29/12/06 - Schoolboy teams enjoy Christmas/New Year break

All out schoolboy teams are now enjoying their winter break. Fixtures are due to resume action on the weekend 12/13 January 2007.

This is also the weekend that the local authority pitches reopen.

28/12/06 - NDSL Christmas Tournament

Skerries Town will be represented in this year s NDSL Christmas Tournament by our under 8s (Paul Kenny managing) and our under 10s (Tommy O Brien managing) This year s tournament take place outdoors on the Astro pitches at the Oscar Traynor Road Training and Development Centre (OTDC) a change from last years venue at Gormanstown College. Paul Kenny s under 8s are currently the cup holders and head to this year s event full of confidence.

We wish both teams the best of luck

27/12/06 - Small-sided game review

As we are now in our winter break, it s an opportune time to review our small-side teams activities in the opening period of the season. </o:p>

Our under 8s are finding their respective leagues hard going. Our 8A team under Paul Kenny is still looking for it s first league win while the 8B1 team, under Ger Fogarty, have just one win from four games but are encouraged as all their defeats were by a single goal.

Our under 9s are also finding the going difficult. The under 9B team, under Kieran Mullen, have just a single point from three starts. The league review in November did this team little favours. However, this team can look forward to a better time in 2007 as their defeats to date were all by a single goal and against the leading league teams. The 9C1 team managed by Aidan Doyle have made a fine start, collecting 4 points from their opening 2 games.

At under 10 level, our 10B1 another team that came under the November review have just played one game and are waiting their first points. The 10A 9-a-side team under Tommy O Brien have started well with 2 wins from their 3 starts. Their only loss was to league leaders Ashbourne. The 10B 9-a-side team under the guidance of Jose Azzapardi have also started well with a win and a loss in their opening 2 games.

All of the above teams have been involved in cup games recently and as the season progresses we will report on those.

23/12/06 - Christmas Raffle Results

The result of the Skerries Town Christmas Raffle is as follows;

1st       Ben O Brien

2nd      Ken Dolan

3rd       Maureen Byrne

4th       Pat Campbell

5th       Denis Murphy

6th       Josh McGough        

Skerries Town would like to thank all those who supported this event.

22/12/06 - Kids Acadamy Christmas Party  

The Kids Academy finished up a very successful year with a party for over 60 KA members in the Clubhouse. Santa dropped in to hand out some goodies and by all accounts a great time was had by all. The club would like to thank all the coaches Aoife, Ami, Clodagh, Aidan, Gavin and Kevin for their continued help and wish them a happy and peaceful Christmas.

The KA is delighted to welcome Ross Hopkins to our coaching panel. Ross is a member of the under 18 squad and as part of his college studies is involved with football coaching. We hope he has a enjoyable time with us.

21/12/06 - Chairman's Christmas message

We are now enjoying our first break since the season started last September.

Although the weather hasn’t been kind in the past few weeks, most of our teams have managed to get some games in and, overall, I think we can be happy with our performances and can look forward to the rest of the season with confidence.

Now, however, it is the time of year when we can relax and forget about fixtures at the week-end, away trips, referees, opponents, arranging transport and all that goes with keeping our teams on the field of play.

May I, on behalf of Skerries Town F.C. wish you all – Players, Managers, Coaches, Drivers, Supporters and Management Committee members who contribute a huge effort on your behalf – a Very Happy, Peaceful and enjoyable Christmas.

Enjoy the break and let’s look forward to a successful 2007!!!

John Gahan
Chairman

18/12/06 - Kids Academy play Loughshinny  

The Skerries Town Kids Academy under fives had a very enjoyable friendly game against near neighbours in Loughshinny recently. In all 11 of the KA members took part and a sizable number of parents travelled to see the action. As in all good friendly between neighbours the game ended on level terms 5-5.   Skerries Kids Academy would like to thank Kieran Rogan of Loughshinny for his help in organising this game and further games are planned. Our photo shows the Skerries squad after the game.

The Skerries Town Kids Academy under fives had a very enjoyable friendly game against near neighbours in Loughshinny recently. In all 11 of the KA members took part and a sizable number of parents travelled to see the action. As in all good friendly between neighbours the game ended on level terms 5-5.  

Skerries Kids Academy would like to thank Kieran Rogan of Loughshinny for his help in organising this game and further games are planned. Our photo shows the Skerries squad after the game.

photo

17/12/06 - Seniors Draw with Tolka  

Tolka Rovers     2    2    Skerries Town  

Skerries travelled to Frank Cooke Park for this Senior Division encounter with Tolka Rovers and came away with a well earned 2-2 draw.

Skerries playing a 4-4-2 formation with Gary Woodhead and John Donnelly anchoring midfield enjoyed the better of the exchanges in the opening period but without creating a clear cut chance. Tolka for their part were happy to pass the ball across midfield and keep possession. 

Skerries needed to keep concentrating as the first occasion Tolka did venture into the Skerries half they had the ball in the Skerries net but was ruled out as Barbour was well offside. It was Skerries who created the first clear opening on 15 minutes and it resulted in the opening goal of the game. Good work down the left by Bolger, Kelly and Beggs allowed Kelly to cross low and hard into the Rovers area. The pace of the cross seemed to confuse the Tolka defenders to allow Beattie power the ball home at the back post.

Both teams were now playing good attacking football. Skerries continued to create chances. On 22 minutes Beggs should have extended the Skerries lead when he shot wide from a good position after Beattie's pace made the opening. Two minutes later Moore and Beggs combined but Beggs was flagged offside. For Tolka Dean Kelly worked himself into a good position but shot high and wide. The impressive Barbour also shot wide when well placed. As the half drew to a close Skerries were forced to defend in numbers as Tolka pressed forward in search of an equaliser. In the space of minutes Tolka should have been on level terms. On 37 minutes Dean Kelly saw his cross come shot headed to safety by Gahan from just under the bar. From the resulting corner  Mahon shot wide from 6 yards with only Byrne to beat. Three minutes later a Barbour run and cross from the right fell to Whelehan who side footed wide from 8 yards with the goal at his mercy. The half time whistle couldn't come soon enough for Skerries but make it to the break they did with the slender 1 nil lead.

Tolka, however, started the second half as they ended the first, on the attack. Tolka midfielder Whelehan made Byrne go full stretch to tip over a drive from 25 yards. The pressure finally told on Sherries after 55 minutes. Bolger's poor clearance fell to Dean Kelly some 25 yards out. Kelly immediately controlled the ball and released a thunderbolt to beat Byrne low down at his right hand post.

Influential winger and goal scorer Steven Beattie was replaced by Gallagher after he sustained a nasty leg gash. To their credit Skerries re-grouped and immediately went in search of another score. Neat play involving Donnelly, Woodhead and Bolger set Kelly free down the left. His pin-point cross found Moore free in the Tolka box and he powered a header home past the helpless Cranley. Moore then got himself booked for kicking the ball away and as the tackles started to fly in Kelly and Barbour got a strong talking to by referee Coyle. The well organised Skerries defence where frustrating Tolka time after time as their Rovers attacks were ended with an offside flag. Barbour, Kelly Maher were all caught off side in quick succession. However, the Skerries off side trap was finally beaten on 70 minutes. Dean Kelly collected the ball on the half way line and somehow wriggled his way around Langan and Doherty and ran direct at the Skerries goal. As Byrne advance he cooly slotted home for his and Tolka's second of the game.  

Tolka introduced Molloy and his pace was an immediate concert for Skerries. His first action was a neat pass to set up Barbour who raced into the Skerries area. Barbour sensing the challenge of Gahan and Donnelly went over a little too easily and was shown the yellow card for his trouble. The 90 minutes and 5 extra of added time failed to seperate the two sides. Skerries will be more happier with the point than Tolka. After the game stand-in manager Johnny Beggs had that contented smile on his face. I'm happy with the point but more importantly I'm happy with the way we played today. I think that was out best performance so far this term. We gave as good as we got against a very good Tolka side. It's just what we needed before the Christmas break. said Johnny.   

Skerries Town: Byrne, Gahan, Bolger, Doherty, Lanagan, Beattie (Gallagher), Woodhead, Donnelly (O'Flaherty) (Barlow), Kelly, Moore, Beggs   

Tolka Rovers: Cranley, Quinn, Garvan, Mahan, Muleady, Whelehan, Kearns, Barbour, Kelly, Doyle, Maher, Subs: Molloy, McGowan, Moylan, Kelly, Donnelly

14/12/06 - Christmas Raffle defferred for a week

The Christmas draw has been deferred for a week. This will give sellers a bit more time to seel your tickets.to Friday 22 December...same venue and time.

All ticket stubs and cash mustnow be returned to the Club House by Tuesday December 19th or at the very, very latest, Thursday December 21st as the draw is scheduled to take place on Friday December 22th in the Gladstone bar.

14/12/06 - Annual Charity Match

The club's annual charity match takes place on New Year's Day at 2.00 p.m. in the Park when Bolger's Battlers will be seeking revenge for their penalty shoot out defeat by Walsh's Warriors in last year's match. Proceeds from the event will go to the Andy Murray Fund. Andy sufferd a horrific injury while playing for Glebe North earlier in the season. He will require extensive rehabilitation and therapy.

Please give this event your full support.

13/12/06 - Skerries Fail Inter Test

Skerries Town    1        2    Kildrum Tigers

Skerries Town are out of the Intermediate Cup after a 2-1 home defeat to Kildrum Tigers of Donegal. Kildrum made the long trip to Skerries for what was an historic occasion for them as this was their first clash against a team from outside Donegal in this competition.

Skerries stared the better and in the first minute hit the cross bar following a corner on the left. Right winger Steven Beattie was causing Kildrum's left back Callaghan problems with his pace and on 5 minutes Beattie's run and cross set up Brendan Moore but Moore shot straight at Roulstone in the Tiger's goal. Kildrum created chances themselves mainly through the pace of forward McDonald.

On 23 minutes Kildrum opened the scoring. A corner on the right was missed by all the Skerries defenders and McDonald standing all alone at the back post could hardly miss from 6 yards. The goal totally changed the pattern of the game. Kildrum were more confident and Glen Bovaird and Garrett Callaghan were now winning the mid field battles while Paul Lynch at centre back was dominant in the air. Kildrum ended the half with two chances of increasing their lead. First Coyle fired wide when in a good position and then Hegarty s run and shot tested Byrne in the Skerries goal. However, right on the stroke of half time Skerries were unlucky not to level. Moore beat Paul Callaghan to the ball just outside the Kildrum area and crossed to Beggs who shot immediately only for a combination the post and keeper Roulstone the ball was diverted to safety.

Skerries started the second half as they had started the first, on the attack. Within the opening 5 minutes O'Flaherty shot over with the keeper Roulstone beaten. Beggs had a shot charged down by Callaghan with a goal looking all over it and Davey shot wide after being set up by Gallagher. On 55 minutes Skerries were level. Bolger was fouled on the halfway line and as he tried to take a quick free kick Garrett Callaghan prevented him from doing so and was booked. The free kick now moved up 10 yards forward was floated into the Kildrum area. Kildrum failed to clear and Davey blasted home from 10 yards.

This was nothing more than Skerries deserved. However, Skerries were only level for 9 minutes. A long ball into the Skerries area was controlled by Ronan Coyle who immediately passed to Gareth Mullen and with some neat footwork turned and shot high past a helpless Byrne in the Skerries goal.

Skerries again went in search of an equaliser but efforts by Bolger and Moore were well off the mark. On 33 minutes Skerries were reduced to 10 men when Davey was given his marching orders for pushing over a Kildrum player Russell Porter. 

Skerries threw caution to the wind in search of an equaliser. Kelly and Doherty were pushed forward more. This approach nearly paid dividends when on 86 minutes Kelly's run and cross found Beggs in the Kildrum area but his shot was blocked by the very impressive Lynch. A minute later Woodhead saw his goal bound shot hacked off the line by Mark Callaghan and away to safety.

Now on all out attack Skerries left themselves vulnerable at the back and as the game entered stoppage time Tigers sub Johnny McGinty should have added a third. He somehow shot wide with an open goal at his mercy.

The Ulster Senior League side possibly deserved this win and can look forward to the next round draw. Skerries on the other hand must concentrate on the league programme ahead and the challenge of moving up the table.That challenge starts next Sunday with an away fixture at Tolka Rovers.

Skerries Team: Byrne, Gahan, Kelly, Doherty, Bolger, Gallagher (Woodhead), Beggs, Moore (Hurley), Connolly (Davey), O'Flaherty, Not used: Donnelly and Barlow. </o:p>

Kildrum Tigers: Roulstone, Kelly, Mark Callaghan, Paul Callaghan, Lynch, Porter, Bovaird, Garrett Callaghan, McDonald, Coyle, Hegarty. </o:p>

06/12/06 - Annual Christmas Raffle

This enterprise is a vital Fund Raiser for our Club and therefore, we're calling on all Team Managers to give us your maximum co-operation to ensure that we achieve a "Sell Out".

The basic idea is that each of your players is asked to sell 2 books of tickets and as each book has a bonus of €10.00 to the seller, your players can retain €20.00 for themselves.

As the sales performance of each team will be closely monitored we are offering a team incentive bonus. Therefore, the teams that sell all of their allocated tickets will receive a bonus prize as a reward for giving our Club their maximum support.
All ticket stubs and cash must be returned to the Club House by Tuesday December 12th or at the very, very latest, Thursday December 14th (after training) as the draw is scheduled to take place on Friday December 15th.

This Fund Raising Ticket Raffle can only work if we have the full support and co-operation of you as Manager of your team and therefore, it's really important that you play an active role in making sure that all tickets are sold.

Thanking you kindly for your co-operation in this regard, if you have any questions please don't hesitate to contact me or any of the other Committee Members.

John Gahan - Club Chairnam

05/12/06 - Senior Match Reports

Skerries Seniors draw with Malahide

Skerries Town 1        1    Malahide United  

Skerries manager Alan Sweeney made a number of changes to this week's starting 11. In came Martin Beggs and Graham O'Flahery both returning after injury. Also restored was Neil Gallagher who was away getting married. Congrat to him. While Brendan Moore was not available for personal reasons. John Donnelly and Cian Connolly dropped to the bench which also included Cathal Hurley.   

Skerries Town came face to face with north Fingal rivals Malahide United for the first time at Senior Division level. The rain and high winds made the efforts of the players to play good football almost impossible. Skerries adopted to the conditions better than Malahide and made the best possible start when taking the lead within the opening 5 minutes. The combination of a Bolger long throw to the head of Doherty to flick on normally works a treat. This time Doherty went solo when he somehow swivelled in mid air to nod the ball past Cummins in the Malahide goal.  

Skerries continured to create chances but mostly from distance. Firstly, Gahan shot wide from 25 yards, O'Flaherty raced in on goal but was unable to hit the target and Beattie had two efforts but none troubled the Malahide keeper. On 20 minutes a long kick out by Skerries keeper Byrne was flicked on by Kelly from all of 35 yards and with the Malahide scrambling a combination of his hand and crossbar the ball dropped just over. Skerries screamed for a corner, referee Kearney pointed for a goal kick.

It took Malahide 23 minutes to create their first real opening. A good attacking run and cross down the right forced Doherty to concede a corner on the right. As the ball was again fired into the area from the resulting corner Langan and Davey combined to half clear. As the ball was returned into the Skerries area it bobbled around the Skerries 6 yard box until finally Gahan cleared.  

As the half entered it's final period Skerries again went on the attack.Beattie picked up the ball wide on the left, cut inside and as he was about to shoot, was fouled just outside the area.Beggs fired the resulting free weak and wide. The final action of the half was another Skerries attack. A fine ball across the Malahide 6 yard box but Beggs just failed to make contact at the back post.  

The second half was only a minute old when Skerries midfielder Kelly blasted a shot at the Malahide goal but Cummins somehow got a hand to the ball to turn it over for a corner. For the next 20 minutes or so neither team threatened and the game was mainly played in the middle third of the park. Even with the advantage of a now very strong wind blowing in their back Malahide were unable to create any clear cut chances against the well organised Skerries defence.  However, in the 67 minute Malahide got the break their pay hardly deserved. Kelly was in possession of the ball outside the Skerries area and as he went to clear he seemed to injured himself and fell to the ground. Malahide forward griffin reacted quickly and nipped in to pick up the loose ball. He still had plenty to do but from 20 yards steered his shot high and wide to the right of the diving Byrne in the Skerries goal.  

Both side continued to press for a winner but neither could produce the one bit of magic that would claim all three points. The draw keeps Skerries out of the two relegation spots. Skerries Manager Alan Sweeney was happy with the draw. "It could have went either way. We could have won. They could have won. So I suppose a draw was the fairest result"  

Team: Byrne, Gahan, Langan, Doherty, Bolger, Davey (Connolly), Gallagher, Kelly (Donnelly) Beattie, Beggs, O'Flaherty (Hurley)      

Major Team draw with UCD  

The Skerries Major team remain in a share of top spot went they went to UCD on Saturday and came away with a 1 all draw. Skerries opened the scoring on 22 minutes when Connolly fired them in front with a fine drive from 20 yards. UCD were awarded a penalty as the half came to a close when Beggs was adjudged to have fouled inside the area but Farrell in the Skerries goal saved with his legs to keep Skerries ahead at the break.

Aided by a strong wind in the second half UCD piled on the pressure and questions were really being asked of the Skerries rearguard. Beggs, Kane and Sheridan were outstanding during this period but Skerries failure to keep position meant it was only a matter of time before UCD would get on level terms. So they did with 10 minutes remaining. A long ball into the Skerries box was fired to the net by an inrushing forward. To Skerries credit they kept their composure to hold out for a well deserved draw.

This draw keeps both side at the top of the table on 20 points and 4 points clear of 3rd placed Loughlinstown Celtic.

Next week Skerries are at home to Orwell in the first of their encounters with the Southside club.    

Lummy O'Reilly Cup win for Premier Team.  

Our Premier side advanced to the 2nd round with a comfortable 2-1 over fellow Premier side AFC Belgrave. Having lost twice to AFC in their league encounters Skerries got a sort of revenge in winning this cup tie. A goal in the opening 5 minutes from Kevin Farrell started Skerries on their way. Skerries should have increased their lead in the opening half but were unable to do so.

Skerries pressure was rewarded in the opening minute of the second half. Stuart Mangan converted from the penalty spot to increase the Skerries lead. AFC pulled a goal back with 10 minutes remaining but the result was never in doubt and Skerries ran out easy winners.

It's back to league action for Skerries next week with an away game at Malahide. Skerries were 5-2 victors in the early November encounter in Skerries and with Malahide at the foot of the table, Skerries will be looking for all 3 points that are on offer.

29/11/06 - Awards Night A success                              photos

Skerries Town recently held the Annual Awards night in the Clubhouse at Park Lane. A large number gathered and all had an enjoyable evening. Chairman John Gahan welcomed all present and thanked everyone for his or her commitment over the last 12 months or so. He particularly thanked Paul Walsh for his efforts with the Skerries Town / St James Gate protest. He also thanked outgoing Chairman Owen O Brien for what he described as the tremendous work done during his four-year term.
The senior mens team were presented with their Division 1 runners up medals while the under 17 team were presented with their Dublin North League and Grehan Cup winners medals.
Paul Walsh got the biggest cheer of the evening when he was announced as the Club-person of the Year. A popular choice with all.
From a short list of 3 Eamon Byrne collected the Senior Player of the Year trophy for his exploits between the sticks.
Merit awards were presented to Siobhan O Brien, Tony O Brien and Pat Lacy for their dedication to the 7-a-side section of the club over a number of years. While Jacque Farrell received a similar award for her commitment to the Ladies Section.

The full list of honours is:

Club-person of the Year - Paul Walsh
Senior Player of the year - Eamon Byrne
Major Player of the Year - Paul Kane
Young Senior Player of the Year - Keith Coleman
Youth Player of the Year - Johnny Garrett
7-a-side Manager of the Year - Tommy O Brien
11-a-side Manager of the Year - Liam Heffernan

Merit Awards :-
Siobhan O Brien
Tony O Brien
Pat Lacy
Jacque Farrell

27/11/06 - Seniors unlucky to lose to Bangor

Bangor Celtic            2            1            Skerries Town

Skerries travelled to Whitehall Road to take on 2nd placed Bangor Celtic in this LSL Senior Division clash last Sunday and were somewhat unlucky to lose by the odd goal in 3. Skerries dominated for long periods during the opening half and a neutral would have been hard pressed to say which of the teams was pressing for league honours. The work rate of Skerries totally frustrated the Bangor side who resorted to some tough tackling. Kelly was hacked down by Mitchell and Doherty twice within a few minutes was the victim of some rough stuff from Durkin. Referee Reale dished out warnings but kept the cards firmly in his pocket but when Doherty dished out a bit of the same on Durkin near the corner flag Reale was quick to brandish a yellow.

All the chances in that opening period fell to Skerries. On 17 minutes Kelly made a strong run into the area but shot weak and wide. Beattie shot on the half volley but failed to hit the target following a poor clearance from Carroll in the Bangor goal. On 20 minutes, following a free kick from Bolger, Moore turned and flashed a drive over from just outside the area.

As the half came to a close Skerries were awarded a number throws near the corner flag as Bangor came under more and more pressure from the well organised Skerries side. It was from one of these throws that Skerries opened the scoring. Bolger launched the ball into the six-yard box Doherty flicked on and Davey was on hand to force the ball over the line.

After the restart Bangor were a much more fired up outfit and Bangor were level after only 6 minutes. Skerries were forced to defend deep in their own half and for once the rock solid Skerries defence was breached by Mooney who fired past a stranded Byrne in the Skerries goal.

Bangor continued to force Skerries back and Skerries were having to defend in numbers. Gahan was forced to head clear from under the bar. Langan and Doherty were forced into last-ditch tackles to keep the sides level. On 75 minutes, as Skerries seemed to have weathered the Bangor storm Mooney darted into the penalty area from the left. He seemed to have over run the ball, as Doherty came to make a challenge. Mooney went to ground very easy and referee Reale adjudged the "challenge" warranted a penalty much to the annoyance of the Skerries support. Courtney slotted home the spot kick. </o:p>

Skerries replaced Gahan with Woodhead but Skerries were unable to find an equaliser. In the final minute, however, O Flaherty nearly grabbed a goal from nothing. Collecting the ball on the edge of the Bangor box, he turned a shot narrowly wide with the Carroll well beaten.

And so it ended for the second week in a row, an excellent performances but no points to show. Skerries have now played the teams placed second and third in the league in quick succession and in both games should have gained some points. The Skerries players and management can take a lot of encouragement from both games and it's fair to say that if Skerries keep putting in performances like that they will rise up the table.

Team: Byrne, Gahan (Woodhead), Langan, Doherty, Bolger (O Flaherty), Beattie, Kelly, Connolly, Donnelly, Davey, (Hurley), Moore. Not used: Jenkinson.

Next week Skerries are at home to fellow Fingal side Malahide United. This promised to be another full blooded encounter and one Skerries can look forward to. Malahide are a hard team to beat only having 2 defeats in 10 league starts. The game at Park Lane is scheduled for a morning kick off due to the FAI Cup Final. See match day posters for full details.

27/11/06 - Major Team win again

Skerries Majors had a convincing 3-0 away win over St. James Athletic last Saturday. Mark Costello, scoring his first goal of the season, opened the scoring in the first half. Skerries added a second before the break when McDonagh fired home. Robbie Klingen wrapped up the points for Skerries with a third late in the second half. Skerries remain in a share of the top spot on 19 points with UCD who also won at home to Glenville. Another impressive show from Darren Barlow managed side.

Next week Skerries are away to UCD at Belfield. When the sides met in September the game finished 1-1. This final encounter will go a long way in deciding the title as both sides are level at the top of the league on 19 points each. It should be a cracker and not to be missed.

27/11/06 - Premier Side win

Skerries Premier side moved to within 1 point of the league leaders St Pats CY with a very impressive second half performance over Walkinstown Athletic at Park Lane last Saturday. Skerries were 1 nil up at the break thanks to an OG by the Athletic centre back after 5 minutes. Three-second half strikes however, settled this tie. Seamus Farrell started the scoring when he curled a beauty to the top corner of the net from 20 yards on 55 minutes. Seven minutes later following a flowing move involving Potter and Kevin Farrell, Danny Cripps finished with a low drive from just inside the area. Kevin Farrell rounded off a great team performance with a left foot strike on the stroke of full time.

Next week the Premier side have a rest for league action as they are involved in the 1st round of the Lummy O'Reilly Cup, a cup won by Skerries in the season 94/95. They are drawn at home to fellow league contenders AFC Belgrave. 

The is a chance for the Premiers to gain some revenge after two league defeats to AFC this season. Back in August Skerries lost 1-0 at home and at the end of October Skerries suffered a 2-1 defeat in the return fixture.

27/11/06 - Skerries feature in Evening Herald.

The Bangor Celtic v Skerries Town Senior Division league game is the feature game in this Monday (27 November) Evening Herald. Have a look at Niall Feery's match report plus team photos and a single photo of Steven Beattie.

23/11/06 - Club Coaches

Skerries Town are delighted to welcome on board coaches Kane Lynch, Dave Thomas and Jude McKenna.

Kane has responsibility for the DDSL senior schoolboys section i.e. under 15, 17 and 18 sides. He will work along side the team existing managers to help improve the skill base of the players and prepare them for senior football next term.

Dave is looking after the age groups under 11 to under 14 inclusive, which play in the NDSL. Like Kane he will work along side the existing team managers to help prepare these players for the final phase of their schoolboy education.

Jude is coaching in the 7-a-side section. Again he works with the existing managers and we expect his well of experience to be of great benefit both to players and the managers alike.

We wish all 3 a happy stay with us. A fuller profile of each will appear later.

23/11/06 - Celtic Cup Squad

Congratulations to Aaron Wynne and Daire Grimes who are currently training with the NDSL under 11 representitive squad. This squad is due to play in the Celtic Cup, which takes place in Dublin later this year. We wish both players the best of luck.

22/11/06 - Skerries unlucky to lose to Crumlin  

Skerries Town    0    1    Crumlin United  

Skerries entertained 3rd place Crumlin United at a wet and windy Park Lane last Sunday. Manager Alan Sweeney stared with the same 11 that started against Moyle Park the previous week. This meant that Martin Beggs, Niall Bolger and Trevor Langan had recover from knocks sustained in that game. Graham O'Flaherty was missing with a back strain.

Skerries started the brighter and controlled the opening period with some good passing movements. Moore flashed a shot wide while a free kick on the right from Hurley had keeper Goodall scrambling across his goal. The best effort came on 22 minutes from Connolly. Connolly picked up the ball in midfield and played a neat 1-2 with Moore on the edge of the box but just as he was about to shoot Crumlin centre back Kavanagh made a telling challenge. Crumlin came more and more into the game as the half came to an end. Loughran and Fahy both had half chances by Byrne saved well. The opening period of the second half was much more even affair. Crumlin centre back McCabe advanced into the Skerries half, played a neat pass to Fahy but his low drive was turned away by Byrne at the expense of a corner. Byrne had to be alert again 5 minutes later when Kenna fired a snap shot goalward but again the keeper turned the ball away for a corner.

Skerries also had their chances. The best when Kelly, who had replaced Hurley at half time, was played through just on the edge of the box but was thwarted by Goodall racing from his goal. With Crumlin taking more a hold on the game Skerries introduced Woodhead and under 18 star Heffernan for Donnelly and Davey on 70 minutes. The tempo of the game increased as both side looked for the opening score. On 75 minutes the goal to settle this contest arrived. Woodhead fouled Loughran near the corner flag. From the resulting free Kenna power a header past the helpless Byrne in the Skerries goal.

Skerries pressed forward and forced a number of corners in quick secession. from one of those corners on the right the ball Woodhead fired an inswinger into a crowded area and Goodall could only palm the ball for another corner. Again Skerries played the ball into the box and with bodies all over the place the ball went harmlessly wide. Within minutes Connolly was taken down by Kavanagh but Woodhead shot straight at Goodall. With 5 minutes remaining Skerries created the best chance of an equaliser. A long ball from defence was brilliantly controlled by Beggs who immediately set up Kelly 20 yards from the Crumlin goal. Kelly chipped the ball over the advancing Goodall only to see his effort bounce on the cross bar and wide. So it ended 1-0 to Crumlin who will be mighty relieved to have won the game. For Skerries they certainly deserved a share of the spoils.  

Team: Byrne, Gahan, Langan, Doherty, Bolger, Hurley (Kelly HT), Donnelly (Woodhead 70) , Connolly, Davey (Heffernan 70) Beggs, Moore. Subs not Used: Hopkins and Jenkinson.    

22/11/06 - Intermediate Cup Draw.  

Skerries Town have a home draw against the winners of Letterkenny Rovers and Kildrum Tigers in the next round of the Intermediate Cup. The tie takes place Sunday 10 December with 2pm kick off.      

22/11/06 - Skerries Premier side win at Rovers  

The Skerries Premier side travelled to Shamrock Rovers on Saturday and came away with a very impressive 2-1 win. After exerting all the pressure, hitting the woodwork 4 times, in the opening half Skerries found themselves a goal down at the break. Skerries continued in the second half where they left off in the first pressing Rovers into their own half and created chance after chance. It seemed it was going to be one of those days as Skerries piled on the pressure but due to a combination of bad luck and good goalkeeping by the Rovers keeper Skerries could not score. Then on 63 minutes the break through finally came, Kevin Farrell firing Skerries level with beautiful strike.

Within 10 minutes brother Seamus scored an equally brilliant goal to put Skerries ahead. However, Skerries sat back in the final period and allowed Rovers chances they never deserved and Skerries have keeper Peter O'Brien to thank for collecting all 3 points when in the final minutes he must have made 3 top class saves.

Manager Dave Barnes was delighted with this result. This was our best performance of the season so far he beamed after the final whistle sounded.  

22/11/06 - Jack Irwin Cup - Under 9.  

The weather was the winner of the schoolboy football last weekend but one game that did go ahead was Skerries Town Under 9 vs. Kilbarrack Jack Irwin Cup.Skerries travelled to Kilbarrack and came away with an impressive 8-2 win. Goals from Aaron Mullen (3), Brian McDonald (2) and one each from Owen Dennis, Cieran Frawley and Emmett O'Neill. However by all accounts the man of the match award goes to Martin O'Neill who had a impressive game for the winners.

22/11/06 - Referee Dave Fisher ill

A sad note of the Skerries Town/Crumlin United game last Sunday was that match official Dave Fisher took ill minutes into the game. Dave had to leave the field and received medical attention from the Skerries Town doctor. We wish dave a speedy recovery and hope he's back in action very soon.

17/11/06 - Annual Race Night  

Calling all Skerries Town supporters.  

Skerries Town are hosting a RACE NIGHT in Skerries Sailing Club on Friday 24 November. The first race goes to post at 9pm. Entry on the night is 2. I understand that this Sunday 19 November is the final date for declarations. So, to enter a runner, become a jockey or trainer talk to any committee member before then. These are priced at 20 each  

Anyone out there who has a business or knows anyone in business who would like to show their support of the Club by sponsoring a race ( 200 or placing an advertisement ( 100 and 150) in the Race Night Programme may do so by contacting a committee member.

17/11/06 - Senior Weekend Reviews  

It's will not be easy to repeat the performances of last week of 4 wins out of 4 but lets give it a bash.

On Saturday, the Major side travel to Orwell looking to build on their recent good form. Orwell with only one league defeat this season, a surprising 4-0 defeat to Malahide United, have an excellent home record and understandably have designs on promotion.

The Premier side are also away, to Shamrock Rovers in the battle of the Green and White Hoops. Rovers are in good form right now and had a good 2-1 away win over Peamount last week. Skerries fresh from last week's win will be hoping to make two in a row.

On Sunday the Seniors are at home to Crumlin United. Crumlin had no game last week as they had Paul McCabe and Dan Loughran on duty with the LSL Intermediate squad in the Michael Ward Trophy. Loughran in fact netted 3 times for the "Inters" The Skerries defence will have to produce a performance like the second half last week at Moyle Park to keep him off the score sheet.         

17/11/06 - Intermediate Cup Draw  

Skerries have a home advantage in the next round of the Intermediate Cup. Skerries play the winners of Letterkenny Rovers FC and Kildrum Tigers FC. The tie takes place on Sunday 10 December KO 2pm.

16/11/06 - Kids Academy - Membership now closed

The KA caters for the little legs of Skerries in the 5, 6 and 7 age bracket. Numbers have grown steadily since the re-start in September and regrettably the KA must now close membership. KA director Noeleen Bolger says "We have over 70 members at present with in excess of 50 attending each week. This is the most we can cater for given the time and space available to us" Noeleen has set up a reserve list and parents wishing to have their children included should contact Noeleen @ 087 2802255. Any vacancies in the KA will be filled from this list.
The Skerries Town Kids Academy which takes place each Saturday at Park Lane from 10-11.30am with additional coaching for the 7 year olds in Skerries Community Centre each Wednesday from 6-7pm.
The KA will announce a new sponsor in the next week or so. The KA would like to thank Tommy O'Brien and Penco for their sponsorship over the last number of years.

16/11/06 - NDSL Christmas Mini League

The NDSL Christmas Mini competition normal held in Gormanstown moves this year to the Astro Pitch at the NDSL Oscar Traynor Road Complex. The mini leagues are open to teams completing in the NDSL leagues and for the age groups under 7, 8, 9 and 10. The event takes place on Saturday 30 December.
Team managers from Skerries wishing to enter should contact The Club Secretary as soon as possible as places are limited to 8 teams per age group.

16/11/06 - LFA Youth Cup Draw

Skerries Town have received a bye in the 2nd round draw of the LFA Youth Cup. The 2nd round ties take place over the weekend 18/19 November. Last year Skerries reached the semi final of this competition.

15/11/06 - Ronan in DDSL Youth Squad

Skerries Town under 18 keeper Ronan Jenkinson was on duty last Sunday with the Dublin& District Schoolboys League (DDSL) Youth team in their FAI Inter League Youth Cup game vs the North Dublin Schoolboys League. While Ronan was not selected to start, the sending off  of first choice keeper Donal Greene, after only 15, allowed Ronan his chance. Ronan helped 10 man DDSL to win the game 2-1.

Later this month Ronan travels to Belfast with the DDSL team for the Gerry Donnelly Cup, an annual event between the DDSL and Belfast Youths. We wish him well.

15/11/06 - 7a-side Cup Weekend

This weekend 18 November see the first round games in all the NDSL 7-a-side cup competitions. All of our teams are in action with our under 8A, under 9C1 and under 10B1 having home advantage. See fixtures section for full details.

14/01/06 - Good weekend for Senior teams

Last weekend was a very good one for the Skerries senior teams.

On Saturday the Major team beat league leaders Loughlinstown Celtic 1-0. The all important score coming 10 minutes into the second half from the penalty spot when player manager Darren Barlow converted. This victory means that Skerries join Loughlinstown Celtic and Dalkey United at the top on 16 points but crucially with a game in hand over their rivals.

Across the road in the Sand Siro the Dave Barnes managed Premier team were disposing of Malahide United. The highlight of this victory was two excellent strikes by centre forward Kevin Farrell. This victory leaves Skerries in 5th place.

On Sunday the Senior team had a excellent 1-0 victory over Moyle Park at Clondalkin. (See full report) This victory lifts Skerries off the bottom of the league for the first time this season. The goal came from Moore, his third in two games.

On the same day the Skerries ladies were taking all 3 points from Albion Rovers where the highlight was 4 smashing strikes from Emma Dennis.

14/11/06 - Seniors have first Senior League win

Moyle Park    0    1    Skerries Town   (Moore 35)  

Skerries Town gained their first win at senior level with a hard fought 1-0 win over Moyle Park at Clondalkin last Sunday. Skerries manager Alan Sweeney started with the same 11 that started against Wayside last week. Skerries playing into the breeze were first to attack. A long throw into the box from Bolger unsettled the home defence and a snap shot seemed to hit a Moyle Park hand but referee Traynor waved away penalty appeals.

Skerries continued to press and Connolly set up Davey who fired over from  20 yards. On 17 minutes a Moyle Park attack was halted by Donnelly midway inside his half. He immediately released the ball to Beggs who set up Moore who in turn played the ball left to Hurley. Hurley took the ball to the edge of the Moyle Park area and only a good challenged from the Moyle Park right back prevented a certain score. During this opening period Moyle Park were restricted to shooting from outside the penalty area which caused Byrne in the Skerries goal little problems. However, Moyle Park were coming more and more into the game and they forced a number of corners as the Skerries defence struggled to keep their goal intact. Poor goal kicks by Byrne into now a strong breeze was also putting the defence under unnecessary pressure. On 35 minutes Skerries won a throw in 10 yards from the corner on the right. Bolger launched the ball into the box, Moore latched onto a Doherty flick on to score from 6 yards. Q the celebrations.

Moyle Park pressed for a equaliser but the score remain 1-0 at the break.  

Within minutes of the restart Moyle Park won a free on the edge of the box when Donnelly miss timed a tackle. The resulting free was diverted for a corner. On 53 minutes Skerries were forced to make 2 more changes when O'Flaherty who had replaced Beggs in the first half, and Langan were forced off to be replaced by Kelly and Woodhead. This forced some re-organisation in the Skerries team with Kelly slotting in at the centre of the back three.

Moyle Park were now pressing forward look for an equaliser and their Lannigan was just over with a shot from 25 yards after 73 minutes. But the two best chance of the second period fell to Skerries forward Moore. On 75 minutes a mix up in the  Moyle Park defence allow Moore a run on goal but the Moyle keeper made a brilliant save going full length to his left. And 5 minutes later clever play between Davey and Connolly set up Moore but he dragged his shot across the keeper and inches wide of the post.

Moyle Park pressed forward more and more in the final 10 minutes and during this period Kelly and Doherty were outstanding in defence to secure Skerries first league win at senior level.  

Team: Byrne, Gahan, Langan (Kelly), Doherty, Bolger, Hurley, Connolly, Donnelly, Davey, Moore. Beggs (O'Flaherty) (Woodhead) Not Used: Coleman

14/11/06 - Woman's Matt Lauder League Cup

Our ladies team are off the a flier in their efforts to retain the Matt Lauder Cup. Winners of the inaugural running of this winter competition last term our girls are determined to keep the Skerries name on the cup again this year. Paired in Group 1 with Rush Athletic, Albion Rovers and Killester, Skerries have opened with two convincing wins. In the opening fixture Skerries beat Rush Athletic 5-1 at home with goals from Roy (2), Ferguson (2) and Cullen giving the girls an easy victory.

Last Sunday Skerries travelled to Monesterboise to play Albion Rovers and came away with another convincing win. Skerries were always in control in this 6-2 victory with goals from Dennis (4), Cullen and Tormley.

Skerries complete their first round games with an away fixture at May Park, Donnycarney against Killester on Sunday. A victory would guarantee Skerries a semi final place.

04/11/06 - Ladies Winter League Kicks Off

Ladies Soccer is back. This week-end sees the ladies of Skerries Town start their new Winter campaign against local rivals Rush Athletic. The game kicks Off at 2pm in Mourne View.

01/11/06 - NDSL Re-Balance small-sided divisions

The NDSL have decided to re-balance all 7-a-side and 9-a-side sections with the first set of fixtures taking place on Saturday, November 4th.

The League have decided to make the change to ensure all children at every age group has a competitive league to take part in.

The table below shows how the re-balancing affects Skerries Town teams.

Check your new tables by going to your page on the website

24/10/06 -  Repeat of the miracle of Maynooth

Visitors to this site may recall an article posted last year when a player on our Under 9 team, Joe O’Brien, scored his first goal for the club in his 5th year of trying.

Well on last Saturday, the same team, now playing Under 10 football again visited Maynooth Town. On this occasion those present were able to witness the first goal scored by Tom McDonald in his 3rd year of persistence and  occasional badgering of his manager to allow him switch from full back to full forward.

However Tom’s class and coolness showed when he side footed home a penalty, sending the goalkeeper the wrong way, to earn his team a 1 – 1 draw. The resultant celebrations with all of the team were as excited and joyous as those witnessed twelve months earlier.

It is possible that Maynooth people view Skerries teams as a very happy and passionate bunch.

As advised to all players, parents and managers last year “Don’t lose heart or give up”. Just ask Tom.

18/10/06 - Tubs & Tiles are Tops for our Under 10’s

Things are looking good for Skerries at Under 10 Level. Both of our teams entered into the newly introduced 9-a-side leagues are top of the 10A1 & 10B Divisions with both remaining unbeaten this season. The standard of football on display is of the highest quality and a testament to the efforts of all Players, Managers & Parentsconcerned.

In addition, Tubs & Tiles approached our Under 10A1 team and requested that they be allowed provide a substantial financial donation in sponsorship of the team. Such support is always needed and most welcome.

For it to have been provided from an unsolicited source is even better. Our thanks to Tubs & Tiles, M1 Business Park, Balbriggan for their confidence and support. It would be nice for club members to support them if the opportunity arises.

If there are any other businesses out there who would like to support any of our boys and girls teams then all such enquiries  to committee members will be welcomed.

04/10/06 - First Home Game at Senior Level 

Skerries play their first Senior Division home game at Park Lane on Sunday v Dublin Bus. The big kick off is timed for 2.30. Both Skerries and Dublin Bus were the two promoted sides from Division 1 last term. So the two teams know each other very well and as usual it promises to be a close affair.  

Senior Secretary Paul Walsh is very excited about this game. "After all that's gone on during the summer months I'm delighted we are finally playing football. The long wait was hard on everyone associated with the club but that's in the past now" he said. "My hope is for a big crowd on Sunday and the right result"   

Manager Alan Sweeney should have a full squad to choose from. There are no injury worries after last week's game. The full squad took part in the two training sessions this week. So let's get out on Sunday and give our support

04/10/06 - Skerries Senior 1st team season begins

Date: 2 October 2006.   Clover United    0    0    Skerries Town  

Skerries Town finally got their LSL Senior Division programme under way with a creditable 0-0 draw away to Clover United last Sunday at Kiltipper Road. Manager Sweeney started with an unchanged 11 following the 1-0 cup win last week. The opening half was a tense affair with neither side creating a clear opening as both defences dominated. The Skerries back 3 of Langan, Doherty and Bolger were never stretched in the opening period and Clover were restricted to long balls into the box where Byrne collected all shots and crosses with ease. Our midfield Donnelly, Davey and Woodhead were having the better of the exchanges while in attack Beggs and Moore did have half chances but failed to trouble the Clover keeper.  

The second half was very much a repeat of the first. Again neither team able to make the break through. On 67 minutes Skerries finally opened up the Clover defence. Beggs collected a pass from Donnelly and raced into the box but an excellently timed challenge from a Clover centre back cleared the danger. As the game entered the final period Skerries found themselves pinned back into their own half as Clover now controlling the midfield. With the game entered the final minute Byrne was called upon to make the save of the match when he dived smartly to his right to deny the Clover no. 11 of the certain winning score. Well done to the big man.  

Skerries can be happy with their first venture at Senior level. That seemed to be confirmed by the big smiles on the faces of the management team as they returned to the dressing rooms after the game. Johnny Beggs felt a draw was a fair result but acknowledged bigger tests were on the way.   

Skerries Town: Byrne, Bolger Langan, Doherty, Gahan (Hurley), Gallagher, Davey (Kelly), Woodhead (O'Flaherty), Moore, Beggs Not used:

04/10/06 - Under 18's advance in SFAI Cup

St Josephs    1    2    Skerries Town AET  

Our under 18 side made it 3 wins out of 3 with a fine 2-1 win away to St Joseph's in the SFAI Cup last weekend. Skerries started the brighter and opened the scoring after only 15 minutes. Skerries should have extended their lead as chances fell to Andy Mulvaney and Ross Hopkins. But it was Sean Lynch who created the best chance of the half when his effort from the corner of the box fly just over the bar with the keeper beaten. St Joseph's levelled before the break when a long range effort from 25 yards was misjudged by keeper Jenkinson and ended up in the back of the net.  

The second half failed to produce a winner as shots from Coleman, Capper, Bolger and Hopkins failing to trouble the Joeys keeper. So it was to extra time. Again Skerries pressed forward but failed to create a clear cut opening. Then as the first period of extra time came to a close the referee dismissed Shane Coleman for a second yellow offence. The second period of extra time was heading for penalties until with less than a minute remaining a lobbed ball into the box by McGuirty was brilliantly scooped to the net by the in-rushing Heffernan as he was challenged by the centre back and keeper.  

This is a fine side and one could do worse on a Sunday morning than see this side play.