Arklow Town FC Under 16 Season 08-09

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June 7 Town's title crowns fine season
Arklow Town B defeated Wicklow Town 1-0 in Shamrock Park earlier today to complete a clean sweep for the club at this level. Arklow’s Stuart O’Neill went closest in the opening minutes, unlucky to see his deft chip smash off Wicklow’s crossbar. Patrick Doyle too was unlucky not to put Arklow into a deserved lead with a number of long range efforts, one in particular seeing the Wicklow keeper scrambling to clear. Dean McCormack patrolled the midfield area superbly all game for the Arklow side and with the returning Niall Garvey enjoying similar dominance at the heart of Arklow’s defence it was clear that the Arklow side would eventually make a breakthrough. Scoreless at the half time break, the Black and Whites’ possession was soon to be rewarded. Or so they thought, but James Graham’s headed effort from a corner kick was ruled out and the sides remained level. Twenty minutes into the half, Arklow’s Patrick Doyle made a great run down the right wing and he put in a pinpoint cross, finding Graham, who coolly eluded the advancing Wicklow keeper to slot home a deserved lead. Wicklow tried to find a route back into the game, to no avail, increasingly frustrated by Town’s overall strength and determination. Arklow’s success crowns a fine season for the 16B team, with the management team of JT Smith and Noel Brauders rightly proud of the collective efforts of all who have donned the shirt with distinction this season.  Manager JT Smith, in a "tired and emotional" address, thanked the parents, supportive throughout the entire year, driving the players to and from games wherever played.  His able sidekick Noel Brauders earned a plaudit or two, recognised for inspirational words along the way.  Last but not least, the players themselves.  Lads, you have been nothing but a credit to yourselves, the team and indeed the Club.

May 24  Wicklow foiled in All Ireland Final
An historic occasion at Arklow Town's Bridgewater Centre Park today with the showpiece All Ireland Final meeting of Wicklow and Cork in the SFAI U16 Paul O'Neill Cup Final.  Wicklow, a team made up entirely of Arklow Town players, the Leinster champions, having secured a place in the Final after a comfortable semi final success against Galway, welcomed a hungry Cork side to Arklow for the decider and were hopeful that home advantage would prove telling.  The visitors arrived in Arklow with a strong panel of players drawn from a variety of top Cork sides.  The Cork side opened brightly and went close inside the first ten minutes with Kilreen Celtic's Ciaran McCarthy fizzing a shot over Cormac O'Brien's bar.  Clive Crammond, Wicklow's left back, was lively to avert danger in the tenth minute.  Mccarthy again went close on the quarter hour mark with a header that glanced wide of Wicklow's right post.  Two minutes later, Wicklow captain Aaron Barry initiated a fine move down the Wicklow left flank, involving both Crammond and Jack Tim Murphy, with the latter whipping across a dangerous ball that was well taken by Cork's keeper, Ian O'Sullivan.  Wicklow were now beginning to dominate and winger Adam Hanlon almost got on the end of the Garden County's next attack, the home side again operating down the left flank with keeper O'Sullivan rising highest to thwart the home side after Murphy fired across a high ball.  Wicklow were increasingly on top with half time approaching, a concerted effort on the Cork goal.  The visitors again started brightly after the break, a series of raids down their left flank threatening to open the Wicklow defence.  Wicklow reorganised and were soon oncemore on top, playing a fluent passing game across the park.  However, Cork hit Wicklow on a counter attack, on the hour mark, with a clinical finish from distance.  A breaking ball fell invitingly to Kilreen's Lithuanian international Arminas Balevicius to thunder home from 25 yards out, an unstoppable finish.  From the restart Wicklow drove for an equaliser but within three minutes, after a spell of intense Wicklow pressure, Cork broke downfield, where Josh O'Shea scored with a speculative effort to put the visitors two up.  Rebel county joy was obvious as the visitors celebrated wildly.  Wicklow valiantly rallied creating a number of chances.  Clive Crammond went close with an effort that was mere inches over the bar.  Substitute Mark Hardy, replacing Adam Hanlon, cut inside to fire a left foot effort also just over the bar.  With Wicklow now on top they spurned an excellent chance when Clive Crammond floated over a free kick from the left edge of Cork's area, his effort finding both Aaron Barry and Paul Rice at the far post, with neither able to convert from close range.  Wicklow piled on the pressure late on, Ian Reid replacing Ciarán Byrne with three minutes remaining; a last throw of the dice, but it wasn't to be Wicklow's day with Cork emerging victorious.

May 18 All Ireland Final preview
A long held vision will hopefully come to fruition next weekend at Bridgewater Centre Park, when Wicklow’s Under 16 WDSL side entertain their Cork counterparts with a prestigious All Ireland title the prize awaiting the victors. This excellent Wicklow side has twice previously gone close to claiming a coveted national crown. They were crowned Leinster champions for a second successive season earlier this year while, equally, Cork were crowned Munster champions, dethroning last season’s All-Ireland winners, Waterford. With Leinster’s recent Heineken Cup success over Munster fresh in the memory there is no doubt that the Rebel County will be keen to redress the sporting balance with a win in Arklow. However, it is worth noting that this entire Wicklow squad is made up with all players coming from Arklow Town FC (Juniors) and they will be hoping to avail of home advantage in the Final. Having managed WDSL representative sides for the past five seasons managers Brian Byrne and Daragh Murray have noted that the majority of the current squad have been playing at this high level since the Danone Cup success back in 2004, at Under 11 level, a national success that resulted in five of the current squad earning selection to play for Ireland in the Danone World Cup, played in France. Twelve months on they went close to All-Ireland success, losing out in the semi final of the SFAI Jim Cashin Cup. In 2007, playing at Under 14 level, the team lost out to the Dublin and District Schoolboy League (DDSL) in the Leinster Final. However, since then, two Leinster titles have been secured by this Wicklow side, at Under 15 and Under 16 levels, with last season’s dramatic and somewhat controversial All-Ireland semi final defeat at Waterford spurring the Wicklow side to go one better this season. Wicklow’s place in this year’s showpiece final was secured with goals from Shane Murray and Keith Armstrong against Galway in the semi final, played in Arklow on May 9 last. The road to the All-Ireland Final has been at times an arduous trek and the management would like to take the opportunity to thank and congratulate a number of coaches who have played their part over recent seasons. Lar Mahony, John Power, Sean Byrne, Mervyn Travers, Stephen Hanlon and Ian Rice are all deserving of acknowledgement in advance of the weekend’s Final. Manager Byrne also recognised the contribution of parents as well as highlighting that his players were now earning their just rewards with five of his Arklow Town players set for further trials with the Republic of Ireland Under 17 squad in June and he emphasised once more the belief that a strong WDSL can provide a platform for players to compete with bigger leagues. No doubt, being able to draw from a very strong pool of players from the Cork Schoolboy League, the visitors will view themselves as favourites for the Final. Admission to Bridgewater Centre Park is free and the game promises to be a great spectacle.

Kick off time for the Final is 2pm on Sunday, May 24, at Bridgewater Centre Park, Arklow.

May 9 Wicklow U16's through to All Ireland decider
A wonderful day for Wicklow schoolboy football was recorded earlier today at Bridgewater Centre Park with victory for Wicklow's Under 16 county side against a determined Galway side.  The Wicklow side, made up entirely of Arklow Town Football Club players, were keen to impress from the very first whistle, placing the visitors under immense pressure almost immediately.  A series of Wicklow attacks saw Galway's keeper by far the busier in the opening quarter and the pressure simply had to tell, with the Tribesmen struggling to cope with Wicklow's tempo and attacking variety.  Deservedly so, the home side struck first, opening the scoring in the 20th minute.  A flowing move upfield saw the tireless Adam Hanlon flicking on to Shane Murray in space and the talented midfielder needed no second invite before firing beyond the Galway keeper.  Wicklow remained firmly on top for the remainder of the half, boosted no doubt by the goal advantage.  Galway though are a good side, having lifted the Connacht / Ulster title and, arriving in the semi final unbeaten this season, fancied their chances of overcoming a strong Wicklow challenge.  Indication of their intent was shown in the early stages of the second half, with both Rory Garland and Daryl Horgan working hard, with little success it has to be said, to find a path through Wicklow's back line.  Wicklow enjoyed a vice like grip on proceedings and with the defence superbly marshalled by captain Aaron Barry it was Wicklow who continued to create the better chances in front of goal, with both Dara Verney and Adam Hanlon close to doubling Wicklow's lead.  Just before the hour mark they found that all important second goal.  A mazy run past numerous Galway players from Shane Murray ended with him finding clubmate Keith Armstrong unmarked at the back post and the Wicklow man stooped low to head beyond the Galway keeper, doubling Wicklow's lead.  Wicklow's advantage lasted no more than six minutes however as the visitors capitalised on a defensive error from a set piece to halve the deficit.  Galway searched in vain for an equaliser but it was the home side who looked the likelier side to score with a number of chances late in the game to put the tie beyond the visitors.  After four minutes of injury time the full time whistle was blown, securing a date in this season's SFAI Paul O'Neill Cup Final for Wicklow.  Third time lucky, perhaps, for this county team, after reaching the All Ireland semi final when playing at Under 12 level, and then again last season, at Under 15 level, to reach the prestigious national decider is a worthy reward for a side that has over many years now performed with distinction at national level in Wicklow colours.  The road to the All Ireland final has seen Wicklow crowned Leinster champions, for a second successive season, with the commitment level of all involved in and around the squad worth recognising.  Manager Brian Byrne was very quick to acknowledge the players, parents, staff and helpers who have all played their part in getting Wicklow through to the All Ireland Final.  The Final itself should prove to be an intriguing encounter, with Cork overcoming a strong Waterford side in the other semi final, booking themselves a trip to Wicklow for the Final.  The Final is scheduled to be played at Arklow Town's Bridgewater Centre Park on Saturday, May 23 and a sizeable attendance should add to the glamour of the occasion, as Wicklow seek a coveted national title.

Images from today's game:

Apr 29 Town stroll to comfortable win
Even though the final score suggests an easy eighty minutes for Town's U16B side, on a trying pitch at Aughrim, the away side needed an early jolt from the home side to stir into life.  An Aughrim attack in the opening minutes when a forward netted for the home side, only to see his strike ruled out with an offside call from the official.  Town switched on from there on, notably through the excellent Patrick Doyle, operating wide right all game.  Town went ahead through Niall Garvey, a well worked set piece seeing the Town defender firing home.  Des Bermingham, a delightful lob over the keeper, and arguably the goal of the game, put Town two ahead with the break approaching.  After the interval, the visitors continued to apply their dominance and netted four more goals.  Bermingham netted Town's third with his second of the game and he was cruelly denied a hat trick when his goal bound effort got stuck in the mud on the Aughrim line, with Kevin Dempsey first to get a touch to the ball to steer over the line, making it four.  A fifth goal duly arrived when an Aughrim defender put through his own goal and Town's performance was capped late in the game when Stuart O'Neill slotted home a sixth.

 

Apr 26 Town open Shield campaign with hard fought win
Arklow Town B travelled to Rathdrum earlier today to face Avonmore in their opening Shield fixture and deservedly secured all three points with a 6-3 success.  Town started very brightly and were ahead as early as the fifth minute when good work from both Des Bermingham and James Graham opened the home defence, and it was the former who slotted home.  Bermingham added a second minutes later, a perfect start for Town and they grew increasingly in confidence as a result.  Playing some fine football across the pitch they were dominating proceedings, with the home side increasingly frustrated.  A foul midway in the Avonmore half saw Niall Garvey floating in a free kick and James Graham rose highest to head home the first of two headed goals he would score before half time.  Avonmore did reply with a goal of their own, to give them a slim chance of revival in the second half and when they pulled one back in the early stages of the second half they briefly threatened to get back into the game.  However, Town remained composed in increasingly trying circumstances, discipline the key to Town's game.  After a foul on Kevin Dempsey Town added a fifth goal to put distance between the sides, with Des Bermingham completing his hat trick.  He soon added a fourth, Town's sixth as the Arklow side ensured the points returned with them.  In the closing stages the home side netted a late consolation to leave the final score 6-3 in Town's favour.

Apr 25 Last minute winner ends Town hopes
Heartbreak for Arklow Town U16s with their exit at the quarter final stage of this year's SFAI U16 Barry Cup.  The Arklow side made the long trek down to Cork to face the current leaders of the Cork Schoolboy U16 League, College Corinthians, with another fancied Cork side Greenwood United lying in waiting in the semi final for the victors.  Town almost opened the scoring with their very first attack, Shane Murray going close with an effort that whistled just over the Cork crossbar.  Disaster though, a mere sixty seconds later, with indecision in Town's defence allowing in Corinthians forward Jordan Philpott to slot home the easiest of finishes past keeper Cormac O'Brien.  Town dug in though and were level in the tenth minute after some excellent work from Keith Armstrong, turning in midfield and pushing up the left wing, a direct run at Corinthians' right back.  Armstrong drilled his pass across Corinthians' area and Dara Verney pounced on the opportunity to level matters.  Arklow appeared content for the remainder of the half to allow the home side enjoy more possession, without an obvious goal threat being placed on Cormac O'Brien's goal, the home side also aided by a fresh breeze and slope on the heavy pitch.  Town spurned a glorious opportunity to go into the half time break 2-1 ahead when given a free kick just inside the Corinthians area after their keeper had handled a back pass.  Shane Murray's free kick agonisingly deflected off team mate Keith Armstrong and the home side could breathe a sigh of relief.  Town opened the second half brightly, with Adam Hanlon posing a threat on Arklow's right flank, a series of runs down that wing causing Corinthians problems.  The game was arguably turned on its head in a key five minute spell, when Hanlon was scythed down after bursting past Corinthians' left back with a clear sight of goal the only thing on his mind.  The referee opted to afford the defender the benefit of the doubt, showing only a yellow card when a red would not have been out of place.  Minutes later Town substitute Mark Hardy was shown a straight red for a late challenge, borne out of frustration after two challenges from behind on the Arklow man had been allowed by the referee.  Arklow's frustration increased when Clive Crammond was felled in the Corinthians area, just as he was primed to fire Town ahead, the referee ignoring Arklow shouts for a penalty.  Even though reduced to ten men, Arklow continued to look the likelier side to score in extra time and they continued to press, with Shane Murray and Crammond instrumental in Town's midfield.  With penalty kicks looming the home side launched a counter attack in the last sixty seconds of extra time and though Cormac O'Brien pulled off a magnificent save from Ryan Levis, parrying the shot across his goal, the ball fell invitingly to an incoming Luke Connolly to hammer home from close range, the first player to react, his winner a cruel end to Town's Barry Cup interest.  Town valiantly tried to find a second equalizer in injury time, with Adam Hanlon firing across the area and Keith Armstrong unable to connect, to steer home a dramatic leveller.

Disappointment amongst players, management and supporters alike was obvious after the final whistle signalled an end to Town's run in this year's National Cup.  However, the side should take solace in an excellent run that has seen the side notch up fine victories on the road, away at Longford Town, Southend (Waterford) and Belvedere.  Our best wishes now go with Len Hackett's College Corinthians as they now face fellow Cork Schoolboy League side Greenwood United.  For Town, all that remains is a case of what might have been.

Images from Town's clash versus College Corinthians can be viewed here.

Apr 19 Town sides advance to cup final
Arklow Town's domination at U16 level continued this weekend with both U16A and U16B sides advancing to the final of this season's WDSL U16 Premier Cup, with both sides now due to face each other.  The U16A's were given a walkover yesterday, due to travel to face Wicklow Rovers A while the U16B's were comfortable 7-0 victors over Aughrim Rangers.  Des Bermingham added three more to his goal haul this season while regular keeper Nathan Condell struck home a penalty for Town.  Niall Garvey bagged a brace while Adam Brown scored the other Town goal.

Mar 30 A's prevail in top of the table clash
Another fine attendance earlier tonight at Bridgewater Centre Park for a floodlit schoolboy/girl fixture, this time with the eagerly anticipated second league clash between Town's U16A and U16B sides.  With both sides clear at the top of the WDSL U16 Premier Division, a NINTH league title was already guaranteed for the Club - but the burning question was:  which side would win the title?  One might assume that the U16A side, one of the finest in the country, would automatically stroll to the title, but this season we have seen the emergence of a well drilled U16B team, under the management of JT Smith and Noel Brauders.  The players have thrown themselves wholeheartedly into the campaign and with eight wins from nine (their only loss being at the hands of tonight's opponents in an earlier clash) the B team have stood proudly atop the division for some time now.  However, with games in hand, the A team have steadily closed in and with a 3-0 win tonight they have moved to within touching distance of the B team.  Four points from their last three fixtures will see the A team claim yet another League title and complete their remarkable set of WDSL Premier Division titles, from age 9 upwards.  A highly competitive game tonight, neither side giving anything less than the proverbial 100%, finishes from Mark Hardy, Ian Reid and Dara Verney settled the issue in favour of the A team.

Mar 26 Cup semi final draw made tonight
The draw was made earlier tonight at the monthly meeting of the WDSL clubs, in the Grand Hotel, Wicklow and much excitement and anticipation surrounded the semi final draw for this season's U16 Premier Cup semi finals.  Both semi finals are to be played at neutral venues on the weekend ending April 18/19.  The good news for Arklow Town is that the A and B teams have managed to avoid each other, setting up the prospect of an all Arklow Town cup final.  The two sides, due to face each other this coming Monday night at Bridgewater Centre Park, in a key Premier Division league fixture, were drawn to face Wicklow Rovers A and Aughrim Rangers respectively.

Mar 22 Irish side return to Lamberton
Arklow Town Football Club have left no stone unturned in preparation for Wednesday night's eagerly anticipated clash between the U16's and the national side, managed by Vincent Butler.  The two sides were initially due to face each other last month but the adverse weather at that time ensured the game was postponed till now.  The teams have faced each other three times now at Lamberton this past year, with the national side edging home in the last outing, thanks to a free kick from Crumlin United's Daniel Purdy.  Irish manager Vincent Butler retires from his post as U16 manager at the end of the season and views this game with Town as ideal preparation for the national side's progression this spring.  Indeed, the game holds similar importance for Town, in the build up to the last eight quarter final clash in the SFAI National Cup, away at Cork side Corinthians.  Kick off is at 7pm and admission is free.

Mar 22 O'Neill strike keeps the ball rollin'
Arklow Town U16B's maintained their strong push for the WDSL U16 Premier Division league title with a hard-fought win over Ardmore Rovers, in Ballywaltrim.  Town had a shaky start and were lucky not to concede in the fifth minute.  Slowly though it was Town who began to take control of the game but they failed to convert any of the chances created, going closest through Adam Brown who saw efforts on goal rebounding off both uprights and crossbar!  Brown, again, thought he had put Town ahead with a superb volley and just as Town were fearing it was going to be one of those days in front of goal up popped Stuart O'Neill to net a precious winner for Town, to ensure the B team remain atop the division.  Dean McCormack put in an excellent performance all game while Niall Garvey was forced off, injury to his right foot curtailing his involvement.  Rory Bain slotted in well at left back while James Graham was very effective through the middle.  Town have one remaining game left in their League campaign - an "in-house" derby with the U16A's, to be played at Bridgewater Centre Park next Monday evening.

Mar 15 Armstrong return boost for Town
After an absence of four months due to injury, it was great to see Keith Armstrong return for this morning's WDSL U16 Premier Cup quarter final versus Avonmore, at Bridgewater Centre Park.  The game itself was a facile affair, with Town three up inside the opening nine minutes and going on to win 9-0.  Armstrong marked his return by netting four of Town's goals.  Dara Verney added a brace with Jack Tim Murphy, Shane Murray and Clive Crammond adding further goals.  The U16B team had a similar experience, away at Greystones United, winning easily, the final score 8-0 in Town's favour.  Both Des Bermingham and Adam Brown netted hat tricks, with further goals coming from Stuart O'Neill and Patrick Doyle.  Hopefully both Town sides can avoid each other when the draw for the semi final is made.

Stuart O'Neill put Arklow ahead with half time looming.  Town spurned a number of opportunities to increase the lead throughout the second half and despite complete control of the game there was a feeling that if presented with a half chance Avonmore just might take it.  With two minutes left on the clock, that chance came, with the awarding of a penalty to the visitors.  The Avonmore penalty taker fired low and hard to Condell's right but the Arklow keeper got down brilliantly to save.  To rub salt into Avonmore wounds Town went upfield with the next attack and sealed the win with Steven O'Neill scoring his first ever goal for Town.

Feb 22 Crammond skippers Town to victory
Town's U16A side travelled to the hotly fancied Belvedere earlier today for their keenly anticipated SFAI U16 Barry Cup last sixteen tie.  Arklow Town, having won the previous meeting between the sides, were quietly confident of victory though this time they were forced to dig deep, to some degree, with a number of players doubtful in the days leading up to the tie.  Aaron Barry, Domhnall Minogue and Ciarán Byrne were all major doubts, and with Keith Armstrong already an absentee Town were in danger of sending a patched up side to fulfil a key fixture.  All three however emerged from the physio's room to make the Arklow starting eleven.  The home side won the toss and opted to play with the aid of a very strong wind in the opening half and it looked to be a good call as Belvedere dominated play for the first twenty minutes though chances were at a premium, for both sides.  Town's midfield engine, Shane Murray and Clive Crammond, began to get a foothold on the game midway through the half as the Arklow side began to slowly get to grips with the DDSL side.  Ten minutes before half time, Town suffered a potentially major blow with injury to Murray.  Murray was hurt when contesting a 50-50 ball and had to be carried off.  Mark Hardy, who had scored for the Town’s U15 side the previous day in a WDSL league fixture, replaced him.  Half time arrived with the sides deadlocked and neither keeper truly tested, the tie being contested mainly in midfield.

Five minutes into the second half, Adam Hanlon showed great tenacity, winning possession on the edge of Belvedere's penalty area, and his desire to attack saw him playing a superb cross-field ball to Jack Tim Murphy.  Murphy himself showed great awareness in heading down Hanlon's cross into the path of captain Clive Crammond and the Arklow skipper needed no invitation as he raced through the home defence to smash home an absolutely unstoppable effort from all of twenty five yards out past Craig Sexton in the Belvedere goal to trigger wild celebrations amongst the travelling Arklow support.  The home side resorted to lumping in aerial balls over Arklow's backline and it proved, eventually, a tactic worthwhile as a rare Arklow defensive lapse afforded the Dublin side parity.  In the 56th minute, Belvedere's Matt Doherty launched a hopeful punt over the Town defence.  Ciarán Byrne misjudged the ball and it allowed Tom O'Halloran to slip through to fire past Arklow keeper, Jason Earls.  It speaks volumes for both the players themselves and the club's ever growing pool of talent coming through the ranks that Arklow, in the heat of battle, were deploying two under 15 players - Mark Hardy and Ian Reid - in key positions, with both players having played just 24 hours previous for their own team, both playing through the pain barrier after incurring knocks in Arklow's U15 success over Rathnew a day earlier.  Injury forced Ciarán Byrne to be replaced with 25 minutes remaining on the clock.  His replacement though, keeper Cormac O'Brien, forced Town's netminder Jason Earls to change shirt and revert to playing at right back, alongside the immaculate Paul Rice and Domhnall Minogue, both superbly marshalling Town's defence all game.  Crammond and Hanlon continued to dictate matters in the crucial midfield area, with both Dara Verney and Jack Tim Murphy increasingly dangerous in attack.

With just three minutes remaining, and extra time looming, the ever-dependable Aaron Barry won possession deep inside Town's half and began a telling Arklow counter attack.  A quite brilliant ball to Dara Verney, who controlled superbly, saw the Arklow man running at the opposition's central defence, turning the pair inside out before sliding into Jack Tim Murphy, fending off the challenge of Belvedere's Leigh Swords, to drive past Sexton in the Dublin side's goal.  After four minutes of injury time, where the home team threw everything at Arklow Town the final whistle was met with contrasting emotions - Town were delighted with the thoroughly deserved victory while their opponents were aghast.  Town manager Brian Byrne could barely conceal his obvious delight when commenting afterwards, stating that "today was a fantastic day for Arklow Town Football Club, with a patched up team who performed with a discipline and mental toughness way beyond their years."  He added, "it was an absolutely fantastic match, played with passion and we deserved our victory.  We had lads out there who played through the pain barrier for both themselves and their club.  Today they got their just reward.  To win this trophy we will have to do it the hard way, with the possibility of nine away games in a cup competition.  Clive Crammond, our captain, was Captain Fantastic as he bossed the game in the crucial second period with Adam Hanlon and alongside Dara Verney covered every blade of grass.  They were super."

Feb 15 Strength in depth evident as Town advance with ease
It sounds almost surreal to suggest that Arklow Town's U16A side had a youthful look about them as they welcomed Wicklow Town to Bridgewater Centre Park for a U16 Premier Cup clash but with the side littered with players from both U15 and U14 sides it was a strangely makeshift side that dismantled the challenge from Wicklow Town.  Aidan O'Callaghan put in a very measured performance at centre half, while the same could be said for Stephen Kavanagh at left back.  Mark Hardy and Alan Sunderland both toyed with Wicklow's backline though it must be said that the shooting boots had been left at home!  Ryan Byrne, a second half substitute, slotted in nicely into Town's left side and was confident enough to show a nice touch or two on raids down the wing.  Adam Hanlon was arguably Town's pick of the players, driving forward his team continuously, even when the issue had long been decided.  Goals on the day, in a comfortable 6-0 win, were scored by Shane Murray (2), Ciarán Byrne, Jack Tim Murphy, Dara Verney and Mark Hardy.

Jan 24 Town reach last sixteen in Barry Cup
Arklow Town U16A advanced to the last 16 of this season's SFAI Barry Cup after negotiating a tough hurdle in the round of 32 away at Waterford's Southend United earlier today.  Having knocked out eircom League side Longford Town's U16 side in the previous round the Arklow side were once again faced with a tough away asignment.  Arklow though were quickly into their stride and after dominating the opening quarter carved out a great chance to take the lead but Mark Hardy unluckily saw his effort glance over the bar.  Two minutes later Town spurned a glorious chance.  Shane Murray whipped in a free kick towards Southend's near post and defender Paul Rice flicked on for either Hardy or Jack Tim Murphy to push home.  Disbelief for Town though with a mix up between the two attackers failing to net what was an open goal.

Arklow maintained their momentum throughout the half, pressing back the home side and eventually took a deserved lead in the 33rd minute with Mark Hardy converting another dangerous Shane Murray free kick.  Southend, a strong disciplined side, were increasingly frustrated trying to unlock Town's defence and resorted to playing long balls  from deep over the top of the Arklow backline, rarely threatening Jason Earl's goal.  After the break, Town now aided with a fresh wind at their backs continued to play a composed passing game.  With the margins so tight at this level Town almost put the game beyond the Waterford side when Shane Murray, forever a threat at set pieces, smashed a free kick off the crossbar.  Five minutes later, the home side levelled after Jack Tim Murphy was deemed to have handled in the penalty area when defending a Southend corner.  With full time approaching Murphy went close to atoning for his error but his shot on target was superbly blocked by a home defender.  Into extra time Arklow struck what turned out to be the vital blow five minutes into the first half.  Clive Crammond, raiding down the left wing, fired in a cross towards Mark Hardy.  The alert Hardy was aware of Ian Reid's position and his dummy fooled the home defence and afforded Reid both time and space before he coolly drove home the winning goal.  Southend threw caution to the wind in trying to level for a second time but their task became mission impossible with the sending off of a player for violent conduct.  A great break from Adam Hanlon almost resulted in a third goal for Arklow, his cross finding Ian Reid six yards out but Reid's header was well saved by the Waterford keeper.  Paul Rice, excellent throughout, almost capped his performance with a goal in the closing stages, his headed effort going agonisingly over the bar.  Town's hard-fought win sees them oncemore through to the last sixteen at national level, a fantastic achievement secured over each of the past six seasons.  Domhnall Minogue epitomised Town's mental strength with a man of the match performance after last week's disappointment for the side playing at U18 level.  Four of Town's starting eleven - Shane Murray, Clive Crammond, Aaron Barry and Jack Tim Murphy - will attend trials for the Irish U17 squad this week, at the AUL complex in Dublin.

Jan 11 B team title ambitions evident for all to recognise
Arklow Town U16B's, and their management team, it must be said, deserve some timely acknowledgement for their application to date this season.  Of course, there is no doubting the immense talent throughout the entire U16A team squad - as has been the case with that team over the years, evolving through the ages from under 8 upwards - but this team, the U16B's should pause for a moment and recognise how hard work and dedication can reap its own rewards.  Today, this team, a team that in the summer bore little resemblance to this highly organised outfit, lie on top, deservedly so, of the U16 Premier Division while other supposedly recognised rivals not a million miles up the Wicklow coastline appear to be not up to the challenge anymore.  Only a stout Avonmore challenge appears to bridge the inevitable battle for honours between Arklow Town U16A and Arklow Town U16B.  If nothing else, internal rivalry aside, it clearly paints not only a picture of health within Arklow Town but serves to clearly highlight the Club's leading position on nurturing and enhancing the ability of young ambitious footballers.

Anyway, less of the sales pitch and onto Arklow Town U16B's latest three point haul.  A dismantling of Wicklow Rovers A was the main course for the hungry U16B team.  Hard to single out players on an individual basis, as they play as a team, but the efforts of the creative Des Bermingham were sublime on the day, having a hand in numerous Town goals.  Sean Guilfoyle opened the scoring and Stuart O'Neill ran riot across Rovers' backline, netting twice himself.  Bermingham himself netted and a bonus on the day with first goals of the season for Kevin Dempsey and better still a first goal for the club for the dedicated Patrick Doyle.  Without intending to embarrass the player, it's great to see his commitment to joining Arklow Town in the summer now reaping dividends.  Further goals from Gary Tyrrell and Adam Brown completed the rout.  Niall Garvey, it must be said, was yet again magnificent at the back for Town, driving the team on and setting a great example for others - a great performance.  Town now get ready to travel to Rathnew next weekend, knowing a further three points could see the internal stakes rising a notch or two.  It can only be good for Arklow Town...

Jan 10 Town safely negotiate Longford hurdle
The stakes were high for both Arklow Town’s U16A side and their hosts Longford Town with qualification for the open draw and the last 32 up for grabs as the two sides finally came head to head in a SFAI U16 Barry Cup clash at the eircom League club’s Flancare Park venue earlier today.  Having reached the open draw every season, from under 11 upwards, the Town side were focused on ensuring they advanced to the national stage of the prestigious competition.  The eagerly anticipated clash had twice been postponed, heightening the importance of the fixture for both sides with the winners advancing to face Waterford side Southend United in the next round.  Arklow started well, early pressure stretching the Longford defence, with the home keeper denying Town twice in the opening ten minutes.  Town suffered a major setback in that tenth minute when injury ended Keith Armstrong’s involvement on the day.  Mark Hardy replaced Armstrong and Town reshuffled their pack, with Shane Murray prominent in a readjusted midfield.

Eight minutes before half time, excellent work from the eager Jack Tim Murphy saw the Arklow man skinning the Longford right back after receiving a great ball from Town left back Aaron Barry.  Murphy spotted Dara Verney in space six yards out from goal and he pulled back from the byline to find Verney who didn’t need asking twice before slotting home the opening goal for Town.

Three minutes before the break Shane Murray almost doubled Arklow’s lead with his corner kick cleared off the line by the home side’s left back.  With little pressure being exerted upon the Arklow defence Town continued to dictate matters in the early stages of the second half. Midway through the half Arklow were rewarded with a second goal, from a corner kick.  Shane Murray whipped in an excellent ball and Domhnall Minogue was on hand to steer home his first National Cup goal.  Enjoying the luxury of a two goal lead, Arklow’s class began to tell as the home side began to wilt under the strain.  Jack Tim Murphy, deserving a goal for his effort, saw a shot cleared off the line.  Overall, an excellent team performance by a youthful looking Arklow Town side, nurturing further talent coming through the ranks.  Ian Reid, Mark Hardy and Alan Sunderland all ably acquitted themselves on the day.  Clive Crammond and Aaron Barry both enjoyed excellent performances as Town overcame what looked to be a hazardous task in qualifying for the national stages of the SFAI U16 Barry Cup.

Dec 21 O'Neill hat trick puts B's on top of the tree for Christmas!
Arklow Town U16B's stated their own case for league honours by easing past Ardmore Rovers A 5-1 at Bridgewater Centre Park earlier today to move into pole position as the WDSL gets set for the Christmas break.  The game itself was illuminated by a Stuart O'Neill hat trick - the player detailing a range of skill and finishing second to none.  His first goal was sublime, eyeing up the keeper off his line and deftly lobbing from the edge of the box.  That was followed up with a burst of speed, rounding the keeper and slotting home from an ever narrowing angle.  Des Bermingham netted in the second half, as Ardmore briefly threatened to get back into the game and when O'Neill secured his hat trick the result was put beyond the Bray side.  Adam Brown scored his first of the season, much to his delight as Town cruised to the top.  Both Niall Garvey and Dean McCormack merit a mention, putting in great performances at the heart of the side.

Nov 29 Cruel National Cup exit as Town pay the penalty
A cruel unfortunate exit for Town's ever improving U16B team as they dramatically lost out on advancing to the national open draw stage of this season's SFAI Barry Cup, losing a penalty shoot out against Parkvale after a keenly fought contest at a cold and damp Bridgewater Centre Park earlier today.  The harsh conditions of late ensured a frosty morning, tough conditions for both teams.  The home side opened the scoring, through Stuart O'Neill, but the visitors levelled before the break. Parkvale went ahead in the second half and Town's reply came from the ever reliable Des Bermingham.  The stalemate could not be broken, despite chances at either end, and though Town piled on the pressure in the allotted extra time, no further goals ensured a dramatic penalty shoot out would decide the issue.  James Graham, Des Bermingham and Gary Tyrrell (who enjoyed a significant game throughout) all netted for Town.  However, despite the heroics of Town keeper Nathan Condell, who pulled off a series of magnificent saves, it was the visitors who advanced to the next round after the tenth penalty kick, having gone to sudden death.  Even though naturally disappointed, Town can take immense pride in the efforts of the team with Niall Garvey worthy of a mention, having put in a towering peformance.

Nov 23 Town ease past Avonmore's ranked defence
A number of Town players, playing their second game in two days, lined out for Town's U16A side on a joke of a pitch, better equipped for a Lilliput 7-a-side tournament than eleven a side WDSL football.  With the pitch dimensions highly debatable, Avonmore opted to "park the bus" in front of their goal, an obvious desire to prevent Town's noted football.  A dubious decision given to the home side led to the opening goal, for Avonmore, an indirect free kick smashed home under Jason Earls' body into the net.  Town responsed, as expected, and Shane Murray levelled not long afterwards.  Adam O'Connor, returning from injury, netted Town's second and when Shane Murray added his second and Town's third the result was never in doubt.

Nov 15 Town spot on against Ardmore to advance in Barry Cup
Arklow Town U16B emerged victorious after a dramatic SFAI Barry Cup clash with Ardmore Rovers A at a very muddy Bridgewater Centre Park.  The home side got off to a flyer with both James Graham and Stuart O'Neill heavily influential as Town pressed forward.  Despite Town enjoying the bulk of the possession there were few clear cut chances, at either end, but the deadlock was eventually broken by Des Bermingham, enjoying a rich vein of goalscoring form of late, who was first to react after Ardmore had cleared off the line, prodding home his seventh goal in five games.  With the obvious nature of cup football Ardmore fought back in the second half, in search of an equalizer and they duly earned parity with a close range effort.  The remainder of the ninety minutes saw the see-saw nature of cup drama, chances spurned at either end with Andy Nicholson and Rory Bain going closest for Town.  Into extra time, and no further goals so the tie had to be decided by penalties.  Des Bermingham missed Arklow's first spot kick but Stuart O'Neill slotted his effort home.

James Graham and Patrick Byrne were both coolness personified, executing perfect spot kicks but hero of the penalty dramatics simply had to be goalkeeper Nathan Condell, who made two absolutely wonderful saves to thwart the Bray side and ensure Town advance into the fourth round of the SFAI U16 Barry Cup, one step away from reaching the last 32 at national level - which is a great achievement for the team, indicating how far they have come - together - since the season began.

Nov 9 Town brush aside Ballyoulster
A final scoreline of 4-0 in favour of Arklow Town's U16A side makes kinder reading for the visitors, Ballyoulster United, after a very one-sided meeting of the two at Bridgewater Centre Park earlier today, in a SFAI U16 Barry Cup 3rd round tie.  In truth, almost total domination from the off for Town, who strolled comfortably to victory without ever needing to hit the heights.  Town were missing a number of players through injury but started brightly, with Jack Tim Murphy looking lively out on the left flank.  Some fine work from Murphy led to Dara Verney firing Town into a 14th minute lead, finishing from close range after the away keeper was unable to hold the incoming ball from Murphy.  Arklow went two goals ahead through Murphy, again cutting in from the left and firing a perfectly placed shot across goal, with Verney primed for a simple tap in if the keeper got a touch.  The second half saw Town spurning chance after chance after chance.  The fact that the contest appeared done and dusted probably added to the home side's wastefulness in front of goal, as they laid seige upon the Ballyoulster goal with little success.

In the closing minutes however, Town put a truer look on the scoreline with two late goals.  Ian Reid, making his debut at U16, capped a fine personal performance with an excellent goal and in the last minute Clive Crammond cracked home an unstoppable effort from twenty yards.  Town now face a trip to Longford Town in the fourth round of the SFAI Barry Cup, with the prize of advancing to the national stage, and the last 32, on offer.  Shooting boots most definitely required for that stern test!

Nov 2 Town join the pack at the top
Arklow Town U16B recorded a fine win on their travels earlier today with a hard fought 4-2 win over previously unbeaten Avonmore, at Ballygannon in Rathdrum.  Town took a first half lead through James Graham, a fine strike from close range.  Chances for the remainder of the first half were at a premium, thanks mainly to the defensive efforts of Niall Garvey, who enjoyed a superb game throughout.  Avonmore struck early in the second half, to level matters, and would have expected to go on and secure all three points.  However, Town had other ideas and Des Bermingham restored Town's advantage with a well taken goal.  The lead was short-lived as Avonmore levelled for a second time.  The game became end to end, with chances for both sides, the outcome delicately poised.  Gary Tyrrell, making his first appearance of the season, played a beautiful ball into the path of Bermingham who coolly placed home, once again putting Town ahead.  The icing on the cake came late into the game, Des Bermingham's hat-trick secured, but more importantly, three excellent points on the road, a fine 4-2 win.  All the players contributed to a fine team performance but recognition must be given to both Niall Garvey and Patrick Doyle who both put in terrific performances defensively.

Oct 12 Town ease past Glencormac challenge
Arklow Town's U16A side left their shooting boots at home when visiting Glencormac's Quill Road venue for their SFAI Barry Cup clash.  A comfortable 3-0 was recorded but in reality should really have scored a greater number of goals.  Town now advance to the Third Round in a competition they will expect to do well in.  Earlier this week, the same side welcomed the Republic of Ireland U16 side to Bridgewater Centre Park, in a prestigious friendly, part of Irish manager Vincent Butler's preparation for the upcoming trip to Turkey.  You can read a match report here.

Oct 5 Town A's on top in club 'in-house' derby win
Arklow Town's U16A side emerged on top in the clash between the A's and the B's, in their WDSL U16 Premier Division clash, at Bridgewater Centre Park earlier today.  A good game, providing both teams with a worthwhile work out was settled primarily by two goals from Adam Hanlon, who enjoyed a good game.  Clive Crammond and Alan Sunderland added further goals to put the two Town sides level in the division.  Town A now lie just three points behind leaders Wicklow Rovers A but with four games in hand!

Sep 27 Town secure the points in Wicklow
Arklow Town's U16B team were up bright and early for a 9.45am kick off at Wicklow Rovers' Whitegates earlier today, emerging winners, 3-2 the final scoreline.  Town's first WDSL league game of the season, a week after a thumping 5-1 win away at Blessington in the SFAI Barry Cup, was always going to be a stern test, with Wicklow having already played two league games.  From the off, the nerves were present, evidently so, and Wicklow capitalised with an early goal.  James Graham settled the side down minutes later with a fine strike, his first goal for the B side.  Rovers regained the lead through a defensive mistake that allowed the home side in for an easy goal.  Town upped their game measurably and were rewarded when Stuart O'Neill levelled matters.  The second half was a tussle, both sides trying to gain the upper hand.

Slightly against the run of play Des Bermingham left his mark on the game by scoring the goal of the game, in fact the winning goal.  Great for his and the team's confidence.  Patrick Doyle, attitude second to none, was excellent on the right wing with Kevin Dempsey invaluable in defence.

Sep 21 Town's hi-five in Blessington
Arklow Town's U16B side travelled over the Wicklow Mountains to face Blessington in the opening round of the SFAI Barry Cup earlier today and after a satisfying team performance were deserving winners, 5-1 the final scoreline.  Straight from the first whistle Town applied themselves to the task in hand and soon enough had settled into a rhythm, controlling the pace and flow of the game.  Des Bermingham looked comfortable on the ball, with Stuart O'Neill highly energetic and keen to get forward at every opportunity.  Town's rearguard rarely allowed the home side a chance to create anything in front of Arklow's goal and with O'Neill and Bermingham in possession of their scoring boots it was the away side who ran out in the end easy winners, with O'Neill netting four goals and Bermingham the other.