May 24 Town land Shield title with five goal demolition of Rovers
Arklow Town's U9D team emphatically added to the trophy haul across the under nine age level with a five goal dismantling of Wicklow Rovers C in the Division 3B Shield Final, played earlier today at Ferndale Park, home of Arklow United FC.Town made a perfect start with Robert Hobson putting the Black And Whites one goal ahead inside the first minute - a great shot, unstoppable from the right side of the box.  Hobson added a second Town goal minutes later, another fine strike and when Morgan Harris added a third goal before half time the result was almost a foregone conclusion.  Amy Guilfoyle, however, played out of her skin, to ensure Wicklow had no way of getting back into the game and on the one occasion she was beaten who was there on the line to clear but outstanding man of the match, Tom Maher.

Brandon Hogan added a fourth goal for Town, coolly lobbing the Rovers keeper and the icing on the cake for the Town side came through a fifth goal, Morgan Harris' second of the game.  All in all, a fantastic collective effort from all on the team, each and every player giving it their all and in the end a thoroughly merited achievement in being crowned Shield Champions for season 2007/08.

May 17 Shield Final glory for A team after dramatic shoot out
Dramatic scenes at the Hockey Pitch in Wicklow town earlier today as the U9A side were deservedly crowned Shield champions for 2008 after a very sporting affair with Greystones United A.  Warm weather and a sizeable crowd were treated to an entertaining battle between two sides on form.  After a bright opening, Liam Scales, ever industrious on the left wing, whipped in a delicious ball and Jack Darcy was perfectly placed to hammer home the opening goal for Town.  Greystones pressed hard for an equaliser and were almost rewarded minutes later, denied only by a fine save from Town keeper Cathal Kelleher.  However, 'Stones were not to be denied a leveller and their equaliser came shortly before half time, an unstoppable left foot half volley leaving Kelleher with no chance.

Town stepped up a gear or two after the restart and went close when a Ross Hanley header, from another Liam Scales cross, rebounded off the crossbar and away to safety.  Midway through the half, Town regained the advantage when Scales himself fired home, much to the excitement of the Town supporters.  Town's "web editorial headline writing department" was already in "Liam Scales The Heights!" mode when 'Stones grabbed a lifeline with a second equaliser, forcing the tie into extra time.  With no further goals the lottery of penalties was required to settle the Final and after goalkeeper heroics from Cathal Kelleher it was captain Ross Hanley who stepped up to fire home the winning spot kick, sending both team and supporters alike into delirious celebrations!

More images of the U9 Premier Shield Final will be in the Photo Gallery.

May 17 Cup Final glory for convincing C team
Arklow Town's U9C team ended the season in fine style when lifting the WDSL Cup in emphatic style, defeating a gallant Wolfe Tone U9B side 3-0 at the Hockey Pitch, in Wicklow town.  Always a close encounter when the two sides meet, the Bray side having pipped Town for a Shield Final place a fortnight ago, Town made a near perfect start with Cameron Walker firing home a superb opening goal inside the first five minutes.  It was to set the tone for the remainder of the first half as Town were completely dominant and a threat with every attack.  Town's second goal came when the Bray side failed to clear a fine Alex Tyrrell cross into a packed penalty area - the ball falling at the feet of Jack Donnelly, who didn't need asking what to do with the ball, smashing home from close range. Tone were granted a lifeline with the awarding of a penalty after a ball to hand incident in the Arklow penalty area.  However, not for the first time this season, Gary Fennell pulled off a magnificent save to thwart the Bray side.

Dillon Mordaunt put one Town hand on the cup when firing home a wonderful shot into the roof of the Wolfe Tone net, to give the Town side a three goal lead.   In the second half, the Bray side tried to find a way back into the game and were awarded a fortuitous penalty - their second of the game - and once more they failed to put it past Gary Fennell.  Some excellent defending, particularly from Michael O'Sullivan, secured yet another clean sheet for a fine Town side.  With the blow of the final whistle, Town were winners of the WDSL Cup having gone through the competition without conceding a single goal.  Great celebrations began with the players and supporters alike, all very proud of their achievement, acknowledged thus by captain on the day Eoin Kavanagh when receiving the WDSL Cup from WDSL's Paul McManus.

More images of the U9 Division 2 WDSL Cup Final will be in the Photo Gallery.

May 11 Tolka host As and Bs while C and D sides stay closer to home
A great day's football was enjoyed yesterday as both A and B sides travelled to face their Tolka Rovers counterparts in a mini tournament, at the Dublin club.  Compliments to Tolka for being excellent hosts, on the day our own A side prevailed, winning the honours after a 3-2 win over Tolka's A side and following that with a 2-1 win (a.e.t) against their B side.  The B side, though losing both games, gave a good account of themselves and the run out will be beneficial with a Shield Final upcoming.  The C team travelled the very short distance, also on Saturday, to Arklow United's Ferndale Park venue and emerged victorious thanks to two goals from Cameron Walker and Alex Tyrrell.  An excellent work out for the side, trying a few different ideas with one eye on next weekend's cup final, a penalty shoot out was arranged for the end of the game, as United also have a Shield Final to look forward to.  Town stepped up to the mark from the penalty spot also and prevailed in what was a worthwhile exercise.  The D team, also keenly waiting for their own Shield Final, entertained St. Patrick's at the Leisure Centre earlier today and won 4-2, goals from Brandon Hogan who had an excellent game and a further two from Robert Hobson.  A fine display from the team, everyone playing their part and they go into the Shield Final in good spirit.

Apr 26 Heartbreak for C team who miss out on Shield Final place
Lady Luck took a day off at the Leisure Centre earlier today as the U9C team, on the back of six straight wins, fell just short of the required seventh to secure a place in this season's WDSL Division 3A Shield Final, when drawing 1-1 with Wolfe Tone.  The Town started brightly and were passing the ball about rather nicely, all players contributing to a confident opening.  Caleb Briggs-Wolohan was very lively on the left flank and Jack Donnelly was unlucky not to place home an early Alex Tyrrell effort.  The home side struck first, with some good work on the right wing from Dillon Mordaunt who found Alex Tyrrell on the edge of the Wolfe Tone penalty area and he smashed home the opening goal.  Soon afterwards, the Town suffered what was to prove a body blow, injury to key midfielder Cameron Walker who retired and was unable to come back on.  We all wish him a speedy recovery.

That gaping hole in Town's midfield was to eventually tell in the second half, as Wolfe Tone came more and more into it, and Town were unluckily undone.  Nothing but pride in the tireless performance of the rest of the lads who gave it the proverbial 110% - players like Ciaran Winters, Eoin Kavanagh  and Michael O'Sullivan; Kyle O'Connor and Gerard Kavanagh - who threw themselves in the way of every ball, who chased back and in general ran themselves into the ground.  Keeper Gary Fennell had an inspirational game in goals, a really safe pair of hand and brave when needed.  The equalizer, a cruel blow for Town, saw Gary take a knock but in fairness we've seen them given as often as not.  As hard as Town tried to get that required winner, it was not to be and heads dropped with the blow of the full time whistle:  Town were out of the Shield Final.  Man of the match today simply had to be Ciaran Winters - he was a joy to watch, a marvellous effort covering the enforced gaps.  It's worth reminding this group of players that they should take great strength and pride in their own performances thus far this season:  they are now seven games unbeaten and having finished runners up in the League before Christmas they still have a Wicklow Cup Final, also against today's opponents, to look forward to.  Heads up, lots still to play for!

Apr 23  Town enjoy trek to Meadow as 9Ds head for Final in style
Ross Hanley led the way with a hat trick as the U9A side ensured at least a Shield Final play off place, winning 7-0 at Enniskerry earlier this evening.  Having been held 0-0 by bottom placed Enniskerry last Monday at the Leisure Centre the U9A side were keen to ensure a vast improvement resulted in three key points.  And so it proved to be, with further goals coming from Liam Scales, Jack Darcy, Cullan Walsh and Conor Dodd.  Meanwhile, back at a breezy Leisure Centre, the U9D side were finishing their Division 3B programme with a 1-0 victory over St. Patrick's.  Robert Hobson was on the mark for the Town who spurned a number of chances to put the result beyond doubt, hitting the woodwork a number of times and also missing from the penalty spot with the last kick of the game.  Still, a great achievement by all involved with the U9D side (including the camera shy Niall Guilfoyle!) who now wait to see if it will be Wicklow Rovers C or Roundwood who face them in the Shield Final.

Apr 20 Maher-vellous performance puts D team into Shield Final
An excellent team performance, driven by a superb effort from Tom Maher has seen the Town's U9D team cruise into the Shield Final after accounting for Wicklow Rovers C team at the Leisure Centre earlier today.  Needing just one point to guarantee a place in the Shield decider Town never allowed their opponents into the game and ran out convincing winners with goals on the day coming from Robert Hobson (2), Brandon Hogan, Morgan Harris, Patrick O'Brien and Philip Molloy.  With one game left in the group stage Town have already ensured they qualify for the Final after topping their division.  Well done all!

Apr 15 Excellent away wins leave Bs and Cs on Cloud Nine
A wonderful evening for both U9Bs and U9Cs with key victories on their travels.  The Bs went to leaders Avonmore, still in possession of a 100% record having won all previous seven games and already successful in securing a Shield Final place.  Joseph Cummiskey opened the scoring for the away side who maintained their excellent upturn in form of late.  Avonmore levelled before half time but Town were to regain the lead in the second half when the ever lively Stewart Mills smashed home a second Town goal - a worthy winner on a night when all more than played their part.  It now looks increasingly likely that tonight's opponents will face each other next month in the Shield Final.  Meanwhile, closer to home, Town's U9C side travelled the short distance to Ferndale Park for a do-or-die game, with United needing a win to secure a Final place, having deservedly thumped Wolfe Tones at the weekend.  Town began very brightly, a succession of corners causing the home side problems.  Jack Donnelly went very close to opening the scoring for Town, placing narrowly wide.  Dominating the first half proceedings Town needed a goal to ease the obvious tension and from an excellently placed corner Cameron Walker was on hand to prod home.  A vital goal.  United upped their game in the second half and were awarded what we viewed as a fortuitous penalty for a foul in the area.  However, United's Calem Devereux blazed over the bar, much to the disappointment of a sizeable crowd.  Town themselves were awarded a penalty not long after when a United defender was judged to have handled.  Eoin Kavanagh stepped up to take the spot kick but his shot went wide of the post, and United senses a reprieve.  End to end action as the clock ticked, it was goalkeeper Gary Fennell who epitomised a great team spirit when diving in amongst a sea of boots to claim a ball as United vainly tried to get a leveller.  The full time whistle blew not long after, much to the relief of Town followers - a great win on a ground where few away teams will take maximum points.  A double over United in Shield competition, always to be enjoyed, though no plaudits just yet as the sides might yet face each other a third time this season all things going well.

Apr 12 Fennell first half heroics paves way to Cup Final
The final scoreline may have shown Arklow Town U9C defeating Glencormac to advance to this season's final of the WDSL Cup but it does not paint a true picture of the game played earlier today at the Leisure Centre.  With so much at stake for both sides it was always going to be a tight affair, and so it proved.  With a fresh wind slightly assisting the visitors, they started the brighter and can consider themselves unlucky not to have opened the scoring on more than one occasion in a tight first half, their set piece plays a cause for concern every time.  Arklow keeper Gary Fennell made more than one key save to deny the visitors and those saves proved in the end to be the foundation upon which the Town prospered.

After a scoreless first half, Town - as they have done on countless occasions this season - upped their game.  An excellent in-swinging corner from Alex Tyrrell fell nicely for Jack Donnelly to force home, giving the home side the important first goal.  As Glencormac pressed for a leveller gaps began to appear in their defence and they eventually paid a heavy price, as Cameron Walker slid home a second Arklow goal to ease the nerves on the sideline!  Understandably the heads dropped slightly amongst the away side and Arklow began to finally spread the ball about, almost scoring a third goal when good movement from both Dillon Mordaunt and Alex Tyrrell should really have brought greater reward for the home side.  In the end, a cracking result for the U9Cs against a very game Glencormac side, and they now face Wolfe Tones in this season's WDSL Cup Final, to be played next month.  Final Score:  Arklow Town 2 Glencormac 0.

April 12 Convincing win puts B team on the verge
Arklow Town U9Bs hit form when most needed to almost guarantee themselves a place in this season's Division One Shield Final.  A final scoreline, 4-2 in Town's favour, does the team no justice whatsoever as at times their football was a joy to watch, particularly in the second half.  The visitors opened the scoring but Cal Kelly, industrious throughout, levelled matters before half time.  Needing those three key points, the team upped through the gears in the second half and played some really eye catching football, sweeping the ball from wing to wing and continually troubling the Wicklow defence.  Second half goals from Ros McBride and two from Stewart Mills ensured the points went Town's way.  If Avonmore defeat Wolfe Tone tomorrow in Rathdrum then qualification is secured.

April 7 Extra time heartbreak for A's in cup defeat
Arklow Town U9As exited the Arklow Town Juniors Cup after extra time heartbreak away in Greystones earlier today.  Trailing 2-0 to the home side the Town rallied through goals from Jack Somers and Neil Murphy.  However, they couldn't quite get that winning goal - hitting the post, hitting the bar -  to secure a place in the semi final and were undone when a 'Stones corner, deep into extra time, ended up in the back of the Arklow net, the ball having cruelly deflected off a Town player.  The U9B team strengthened their push for a Shield Final place when securing a 2-0 away win at St. Fergals, with goals coming from Stewart Mills and Tom Delahunt.  The U9D team did similar when grabbing a last minute winner at Bog Meadow, to sneak past Enniskerry 2-1.  Goals from Robert Hobson and Parick O'Brien sent the Town to the top of Division 3B and in prime position now to earn a place in the Shield Final.

Apr 5  Bad breaks for Jake and Shauna
Everyone attached to the U9C team wish player Jake Byrne a speedy recovery after he broke a bone in his arm yesterday.  Jake has been a key member of the U9C side who are hoping to follow up their U9 Division 3A League runners up place with a Shield Final place and a WDSL Cup Final place, and Jake's injury comes not only as an obvious blow to the player but to his team mates also.  All the boys hope to see Jake back playing football as soon as possible and in the meantime look forward to hearing him roaring them on from the sidelines, playing his part in the team from there.  We hear also that U9D player Shauna Waldron suffered a similar injury herself recently.  Hopefully it won't be too long before Shauna is back out on the pitch enjoying her game of football.  Get well soon!

Mar 15 Derby win pushes Town into Shield contention
An excellent second half performance by Arklow Town U9Cs earned the local bragging rights after yet another sporting encounter with local rivals Arklow United, over at the Leisure Centre earlier today.  Playing with a strong wind behind them in the first half, United gained the upper hand over the early exchanges.  In truth, the home side appeared awol at times and it was with a touch of fortune that they took the lead midway through the half, with Cameron Walker perfectly placed to smash home a shot from outside the penalty area.  United levelled as half time approached despite the very best efforts of keeper Gary Fennell who made an astounding save to keep United out, only for a United forward to follow up, slotting home the loose ball as the Town defence was nowhere to be seen.

The second half however belonged almost totally to the Town side who at last displayed the necessary hunger.  Dillon Mordaunt restored Town's advantage with a sublime strike and not long after that a mix up in the United defence saw Cameron Walker adding his second, though truth be told, he knew very little about how the ball hit off him and into the back of the United net!  Alex Tyrrell rounded off the day in fine fashion creating and executing himself a cracking fourth goal, to confirm Town's superiority on the day.

Mar 9 Fruitful weekend for all
A good weekend all round for our playing U9 sides.  The U9As faced the challenge of a Newtown side who really needed to leave the Leisure Centre with all three points if to entertain any notion of a place in the Shield Final.  Not the greatest of performances so far by the A side but frugal as ever defensively, they eked out a win through a solitary strike from the impressive Liam Scales.  The Bs travelled to Bray, to face second place Wolfe Tone and returned home with a very good point for their efforts, the game a tight 2-2 affair.  Goals on the day were scored by Padraic O'Connor and Stewart Mills.  Unfortunately, word of Stewart's latest goal celebration has yet to reach Webmaster Towers so we remain unknowing of young master Mills' latest performance!  No doubt there'll be more before the season ends.  The U9C team went to Glencormac and toughed out a good 2-0 win on a very sticky surface.  A pretty lethargic first half performance saw the sides level, with the home side winning most battles across the park.

However, a vastly improved collective effort from the Town lads saw the Arklow boys finally getting a hold on the game.  Cormac O'Shea, very pleasing on the eye in midfield, showed some great touches and it was one of his efforts that saw Town open the scoring.  A shot wasn't held by the home keeper and the lively Caleb Briggs-Wolohan was there to hammer home an unstoppable shot, reward for his never-say-die atttitude today.  Jack Donnelly secured the points for Town when getting on the end of a cross from Cormac O'Shea, to fire home.  Kudos too to the defence who worked very hard to ensure Town once again kept a clean sheet.

Mar 2 Harris double sets D's on the way
Manager Larry Cullen could barely conceal his delight with both the result and performance of his U9D side earlier today, as a first win in the Shield campaign was earned with a 2-0 victory over Roundwood at the Leisure Centre.  A double strike from man of the match Morgan Harris may grab the headlines but the overall performance from the entire team is what was most pleasing, with Conor Larkin having his best game yet in a Town shirt.

Mar 1 A's going from strength to strength
Ross Hanley was on the mark once again this week to earn the Town's U9A side a precious three points, in their top of the table clash with leaders Greystones United A.  The solitary strike was enough to secure the points and now moves Town to within three points of the leaders, with two games in hand.  The U9B were not as fortunate in their own top of the table clash, facing leaders Avonmore at the Leisure Centre.  A good game with little to separate the sides, the away side emerged winners on a 3-2 scoreline, the Arklow goals coming from Daniel Boyle and Adam Harvey.

Feb 24 A's win away at champions while C's shine at home
The Town's U9A side earned an invaluable three points on Saturday away at League champions Ardmore Rovers courtesy of a last ditch Ross Hanley header that gave the home keeper no chance whatsoever.  The win places Town three points ahead of Ardmore with a game in hand, nicely nestled in just behind current leaders, Greystones.  The B team went to Enniskerry and registered a fine 2-1 win with goals courtesy of Cal Kelly and Ros McBride.  Conor Saunders and Padraic O'Connor both enjoyed excellent games and the win pushes the B team firmly into contention near the top of the division.The U9Ds were very unfortunate to lose 2-1 away at Wicklow Rovers.  Patrick O'Brien scored a fine goal for Town but it wasn't to be enough on the day.  The U9Cs welcomed Greystones United to the Leisure Centre having played out a scoreless draw with the same opposition only a matter of weeks back.  Town did everything bar score that day and today's game started off in similar fashion as early pressure on the 'Stones defence yielded little return for the good football that was being played.  Cormac O'Shea finally opened the scoring early into the second half with a fierce near post effort.  Jack Donnelly doubled the lead, in exactly the right spot to touch home a loose ball in the Greystone penalty area.  Jake Byrne was desperately unlucky not to add a third not long afterwards with a header from one of Alex Tyrrell's excellently worked crosses but without any further addition to the scoreline Town ran out comfortable winners, happy with the points and another clean sheet.

Feb 17 Solid Cs get just rewards
Arklow Town U9Cs came away from Bog Meadow earlier today, happy to advance to the semi finals of the WDSL Cup after a very sporting 2-0 victory over willing hosts, Enniskerry B.  Maintaining the upper hand for best part of the game it wasn't until midway through the second half that the Town side gained some reward for their effort and industry.  Cormac O'Shea won the battle for a loose ball in midfield and played through Cameron Walker who requires no invitation when presented with the opportunity to strike in front of goal - a typical goal from Cameron.  In the closing minutes, Cormac O'Shea put the game beyond Enniskerry when digging out a ball from the sticky surface up and over the home keeper, to earn the U9C side an excellent win on the day.  Solid across the defence with invaluable contributions made at times by all our defenders.  Mention too must be made of Dillon Mordaunt who looked a threat every time he received the ball in a wide position, taking on and beating his opponent time and time again, very effective on the ball and willing throughout.  An ATFC TV OB Unit was present at the game today and all fully paid up subscribers to ATFC TV should be able to view today's game from Monday onwards!  Sky Sports, eat yer 'eart out...

Feb 16 One of those days for both Bs and Ds
Lady Luck failed to shine for both U9B and U9D teams, as they crashed out of the cup competitions at the first hurdle.  Facing Newtown, at the Leisure Centre, the U9B team pressed hard for an opening goal but despite their best efforts they went unrewarded.  To add insult to injury there was an unfortunate incident where the ball appeared to finally cross the Newtown line, to give the Town the lead, but it was ruled as no goal.  Extra time failed to separate the sides and after an amazing series of penalties that saw not one single strike finding the target, a Newtown player slotted home the vital spot kick to send them through, and the Town out.  On the day though, a good performance by the team with keeper on the day Padraic O'Connor, Joseph Cummiskey and Daniel Boyle earning the plaudits.  The U9D side also suffered immense disappointment, having already beaten their Wicklow Rovers C opponents twice already this season.  Twice Arklow took the lead, through a Patrick O'Brien corner kick that deflected in off a defender, and Morgan Harris.  However, Wicklow levelled twice and before half time had scored a third decisive goal that proved to be the winner.  The U9A team, granted a bye into the next round of the cup opted to play a strong Gorey Rangers game in a friendly and our thanks to the Gorey side for facilitating the A team with a game, a worthwhile exercise by all accounts.

Feb 10 Maher excels as Town secure away point
A very solid performance by the U9D's (team pictured left) away in Roundwood earlier today saw them return with a well earned point.  Despite enjoying most of the play they couldn't quite make the breakthrough against a strong home defense.  Patrick O'Brien and Robert Hobson both went close with first half efforts but it was Tom Maher who went closer still on the day for the Town and a goal would have rightly capped what was a cracking performance by Tom.  However, he was ably backed by his team mates who can be content with their performance today.  The team can take great confidence from recent performances and hope to challenge for the Shield as a result.

Feb 10 Cracking performance ends in tears
A game pretty much dominated from start to finish by the U9C's, away at Wolfe Tone, ended in sheer frustration - with most of that to be left out of this match report for obvious reasons.  Last weekend's draw away at Greystones was disappointing in the result alone, as the performance then was a vast improvement on the previous week.  The team played some lovely passing football in the first half today and deservedly took the lead, with Jack Donnelly well placed to coolly slot home the opening goal.  Credit to Wolfe Tone, they hung on in as we threatened on more than one occasion to put the game beyond their reach well before half time.  Alex Tyrrell was superb throughout and can count himself highly unlucky not to end up on the scoresheet today.  However, it was his drive and determination with no little skill today that served him best and was easy to nominate as our man of the match, a great effort today.  The home side levelled as half time approached, with our defence caught wandering upfield.  Michael O'Sullivan, a delightful right back who has on more than one occasion been the unsung hero saving our backside defensively, was desperately unlucky to see the ball rebound off him and past our keeper today, Eoin Kavanagh.

Within minutes though, Michael was back to doing what he does best, with ease, getting in that tackle, making it all look easy.  Alex Tyrrell drove hard at the Wolfe Tone defence and an effort on goal was half blocked with the ball bouncing into the path of Cormac O'Shea who lofted in a superb second goal for the Town, to give us a well deserved half time lead.  The second half carried on as the first, with the Town doing most of the attacking.  However, we were the authors, to a degree, of our own downfall, with careless defending being punished effectively.  Mistakes cost goals and we saw a commanding 2-1 lead disappear, almost disbelievingly before our eyes, into a 4-2 deficit. Still we pushed forward and a highly contentious decision surrounding an incident in the Wolfe Tones penalty area only served to agitate the manager.  Minutes later Cameron Walker smashed home a third Arklow goal and we laid siege on the home defence for the closing minutes before the referee blew for full time.  Early.  Disappointment in defeat but heads up on a great team performance - some of the play a joy to watch.

Feb 9 Town end 'Stones 100% start to Shield
The Town U9A side had to settle for what was a well earned point after their clash with Greystones ended all square, 1-1, at Woodlands earlier today.  A tight affair, as ever, between the two sides, saw the Town improving throughout, and with a fine Cullan Walsh goal to preserve, the team will be slightly disappointed to have conceded a soft goal with only minutes remaining.  However, the home side has made an excellent start to their Shield campaign, winning their opening three fixtures so perhaps, the 'disappointment' of a point won away from home needs to be put into context:  a point most definitely gained.  The U9As now have two weeks to wait for their next fixture as they have received a bye in the cup competition which kicks off next weekend.

Feb 3 Excellent Town take the wind out of Wicklow's sails
On a bitterly cold, wet and windy February Sunday morning, there are many places you'd rather be than pitchside at Wicklow Rovers' Hockey Pitch, overlooking Wicklow town.  The Town B side, facing familiar rivals, took just three minutes to open the scoring when Conor Saunders drove home.  Ten minutes later, as conditions deteriorated, Stewart Mills doubled the Arklow side's advantage, finding the bottom corner of the net with a strike from just outside the box.  Early in the second half, Tom Delahunt, enjoying a great performance in the horrendous conditions, further extended the away side's lead, making it 3-0.  The home side pulled one back late on but the points and an emphatic victory for the B team was secured when Thomas Rowan added a fourth Town goal, much to the delight of his proud parents.  In summary, an excellent performance, an excellent win and an excellent platform now for the team to go on in the Shield.

Feb 2 Draws for both C and D sides
Arklow Town C left a chilly Woodlands earlier today wondering how on earth they failed to secure all three points after controlling best part of their contest with a game Greystones United C side.  The opening exchanges were pretty even, Greystones playing with the wind behind their backs.  Arklow soon got into a stride and began passing the ball about.  Both Jack Donnelly and Jake Byrne saw efforts hitting the post and Alex Tyrrell also went close as the half time whistle approached.  Cormac O'Shea was highly industrious throughout and at the heart of some good Town play.  Gerard Kavanagh stormed forward and was very unlucky to see his drive inches the wrong side of the post.  The Greystones keeper pulled off a wonderful save from Cameron Walker, pushing onto the bar when a goal seemed certain.

Arklow continued to press and Cormac O'Shea thought he'd scored but his effort came back off the post.  Before the end Arklow would hit the post a fourth time.  Even though it ended goalless, the management were far happier this weekend - the performance was excellent throughout.  Kyle O'Connor, playing at left back was superb throughout and deservedly earned the accolade of man of the match.  Meanwhile, the U9D side were left frustrated, having drawn their opening Shield fixture, at home to Enniskerry.  Goals from Morgan Harris and Patrick O'Brien put the D side on the road to victory but they were to be denied.  However, the performance, like the Cs, was promising and considering it was their first competitive game for a few months, not a bad day at the office all things considered.

Jan 27 Excellent opening win for A team over Rovers
Arklow Town U9As travelled to Wicklow earlier today to face "old" rivals Wicklow Rovers in their opening fixture of the U9 Premier Shield.  The last meeting of the sides at the Hockey Pitch venue ended all square, both sides playing their part in an entertaining 2-2 draw.  Today though was to be Arklow's day, building on the strength of a solid finish to their league campaign before Christmas and carrying on where they left off.  A good performance by the team with Ross Hanley and Neil Murphy grabbing the two goals which saw the visitors winning 2-1 and getting the Shield off to the best possible start.

Jan 26 Goals at a premium as Shield gets underway
Cal Kelly, who scored when the sides last met in league competition, was on the mark again earlier today at the Leisure Centre as Arklow Town U9B and Wolfe Tone B finished level, 1-1.  The U9C side entertained Glencormac and in a very tight affair can consider themselves unlucky to have gone down 1-0, losing to an own goal conceded with little more than two minutes left in normal time.  However, Glencormac could easily have taken a first half lead were it not for a quite brilliant save oncemore from Gary Fennell in goal - something we're in danger of taking for granted!  To compound the misery for the home side, chances missed at the other end were to prove costly.

Dec 15 9Ds pay harsh penalty in fine friendly work out
The U9D side has arguably been more active than any other side since the League competitions ended, playing a series of friendly games in order to "keep the engine runnin'..."  Making the short journey earlier today, to Arklow United's Ferndale Park, they faced their hosts who play a division above, in Div. 3A.  A good workout, with the entire team playing well, they were to be on the unlucky end of a 1-0 defeat, a fortunate penalty, initially saved by the excellent Amy Guilfoyle, slotted home on the rebound.  With a little luck going their way a different result might have occured but the important thing was the work out, and on that note, a good day out for the 9Ds.

Dec 1 U9As finish league programme in style
Arguably saving the best performance till last, the U9A side earlier today, at the Leisure Centre, defeated newly crowned champions Ardmore Rovers, 4-1.  Conor Dodd hit the back of the net twice, two clinical finishes, with further goals coming from Neil Murphy and Cullan Walsh.  The Bray side arrived in Arklow unbeaten but despite a slow start the home side eventually got into their stride and applied themselves firmly, giving their best performance of the league campaign.  With today's fine win the Arklow side finish third in the Premier League, one solitary point behind runners up Greystones United A.  Today's performance augurs well for the upcoming Shield campaign, where Town will hope to feature strongly.

Nov 25 Frustration for B side
In the end, with Wolfe Tone winning their own fixture, it was to be a frustrating day for the B side, at Enniskerry's Bog Meadow venue, losing 2-0.  Needing a win over their hosts and Wolfe Tone to lose, the odds were slightly stacked against the Town lads.  However, they put in a great collective effort which augurs well for the Shield campaign.  Ronan Arthur had a great game in goals.  The first goal was a cruel deflection from a corner kick and the second goal came courtesy of a rare lapse in the defence, otherwise outstanding on the day.  Still, enough team effort and spirit shown on the day to offer optimism when the Shield commences.  The U9D team faced Wicklow Rovers D for a second week running in friendly matches, and once again emerged the victors, this time on a 5-2 scoreline having defeated the Wicklow side 7-0 last weekend.

Nov 18 C Team secure runners up spot
Billed as a do-or-die match with the winners taking all it was to be a tense affair at Temple Sportsfield earlier today as the Arklow Town U9C team travelled to Bray, to face Wolfe Tone B in their last league game with a two point advantage.  The two sides met on the first weekend of the season, a 4-2 victory for the Bray side, so it's fair to say they probably fancied themselves to win and nudge Arklow out of the second place position they've maintained over recent weeks.  Arklow began brightly with Dillon Mordaunt increasingly lively up front.  The Town's defence looked solid, denying the home side any clear scoring opportunities.  Without singling out any of the defenders it was great to see them work so hard together as a unit - the unsung heroes of the day.  A few chances came and went but the sides went into the half time break level, knowing that the first goal would be key.  The Town were on top from the start of the second half but without that goal were always open to being hit on a counter attack.  One or two scares, including one great save from keeper Gary Fennell, served to remind us how hard-fought a game this was.

The game turned on a moment's magic from Cormac O'Shea and let me say it here and now - what a pleasure to see such a glorious goal from the sideline.  A counter attack from the Town, a ball played up the left flank for Cormac to collect and turn goalwards.  Cutting past a few defenders, into traffic, a quick look up at the keeper, he followed with a looping ball over the stranded Wolfe Tone keeper and into an empty net.  A great goal.  Arklow continued to apply pressure to the end and were rewarded when an advancing Cameron Walker was there to hammer home a nicely weighted pass from Jack Donnelly , the decisive second goal which secured a well-deserved runners up spot in Division 3A.  All twelve players can rightly feel proud of what they've achieved over the last few months, the individual and collective progress of the team there for all to see, giving us cautious optimism when the Shield competition commences.  Well done lads!

Nov 14 Focus on the U9s
Potentially a massive weekend lies in waiting for our three remaining Under 9 sides.  The U9D side, having already secured the runners-up spot in Division 4, are resigned to playing friendly games till the Shield commences.  The U9A side need to defeat Premier Division champions in waiting Ardmore to have any chance of earning the runners-up spot.  The U9Bs will be kicking their heels this weekend without a ball to kick, hoping for a favour from champions Newtown who face Wolfe Tone.  A home win there would afford the B side a chance of securing second place in the last round of games.  The U9Cs travel to Temple Sportsfield this coming Sunday to face Wolfe Tone in a game that has become, practically, a cup final for both sides.  Town have a two point advantage but the Bray side have one game in hand, away to champions Rathnew a week later.  A win would secure the runners-up spot for the C team and Eoin Kavanagh, who scored twice when the sides met on the opening weekend of the season, will be hoping for a positive result for the Town lads.

Nov 11 Joy for A's, frustration for B's
The U9A side kept alive hopes of securing the runners up spot in the U9 Premier Division by thumping Avonmore 7-1 on Sunday.  Both Neil Murphy and Conor Dodd scored twice with further goals coming from Liam Scales, Ross Hanley and Peter Tyrrell.  The U9B side were unlucky not to secure all three points when entertaining Wicklow Rovers B at the Leisure Centre.  Thomas Rowan opened the scoring for the home side but further chances to increase the lead were spurned.  Wicklow levelled late on and Arklow were to rue those missed opportunities in front of goal.  Both Joseph Cummiskey and Adam Harvey enjoyed excellent games with Ronan Arthur also in fine form between the sticks.

Nov 4 Congratulations to the D team
Let's hear it for the successful U9D side who this weekend have secured the runners up spot in Division 3B - no mean achievement considering the season was upon us as the squad was still being put together.  Managed by Larry Cullen, the U9D team have gone out every week and given their all.  The runners up position was secured on Sunday with a thumping 5-2 victory over St. Patrick's.  Morgan Harris was once again on the scoresheet, netting twice - as did Robert Hobson.  Brandon Hogan put in a man of the match performance for the Town and a fifth goal, to seal the success, was scored by Patrick O'Brien.

Nov 4 Two goal Stewart keeps B team on track
With possibly their best team performance of the season so far the U9B side moved very firmly into contention for honours near the summit of Division One.  Everyone played their part in a solid performance, illuminated by not one but two great finishes from the lively Stewart Mills.  His first goal, giving Town the lead, was a cracking strike, an unstoppable effort.  Conor Saunders added a second goal before half time, his first goal of the season.  Enniskerry threatened when pulling one back in the second half but a further strike from Stewart Mills ensured the points remained in Arklow.  Meanwhile, the U9A side were in Greystones to face the 'Stones A side - their second meeting of the season.  Again, it was a tight affair, with Jack Darcy and Cullan Walsh scoring for the travelling Town side to earn a creditable 2-2 draw.

Nov 3 Frustration averted with late flurry
The ingredients were all there, the recipe prepared and somehow the Arklow Town U9C side would contrive to snatch defeat from the jaws of victory!  Or so it looked at one stage earlier today as the U9C side, pushing strongly to finish in second place in Division 3A, faced Enniskerry B at the Leisure Centre, knowing that anything less than a victory would seriously hinder their ambitions.  Town started a little sluggishly yet still held the upper hand, spurning some glorious opportunities in front of goal.  Enniskerry rarely troubled Town keeper Gary Fennell who found more entertainment doing cartwheels on the edge of his unthreatened penalty area!  However, the home side were to pay for not taking any of their first half chances when Enniskerry put together a nice move down their right flank, the ball being played into an unmarked attacker who slotted home from close range.  A shock to the system for the boys who tried vainly to level matters before half time.  Alex Tyrrell had an excellent game in midfield with Cormac O'Shea not far behind.  Both players looked increasingly comfortable on the ball as the game wore on, and from an Alex Tyrrell corner kick Eoin Kavanagh went close with a header that drew a fine save from the Enniskerry keeper.

Straight from the restart the second half belonged to Arklow but still they trailed.  Caleb Briggs-Wolohan was rewarded for following up on a loose ball in the area, prodding home from close range to level matters.  At last!  A fine solo effort from Cormac O'Shea soon afterwards gave the home side the lead, slotting home from ten yards out, a finely place effort to the keeper's left.  Caleb Briggs-Wolohan, who scored two in the first encounter with Enniskerry this season, matched his personal effort when placing a lovely shot past the keeper to give the Town breathing space - a move taken directly from the training ground and implemented with perfection!  Goalkeeper and would-be gymnast Gary Fennell came out of goal for the closing minutes and placed the icing on the cake with a fourth goal.  The management team are way too modest to claim Gary's positional move as a stroke of tactical genuis!  The win now ensures that the Town lads go into their last league game knowing a win will secure second place - and fine reward for the efforts they've put in over the last nine weeks, both in training and on the pitch.

Nov 2 U9s put through their paces
Mid term break from school might mean, for some, a putting down of the school books for a week or so.  However, this past mid term break, for a selection of players from the U9 A, B and D sides,it meant a closer inspection of talent on view under the tutelage of coach Lar Mahony, who oversaw a training camp for the selected U9 players at the Arklow Community College.  Word has it that the boys enjoyed being put through their paces at the camp.  He also oversaw an enjoyable afternoon over at the Leisure Centre where players from all our U9 sides participated in a "Dutch" tournament, with rumours abounding that Lar is offering free passes into the nearby Bridgewater Centre for the winners!  Over to you, Lar!

Oct 21 Anthony's hit for seven as A team find their scoring boots
The U9A side secured their biggest win of the season so far when trouncing St. Anthony's 7-1 at the Leisure Centre on Saturday.  A good solid performance from the team with goals coming from Ross Hanley, who scored twice, Peter Tyrrell, Cullan Walsh, Jack Darcy, Stephen McDonald and Conor Dodd.  The U9B side secured a fine point on their travels at unbeaten Newtown.  Despite conceding a goal inside the first five minutes, the team put in a great display and deservedly levelled midway through the second half when Stewart Mills slotted home.  Seasoned observers duly noted the slide on both knees as part of the goal celebration!  Joseph Cummiskey had an excellent game for the Town, a great performance by the lads and a point well earned.

The U9C side put in a committed effort against a very strong Rathnew side, also at the Leisure Centre, but lost out 4-2 to the visitors.  A great move saw the home side taking an early lead with Caleb Briggs Wolohan bravely winning a ball and putting in Cameron Walker who found Dillon Mordaunt in space.  Dillon hammered home with great style to give the home side an early boost.  Rathnew came back strongly, playing with the aid of the wind in the first half and despite some truly outstanding saves from keeper Gary Fennell, the away side went 3-1 up with one or two unstoppable efforts.  A fine individual goal from Cormac O'Shea on the stroke of half time gave the home side hope renewed but a goal conceded even later in the first half was to prove the key to Rathnew's success as no matter what the Town did in the second half they simply could not get that goal required to get back into the game.  The U9D side were without a game this weekend.

Oct 14 Disappointing weekend for everyone
Not the greatest of weekends for our under 9 sides result wise but lest we forget - it's all about going out there and enjoying your game of football: win, lose or draw.  The U9A side travelled to Ballywaltrim to face Ardmore Rovers and though both Neil Murphy and Ross Hanley were on target it wasn't to be as the home side ended up 3-2 winners.  The U9B side let slip a two goal lead when entertaining Wolfe Tone A at the Leisure Centre on Saturday.  Goals from Cal Kelly and Ros McBride, both scoring for the second week running, had put the Town side in front but the visitors came back to steal the points.  The U9C side were fortunate to escape from Ferndale Park with a point most definitely gained after a lethargic display away to Arklow United.  The home side looked lively and much improved from the earlier meeting this season and without a captain's performance from Gary Fennell in goal the Town side would have been trailing.  The Town threatened the United goal sporadically with efforts from Cameron Walker and Cormac O'Shea only inches away from nicking the points.  Michael O'Sullivan had a superb game at right back winning most everything that came his way.  A last gasp attack saw panic in the Town box and somehow the keeper Gary Fennell managed to get a finger to the ball and Michael O'Sullivan a head, to tip the ball onto the bar and over.  The U9D side played Glencormac at the Leisure Centre on Saturday and were pipped 1-0.

Oct 7 Gr-eight day for the 9Cs on their travels
I genuinely don't know where to start when attempting to recall the performance of the U9C team who thrashed Enniskerry's previously high flying B side 8-0 at Bog Meadow earlier today.  We didn't have one obvious oustanding candidate for man of the match - instead all the players, collectively, from the shrill of the referee's opening whistle, to last, gave their all and never, not even once, dropped their tempo. If only every game could be like this!  Arklow attacked from the off and went close inside the first minute when some neat passing between Dillon Mordaunt and Jack Donnelly saw Alex Tyrrell going close with a shot from the edge of the box.  It was to set the tone for the rest of the game. Kyle O'Connor, playing at left back as though born into the role, played a lovely ball up the left flank and in a sweeping move Eoin Kavanagh beat one opponent before slipping a great ball into Jack Donnelly, playing up front alone.

Jack swung on a six-pence and placed a delightful ball into open space for Caleb Briggs-Wolohan, operating on the right wing, to run onto and hammer home the opening goal.  A great goal, particularly for players of this age group, straight from the training ground where the boys have been increasingly working hard on their skills.  Celebrations hadn't long died down when Caleb was in again for his and Arklow's second - a reward for chasing a lost cause and converting it into a goal.  Gary Fennell showed great bravery in goal on more than one occasion as Enniskerry threatened to get back into the match.  With the half time pep talk and jaffa cakes (the real secret of success!) Arklow set about ensuring the victory, having been guilty of letting a 2-0 lead slip on the opening day of the season.

Cameron Walker put Town 3-0 up early into the half and from thereon it was one way only.   Cormac O'Shea was both industrious and creative in midfield and at the hub of most of our attacking play in the second half.  Eoin Kavanagh, operating mainly out wide left, supported Cormac greatly while the back line of Michael O'Sullivan, Gerard Kavanagh and Ciaran Winters were in no mood to concede ground, nevermind goals!  Dillon Mordaunt weighed in with a fourth and then a fifth.  His third goal of the game, and Arklow's sixth, was without doubt the pick of the goals.  A sweeping move from defence saw Eoin Kavanagh playing a deft pass to Cormac O'Shea who was quick to spot Dillon out wide right.  Dillon took the ball, cut inside and from distance opted to shoot with intent. Bang!  Pick.  It.  Out.  When it's your day, it's your day and a wonderful strike from Dillon drew applause from all present.  Two goals in the closing minutes - Dillon's fourth and Cameron's second - capped a truly memorable performance by the team.  More of the same next week boys!  All twelve players deserving a share of the man of the match spoils.

Oct 7 Kelly the hero
The U9B side maintained their challenge for honours with a fine 3-1 win away at Wicklow Rovers with goals from Thomas Rowan, Ros McBride and Cal Kelly netting his first of the season.  Overall, a fine performance from the side, who have started this season in fine promising fashion.  Meanwhile, goals from Brandon Hogan, Tom Maher and two from the lively Patrick O'Brien ensured the points were safely lodged with the U9D side as they swept past Wicklow Rovers C team at the Leisure Centre.  Manager Larry Cullen was delighted with the performance of the team citing each and every player, all contributing greatly to the welcome three points.  Also at the Leisure Centre, on Saturday, the U9A team suffered a minor setback to their league title aspirations with their first defeat of the season, going down 3-4 to Greystones United A.  Despite a brace from Ross Hanley and a strike from Jack Darcy it wasn't to be their day.

Sep 30 O'Connor on the double for B team
Padraic O'Connor scored two goals earlier today for the U9B side as they got back on the winning track when thumping Greystones United B 5-1 at Woodlands in Greystones.  Stewart Mills, Thomas Rowan and Ronan Arthur completed the scoring for the B's to crown a fine team performance.  The A team travelled to Wicklow to face Wicklow Rovers and they preserved their unbeaten start to the season when sharing the spoils, thanks to goals from Peter Tyrrell and Liam Scales.  The U9D side rescued a point away at St. Patrick's, coming from 1-3 down with ten minutes to go to level scores on the full time whistle.  Up in Rathnew, the U9C side were the authors of their own downfall, losing 5-2, with some sloppy defending ensuring Christmas came early for the home side.  A determined effort to get back into the game was undone late on with further defensive lapses - one of those days, never more so when second half keeper Gary Fennell somehow managed to pull off a wonder save, only for the ball to rebound off the post and into the path of a waiting Rathnew striker, to tap home!  On a brighter note, Cormac O'Shea made his debut for the side and can be happy with an impressive first outing for the club.

Sep 23 Gizza game!
Very little action for our 9s sides this weekend with that awful word 'postponed' winning the day.  The only 9s side to feature were the B side who were unfortunately under strength when facing a strong Newtown side who have started this season in fine form.  Despite losing 2-0 at home to Newtown the performance by the team augurs well for the season ahead.

Sep 16 Derby win for U9C team
The Town's U9C deservedly earned the spoils after an enjoyable and sporting match against local rivals Arklow United.  Despite having only nine players on the day the boys gave their all and it was nigh on impossible to select a man of the match, such was the collective effort of all the boys.  However, a special mention must be given to Kyle O'Connor, playing up front, who scored his first ever goals for the Club.  An excellent defence splitting ball midway through the first half by Alex Tyrrell saw Kyle closing in on goal and his finish was clinical.  He gave the Town side some breathing space when slipping a ball through the United defence that somehow eluded all and ended up in the net.  Late on, United rallied and aside some great Town defensive play a goal from the visitors ensured that the outcome of the match remained in doubt until the final whistle.   The U9A team preserved a winning start to the season, a 3-0 victory secured away at St. Anthony's in Kilcoole, goals from Neil Murphy, Jack Darcy and Stephen McDonald.  The U9B side were unlucky to lose 2-1 in a tight match against Wolfe Tone A at Temple Sportsfield.  Ronan Arthur netting Arklow's solitary goal.  The U9Ds lost on their travels, 5-2 at Glencormac, with Morgan Harris scoring both Town goals.

Sep 9 Three out of four ain't bad
Victories for the U9A, U9B and U9D sides on the opening weekend of the season with the U9C unfortunate when losing a close encounter with Wolfe Tones B at the Leisure Centre.  Conor Dodd, Jack Darcy and Cullen Walsh were all on target as the A side overcame the challenge of Wicklow Rovers A.  The B side emerged comfortable winners, defeating Greystones B 6-1, with goals from Thomas Rowan (2), Stewart Mills (2) and one apiece from Cal Kelly and Ros McBride.  We await with great interest vivid descriptions of Stewart Mills' goal celebrations - a noted part of his game over the past two seasons!  The U9Cs can consider themselves unlucky to lose at home to a decent Wolfe Tone B side.  Two well taken goals from Eoin Kavanagh capped a good all round team performance.  The U9D side hit the ground running thumping a Wicklow Rovers side 7-2, with goals from Morgan Harris, Amy Guilfoyle, Patrick O'Brien (2), Tom Maher and Robert Hobson (2).

Aug 25 Training camp for U9A's
The U9A side will enjoy a pre-season training camp this coming week with trainer Lar Mahony (pictured right).  Training commences on Monday for three days, beginning at 12.30pm till 2.30pm.  All attending players must bring the required attire and a drink, preferably water.

Jul 28 New squads announced
We have four under 9 sides playing this upcoming season. Listed below are the four teams competing in this age category:  A, B, C and D. Good luck to all over the coming season.

Under 9A WDSL U9 Prem
Jack Darcy, Jack Somers, Conor Dodd, Cullan Walsh, Darragh Fitzgerald, Peter Tyrrell, Stephen Cullen, Steven McDonald, Neil Murphy, Ross Hanley, Cathal Kelleher, Liam Scales.

Under 9B WDSL U9 Div 1
Ros McBride, Ronan Arthur, Joseph Cummiskey, Daniel Boyle, Thomas Rowan, Stewart Mills, Conor Saunders, Adam Harvey, Cal Kelly, Tom Delahunt, Padraic O'Connor.

Under 9C WDSL U9 Div 3A
Eoin Kavanagh, Dillon Mordaunt, Gary Fennell, Kyle O'Connor, Caleb Wolohan-Briggs, Cameron Walker, Michael O'Sullivan, Jack Donnelly, Gerard Kavanagh, Alex Tyrrell, Ciaran Winters, Cormac O'Shea.

Under 9D WDSL U9 Div 3B
Brandon Hogan, Niall Kinsella, Robert Hobson, Amy Guilfoyle, Conor Larkin, Shauna Waddrin, Patrick O'Brien, Morgan Harris, John Rose, Conor Ahearne, Tom Maher.