Aug 3  Town heroes return home to family welcome
Immense pride and satisfaction (as well as tired bodies!) earlier this evening as Town's U13 side returned from their trip to the Manchester Umbro Cup, to a great homecoming welcome in the clubhouse.  Manager Joe Byrne gave a great speech, complimenting all involved as well as detailing some lighter moments and co-manager John Power hit the nail on the head when referring to the professionalism shown by all during their stay in Manchester - all a credit to themselves and our club.  A small aside, it was nice to see the Official Manchester Umbro International Cup programme feature the team.  They must have known something in advance and fancied the boys to defy the odds with their progression to the final itself.  A gallery of images from both the tournament itself and the homecoming will appear here tomorrow night and if the webmaster does not receive a blank cheque to the tune of €1,000,000 before then we just might put up images from disco nights in Manchester!  Boys, pay up!

Aug 2 Town lose Final but win many new friends
Town's magical run finally ended earlier today with a narrow defeat against hot favourites, Bury Centre of Excellence, in the Manchester Umbro Cup Final.  A solitary strike in the first half, undoing Town's magnificent defence, ensured the Bury side preserved a 100% win rate from start to finish in the tournament - worthy champions.  The Final was a tight enough game but with Bury edging in front Town were always wary of conceding a second as they chased a leveller.  An equaliser was not to be and absolutely no shame in losing to a very good side, nothing but pride to be taken away from an excellent tournament for the team.  Earlier in the day, Town faced London side Northside FC in the semi final and two goals from Aidan O'Callaghan (scoring for the fifth consecutive game) inside the opening ten minutes saw Town place one foot in the Final.  However, Northside had other ideas and struck back to level before half time.  In the second half, quite simply, Town blew their opponents away, a powerhouse performance with goals from Diarmuid Larkin, Jordan Forde and Dean Doyle sealing a delightful 5-2 win.

Manager Joe Byrne was naturally delighted with Town's effort throughout the tournament and was first to congratulate Bury on their win - with a special mention for Bury's Tom Hubber and his mother, Mrs. Hubber!  The team will return to Arklow on Sunday having left a very positive impression on those in Manchester involved with the Umbro Cup and they have been a credit to themselves and the club.

Congratulations lads from everyone back in Arklow and enjoy the rest of your stay in Manchester!

Aug 1 Roy of the Rovers style comeback sees Town advance to semi final
A day to remember for a very proud manager Joe Byrne and his troops as Town advance to the semi final of the Manchester Umbro Cup with a win they won't forget in a hurry!  With only thirty minutes between the finishing of their key final group fixture and this quarter final against Wilmslow Junior Sports, Town were at an obvious disadvantage.  That appeared very much the case as the English side raced into a 2-0 half time lead.  With nothing to lose, manager Byrne opted to go for broke, with three up front and it reaped dividends.  Two goals from Philip Nolan saw Town's fightback rewarded and Town were in raptures when with two minutes remaining full back Ryan Byrne,  bursting through, almost ripped the back of the net with a drive from 30 yards out, to complete a most remarkable comeback and secure Town a place in the semi final tomorrow.  Town will now face London based opponents, Northside FC, who defeated Town's group rivals Aston Fc on penalties earlier today after a 1-1 draw.

Aug 1 Resolute Town reach quarter finals with tense draw
A very determined effort earlier today by Town's U13 side saw the Black and Whites earn a deserved passage into the quarter finals of the Manchester Umbro Cup after a tough and tense battle with a physical Aston FC.  With Aston holding a superior goal difference Town required a victory to guarantee qualification.  Knowing this, Aston opted for a more defensive approach yet it was they who opened the scoring.  Aidan O'Callaghan, scoring for the third game running, levelled as half time approached.  Aston regained the lead in the second half and though Town pressed for an equaliser it looked as though it would never arrive.  Up stepped Kevin Russell, from distance, to drive home a deserved second equaliser and it proved enough to earn Town a place in the quarter finals, with results in other groups going in Town's favour.  Town, however, are up against it in the quarter final when facing a Wilmslow Junior Sports side that topped their own group unbeaten.

July 31 Town on the double maintains Umbro Cup challenge
Two very convincing wins today against Westhoughton Rangers and Glossop North End Juniors sets Town's U13s up very nicely for tomorrow's crunch game against Aston FC, with qualification from the group at stake.  Town opened the day with a thumping 4-0 win over Westhoughton Rangers, Diarmuid Larkin on the mark twice and further goals from Jordan Forde and Aidan O'Callaghan.  Jonathan Delahunt put in a very strong performance running the midfield while Dean Doyle was outstanding, Town's man of the match.  In the second game of the day, versus Glossop, Town carried on where they left off earlier.  A Patrick Power goal in the first five minutes set Town on their way to an emphatic 6-0 win.  Other goals were scored by Jordan Forde, Kevin Russell, Aidan O'Callaghan and two from Philip Nolan in an all round solid team display.  However, the trio of Diarmuid Larkin, Dean Doyle and Aidan O'Callaghan must all pay a trip to the physio to ensure they are available for tomorrow's key game against a very strong Aston FC side who are vying with Town for qualification to the knockout stage.

July 30 Town's 13s open in style and then given a harsh reminder
In the end, a most satisfying opening day's football for our U13A squad who have travelled across the Irish Sea to participate in the Manchester Umbro Cup 2008.  The team opened their tournament with a magnificent 3-1 victory over Great Moor County.  Padraig Kelleher opened the scoring for Town who led at the interval, 1-0.  Though leading, Town were struggling to gain the upper hand and it wasn't until the second half that we saw the Town side begin to make their workrate tell, with crisp passing, control and movement undoing their English opponents.  Ryan Byrne and Ciaran Burke excelled as Town made a perfect start to the Umbro Cup, the second and third goals being scored by Philip Nolan and Jonathan Delahunt.  Town's second game of the day was against highly fancied Bury Centre of Excellence, who had earlier in the day opened with an 8-0 hammering of Glossop North and though a 4-0 reverse indicates one way street it was anything but as Town put on a display against their fancied opponents who were made work hard for their deserved victory.

Town's work rate was above questioning and the attitude of the players was spot on, all the more so as Bury showed coolness in front of goal, to run out victors.  Returning from injury received whilst on Foyle Cup duty, Diarmuid Larkin shone brightly.  Alongside him, Ryan Byrne, JJ Maghery and Daragh Murphy were the pick of a very solid performance.  Town will be hopeful of returning to winning ways tomorrow when facing both Westhoughton Rangers and Glossop North.

July 27 Town face the cream of Manchester in Umbro Cup
Manager Joe Byrne has the bags packed and his team prepared as last season's U13A side gets set to travel to Manchester this coming Tuesday, to take part in the Manchester Umbro International Football Festival 2008.  Upon arrival in Manchester the team will be taken to Old Trafford for a Museum and Stadium tour.  Admittedly it is not quite as glamorous as viewing the many trophies won by Town sides over the years but we're reliably informed that the players and management are keenly looking forward to taking in the tour at Old Trafford.  They will also attend Ole Gunnar Solskjaer's testimonial fixture between Manchester United and Spanish side Espanyol during their stay in England.

The team will be playing in the U14 Youth F League A division, where they will face challenges from Great Moor County, Glossop North End Juniors, Bury Centre of Excellence, Westhoughton Rangers and Aston FC.  They open their tournament with two games on Wednesday, against Great Moor and Bury.  Two games follow again on Thursday and then on Friday their last group game.  Hopefully after the completion of the group stage Town will advance to the knockout stage.  Town suffered a blow with injury to key player Diarmuid Larkin, who guested for Sheffield United in the recent Foyle Cup competition in Derry.  Diarmuid will travel over with the panel though whether he gets to play or not remains to be seen.  All at Arklow Town hope that the panel representing the club enjoy their tournament.  Details of their games will appear daily on this site once the tournament commences.

June 19 A big thank you from the U13A squad as "every little helps"
U13A manager Joe Byrne wants to avail of the opportunity to thank all those who supported the efforts of his team as they spent four days last week bag packing at the local Tesco supermarket.  The entire squad participated in the drive to raise sufficient funding for their upcoming trip to the Manchester International tournament next month and Joe commented that, "we had a fantastic response and we would like to say thank you to Tesco and a massive thank you to the people of Arklow for a fantastic response."

June 12  Every little helps for the 13A's
As part of their fundraising drive to pay for the trip to the Manchester International Tournament at the end of July, our U13A squad this coming weekend will take to packing shoppers' bags at Tesco, here in Arklow.  The squad will take it in turns to pack bags on Thursday, Friday, Saturday and Sunday - so if shopping at Tesco this weekend, don't forget to support Arklow Town's U13A squad who are more in need of a shilling or two than Tesco!

May 28 Drama in Wicklow as U13Bs are crowned Shield Champions
A night of high drama at Whitegates in Wicklow as our U13B side clashed with Greystones United B in the U13 Division 2 Shield Final.  Vincent Lambert had put the Town side ahead, in the first half - but try at they might, a second goal eluded this Town side, seeking a League and Shield double.  'Stones levelled matters, much to the excitement of their supporters and extra time  failed to seperate the sides.  With nails being bitten, Sam Cooke in the Town goal rose to the occasion, managing to convert a penalty himself as Town emerged 4-1 victors after the dramatic penalty shoot out.  Town's successful penalty takers were Conor Marshall, Sam Cooke, Tom Sheehan and Anthony Furlong.  Overall, a great team performance, with Aidan Delaney in particular, excelling at the back.  Congratulations and well done to all involved - one down, one to go!

May 20 13Bs can see Cleary now - Double still very much in focus
Congratulations to the U13B side who have now secured a place in the U13 Division 2 Shield Final after a late late scare earlier tonight at the Community College saw a two goal lead disappear against a dogged Coolboy side.  Coolboy's last visit to Arklow saw the B team dismantle them in a near perfect display, 5-0 the final scoreline on that occasion.  Two goals for Town, from David Hobson and Conor Cleary had seemingly secured the points and passage into the Shield Final.  Coolboy, in fairness, had other ideas and they profited from Town defensive lapses to grab two late goals, levelling matters.  Town hit the panic button and only thanks to heroics late on from keeper Sam Cook did they secure the point required to earn a Shield Final place, thereby ensuring the hopes of a League and Cup double remain on track.

May 13  Town victory seriously dents Rovers title aspirations
Wicklow Rovers suffered their first League defeat of the season, a serious body blow to their title hopes as they attempt to reel in leaders Ardmore.  Town, who can validly say that lady luck has deserted them throughout the course of this season put on a great display tonight, confirming, as if needed, their reputation as a team to avoid.  Tonight's performance was one of total commitment, passion, and no little football as Town grabbed the initiative from the first whistle and never let up over the course of the game.  Starting like a tsunami, Town were two goals to the good inside the first fifteen minutes, the would-be leaders left chasing shadows, as Town put on a display.  Philip Nolan scored the opener, finishing off a great Town move.  Jordan Forde added a crucial second goal not long after, fine play from Ryan Byrne at left back, ending with Philip Nolan placing a delicate ball into the path of Forde who coolly slotted home, leaving Rovers reeling.  Rovers though, a never say die side, vainly fought their way back into the game, converting a disputed free kick to give them hope.  However, Town on the night were deserved winners and Rovers will now have to win their last two fixtures to pip Town for a runners up place.  Confidence should be sky high after tonight's performance and Town now get set for a key fixture away at St. Anthony's in the Shield, knowing that a victory in Kilcoole will secure a play off - against Rovers - for the right to face Ardmore in the Shield Final.  Outstanding players tonight were the defence, particularly Ryan Byrne with plaudits also for Diarmuid Larkin, Aidan O'Callaghan and Ciaran Burke.  A great attendance tonight at Bridgewater Centre Park, thoroughly appreciated by all associated with the team who now set their focus firmly on fighting for that Shield Final place!

Apr 27  Spot of bother as Town pay the penalty
Major disappointment for the U13A side who exited the Premier Division Cup after dominating Ardmore Rovers at Bridgewater Centre Park in their quarter final clash earlier today.  Philip Nolan gave Town a deserved lead which was cancelled out by a controversial penalty awarded the visitors.  With no further goals in normal and extra time, the tie went to penalties and Town lost out with Diarmuid Larkin the lone Town player to successfully convert from the spot.

Apr 20  Hobson hat trick sees Town ease into Shield Final
Arklow Town U13B eased into the Shield Final with yet another convincing win, this time a 5-0 triumph away at Ardmore earlier today.  David Hobson who scored the winner during the week when Town defeated Greystones United B away to go top of the division was once again on the mark, scoring a tidy hat trick.  Peter Ryan and Victor Lambert scored the other two goals that sees Town still with ambitions of a League and Shield double firmly in sight.  Meanwhile, the U13A side celebrated yesterday actually playing a match, having been idle for what seemed an eterntity!  Their lack of games since March 1st was to tell, lacking a killer punch to defeat Rovers. Indeed, Rovers took the lead, midway through the opening half, a sloppy goal, the ball hoofed in from the left wing with their centre forward going unchallenged as he shot home from a central position.  Town improved, passing becoming sharper throughout the team.  Aidan O'Callaghan played a delightful ball into Diarmuid Larkin who beat the offside trap to coolly slot home a leveller.  Despite continual pressure Town could not add to their total and the match ended all square, one goal apiece.  With two games remaining Town require four points from six if to entertain thoughts of a place in the Shield Final and will need to drastically improve.  Best players against Rovers were Cian Ryan, Patrick Power, Aidan O'Callaghan and Ryan Byrne.

Apr 13  Town shine with Sheehan
Arklow Town U13B continued their winning ways earlier today against lowly St. Anthony's B, in laborious fashion at Bridgewater Centre Park.  Though rarely troubled, Town only had one goal to show for their efforts, Tom Sheehan scoring his first goal since returning to the club.  The win sees Town, alongside leaders Greystones, preserving some distance between themselves and the chasing pack.  Bragging rights may be decided this coming Tuesday when the top two face each other in a clash at Woodlands.

Apr 7  Town hit top spot
Arklow Town U13B hit the top spot in Division 2 with a convincing 3-0 win away at Enniskerry.  A brace from David Hobson and another from Oliver Hill secured a safe victory for the travelling Town side.  The win further strengths Town's claim for a Shield Final place and that aim was further strengthened with leaders Greystones losing away at Coolboy.

Mar 9  Heartbreak for Bs in penalty spot shoot out
Football, not for the first time, proved itself to be a cruel game as the U13B side exited the cup at the hands of Greystones United.  Having lost to the same opponents in Shield competition last weekend, the U13B side needed little or no motivation to attain 'revenge' for their defeat last Sunday.  However, the away side struck first, an opening goal against the run of play.  Arklow levelled, from the penalty spot, through David Hobson and therein lies the irony, as the game ended all square with nothing to separare the sides.  Unfortunately for the Town side, Greystones prevailed from the penalty spot, winning the shoot out 4-3.  Farcical situation up in Bray facing the U13A side, due to play Ardmore Rovers A in Shield competition.  The non-appearance of a referee ensured that the clash between the two sides failed to take place, so instead both opted to play a friendly game which, for the record, ended all square, the two sides sharing six goals between them.

Mar 2  B team lose out in table topping clash
Having enjoyed a very good run of late and still involved in all three competitions available to them, it was a bit of a disappointment for the Town B side to lose out at home earlier today, 1-0 to fellow Shield leaders, Greystones United B.  Both sides had made perfect starts to the Shield campaign, winning their opening three games to gain early advantage over their main rivals.  However, it was to be the away side who claim their early bragging rights but Arklow will be afforded a prompt opportunity for replying in kind as both sides face one another again next weekend, this time in the cup quarter final.

Mar 1  Rampant Town put seven past Newtown
Welcoming back Padria Kelleher from injury after a lengthy spell out injured alongside others sidelined through various illnesses and holidays, the Town's U13A side enjoyed a rare day when having five players on the bench afforded the manager luxuries not available in previous weeks!  Allowing for Newtown not being able to compete with Town on the day, some of the passing throughout the game was excellent and the overall aim, amongst both players and management alike, to keep a clean sheet, was achieved today.  Philip Nolan bagged a first half hat trick, making it eleven goals scored against Newtown alone this season.  Dean Doyle matched Nolan's effort in the second half, reward for some excellent play.  The pick of his goals was his second, latching on to a through ball to smash home from twenty yards out.  Jordan Forde added a seventh and in a pleasing performance Aidan O'Callaghan, Ryan Byrne, Gavin Forde and Rory Martin all more than contributed to a welcome three points.

Feb 10  Honours even at Whitegates
A real humdinger of a game at Whitegates between two well matched rivals, Wicklow Rovers and Arklow Town.  The Town struck first, a deserved reward for the pressure placed on the Rovers defence right from the off.  In the sixth minute, a pinpoint corner from Jordan Forde was not properly cleared and Gavin Forde was first to react, hammering home from close range.  Both sides gave it their all, no quarter given in a tough tussle for midfield supremacy.  With Diarmuid Larkin and Jonathan Delahunt in fine form, Arklow maintained the upper hand, assisted by a backline solid and unforgiving.  Rovers upped their game in the second half and their persistence finally paid off in the closing minutes with keeper JJ Maghery left stranded helpless as the ball was lobbed over him into the empty Arklow net.  Disappointment, for sure, amongst the players at the end, having appeared to have done enough to win but heads should be held high after the level of performance.  Best players on the day were Jordan Delahunt, Gavin Forde, Brendan O'Neill and Ciaran Burke.

Feb 2 B's win comfortably on the road as A's falter
In The B team went to Kilcoole earlier today and emerged with what can only be described as a triumph in adversity.  Regular keeper Sam Cook was out injured and his deputy, Ian Ferguson, took a knock which forced a change between the sticks.  Stephen Nuzum stepped into the position and performed well, even if a 6-2 scoreline away at St. Anthony's indicates more joy down the other end.  David Hobson scoreds twice, as did Oliver Hill and further goals came from Harry Horsman and Brendan O'Shea, as the B team kept their fine run going.  Meanwhile, manager Joe Byrne gives the following account of his side, who faced Ardmore Rovers at Bridgewater Centre Park earlier today - in what can only be described as a game of two halves today, the under 13As, starting the game without five regular players due to injury, sickness and holidays, ended up on the wrong end of a 4-1 scoreline against Ardmore Rovers A.  The Town started off with keeper Cian Ryan playing up front and forward Jonathan Delahunt in defence.  We looked bright and passed the ball very well but on their first attack Ardmore scored, a body blow.

We were well on top in the first half and were rewarded after 15 minutes when we scored probably one of the best goals you are likely to see scored in Bridgewater Centre Park, a through ball to Philip Nolan and he ran at the Rovers defence he jinked one way went the other then unleashed a rocket from at least 30 yards to leave the keeper with no chance.. "a breathtaking goal"...

Ardmore could not live with us, our passing and pressure was excellent and up front Cian Ryan and Philip Nolan had the Rovers defence on the back foot. To be honest if we had've scored another in the first half we would've won, but as they say, you have to take your chances.  When the half time whistle blew Rovers were relieved because they were well and truly on the ropes. Second half, we conceded after 3 minutes and after bringing on fresh legs and with us only having one sub we looked as if this was going to be a tough day and so it proved as we conceded a penalty.  Shortly after and at 3-1 down you could not ask of any more from our lads as they never once dropped their heads and continued to battle on and in the last few minutes as we pushed to a 3-3-4 formation Rovers hit us with a sucker punch, their fourth goal and after being lucky to hang on in the first half the day belonged to them.  The final score was by no means a true reflection of the effort that we put in on the day and the only difference was the substitutes that Rovers made with introducing fresh legs in the 2nd half  - a luxury we did not enjoy. Joe Byrne

Jan 26  Winning start for 13As
Without a ball to kick in anger since their last outing on December 16th, the U13A side travelled earlier today to a windy Newtown to face their hosts in their opening fixture of this season's Shield competition.  Struggling with the conditions in the opening exchanges Arklow failed to find any rhythm or cohesion in their play but that all changed with Philip Nolan opening the scoring, a direct result of lovely passing between midfield and the forwards.  By half time, the travelling Town side were four goals to the good, with Nolan adding to his opener and also both Jonathan Delahunt and Diarmuid Larkin chipping in with goals, to confirm the away side's dominance.  The only downside to the first half performance was the injury sustained to Ryan Byrne, which forced him off after only fifteen minutes.  Both Nolan and Larkin completed hat tricks in the second half to emphatically confirm the Town's superiority on the day and only sloppy goals conceded late on afforded the home side small comfort on the day.  Man of the match was captain Diarmuid Larkin with fine performances also from Jonathan Delahunt, Philip Nolan, Kevin Russell and Gavin Forde.  We would like also to wish a speedy recovery to both Padraig Kelleher and Daragh Murphy, both returning from injury in the near future after both having their respective casts removed this past week.  We eagerly await their return to club colours.  Also, we would like to wish all our players the very best tomorrow when they represent Wicklow against our near neighbours, Wexford, in a match to be played in Rosslare.  It's a great achievement to have such strong representation and credit to all involved.  Players selected are Diarmuid Larkin, Jordan Forde, Jonathan Delahunt, Patrick Power, Aidan O'Callaghan, Ryan Byrne, Cian Ryan, Gavin Forde and Brendan O'Neill.

Dec 16 Back to winning ways for the A's
After a recent run of misfortune, the U13A side bounced back in some style earlier today with an outstanding display in Finn Park, Kilcoole, on a bitterly cold morning, against their hosts, St. Anthony's.  At times the football was breathtaking - Kevin Russell opening the scoring in the fifteenth minute after the keeper failed to hold a shot from twenty five yards.  The second goal, a ball falling to Diarmuid Larkin who played in Aidan O'Callaghan, who slotted home.  Not to be outdone from a free kick that was half cleared, Ciaran Burke, from twenty five yards out, scored another potential contender for Goal of the Season, when his driven side foot shot beat the keeper all ends up.  Diarmuid Larkin chipped in with number four to add to our first half tally.  Second half and we were continuing to play some great football - in particular the work of Rory Martin and Ryan Byrne down the left wing was excellent.  We had a spell of five minutes where we allowed St. Anthony's to score two goals, due in the main to sloppy defending from set plays, something we'll have to work on.  The side regrouped and substitute Philip Nolan scored another two fantastic goals, showing great strength to hold off defenders to score on both occasions.  Diarmuid Larkin scored another well worked goal and then not to be outdone by his Under 16 counterparts, goalkeeper Cian Ryan came on as a striker and scored a great headed goal from a Gavin Forde cross.  St. Anthony's scored another late consolation goal but on the day Arklow Town finally hit goal scoring form and they deserved the result with a great team performance.  Ryan Byrne was man of the match with Ciaran Burke, Aidan O' Callaghan, Rory Martin, and keeper JJ Maghery all enjoying outstanding games today.  Once again teamwork really paid off - a great way to sign off for the year.

Dec 9  Mixed fortune for U13s
Our U13B side kept their charge for Division 2 honours firmly on track with a convincing 12-0 victory away at bottom side Greystones United C.  Three players finished the game with hat-tricks - Peter Ryan, David Hobson, and Conor Cleary.  Other goals came from Darren O'Connor, Vincent Lambert and Aaron Murphy in what was a fine all-round team performance.  The U13A side, on the other hand, returned from Ballywaltrim with no reward for an excellent team performance.  Facing league leaders Ardmore Rovers A needing a win to keep alive hopes of winning the League required a big effort from the team and in fairness they rose to the challenge, even in defeat.   Town started brightly with Dean Doyle close to opening the scoring in the fifth minute, just failing to connect with a Jonathan Delahunt cross.  As the game settled down both sides were enjoying the battle, with both defences excellent.  Ardmore pierced the Town defence in the twentieth minute and it was to prove, on the day, to be the difference.  Chasing the game, the Town continued to play good attacking football and came closest to levelling matters in the second half when a fine one two between Jonathan Delahunt and Diarmuid Larkin resulted in the ball crashing off the Ardmore crossbar, the keeper helpless.  As a unit the Town's defence today were superb, really on top of their game.  Sometimes, even in defeat, you have to look beyond the result and dwell alone on the positives:  today, the team were brilliant.

Nov 25 Town defeated in top of the table clash
A real top of the table clash ended in a home defeat today at Bridgewater Centre Park for Arklow Town.  With both teams heavily represented in the Under 13 Wicklow Development Squad this was going to be a case of two good teams battling it out for this years honours.  Losing both Brendan O'Neill, to basketball duties, and top scorer Jonathan Delahunt, injured, we were forced to make changes.  However, this is the reason for carrying a large panel, so that all players can adapt at short notice when called upon.  We started bright but failed to react to a Jordan Forde free kick which came back off the post in the first five minutes.  Ardmore were pushing us hard and were first to react to the breaking ball.  They were rewarded in the 20th minute when hesitancy in the Arklow defence allowed the Ardmore striker a clean run on goal, to slot past Cian Ryan.  Almost immediately we responded when a delightful through ball from Aidan O'Callaghan split the away team's defence for Philip Nolan to latch on to, and a brilliant lob over the on-coming keeper drew us level.  Half time, honours even and very little between us, it was always going to be tight and all respect to Ardmore, they are a very honest and hard working team and did not give us a chance to settle when on the ball.  A break from Ardmore, and in truth poor defending from our lads, allowed the Ardmore striker to turn and shoot past our keeper for their second goal, three minutes into the second half, and they were on the up.

We pushed for the equaliser and Philip Nolan, through once again, landed badly on his shoulder, adding to our ever increasing injury list.  Ardmore soaked up our pressure and on the day we needed one or two more players to step up and be counted and put in a performance like man of the match captain Diarmuid Larkin, who was outstanding today.  The League is not over yet but with Ardmore to play away and Wicklow Rovers next week we will need a big lift to once again put us back to winning ways.  Hopefully we will be back to full strength for next weeks big game home to Wicklow Rovers.  Town were well served today by Ciaran Burke, Aidan O'Callaghan, Ryan Byrne and Diarmuid Larkin.

Report by Joe Byrne

Meanwhile, the U13B side kept on course their push for the WDSL Division Two title with a somewhat fortuitous win over visitors Enniskerry, at Bridgewater Centre Park.  The 3-2 win was secured with goals from Brendan O'Shea, David Hobson and Darren O'Connor.

Nov 11 Major disappointment for A team in shock cup exit
A day to forget for the previously unbeaten U13A side as they made a shock departure from this season's Troy Cup, losing 3-0 to Lakeland Youths in Leopardstown Park.  Town endured a disastrous start, conceding two goals inside the opening six minutes and losing the services of Patrick Power through injury.  Jonathan Delahunt's injury in the twentieth minute added to Arklow woes and you got a sense it wasn't to be Arklow's day.  A swirling wind helped neither side, conditions making it hard to play a controlled passing game.  The Town huffed and puffed but to no avail.  Arklow improved after half time, trying hard to get back into the tie.  A Jordan Forde free kick crashed off the crossbar with Gavin Forde first to react but his header went straight into the inviting arms of the Lakelands keeper.  Pushing the home side right to the bitter end, Town playing with just three at the back, were caught on a break, a third Lakelands goal to rub salt into the open wound.  In the end, a wake up call for the boys, serving to emphasise the nature of a long season ahead.  Goals win matches and the Dublin side, although not a great side by any means, took their chances well.  Town on the other hand lacked shape and self-belief, the passing astray and considering the talent within the squad, the most disappointing aspect on the day being the apparent lack of desire to win the match.

Nov 3 Nolan hat trick sets Town on course for the top
With one eye on next weekend's Troy Cup match (National Cup), away to Dublin side Lakelands, the U13A management opted to rest a few players for the trip to Newtown.  The Town, who had comfortably defeated Newtown in the first ever eleven-a-side WDSL fixture played under lights at Bridgewater Centre Park last month, were able to give league debuts to both Dean Doyle and Philip Nolan, recent signings from Arklow United.  It proved to be an inspired decision as both have settled into the team very well and in today's uneven fixture against a gallant Newtown side it was to be Philip Nolan's day, scoring four goals for the travelling Town side.  The Arklow side were a comfortable 4-0 ahead at half time with the impressive Diarmuid Larkin and Philip Nolan both netting twice.  Wholesale changes for the second half gave Newtown a glimmer of hope and indeed they pulled one back.  This was countered with Philip Nolan netting a debut hat trick.  A further goal apiece made it 6-2 to the Town and the best was saved till last - a well worked goal with passing and moving and a switch in direction from Jonathan Delahunt, putting Daragh Murphy through from the half way line.  With much still to do he controlled the ball excellently and slotted past the home keeper, a goal having "coolness personified" written all over it!

Oct 28 B team hammer leaders to close in on top spot
About the only thing to go wrong earlier today for the U13B side was the non-arrival of their kit and an injury to one of the designated referees meant the calling at short notice of a substitute ref.  Everything else went according to plan as a great performance resulted in the Arklow side hammering previously unbeaten league leaders Coolboy 4-0, with a hat-trick coming from the lively Ian Ferguson up front.  Managers Paul Murphy and Shane Earls can be delighted with such a fine team performance on a day when it mattered most.  Coolboy, as stated, had arrived at Bridgewater Centre Park with a 100% record, including defeating the Town on the opening day of the season.  Since that opening day defeat, the Arklow side have put together a fine run with three successive wins keeping them on the coat tails of Coolboy.  Arklow started brightly, with a swirling wind mainly aiding the home side.  Quickly into a good stride they took the lead with Ian Ferguson running onto a good through ball and coolly slotting home.  David Hobson was catching the eye out wide left with some surging runs into the Coolboy area.  A second goal for the home side, again from Ian Ferguson, served to confirm the dominance the home side were enjoying.  Erinne Murphy, Darren O'Connor and Brendan O'Shea were at the hub of everything good, ably backed by a defensive unit that refused to give an inch, making keeper Sam Cook's job a lot easier.

A third goal before half time saw Ian Ferguson netting a hat-trick, a personal reward for a lively effort leading the line.  Some of Arklow's creative play from midfield was a joy to watch, notably Erinne Murphy who looked assured on the ball.  The second half started as the first half had finished, with the home side in the ascendency.  Continual pressure on the Coolboy defence, as Arklow attacked from either flank.  Man of the match Darren O'Connor became increasingly pivotal in Arklow's flowing football as the home side used the width of the pitch to stretch the away side.  The fourth goal, which assured the home side of all three points came courtesy of David Hobson, a fine reward for a fine personal display.  Erinne Murphy was very unlucky when smashing a free kick (pictured left) from distance off the top of the bar.  In the end, a great three points for the U13B side and it now places them right in the mix at the top of the table, only three points behind Coolboy but with one game in hand.

Oct 21 Excellent workout for A team in Gorey, in ten goal thriller
Not for the first time this season, our U13A side were without a game in WDSL competition.  However, this latest gap in the WDSL programme allowed the team to avail of an opportunity to make the short trip to Gorey, to face a stronger Gorey Rangers AFC U14 side, as the Wexford side do not have a side representing them at U13 level.  It was a perfect opportunity to blood new boys, Dean Doyle and Philip Nolan, two recent signings from Arklow United; as well as a chance to tinker with positions - to see players trying a number of positions, it was an option forced upon the management with the added absence of three players through injuries and unavailability.  The Gorey team started much stronger and took an early two goal lead.  Kevin Russell pulled one back for the Arklow side but the Town again found themselves two goals down, almost immediately from the restart.  Early into the second half, things were to go from bad to worse, as the Gorey side increased their lead to 5-1.

Jordan Forde was introduced on the right wing and Jonathan Delahunt pushed up from defence into attack.  Some outstanding defending from Ryan Byrne, Paddy Power and Brendan O'Neill kept the Arklow lads in the hunt.  Jordan Forde scored Arklow's second and that was soon followed by another, from Jonathan Delahunt.  Man of the match Kevin Russell grabbed his second and Arklow were right back in the game, 4-5 down, pressing hard for a leveller with time ticking away.  The tireless Diarmuid Larkin, who put in a great shift in midfield, was fouled twenty five yards out.  From the free kick a powerful drive from Jordan Forde slipped through the keeper's hands and the sides were level, five goals apiece.  The game finished level, a great comeback by the younger Arklow side and a scoreline reading 5-5 ensured all went home happy with the entertainment offered.

Many thanks indeed to Gorey Rangers AFC for their excellent hospitality and we look forward to returning the compliment, as this was the perfect type of challenge game for the lads as they pursue honours this season.

Oct 21 Fantastic scalp for the A team
An excellent day's work for the U13A side as they faced long standing rivals Wicklow Rovers A in an eagerly anticipated National Cup contest at Bridgewater Centre Park earlier today.  Without doubt, the outstanding pick of the results amongst all our competing National Cup sides as the Town team sent Wicklow packing, 3-0 convincing winners.  Padraig Kelleher, not noted for his goals, indeed having never scored for the side before shining under lights a fortnight ago, against Newtown, had a super game and was rewarded with a second goal of the season.  Arklow controlled the game, free flowing football down both flanks putting Wicklow under increasing pressure.  Jonathan Delahunt scored the vital second goal before half time to give the Town increasing belief that this was to be their day.  Keeper Cian Ryan emerged on top in a one on one with a Rovers forward and not long after, a delicious piece of skill from Ciaran Burke on the edge of the Wicklow area, controlling the ball with his right foot, shifting it onto his left and lobbing the Wicklow keeper with great aplomb.  A spirited effort on the day from Wicklow Rovers but truth be told, on the day they were no match for an excellent Arklow performance.

Meanwhile, in league action, the 13B side enjoyed an excellent 4-0 win at home against St, Anthony's with Brendan O'Shea, Daragh O'Connor and Conor Cleary amongst the goals.

Expectations of Arklow's relative first half dominance automatically suggesting the three points would remain at Lamberton were quickly dashed within ten minutes of the restart as some sloppy defending afforded the visitors a second goal and the lead oncemore.  Arklow continued to mount pressure on the Newtown goal with some slick passing, notably one delightful through ball played by Diarmuid Larkin, keeping the away side on the back foot.  A succession of corners and near misses within the six yard box, the Newtown keeper small in stature but large in presence, denied the Town side as best they could and for as long as possible.  The second equaliser of the night had to come - and it did when Padraig Kelleher looped a gorgeously controlled ball over the stranded keeper.  A goal of the month contender for the execution if nothing else!  With the second leveller the Arklow side stepped up the pressure, determined not to afford any more gifts defensively and two quality finishes from Jonathan Delahunt ensured the win and the points remained at home.

The U13A side who became the first under age eleven-a-side Town side to play under the lights at Bridgewater Centre Park, pictured with manager Joe Byrne.

Oct 10  13As hoping to shine under the bright lights
A little piece of club history will be written later this evening when the U13A side entertain Newtown in their WDSL U13 Premier Division fixture under the lights at Bridgewater Centre Park.  It is the first time for an eleven-a-side WDSL fixture to kick off under the bright lights at the Lamberton venue.  The 13As will be keen to record a second league win of the season after earning a hard fought point away in Wicklow - against Wicklow Rovers - on their last outing to preserve their unbeaten start to the season.  Newtown themselves have made a decent start to the season so a keenly fought contest is anticipated for Joe Byrne's and John Power's side.  Kick off is at 7.30pm and provides a healthy alternative to staying at home watching Coronation Street!

Oct 7 B side have six appeal
A comprehensive 6-0 win for the U13B side after a visit to Enniskerry with both Harry Horsman and Ian Ferguson netting twice each with a further two goals coming courtesy of the home side's defenders.  The 13A side were without a game over the weekend and are eagerly awaiting their own small piece of club history when next Wednesday evening they become the first eleven a side WDSL team to play under the lights at Bridgewater Centre Park in a fixture against Newtown.

Sep 30 Late Delahunt strike secures point
Mindful of finishing runners up to Wicklow Rovers in the League last season and also losing out in the Shield Final on penalties, this was always going to be a tough hurdle to overcome.  And so it proved.  However, the Arklow Town side acquitted themselves ably and on another day might have returned home with more than the one point gained.  The away side settled first and began to control matters although that key opening goal was to elude them.  Wicklow survived the first half onslaught and were thankful to hear the half time whistle with honours still even.  The second half continued as the first half had ended, with Town in control.

Jonathan Delahunt went close, hitting the post from an incoming Jordan Forde corner.  Against the run of play though, the home side took the lead when a communication breakdown (one for all the Led Zep fans!) at the back resulted in an own goal.  Arklow heads didn't drop and with the introduction of some fresh legs the Town sought a leveller.  The well deserved equaliser finally came with little more than two minutes left on the clock when a Rory Martin strike from distance was parried by the Wicklow keeper, with Jonathan Delahunt first to react and head home, ensuring Arklow departed with a well earned share of the spoils.

Sep 23 B side pay the price
After trouncing Ardmore Rovers' B side 5-1 in a WDSL fixture last weekend it was a familiar shirt that faced the B side in the opening round of the Troy Cup.  The only difference this weekend being the Ardmore A side that faced our B side.  Unfortunately for the B side it was one of those days and a 4-0 defeat means they exit the National Cup competition at the first hurdle.  The A side were the recipients of a walkover from Dublin side Broadford Rovers who didn't travel to Bridgewater Centre Park.

Sep 16 U13B side bounce back with five star performance
The U13B secured their first win of the season with a thorough 5-1 trouncing of Ardmore Rovers B side at Ballywaltrim.  Brendan O'Shea led the way with the scoring, netting twice.  Other goalscorers were Harry Horsman, Darren O'Connor and Conor Cleary.  The U13A side had no game this week.

Sep 9 13A's kick of the new season with a fine win
The U13A side kicked off the new season with a fine win over St. Anthony's, at Bridgewater Park, Lamberton on Saturday.  Diarmuid Larkin and Rory Martin scored the goals to get the season off to a winning start in a 2-0 victory over the Kilcoole based opposition.  The U13B side were unlucky to lose on their travels, going down by the odd goal in three at Coolboy.  Vincent Lambert got The Town's solitary goal in a 2-1 defeat.

The squad includes the following players: Aidan O'Callaghan, Jordan Forde, Kevin Russell, JJ Maghery, Jonathan Delahunt, Diarmuid Larkin, Brendan O'Neill, Rory Martin, Padraig Kelleher, Ciaran Burke, Cian Ryan, Patrick Power, Ryan Byrne and  Daragh Murphy. (Missing from Photo Gavin Forde)

Aug 15 Spooner Ryan Tournament
The u13s will this coming weekend be heading for Templemore to participate in the Spooner Ryan tournament.  They will be playing in the u14 Division 1 section.

Jul 28 New season squads announced
We have two under 13 sides playing this upcoming season.

Under 13A WDSL U13 Prem
Ciaran Burke, Cian Ryan, JJ Maghery, Diarmuid Larkin, Kevin Russell, Darragh Murphy, Gavin Forde, Jordan Forde, Ryan Byrne, Jonathan Delahunt, Aidan O'Callaghan, Rory Martin, Padraig Kelleher, Brendan O'Neill, Patrick Power.

Under 13B WDSL U13 Div 2
Harry Horsman, Darren O'Connor, Erinne Murphy, Anthony Furlong, Peter Ryan, Conor Cleary, Ian Ferguson, David Hobson, Sam Cook, Alistair Hill, Aaron Murphy, Aidan Delaney, Conor Marshall, Oliver Hill, Brendan O'Shea, Stephen Nuzum, Stephen Flynn, Vincent Lambert.