Shillelagh withdraw

SHILLELAGH UNITED’S withdrawal from the top flight has aided some teams, while it has hampered others.

Wicklow Town A and St. Fergal’s AFC A were the big beneficiaries – collecting six points apiece, while Arklow Town, Ashford Rovers and Rathnew AFC A all received three points each as a result of the Ballard club’s decision.

Rathnew AFC A intend on making things as difficult as possible for their title rivals. The Villagers opened up a four point gap at the top of the Premier Division table on Thursday courtesy of a mauling of Arklow United A at Shamrock Park.

Mark Doyle added a match ball to his growing collection with a hat-trick against the Arklow men. Colin Cassidy, Nicky Mernagh and Jay Taylor also got in on the act to complete the 6-1 rout of the men from Ferndale Park.

Jason Carey restored some pride for the visitors with a goal but it was nothing more than consolation for United.

The seventh placed side were in action again on Sunday as they hosted relegation rivals St. Fergal’s AFC B.

They fared a whole lot better in this one as they picked up a point against the Bray side.

Carey was not on target on this occasion but Richie Neary and Eoin Brennan were as they earned a 2-2 draw. Padraig Devlin and Glen Joyce found the net for the Saints.