirlwind start from the home team.  Danny Ledwith, recently capped at Irish Colleges level, whipped in a lofted cross from the right flank and Dara Verney's headed effort had Cork keeper Alan Burns scrambling by his back post.

Unfortunately for the Cork keeper the ball rebounded back off the upright and across goal where Jack Tim Murphy was perfectly placed to gleefully accept the gift of an open goal, duly tapping home to give Wicklow the perfect start.  Matters were to get even better for the home team with a well worked move up the right flank.  Defender Ciarán Byrne, impressive all game, found Keith Armstrong in a central position twenty yards from goal.  The midfielder did well to fend off a strong Cork tackle and in turning his marker he turned one way and then another before smashing home the most delicious of strikes from distance, leaving Burns in the Cork goal with absolutely no chance whatsoever of keeping it out.

Armstrong's delightful strike only served to feed Wicklow's obvious desire for more goals and they could have easily added a further goal or two in the next ten minutes or so.  Cork were rattled and trying to come to terms with what had hit them.  They were given a glimmer of hope on the half hour, winning a free kick on the edge of the Wicklow area.  Luke Connolly was decidedly unlucky not to drag the Leesiders back into the game, seeing his deadball smacking off Wicklow keeper Cormac O'Brien's left post and away.  Cork's frustration was heightened moments later when Wicklow slammed home a third goal, again a wonderful move involving both Irish Schools internationals Adam Hanlon and Jack Tim Murphy.  Dara Verney made a darting run into the Cork penalty area and receiving a pass from Murphy he glided past one defender before driving low and hard across the keeper and into the back of the net.  A wonderful move, a wonderful goal.  Cork inched their way back into the game on the hour mark when referee Michael Franklin pointed to the spot, the lively Kalen Spillane sending Wicklow keeper Cormac O'Brien the wrong way.  Try as they did the Munster side could not find a way back into the game.  Wicklow introduced Domhnall Minogue to further lock the back door and with the ever determined Aaron Barry in magnificent form at left back the Cork side endured rather than enjoyed their day in Wicklow.  Wicklow's win was a resounding success for the management team of Brian Byrne and Daragh Murray, who had prepared their team superbly well for the occasion.

Wicklow now face Galway Youths in the final, scheduled to be played at Salthill Devon's impressive grounds in Drom, Co. Galway on Sunday, April 25.  So all roads will lead west for followers of the Garden County Youth team.

Images from today's FAI U18 Youth Inter-League Semi Final:

Thanks to photographer Garry O'Neill for allowing us to publish the above images.  Check out Garry's work here.

Other images from today's game:

Mar 20 Strong Town influence as Wicklow Youths reach FAI Inter League semi final
Two evenly matched sides today as Wicklow Youths travelled north west to face Donegal Youths in their FAI U18 Youth Inter-League Quarter Final clash in Rathmullen.  Donegal, an impressive side, were physically stronger, bigger than the travelling Wicklow team.  In the sixth minute Jack Tim Murphy latched onto a long clearance, controlled well and lobbed the keeper from 20 yards seeing his effort narrowly wide of the post.  Twenty four minutes into the game, Adam Hanlon latched onto a James Scallan pass and he fired a right footed shot past Ciaran Gallagher in the Donegal goal, only to hit the far post from 20 yards.  Five minutes later team mate Daniel Ledwith received a low pass from Jonathan Kelty and his 20 yard shot was well saved by the home keeper.  Gallagher spilled the ball and was lucky that Wicklow had no one following in Ledwith's initial shot to put the rebound into the net.  However, on the half hour mark, Aaron Barry latched onto a loose ball in midfield, took a touch and from 30 yards his shot was slightly deflected into the top corner of the net giving the vistors the lead.  Wicklow were commanding right around the park at this stage and there was virtually no threat from the Donegal side.  Some long passes up to their strikers were dealt with superbly by both Paul Rice and James Scallan.  Eight minutes before half time Ciarán Byrne went down the right wing, his cross was met on the head by Jonathan Kelty, 18 yards out, and his bullet like header was miraculously saved by Ciaran Gallagher in the Donegal goal to leave the visitors ahead by just one goal at the break.  Donegal still showed evidence that they could threaten the Wicklow goal with some very quick attackers who were always probing for openings.  Wicklow remained under pressure in the first half and chose to re-shape the team at half time.  Just shy of the hour mark Jack Tim Murphy, a well worked set piece, drove a ball just narrowly wide on the far post.  Darragh Culleton was introduced for the last 25 minutes, replacing Jonathan Kelty.  Culleton's impact was almost immediate as within sixty seconds of his introduction he latched onto a ball just outside the box, and spinning and turning his left foot shot was inches over the bar.  Crucially, 17 minutes from time, Wicklow doubled their lead.   Darragh Culleton linked with Adam Hanlon, and his right wing cross fell to Jack Tim Murphy.  Murphy's shot from 14 yards was saved well by Gallagher, but rebounded and hit his own incoming defender, ending up in the back of the net.  Peter Walker came on for Dara Verney for the last ten minutes, linking well with Darragh Culleton.   A controlled pass back from Walker to Darragh Culleton allowed Culleton to hammer home from 22 yards, an unstoppable right foot drive.  Seven minutes from time Domhnall Minogue entered the fray for Keith Armstrong.   Minogue's presence in midfield brought a new composure to Wicklow's play as Donegal pressed for a route back into the game.  The home team were pushing people forward and the tempo and intensity of the game had risen.  Five minutes from time, Wicklow rounded off an excellent performance with a fourth goal.  Ciarán Byrne again received a ball down the right hand side and his through ball pass through the Donegal defence found Peter Walker, who took a touch, beating the offside trap and slotted past the oncoming keeper.  Both Walker and Adam Hanlon had further chances to extend the score line but both of these were spurned.  Wicklow deservedly won the game although the final scoreline may have appeared just a little on a very spirited Donegal team.

Feb 20 The Genius of Ledwith
Town welcomed the might of League of Ireland club Bohemians' Youth to Bridgewater Centre Park in Arklow earlier this afternoon for a Leinster FA Youth Cup Third Round clash.  The home team dominated proceedings for long spells in the opening half but failed to convert some good opportunities, with Keith Armstrong, Dara Verney and Adam Hanlon all denied by fine saves from Bohs' excellent keeper.  The second half proved no different with Town failing to capitalise on some excellent possession, spurning a number of chances for the opening goal.  The deadlock was dramatically broken though on the hour mark with a long clearance from Bohemians not being properly dealt with by Town keeper Jason Earls resulting in the Bohemians forward profitting and slotting home into an empty net giving the visitors a precious lead.  The advantage was to last just a matter of minutes as Arklow's response was immediate.  Clive Crammond fired in a cross from the left wing, with the keeper getting a glove on the ball in an attempt to clear.  His clearance found only Town's Irish Colleges international Daniel Ledwith and he hammered home from fifteen yards to level matters.  As the intensity of battle rose so too did tempers, with referee Bevans doing a great job in keeping order.  With just two minutes remaining, and extra time looming, a quick Arklow move out left saw good play from Jack Tim Murphy, Clive Crammond and Aaron Barry creating an opening; a delightful ball from Barry finding Ledwith clear inside the Bohemians area and he smashed home a powerful left footed drive to steer Arklow Town into the next round in dramatic fashion.  In truth the home side should have won more convincingly with captain James Scallan and fellow defender Paul Rice excelling in Town's defence.

Images from today's game:

Feb 13 Cully rattles Edenderry
Football they say is a funny old game and when the draw for this year's third round of the FAI U18 Youth Cup pitted Edenderry Town and Arklow Town together to meet at Paddy Maloney Park in Edenderry it instantly afforded the Arklow club an opportunity to exact revenge of sorts after exiting the very same tournament last season against the same opposition.  Credit must be given though to Edenderry groundsman Alan Morrissey who provided an immaculate surface for both teams to shine on under the Edenderry floodlights tonight.  The visitors took control from the off and truth be told they should have secured progress to the fourth round inside the opening quarter, spurning some glorious opportunities to edge ahead.  Darragh Culleton twice hit the crossbar before Adam Hanlon and Jack Tim Murphy, both capped recently for the Irish U18 Schools team, missed good scoring chances.  The home side, in the sixteenth minute, literally their first genuine attack on Arklow's goal were awarded a penalty after Arklow's ever commanding captain James Scallan upended the influential Edenderry midfielder Dean Cummins.  Jamie Daly's penalty however crashed off Jason Earls' crossbar and away to safety.  Earls' goal was to remain untroubled for the remainder of the half.  In the twentieth minute a delightful diagonal ball from Jonathan Kelty was excellently controlled by Jack Tim Murphy and his low cross shot beat the home keeper Ciaran Cummins but rebounded off the foot of the post.  Sheffield United-bound Aaron Barry, dominating play in midfield and winning countless possession, fed a precise pass into the path of Darragh Culleton and he slid perfectly under Cummins in the Edenderry goal to put Arklow Town ahead in the 35th minute.  For the next twenty minutes or so it was Cummins the home keeper who was to deny Arklow from adding further scores, as Town produced arguably some of the finest football they have ever put together, with power, energy and precise passing a joy to watch.  Cummins' herculean effort in the Edenderry goal was to match that.  It must also be noted that Arklow were profligate in front of goal despite the quality of football on view.  Ten minutes into the second half a Jonathan Kelty cross was met first time by Culleton, his touch immaculate as he beat the keeper to put the visitors two ahead with his second goal of the evening.  Edenderry rallied, working tirelessly to find a way back into the tie and were rewarded when Jamie Daly fired home.  The home side were now playing at a high tempo with Dean Cummins, Daly, and Graham Farrell all pushing the home side for a leveller.  However, their flicker of hope was extinguished in quite simply the most exquisite of style as Arklow forward Dara Verney produced a moment of true class, beating the keeper in a race to the ball out by the sideline and somehow chipping the netminder from the tightest of angles to seal Arklow's progression to the fourth round.  Credit must be given to a hard working home team, with the aforementioned trio of Cummins, Daly and Farrell all talented performers on the night.

Feb 13 Newtown run into in-form Town and pay the penalty
Town's 18B team hit the ground running earlier today against Newtown United at Bridgewater Centre Park.  Town put the visitors on the back foot right from the off though were guilty of spuring a good few early opportunities for goals.  Town made the breakthrough after a blinding run from Andy Murphy that ended with Murphy being taken down in the area, a definite penalty.  Stuart O'Neill fired home from the spot to give Town a lead at the half time break.  Newtown rallied strongly in the opening stages of the second half with Town forced to rely upon a very strong backline to keep Newtown at bay.  Kevin Dempsey, Rory Bain, Ryan Purcey and Niall Garvey were magnificent, up to the challenge.  However, Newtown did level, from a corner but minutes later Town were back in the lead thanks to a delightful finish from Des Bermingham after a strong run past a few defenders and beating the keeper in a one on one situation to slot home.  Town were then granted another penalty with keeper Nathan Condell coming upfield to fire home a third goal for Arklow.  Right on full time Town added a fourth, an error from the Newtown keeper allowed Mati Blanchina in to slide home.  All game it has to be said that keeper Condell was magnificent, with a series of top class saves denying the visitors.  Niall Garvey was again top drawer and with him the entire back four gave Town a solid foundation upon which a fine win was secured.

Dec 30 Town too strong for Bunclody
In one of the very few fixtures fulfilled over the Christmas holiday period it was business as usual for Arklow Town Youths, safely accounting for a gallant Bunclody in their Leinster FA Youth Cup 3rd Round clash at BBK.  Conditions were tough on a bitterly cold and wet afternoon but Town were into their stride inside the opening minute with Karl Kirwan getting on the end of a Jack Tim Murphy cross to head home.  Bunclody's response was instant, levelling in the third minute. The Wexford side broke upfield on a counter attack and though Arklow keeper Cormac O'Brien did well to get a hand to the strike it deflected in off Town's post.  Arklow regrouped and began to dominate proceedings, confirming their superiority with two goals from Dara Verney, his first effort seeing him beat two defenders before hammering home low and hard past the keeper in the 11th minute and then in the 19th minute he was first to react to a loose ball after Town had hit a Bunclody post with a volley from the edge of the area.  James Scallan put the game beyond the visitors in the 48th minute with a superb strike, a contender for goal of the season.  The Arklow defensive midfielder controlled a headed clearance with his chest before unleashing an unstoppable left foot volley into the top corner from 25 yards out.  Town eased into the fourth round on the hour mark when Alan Sunderland blasted home from 14 yards to make it 5-1.  Town now advance to the last sixteen and will know their opponents when the draw for the 4th Round is made during the week.

Dec 19 Armstrong header shows Wicklow the Way
A fifth minute bullet header from Arklow Town striker Keith Armstrong proved to be enough to see Wicklow top Group 5 in the FAI U18 Youth Inter-League Cup, and through to the open draw in the next round of games.  Having won their opening two fixtures Wexford arrived at Bridgewater Centre Park knowing that a draw would be suffice for the Slaneysiders to advance as group winners.  Wicklow, with four points from their two previous fixtures, required all three points to top the group and from the very first whistle they blitzed Mick Wallace's side.  Wicklow earned a succession of free kicks in the opening minutes in and around the Wexford area and Adam Hanlon went close to opening the scoring in just the second minute with a shot inches the wrong side of the post.  The deadlock was broken in the fifth minute with winger Jack Tim Murphy beating a Wexford defender on the left flank and firing across for fellow Arklow Town team mate Keith Armstrong to powerfully head home.  Buoyed up the home team continued to pressurise the Wexford rearguard and were unlucky not to double their lead in the 13th minute when from an Aaron Barry free kick Daniel Ledwith flicked on for Dara Verney to slot underneath the Wexford keeper.  Unluckily for Verney and Wicklow his strike hit the upright and was cleared.  Wicklow suffered a blow with injury to international Aaron Barry forcing the Arklow defender to retire from the game early, replaced by clubmate Jonathan Kelty.  The industrious Ledwith went close just after the half hour mark, shooting narrowly over the crossbar and just two minutes later the home side went closer still with an excellent strike inches wide from man of the match Adam Hanlon.  Wexford, though limited to one solitary effort on goal in the opening half, served a warning when hitting the Wicklow post deep into first half injury time.  The Model County side re-arranged their shape and style of play in the second half and began brightly, pressing for a leveller.  Wicklow countered with a few switches and with twenty minutes remaining almost scored a second goal with Peter Walker and Keith Armstrong combining well before Walker, a substitute for the hard working Verney, shot wide.  Ten minutes from time scorer Keith Armstrong went agonisingly close to sealing the win but his effort on goal was ably blocked by a Wexford defender.  Wexford almost levelled in the closing stages.  Wicklow keeper Cormac O'Brien, relatively quiet throughout, was called upon in the last minute to pull off an astounding one handed save to deny Wexford parity, a remarkable reflex save from a bullet header.  With literally the last kick of the game, Wexford thought they had snatched an equaliser only for O'Brien to once again finger tip the effort onto a post and midfielder Daniel Ledwith cleared the danger to ensure Wicklow top the group and advance as winners.

Images from today's game:

Nov 7 Wicklow youths doctor Kildare challenge with ease
The WDL Youth side opened their campaign for FAI Umbro Inter League honours with an emphatic 3-1 win away at Kildare & District League in Suncroft, Co. Kildare today.  Playing on a heavy pitch, conditions did not improve with a thunder storm, though one could argue that it was the sheer strength of the visiting Wicklow side that caused storms within the home ranks.  In the seventh minute, the Garden county side went one up, after fine work from Adam Hanlon feeding a ball through to Daniel Ledwith and side stepping a Kildare defender he slotted home the opening goal.  Ten minutes later Keith Armstrong thought he had doubled Wicklow's lead, but a dubious call from the official ruled out the goal.  Wicklow completely overwhelmed the home team throughout the first half and but for a combination of bad luck and poor finishing would have sealed the game before half time.  Wicklow's best player on the day Clive Crammond continued to run the show in the second half.  Mirroring Armstrong's previous effort, Crammond netted in the 58th minute but that too was disallowed.  Just seven minutes later Crammond combined with winger Jack Tim Murphy on the left flank with Murphy firing a delightful ball across the Kildare area, where Dara Verney was first to react and he blasted home low and hard into the bottom corner to increase Wicklow's lead.  The home side pressed for a way back and were rewarded with a goal just seven minutes from time, converting a set piece, their first effort on goal.  Kildare hopes of restoring parity were soon blown asunder with Wicklow camping oncemore in and around the Kildare penalty area in the closing minutes, winning four corners in quick succession.  Peter Walker sealed the win for Wicklow with a well placed effort after receiving a pass from Joey Elliott.  In summary, Wicklow proved value for money with this all important opening group victory, with captain James Scallan showing great leadership.  Midfielder Clive Crammond, impressive throughout, served further notice to international manager Sean McCaffrey with a forceful performance.  Wicklow next face Carlow at Bridgewater Centre Park in Arklow on Saturday, November 28.

Oct 18 Town duo lift All Ireland title with Leinster Schools
Congratulations to Arklow Town duo Adam Hanlon and Jack Tim Murphy, who were both selected to play for Leinster Schools in this weekend's FAI Schools Senior Boys Inter-Provincial tournament, held over the past three days in Tullamore and Athlone.  Leinster Schools, under the guidance of manager Paddy O'Reilly, were gunning for a third straight title.  Both Hanlon and Murphy were selected to start in Leinster's opening fixture, a tough encounter against a very fine Ulster side.  The northern side impressed from the off but it was Leinster who carved out the better chances, with Arklow Town's Jack Tim Murphy closest to opening the deadlock, thinking he had registered the opening goal, only to be denied by a fantastic save from Ulster keeper Marty McGinty, deflecting the ball past the far post.  Deep into injury time, the game still scoreless, Town's Adam Hanlon, deservedly recognised as man of the match, unlocked the Ulster defence with a telling ball.  Receiving a ball out wide from Coláiste Choilm's Robert Gaul Hanlon went on a run and found Eoin Fowler with a perfect cross, with the striker coolly netting a winner.  Hanlon was a major doubt for Leinster going into their second fixture, against Munster, and though he lined up at the start he was forced to depart after just twenty minutes through injury.  Jack Tim Murphy, impressive in the opening game, came to the fore in the second game and was highly involved in both Leinster goals, Sean Skelly bagging a brace to secure a 2-0 victory over Munster.  Sunday's last round of games saw opponents Connacht requiring a victory over Leinster to deny them a third successive inter-provincial title.  Hanlon was absent through injury but again it was Murphy who rose to the occasion, his speed and trickery a constant thorn in Connacht's side.  An attacking end to end game, the suspense nail-biting throughout, both keepers in superb form to deny opposing strikers ensuring the game remained scoreless, the result securing a coveted title for Leinster Schools.  Both Arklow players can take immense satisfaction with their efforts over the three days and with the Inter-Provincials recognised as the first step in the process of selecting the FAI Schools International squad for next year's Carnegie Centenary Shield competition it is hoped they and others can merit inclusion in the international squad.  Meanwhile, former team mate and lifelong Leeds United fan Shane Murray enjoyed a man of the match performance in Sheffield United's win over his boyhood heroes at Shirecliffe as the Blades defeated their Yorkshire rivals 2-0 in a FA Premier League Academy  clash.

Oct 18 Five from five for Town A
A fifth successive win for Town's 18A's against AFC Belgrade sees them remain in pole position at the top of the WDSL / SDFL Alliance League.  Goals from Ciarán Byrne (2), Clive Crammond, Aaron Barry and Daniel Ledwith eased Town to the points and they now get set to face fellow table toppers Wicklow Town at Bridgewater Centre Park next weekend.

Oct 17 B's enjoy trip to Granada
A handsome 5-1 for Town's 18B's earlier today at Meadowvale in Dublin against Granada.  Town's goalscorers were James Graham, Andy Murphy, Mark Doyle, Niall Garvey and netting his debut goal for the club, Paul Duffy.

Oct 3 Goal harvest in Berryfield
A fourth straight Alliance League win for Town's U18A team, this time rich pickings at Enniskerry's Berryfield, with Town winning 9-1.  Goals from Keith Armstrong (2), James Scallan (2), Jack Tim Murphy (2), Dara Verney, Daniel Ledwith and Karl Kirwan eased Town to another facile victory.  Dara Verney was taken off with twenty minutes left, an injury precaution, leaving Town playing with ten players.

Sep 27 Town demolish Granada
Following on from yesterday's demolition of Crossabeg AFC in the Leinster FA Youth Cup, Town's A team travelled to Meadowvale to face Granada, and ran out easy winners on a 13-0 scoreline, Town's third successive victory in the Alliance League.

Sep 26 Double success for Town sides
Two comprehensive victories for Town's Under 18 sides today, with the 18A's easing past Crossabeg AFC in the LFA Youth Cup clash at Bridgewater Centre Park, and the 18B's securing a good 3-0 win away at Enniskerry in the same competition.

Town's U18B's, straight from the very first whistle, put home team Enniskerry on the back foot, applying plenty of pressure with Des Bermingham twice going close to opening the scoring inside the first ten minutes.  Enniskerry though settled and with a few tactical switches began to come into the game more.  Despite Town's greater possession they could not find an opening through Enniskerry's defence.  However, with half time imminent, Town made a breakthrough with the alert Niall Garvey cleverly switching play from left to right, an accurate ball out to Patrick Doyle.  Doyle showed great awareness, spotting the home keeper off his line and from 30 yards out he lobbed the keeper to put Town one ahead.  Midway through the second half Jonathan Quinn was brought down in the penalty area and up stepped Des Bermingham to double Arklow's lead.  Town suffered a setback minutes later with the sending off of Dean McCormack, receiving his second yellow card of the game.  Garvey and Kevin Dempsey rallied the defence and indeed Niall was close to adding a third goal, from long range.  Town put the result beyond the home team when Des Bermingham netted his second and Town's third late on.  Town's two full backs, Ryan Percy - enjoying a debut - and Rory Bain wholly dominated, as did the entire back line, refusing to allow Enniskerry even a consolation goal.

Meanwhile, back at base, Keith Armstrong opened the scoring for the 18A's as they completely dominated their opponents from Crossabeg.  Further goals came from Dara Verney, Aaron Barry, Daniel Ledwith, Jack Tim Murphy and Darragh Culleton as the home side eased to a very comfortable 6-0 victory.

Images from the 18A's win over Crossabeg in LFA Youth Cup action:

Sep 19 Hanlon brace steers A team to the points
The first meeting of Town's 18A and 18B sides took place on Saturday last at Bridgewater Centre Park, with the A team prevailing on a 3-1 scoreline.  The A team pressed from the off, with James Scallan firing over the bar as early as the second minute.  That was quickly followed with two missed opportunities, both from Daniel Ledwith, and both well saved by Nathan Condell, the B team netminder.  On the quarter hour mark Ledwith was felled in the B team area by Niall Garvey, with the referee pointing to the penalty spot. Condell, as he did against Aughrim Rangers last week, saved the penalty, denying Aaron Barry.  In the 23rd minute Jack Tim Murphy's mazy run and cross found Daniel Ledwith twelve yards from goal and he was unlucky not to convert with his effort crashing off the post.  Eight minutes later the deadline was broken, with Dara Verney getting into the end of a left wing cross from the lively Craig Comiskey to volley past Nathan Condell.  The second half continued in similar fashion, with the A team enjoying possession, creating and wasting a number of chances.  With some clever tactical moves the B team came more into the game and they posed a series of threats on the A's rearguard.  However, second half substitute Adam Hanlon, on for Karl Kirwan, doubled the A team's advantage with just fifteen minutes remaining, a great shot from 22 yards.  Three minutes from time, the B team grabbed a lifeline, scoring on the breakaway with Adam Murphy smashing home a fantastic half volley that flew in off the underside of the crossbar.  However, Hanlon had the final say in the last sixty seconds of normal time, picking up the ball forty yards from goal and beating four players he remained composed before slotting past the advancing man of the match, keeper Nathan Condell.  Best for the B team on the day were Niall Garvey, Kevin Dempsey, Stuart O'Neill and Dean McCormack.  For the A team, Domhnall Minogue, Adam Hanlon and Dara Verney.

Sep 12 Condell magic puts Aughrim on the spot
Arklow Town B secured their first three points of the season in the new WDL U18 League with a hard fought win against Aughrim Rangers, played under glorious skies at the scenic Allen Park in Aughrim on Saturday last.  Beaten on the opening weekend Town were determined to bounce back and indeed they were dominant in the opening exchanges.  Stuart O'Neill epitomised Arklow's determination on the edge of the Aughrim box, winning possession and firing home an unstoppable effort.  Town doubled their lead midway through the half with Des Bermingham crossing in from the left flank and Arklow's willing Mark Doyle applied an excellent finish sidefooting home from seven yards.  Arklow were worthy of a two goal advantage at this stage of the game but the home side were to grab a lifeline, pulling a goal back on the stroke of half time.  Aughrim gained further momentum in the second half and equalised when given a free kick just outside the Arklow penalty area.  The free kick, a thunderous effort, was smashed home despite the best effort of Town keeper Nathan Condell.  Arklow snapped out of their lethargy and drove at the home side and the pressure told when Des Bermingham drove home from the right edge of Aughrim's area.  The drama was heightened as the game moved into injury time, when the home side were awarded a controversial penalty, and a chance to level matters oncemore.  However, Arklow keeper Condell made not one but two outstanding saves to deny Aughrim.  The drama did not end there as Arklow went straight upfield and they were awarded a penalty of their own, with Stuart O'Neill slotting home to secure an eventful three points for the Arklow side.

Images from the game:

Sep 5 Town earn their stars and stripes
Much in keeping with the international flavour of the schoolboy tournament held at Bridgewater Centre Park in Arklow on the previous weekend, Arklow Town's Under 18 A team welcomed Peninsula University from Seattle in the USA to Lamberton for a highly entertaining encounter last Friday evening.  The students are in Ireland for a fortnight in conjunction with Waterford IT and Carlow IT.  The home side dominated throughout the first half, going close on a number of occasions with both Darragh Culleton and Jonathan Kelty closest to opening the scoring.  Arklow continued to dictate matters after the interval, and their constant pressure on the visitors was rewarded when striker Dara Verney, turning sharpishly, shot from ten yards beyond the reach of the American keeper.  Less than 24 hours later Town welcomed Enniskerry YC to Bridgewater Centre Park for the opening league fixture in the new U18 League.  The Arklow side were delighted to welcome back both Keith Armstrong and Joey Elliott, the duo returning from lengthy spells out injured.  Armstrong crowned his return to action with immediate effect, coolly firing home a free kick past the Enniskerry keeper inside the opening sixty seconds.  With the half hour approaching Darragh Culleton doubled Arklow's lead, tapping in from close range after the keeper had done well to deny Jack Tim Murphy.  With half time approaching Arklow went three ahead, Murphy this time getting the better of the keeper in a one on one situation.  Verney netted Town's fourth in the early stages of the second half.  Craig Comiskey made it five when firing home a free kick in the 65th minute and five minutes later Dara Verney added a sixth, rounding the keeper before slotting home.  Two minute later Town scored the goal of the game, a sublime finish from Clive Crammond, getting on the end of a Jack Tim Murphy cross.  Jonathan Kelty put Arklow eight up in the 73rd minute firing home from eight yards.  Crammond was again on the scoresheet with five minutes remaining and the Arklow side reached double figures with three minutes remaining, Comiskey profiting from Jack Tim Murphy's blocked effort.  The icing on an astounding performance came in the last minute as DaraVerney completed his hat trick with Town's eleventh goal of the game.

The U18B team were less fortunate however in their opening fixture of the new season, going down 3-1 on their short travels to Wicklow Town.  One of those days, though enjoying long spells of good possession, failing to convert a number of good opportunities, seeing Town punished.  James Graham scored Town's goal on a day when the shooting boots were firmly left at home.