Celtic v. Shillelagh

READERS of the Bray and Wicklow People were informed that for the first time in 10 years there would be a new name on the Aughrim Motors Skoda Wicklow Cup besides that of Rathnew (seven wins) or Enniskerry (three wins) who had both dominated since 1994 when Arklow Celtic A and Shillelagh United met in the final of the blue riband event that coming Sunday.

Celtic were hoping to mark their 25th anniversary by claiming the prestigious crown while a useful Shillelagh United were not there just to make up the numbers.

Peter Walker’s Arklow Celtic A had already suffered two final defeats in the season to date, falling to Roundwood in the Charlie Bishop Cup decider and succumbing to St. Peter’s in the Premier Shield.

‘Our lads will be up for it, make no mistake about it,’ said Walker. ‘It’s been a tough, long season. After the two losses in the finals, we know we have to go out and win it,’ he added.

Shillelagh United’s club secretary, Liam Connaughton, said that Arklow Celtic were going into the final as certain favourites after their season and the fact that they had beaten his side by 7-1 earlier in the year.

‘On that result and what they’ve done this season will make them favourites. They will also be out to prove a few things after the week they’ve had,’ he said.

Arklow Celtic went on to win the final by 1-0 thanks to a goal from Gavin Doyle. We’ll be reflecting on that win in our 30 Years of the Wicklow Cup feature in a few months time.