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Swords Celtic News - February 2012

19th February 2012

Under 12's and Under 14's claim Cup Semi-final slots Goalscorers for the Under 12 Premier team - Reality Osuoha, Jamie Condon, Christian Harris and Karl Stanley in todays clash against visiting Clontarf - Swords won by five goals to nil which puts them into the semi-finals of the Kevin Moran Cup. Click here to see Reality's goal Congratulations also to the Under 14 C team who beat Ratoath in the quarter finals of the league cup - three nil the final score.

5th February 2012
The Under 12 Premier team
	This is the team that went to Donegal last Sunday to play Dungloe in the Last 32 round of the SFAI cup. Described by the manager as one of the toughest games his team ever played, the team battled fiercely against the local opposition. Swords went behind early in the game - and really weren't in the game for the first 20 minutes. The atmosphere was electric with the game very well supported  on the sideline. Every ball was battled for but in a fair and honest manner - not a single dirty tackle was to be seen during the game. Swords went on to win the game with goals from Aaron Duffy and Karl Stanley - but huge credit goes to every member of the squad involved. Our thanks to the staff and Management of Dungloe who made our team very welcome after the long bus journey. The Under 12's now await the next round of the cup in which they will play the winners of Killinardish Coachford v Templemore which is played next weekend. A win in that game could set up a home quarter final against fellow Dublin team St. Kevin's - but that's all in the future. Shown left is Captain Conor Murtagh handing over the club Pennant to the Dungloe Captain. __________________________________________________ Well done to Oisin Lynch, Patrick O'Neill and Adam Burch all of who played on the Under 16 NSDL squad recently where the team had a 1 - 1 draw with Wexford.

4th February 2012

Under 11 Premiers enjoy home win Another wet weekend with sloppy conditions on the ground led to several matches home and away being cancelled. All three home games went ahead with good results being the outcome in each case. The Under 11 Premier team kicked off first against visiting Baldoyle. Celtic went ahead in the first half when a Ciaran Daly corner ended up in the net directly from the kick. Jason Dignam made sure of the three points with his second half strike - the win jumping the team to third position in the league. On the same pitch the Under 11D team were next up playing St. Ita's. Celtic were unlucky to go a goal down but a perfectly placed shot from Danny Delaney leveled the sides before Celtic again fell behind. When defeat looked the most likely result Luke Jordan rescued the team with a last minute goal to draw the game at two all. The only other home game of the day ended in a draw when the Under 14 ddsl team scored a late equaliser against 10 man Drogheda Boys. Four all the final score.

4th February 2012

Swords Celtic win Sports Team of the month - May 2011 The annual Dublin Sports Awards 2011 presentations were held on Friday 3rd at Clarion Hotel Liffey Valley. Sponsored by the Gazette newspaper group an individual and a team award was made for each month. In recognition of the success that the club enjoyed last season during which we won Five Cups and Five leagues Swords Celtic were awarded the prize for Team of the Month May 2011. Other winners included Wigan striker Conor Sammon, Irish International Cricketer George Dockrell and the Dublin Senior Football team. Shown left representing Swords Celtic are Sean Lynch, Vincent McGrath and Martin Wright

Swords Celtic News - January 2012

22nd January 2012
Under 13A goalscorers - Kevin Murray, Jack Leahy, Enda Delaney and Cristian Willmott It's not often a nil all draw can be described as a thrilling game of football, but when it's a cup match that logic goes out the window. Swords, 2nd in the 13A league faced Corduff, currently top of the Premier league, in this last 16 of the league cup. With a strong wind always likely to play a big part in the game, Swords decided to play against the wind in the first half. Surprisingly they actually dominated the first half which ended goal less, with Corduff failing to get a single shot on goal. The second half seen Swords increase their domination, with almost the entire half played in the Corduff half, but unfortunately Swords couldn't get that all important breakthrough, and the game finished goal less. The first half of extra time saw Corduff create a clear attempt on goal, but a wonderful save from the Swords keeper kept the match level going into the second half of extra time. With Swords pounding the Corduff goal with chance after chance, they finally got the breakthrough 3 minutes into the second half. With 7 minutes left, most teams would be happy to hold out for a one goal win, but Swords continued to dominate and pushed forward, scoring number 2, 3 and 4 to send the Premier team home deflated and a super 4 nil victory for Swords. A fantastic win for a very hard working team. With another Premier team lined up for the quarter finals, this result should give the lads lots of confidence and hopefully they can carry on towards cup glory.
	Good win Under 13D and others While the 13A team were enjoying cup success on Pitch 3, the Under 13D team was playing visiting Ashbourne on Pitch 4. A good 3 - 1 win for the home side was the outcome with goals from Ross Mc Cabe and Robert Stapleton, pictured left and Dean Mc Guirke. The Under 12 Premiers stretched their lead at the top of the league to ten points when they went to Sportslink and beat Woodlawn 4 - 2. The late kick off at home saw the Under 17 Premier team play Ashbourne. Brian Finnegan scored twice for Swords - once from a penalty to give the home team a two - one win and another three points which keeps them on the top of the Premier league. The Under 17 B team however were not so fortunate and allowed a two goal lead against 9 man Darndale turn into a three - two loss which sees the team exit the Mary Farrell Cup.
	Wins for Under 18 Premier and 'A' teams After a slow start to the season, the Under 18 Premier team continue to ramp up the pressure and move up the league table. Today, Castleknock were the visiting opposition on Pitch 1. Unbeaten in the league to date, Castleknock took an early lead in the game. A cracking shot from Gary Bohan soon equalised the scores. The second half saw Swords take full control of the game with goals from Gavin Purcell, Jamie Hoare and Darragh Gill leaving Swords with a comprehensive victory. Click here to view Darragh Gills goal

21st January 2012
Under 14's kick start 2012 with a win
Well done to the Under 14 ddsl team who have started the second half of the season by beating 3rd place Liffey Valley Rangers at home. The half time score was one all with Isacc Kiely having opened the score for Swords. The second half was heavily influenced by a gusting wind which was in favour of the home side. All credit to the Celtic players who worked hard and could sense the victory was theirs for the taking. Two second half goals from Peter Taylor and a second from Isacc left the final score at Swords Celtic 4 - Liffey Valley Rangers 1. A great result for a team full of talent and potential - hopefully this victory is the boost they need to jump up the table in 2012. Click here to see Peters 1st Goal. Click here to see Peters 2nd Goal.

16th January 2012

Seniors sitting in 2nd place in Sunday Major league

The Seniors Sunday Major team travelled down to Greystones on Friday night for a top off the table clash and came back with a well deserved two all draw. Celtic took the lead after 20 minutes with a ball over the top from Captain Niall Kinsella to Danny Smith who was in great form slotting the ball into the net. Greystones replied with two goals before the break to lead two - one at half time.

In the second half Swords had the best of the chances but the oppositions keeper was in fine form. After 50 minutes Neale Fenn was introduced and should have been awarded a penalty after being hit from behind - the ref however played on. Swords were passing the ball with great one twos but Greystones keeper was at their rescue several times. Efforts from Ben Mc Quillen, Jason and Danny Smith and Neale Fenn still couldn't break Greystones for the 2nd time. Luck was needed and we got it on 85 minute when Barry Caulfield whipped in a third consecutive corner only for Greystones to clear to the edge of there box, the Greystones defence swiped at the ball from 18 yards causing the ball to loop backwards into the air and drop under the crossbar through the keepers arms.

The final 7 minutes saw Swords batter the Greystones goal but could the visitors could not find a winner.

The result continues the teams recent good run - they have only lost one in the last 13 games.

3rd January 2012

Happy New Year and welcome back to the club Website in this our 50th Anniversary year.

At the half way point in the season lets have a look at the league tables to see how our teams are doing so far.

The Under 17 Premiers are four points clear at the top of the Under 17 premier table while the Under 17 B team are currently in second place six points behind the leaders with three games less played.

The Under 16 Premier team is in joint second two points behind Ashbourne Utd who have one game less played.

The Under 15's are also in joint second place in the Under 15B league just three points behind leaders Lusk United.

The Under 13A team lie in second place but fourteen points behind leaders St. Joseph's East Wall - Swords however have four games in hand on Joeys and are well capable of catching up the points.

The Under 13F team sit on top of their league leading by a single point over Artane Beaumont.

Finally at Under 12 level both our Premier and D league teams lead their respective tables. The Premier team are eight points ahead of nearest rivals Balbriggan while the 12D team are just a point ahead of Balbriggan in their league but have two games more played.

So far so good - good luck to all the teams in the second half of the season.

Swords Celtic News - December 2011

11th December 2011

Hat trick scorer Shane Geddes

Geddes hat-trick sets up last 16 cup derby The visiting Drogheda 18 B team were no match for the Swords Celtic Premiers today when they met in the Ronnie Bradshaw cup at Balheary. Three goals from Shane Geddes - pictured left, and one from Tony Murphy gave Celtic a comfortable win and sets up a tantalizing last 16 round local derby against Swords Rovers. Today's derby game was the Under 16 Premier game with Swords Manor being the visitors. Merben Soco scored the only goal of the game - a header three minutes from full time. The long trip to Arklow proved too much for the Under 17 Premiers who exited the FAI Umbro cup in the 5th Round with a defeat to their hosts Arklow Town. Arklow were ahead within 20 seconds of the kick off but battling Celtic equalised before falling behind again. Celtic did take a 3 - 2 lead before Arklow equalised again and eventually won the game by four goals to three. The Under 17 B team continue to sneak up the league table and a six nil win against Malahide makes it six wins out of eight league games played. With the regular keeper sick, Rob Hammond stepped in between the posts and contributed by making a fine penalty save to keep a clean sheet. Finally the Under 13A team maintained their unbeaten league run this season with a five nil win over visiting Glebe North.

Seniors top LSL table

The Swords Celtic seniors traveled to Rush this morning and yet again Swords came out with another victory ,which puts the team top off the Leinster Senior league Sunday Major table.

Swords opened the scoring after Barry Caulfield whipped in a corner only for Danny Smith to smash into the net from 16 yards on 36 minutes. Steven Caul pulled off a great save minutes from the break, and Neale Fenn hit a strike from 40 yards just scraping the post.
Swords dominated the 2nd half and were rewarded with 10 minutes to go when Bernard went on down the right and drove the ball into the bottom right hand corner.

4th December 2011
		Impressive wins for all the clubs top Premier teams A chilly Balheary hosted visitors from Boyne, Drogheda and Mullingar this Sunday with the home teams making sure that they all left disappointed. The Under 17 Premiers played Drogheda Town Premiers and continued their very impressive season with a nine nil win. Brian Finnegan (left) and Sean Maguire (centre) both scored hat-tricks while Andy Dunne (right) scored twice to put the team into the next round of the Mary Farrell Cup. Click here to view Sean Maguire's penalty video In the Under 18 / 19 Youth cup Portmarnock Under 19's 'came a hunting' and left with a four one defeat by Celtics Under 18 premiers. Gavin Purcell scored a hat-trick and Jamie Hoare scored the fourth. The win puts Celtic into the last eight of the cup. Click here to view the Under 18 team second goal.
Jack O'Grady	The Under 16 Premier game was delayed for an hour due to the injury to Jason Lynch - when it finally restarted Jack O'Grady (left) scored one of the two goals which gave the home side another victory in the 16 Premier league. The Under 13 B team are pictured right celebrating their second of two goals in their league game against Boyne Rovers. Finally well done to the Under 12 Premiers who decisively beat Drogheda Boys 9 - 1 in the 2nd round of the Kevin Moran Cup	The Under 13 B team celebrate their second goal against Boyne

Swords Celtic News - November 2011

29th November 2011
Its cold, its wet and the ground is mucky - it must be goalkeeper coaching season....
Twenty of Swords Celtic's goalkeepers braved the chill this Tuesday evening for the second in a series of ten goalkeeper coaching sessions given by just4keepers. Matt Gregg, currently playing in goal for Airtricity Premier team Bray Wanderers is leading the sessions which will continue until the end of February 2012. Every team manager will know that the position and work of the goalkeeper is unique and requires different training and coaching from the regular work done with the team. It is for this reason Swords Celtic have engaged with Just4Keepers to provide the keepers with the specialist coaching that this vital position needs and deserves. All aspects of the keepers work will be covered - diving, shot stopping, ball distribution as well as training and warm up exercises for keepers to practice before matches. Club goalkeepers from every team in the eleven a side games are attending and hopefully the training will give them the skills, knowledge and confidence needed for them to perform at the best of their ability for the remainder of the season. Parents collecting their kids should get a roll of black sacks to bring with them - because after an hour of diving in the mud you wont want them sitting in your car in their training clothes.

27th November 2011
	Under 16 and Under 12 Premiers storm through Cup ties On a weekend with several teams idle and the Under 8's playing Futsal in Gormanstown, the Under 16 Premier met Square United in the 4th Round of the SFAI Barry Cup. The result was a resounding victory for Swords winning by 13 - nil including Hat-tricks from Oisin Lynch and Merben Soco - pictured left. The Under 12 Premiers went to Maynooth in the 4th Round of the Norton Cup and scored eight against a single goal conceded to Maynooth's team - the win puts Celtic into the last 32 round of this cup. ______________________________________________________ Christmas Party All Players in the club from Pee Wee to Under 11's inclusive are reminded the the annual Christmas Party will be held at NZONE on the Malahide Road next Sunday 4th December between 4.00pm and 6.00 pm.
22nd November 2011
Seven in a row unbeaten for Senior's first team Swords Celtic hosted St. John Bosco last weekend in the Leinster Senior League Sunday Major division. Swords went 1 down after 42 mins with a slick one two move from Bosco that slid past our keeper Steven Caul. A minute later Steven pulled off a world class save to deny Bosco a 2nd. 45 minutes on the clock and just on the blow for half time Dan Smith rolled a ball across the box to Neale Fenn who controlled it, the Bosco centre back stood right in front off him and he rolled the ball through his legs into the bottom left corner - quality finish  - one all. In the second half Swords limited Bosco to half chances and the defending from Conor Mc Neill and Ben Mc Quillen was quite brilliant. On 78 minutes Celtic played a nice move with Mark Skully involved around their 18 yard line only for McQuillen to step forward and send the ball into the back off Boscos net. The Swords midfield of Shane Byrne and Archie worked real hard on cutting their supply going forward. 90 minutes on the clock - Caul pin pointed a ball to Si Maddens head, who flicked on for Dan Smith on the left - Dan ran to the edge off the box and slid a nice pass to Fenn who yet again, hit the back off the net - 3:1 game over. Larry Clares men are now unbeaten in the last seven games and are pushing hard for promotion, with the great help from Deci Mc Grath and Tommy Smith.

20th November 2011
A weekend of draws -home and away The weekend results show seven teams engaged in matches which ended in two all or three all draws. Saturdays Under 8 Blue team went to St. Columban's boys and drew two all while the Under 11D team drew with Rush, Zack Whelan scoring all three Celtic goals including this penalty - Click to view Zacks Penalty. Sundays opening game for the Under 13A team ended three all when visiting St. Joseph's East Wall equalised with minutes to go. The Under 13D team hauled a point back from Kinnegad after each side scored three while the 14C's repeated the result of the 8 Blue team at St. Columban's. The Under 16A team repeated the result from earlier in the season when they drew three three with visiting Rivervalley Rangers while the final game of the day saw the Under 18 Premiers go to Duleek and come away with just one point. Gavin Purcell scored the goal that made the result three all with this penalty. Click to view Gavins Penalty.
19th November 2011
	Late comeback wins the game Swords Celtic Under 10 Premiers met Clontarf (C) in the Under 10 cup at Balheary today. Despite being two one down mid point in the first half Celtic stormed back to win the tie four three. Swords goal scorers from left - Nikita Suprun , Cian Warren (2goals)and Alan Babuc. _______________________________ The Under 11D team held top of the table Rush to a three all draw at Balheary - Zack Whelan scored all three goals for Celtic including this penalty - Click to view Penalty.

14th November 2011
Times for teams to attend at clubhouse for Identity Card				NDSL Identity Card The long awaited introduction of the NDSL player identity cards comes to Swords Celtic this weekend. Designed to cut out cheating in the game where some teams would field older players to play for teams in order to win matches, the NDSL decided last year that every player in the NDSL would be issued with their own identity card. The card will contain the players photo and date of birth. You must attend at the clubhouse at the time shown for your team. Do not arrive earlier or later. Bring your Passport or Birth Certificate. Bring the €2.00 fee. After Christmas you will NOT be allowed play unless you have your player identity card.
Saturday 19th November
Time	Team	Time	Team
11.00	9A, 11P, 9G	12.15	13B, 13C
11.15	8 Blue, 8 Black	12.30	13D, 14C, 14D
11.30	11F, 10P, 10C	12.45	15B, 16A, 10H
11.45	12E, 13A	1.00pm	16B, 18P, 18B
12.00	10D, 11D, 8Gold
Tuesday 22nd November
7.00pm	12A, 12B	7.15pm	16P, 17C
7.30pm	17P, 17B
13th November 2011
Team Number 29 kicks off
				The clubs third Under 17 team played their first match at home to Kinnegad juniors today. The game ended in victory for the visitors by a two goal margin. Managed by Barry Flynn and coached by Ken McCarthy we wish this team lots of success during the season. Our Premier teams at Under 12, 16, 17 and 18 levels all enjoyed wins today. The 12P team beat closest rivals Maynooth to lead the league by 7 points - the 16P progressed in the Ken Mckay cup by beating visiting Dunboyne four - nil, the 17P went to Drogheda town where their 3 - 1 win put them on top of the premier table while the Under 18P team beat Huntstown / Hartstown 3 - 1.
8th November 2011
Attention 11 a-side      GOALKEEPERS Goalkeeper coaching is starting shortly at Swords Celtic. The course will last ten weeks each Tuesday evening from 8.00 - 9.00 pm and there is a registration fee of €10.00. To reserve your place you must contact Paul Darcy at 087 9299117			Attention 11 a-side Managers Coach Maxi McCann will be doing a session on Team Organisation for all eleven a side managers. This is on next Monday - 14th November 2011 from 7.00pm - 10.00pm	Kick Start 2 The FAI Kick Start 2 course will be run at Swords Celtic in the next few weeks. The course is open to club managers who have already completed the Kick Start 1. Please contact coaching Director, Paul Darcy for more information.

6th November 2011
Sundays football at Swords Celtic shows the club with thirteen games played - eight wins, two draws and just three defeats. The Under 12 Premier team continued in their winning ways beating Clontarf by 4 - 0 and now sit on top of the Premier table leading by 5 points. The Under 15B team went to Swords Rovers and were loosing the game 3 - 1 only to come back strongly to win by a margin of 6 - 3. Anto Escandor - top left scored four for Celtic. The Under 18 Premiers welcomed back goalkeeper Gareth McGrath after a long absence from injury - they took on Artane Beaumont Under 19's in the Cup and beat them 4 - 1. Two goals from Terry Onyeabor - the second from a superb Dean Wright cross (above right) and a penalty save from keeper Conor McGrath (centre photo)- the second save in as many matches wasn't enough to avoid defeat to Tolka Rovers - the team went down by four goals to two.

5th November 2011

Swords Celtic welcome NDSL The Under 15 NDSL representative squad visited Balheary today and played a friendly match against the clubs Under 16 Premier team. While Celtic do not have any players in the NDSL squad at Under 15 age, Merben Soco and Patsy O'Neill both represent the club at Under 16 level. The game ended in a two all draw with Merben Soco and Jack O'Grady scoring for Celtic. ___________________________________ ddsl Under 14's draw Away at Kilnamanagh today, the Under 14 ddsl team played their seventh game of the season and a three all draw gave them their first point to date. The team moved up to the A1 league after finishing last season in fourth place. Today, with just five minutes to go Celtic were loosing 3 - 1 before two late goals leveled the match. Well done to the team and especially the goal scorers Peter Taylor and Paul Gavin who scored twice.

Swords Celtic News - October 2011

29th October 2011
Weather closes Swords Pitches All home matches were off this weekend and very few away games survived the floods from earlier in the week. Fundraining Well done to the players from the Under 14 ddsl team, the Under 14 B & C teams and the Under 15B teams all of who took part in the Annual Bag Pack fundraising event which was held at Dunnes Stores in the Pavilions shopping centre on Friday evening and Saturday. This is the only fundraising event the club asks players to take part in each year. Thank you to all who took part and also to the managers - Mark, Declan, Dave, Martin, Christy and Bernadette all of who gave up time to help out.			I am here all this week. Next Website update will be Friday 4th November.
22nd October 2011
Under 11 teams go to HHFC - Hartstown and enjoy two good wins
Jake Weldon, Danny Delaney and Zack Whelan were the goal scorers for the Under 11D team in the second club match against the newly combined HHFC - Huntstown / Hartstown team today. Josh opened the score in the first minute with Zack scoring the first of his three minutes later. At halftime Celtic led by three nil in a game in which they were clearly the better side. Danny Delaney had several shots saved by the HHFC keeper before he finally scored to take the game to 4 - 0. In the last few minutes Zack knocked in his third to join the Hattrick Gallery of kids and leave the final score with a Swords Celtic win five to nil.		A goal from Josh Croft and two from Kyle Grace gave the Swords Celtic Under 11 Premier team victory over HHFC away today. Swords led 2 - nil but sloppy defending allowed HHFC get back into the game. Swords again took the lead and were 3 - 2 up with five minutes to go when HHFC were awarded a penalty. With the spot kick sent wide Celtic played out the last few minutes and left Hartstown with the three points.
16th October 2011
	Cup and league wins The Under 12 Premier and Under 16 Premier teams both progressed to the next round of the SFAI cup enjoying   7 - 2 and 6 - 2 wins respectively. The Under 15's followed on from last weeks away draw against Clontarf with a home win beating Dunboyne 4-3. Eoin Fagan - pictured right scored the 4th goal which gave the Under 12's a 4 - 3 win over Ratoath. Ian Scanlon, left scored twice in the last five minutes of the 16A game away at Maynooth to give Celtic a     4 - 2 win. Conor McGrath in goal saved a Maynooth penalty and the two rebound shots.

15th October 2011
		Just4 (Celtic) Strikers Just4strikers came to Balheary today for the start of a ten week program aimed at the strike forces in our eleven a-side teams. Neale Fenn took the session in which he imparted just some of the expertise he has gained over a career which has taken him to clubs including Bohemians, Cork City and Tottenham Hotspur. Earlier this week Neale signed up for the Swords Celtic Senior team playing in the LSL Sunday Major league. Fenns experience which saw him play in Brian Kerrs Republic of Ireland Under 20 squad will be a great boost for the Seniors  as the season progresses.
9th October 2011
		Goallllllllllll The Under 17 Premiers hosted Woodlawn today in the FAI Umbro Cup. Woodlawn scored first before Celtics Tarik Elnemmawi equalised. This fiercely competitive match saw Swords fall behind for a second time until Gary Forde knocked in a cracker of a shot to level the game at 2 - 2. With extra time looming and the strong gusting wind in the favour of the home team, Swords continued to pile on pressure on the visitors goal - the pressure was rewarded when Gary Forde send another unstoppable shot past the Woodlawn keeper to win the game. The 2011 - 2012 season looks very promising for this team who already sit on the top of the Under 17 Premier league.
8th October 2011
		Rescue of the match ball for the last time... As part of the ongoing developments at the club a new net fence has been erected between Pitches 3 & 4 and the river. Anyone who has played on either of these pitches will know the number of footballs lost during ever game and the disruption caused during their recovery. So hopefully the scene shown on the left will be one for the history books. On the pitches today well done to our Under 8 teams - all playing at home and all enjoyed wins over their visiting opposition.
2nd October 2011
	Rain washes out weekend The wet weather saw ten of the Sunday games cancelled and just four surviving. At home, the 18 Premiers took on Drogheda Town in the Cup. Tony Murphy - left - put Celtic ahead in the first half but the home team were unable to widen the gap before the break. Gavin Purcell came on as a 2nd half sub and headed over the bar within the first minute - second time around he made no mistake scoring the first of his two goals. The fourth goal was scored by Graham Callen when he showed nice skill to weave past a number of Drogheda defenders before burying the ball in the net. Elsewhere, the Under 17 B's went to Raheny United and enjoyed a 7 - 5 win. Vitor Alkyin, right - scored four goals in the game - the second time he has scored 4 in a game this season.

Swords Celtic News - September 2011

24th September 2011

Goalscorers for Under 16Premier included Merben Soco and Patsy O'Neill

Cup success for 16 Premiers - but 17's & 18's lose out Swords Celtic's Under 16 Premiers were drawn against the clubs 2nd team in today's SFAI 2nd Round in the Barry Cup. Although the Premiers were held scoreless for the first 30 minutes, sloppy defending let Merben Soco tap in an easy goal to open the scoring. Minutes later Merben scored a superb volley to double the lead. By half time they led three nil and continued to take a firmer grasp of the game as the second half started. With no roll-on roll-off allowed in the SFAI and both subs used, the 2nd team were reduced to nine men when two players were injured during the later stages of the game. The match ended at seven nil with the Premier team progressing to the next round of the cup. In other SFAI games, St. Kevin's Boys ddsl played our Under 17 NDSL team. An early St. Kevin's goal decided the tie and despite a competitive game Swords threats on the St. Kevin's goal were rare. Away to Shelbourne at the AUL the Under 18 Premier team fell to a four-one defeat while the 18B team were beaten by Premier opposition from Malahide ending their participation in the cup. Winning their games and moving on to the next rounds of the Cup were the Under 12 Premiers who enjoyed a 7 - 1 win at Balbriggan and the Under 13A team who went to Boyne Rovers and inflicted a 3 - 0 defeat upon them.

24th September 2011
	A penalty save by Under 11F goalkeeper Patrick Mihas (left) and two goals from Oran Kunkels gave Swords Celtic a win over visiting Howth Celtic at Balheary today. In the first of the weekend Cup games the Under 11 Premier's were in action against Balbriggan. At the end of normal time the sides were even on one goal a piece. The game went to extra time with Balbriggan scoring twice to go to the next round of the cup. Mikey Mallon - shown right doing battle with the Balbriggan defence during today's game.

18th September 2011
Under 13A Goalscorers Christian Willmot, Darragh O'Grady and Kevin Murray	Sunday wins for our top teams at Under 12, 13, 16, 17 and 18 age groups. The 10.00am kick off's saw two of the clubs top teams side by side on Pitches 2 & 3 facing visiting opponents from Woodlawn and Maynooth. The Under 12 Premiers were 3 nil up moments before half time before Woodlawn closed the gap with a late goal to leave the half time score 3 - 1. The strong breeze was in the visitors favour in the second half and they soon scored a second goal to give Celtic a few nervous moments. However the home team showed their undoubted class to pull away and score twice more to leave Woodlawn reeling with a 5 - 2 final score. On Pitch 3 by the river, in the Under 13 A league match Celtic took the lead against visiting Maynooth in the first minute of the game before a 15th minute penalty was converted by the visiting team to even the scores. This hugely entertaining game saw the Swords team pick up their first win of this season with a final score of 4 - 3. On Pitch 1 the Under 18 Premier team knocked in nine goals without reply against Trinity Donaghmede in a game which was somewhat of a mis-match of quality. This win pushes the team to the top of the league although its early days yet. And finally well done to the Under 17 Premiers who made it three wins in a row when they beat Skerries on our home ground by three goals to nil. The 17 Premiers are another of the 'shining lights' at the club after being last seasons league runners up and Cup winners.

11th September 2011
High scoring win for Under 13E team Seven players were on the score sheet today when Swords Celtic went to Loughshinny to play their league cup game. Michael Ikoro and Mark O'Shea both scored hat tricks in the highest scoring game of the weekend. Pitch 1 saw the Under 18 Premier team clash with rivals Swords Rovers. Both last seasons fixtures between the two teams resulted in 3 all and 2 all draws - today's result saw Rovers going two nil ahead before Celtic pulled two goals back to level the game. Rovers pulled ahead again to lead 4 - 2 before Celtic again leveled the game and then took the lead 5 - 4 with minutes to go. The final score of the game came from a Swords Rovers free kick which drew the game at 5 all. Vitor Alkyin was amongst the scorers for the Under 17 B team in their league game against visiting Ashbourne. The home side led by four goals to nil at half time and went on to record a nine nil victory.
10th September 2011
Under 11B team earns second draw Goals from Darragh Markey and Zac Whelan earned the Under 11B team a share of the spoils today in their league cup game against visiting Clogherstown. Celtic could have taken all the points after their goalkeeper saved a Clogherstown penalty however the rebound was scored to give Celtic their second draw of the week. Their season started away to Swords Rovers last Thursday when a Danny Delaney free kick put Celtic ahead early in the game before a strong comeback left Rovers 2 - 1 ahead with minutes to go. Determination from Celtic led to a non stop onslaught on the Rovers goal leading a last minute equaliser from new signing Jerfferson. Elsewhere in the midweek games the Under 12 Premiers welcomed Balscadden Boys to Balheary on Thursday and beat them by three goals to nil while the Under 13A team continue their impressive unbeaten run which now extends to over one year when they beat Baldoyle away by a single goal.
4th September 2011
	New season in full swing Last years under 10 Premiers enjoyed a 1 all draw against Tolka Rovers in their opening game of the new season in the Under 12 Premier league today. The 18 Premiers took all three points away to Balbriggan with a three nil win while a last minute penalty against Woodlawn gave the Under 17 Premiers the win 2 - 1. One of the clubs new teams, the Under 13 B's had a 5 - 1 win over visiting Dunboyne while in the league cup games the Under 12's, Under 14's and Under 16's all came away winners. New season Team Photos will be taken over the next few weeks for the Website team pages - to date new photos are available for the Under 12 Premier and 3rd teams and the Under 14's 1st team

Swords Celtic News - August 2011

30th August 2011
Schoolboys AGM held at Balheary clubhouse The Annual General Meeting of the schoolboys section of Swords Celtic was held in the clubhouse on Tuesday evening. The club chairman Ray Kelly outlined some of the planned objectives for the club for the coming year. Three separate pieces of work are planned to be undertaken namely the provision of netting between Pitches 3 & 4 and the river, the provision of additional Car Parking spaces and the provision of an additional warm up training area beside the entrance to the All Weather pitches. Ray also spoke about the club celebrating its 50th Anniversary in 2012. The meeting reviewed the highly successful season of 2010 / 2011 and confirmed that as a result of a large influx of new players that we would be forming new Under 13, Under 14, Under 16 and Under 17 teams. Paul Darcy briefed the meeting on training and development plans for managers and coaches and confirmed that specialist Goalkeeper coaching would commence within the next few weeks. The meeting agreed that the Subscription Fees for next season will remain unchanged at €155.00 - this includes €5.00 per player insurance. The family rate of €250.00 also remains unchanged. Fees can be paid in two halves is desired - half in September 2011 and the remainder in January 2012. Finally provisional times for each team and age group for use of the All Weather pitches were agreed. When confirmed, these will be posted on the website.
20th August 2011
	Celtic girls at the FAI Harmony Cup Well done to the girls from the Swords Celtic Under 11 teams who participated in the FAI Harmony cup at Sportslink today. This event was the first time the FAI had brought girls teams together at these ages and saw teams from Balbriggan, Skerries, Lourdes Celtic, and Shelbourne compete in a game which used small pitches, multiple goals and used squads of four players. The Swords Celtic girls won three games and drew the fourth in the first round before being sent to the finals where they beat Skerries before being defeated by Lourdes Celtic. A fine performance by the girls who now concentrate on the forthcoming season which is now just two weeks away.
	Under 12's at the Rocara Festival in NDSL As winners of the Under 10 Premier Plus league last season, Swords Celtic were invited to participate in the Rocara Festival at NDSL today. The Festival saw NDSL League winners at Under 10's, 11's, 12's and 13's play the corresponding league winners from Northern Ireland. Celtic, who were without a number of players played Ridgeway Rovers from Co. Down. The visitors came away with a five one win over Celtic with Alex McCormack scoring for the home side. The game was a good opportunity for managers Eddie Darcy and Lar Gilmartin to continue their preparation for the new season in which the team will play in the top level of NDSL - the Under 12 Premier league.

19th August 2011
Well done to all the teams who participated in this weeks E-flow tournament which was hosted at Swords Celtic in Balheary. The event ran from Monday with the finals taking place on Friday evening. Apart from Mondays monsoon rains, the weather held up for the rest of the games which came to their climax on finals day - a day which saw no less than three penalty shoot outs deciding games.
Rivervalley-Winners Under 9's	Ratoath - Winners Under 10's	Baldoyle - Winners Under 11's
Swords Manor - Runner Up Under 9's	Swords Manor - Runner Up Under 10's	Corduff - Runners up - Under 11's

13th August 2011
E-Flow Tournament at Swords Celtic Swords Celtic is delighted to host the E-Flow Soccer Invitational tournament which starts on Monday 15th August. Teams aged Under 9, s Under 10,'s and Under 11,s will participate in the tournament which kicks off each evening at 6.00pm. Participating teams include Castleknock, Ratoath Harps, Baldoyle, St. Francis, The Willows, Mountrath and locals from Rivervalley Rangers, Swords Manor and of course the hosts Swords Celtic. The finals will be played on Friday 19th August	NDSL announce plans for Under 8's for the new season The new football season introduces a number of changes relating to the younger age groups. These age groups will no longer play a competitive league - instead their season will be as follows; Relating to Under 8's the following new rules apply. * Teams are 5 a-side with max 3-4 subs. Roll-on/Roll-off applies * Each game will be 2 x 20 minutes. Size 3 football. * All players must play at least 20 minutes. * All records and results will be kept by the league in order for grading purposes only. All teams will be re-graded every 4 - 6 games approx * Games will be refereed by club officials. * Each Saturday of the month there will be a number of teams who will come to the Oscar Traynor Road Coaching and Development Centre. This will be part of their module so once a month your team will be coached in the Oscar Traynor Road Centre. The times are as follows: 10.00 a.m. - 11.00 a.m, 11.00 a.m. 12.00 p,m. and 12.00 p.m.- 1.00 p.m. You will be notified through the papers where instead of a game you will be asked to attend a coaching session. This will happen every month until the end of the season * Futsal indoor Gormanston; 3 weeks in November 2011 and 3 weeks January/February 2012 (Included in League fees)
1st August 2011
New Season, New Teams, New Players, New Rules There are now just a few short weeks left until the kick off of the 2011 - 2012 soccer season. All teams are now back in training at Swords Celtic and we are delighted with the numbers of new players who have come down to teams of all ages. We welcome any further players interested in playing for Swords Celtic to come down on Monday or Wednesday - full times are listed below - or to contact the club at swordsceltic@gmail.com or 0879299117 (Paul or Carolyn). Final team selections wont be made until later in August so there is still time to come down to see our club and facilities at Balheary. This season we will have teams playing at NDSL Premier level at Under 10's, 12's, and 16's, 17's and Under 18's. A number of important changes have been introduced this season by the league - these relate to the younger age groups. Full details regarding these changes will be posted here in the coming weeks. Finally, in the coming year Swords Celtic will celebrate their 50th Anniversary. We are currently looking to contact former players - managers - parents who were involved in the club in the past. We are looking for old Photos - newspaper cuttings, and any other information relating to the clubs activities in years gone by. If you have any of the above, please mail us at swordsceltic@gmail.com

Swords Celtic News - July 2011

15th July 2011
	Todays match between Pavee United and Garda played at Ballymun United was the climax of twelve weeks of coaching at the direction of Swords Celtic Coach Martin Wright. The Peter McDonagh Memorial cup was played to commemorate the life of Pater who died at the age of 21years. Winnie Mc Donnell, wife of Swords Celtic worker Tommy approached the club a number of months ago with a view to putting together a programme of football and fitness for members of the Traveling Community. The McDonnells have three children playing for Swords Celtic at present, however Winnie was conscious that a healthy way of life was not always the norm within their community and life expectancy for Travellers is considerably shorter than the national average. Martin Wright agreed to take on the task and committed to a twelve week programme of training every Wednesday afternoon. Martin is no stranger to coaching being involved with a number of the clubs 11 a-side teams. Pavee United held the Gardai well keeping a clean sheet for the first quarter before conceding their first goal. Jonny McDonald - shown left, equalised on 38 minutes when he lobbed the Garda keeper but the Gardai re-took the lead just a minute later. The final score ended at 5 - 2 to the Gardai - Tommy Stokes has scored the second goal for Pavee. Swords Celtic were delighted to have been involved with the training and management of this team.

Swords Celtic News - June 2011

20th June 2011
Pre-season training & trials start Monday 11th July - new players of all ages welcome.
6.00 - 7.30pm		7.30 - 9.00pm
Under 8 / 9 Under 10's Under 14B Under 13's Under 12's Under 11's	Born 2003/2004 Born 2002 Born 1998 Born 1999 Born 2000 Born 2001	Under 14A Under 15's Under 17A Under 16's Under 18's	Born 1998 Born 1997 Born 1995 Born 1996 Born 1994
Managers contact numbers are on the Contact List Page

11th June 2011
	The Under 12 team went to NDSL today to receive their League Trophy and Medals. Shown above are Managers Martin Wright, Christy Colligan and player of the year Walid Mustafa

10th June 2011
Swords Celtic as seen from the Aer Lingus 1936 Iolar - June 2011	A birds eye view of Swords Celtic The 2010 / 2011 season is now at an end and most teams are finished with training - time to rest up the tired and weary mussels in preparation for next season. Preseason training starts back at the club on Monday 11th July 2011. A full schedule of times will be posted here closer to the date. In advance of that there will be a managers meeting on Tuesday 21st June at 7.30 pm - this will be looking at next seasons leagues and pre season training plans. The coaching camp for kids born in 2003 & 2004 will conclude with presentations on Saturday 24th June at the clubhouse. 2012 is the 50th Anniversary of Swords Celtic. If you would like to become involved in the planning of events to celebrate this milestone, please contact us by mail at swordsceltic@gmail.com or by phoning Eddie Darcy at 087 1262691.
3rd June 2011
	15 Premiers lose play off to Malahide Three first half goals for Malahide won them the U15 Premier league title tonight at Oscar Traynor Road. Swords Celtic had finished the season on equal points with Malahide leading to this play off. Swords were however at a considerable disadvantage as their Goalkeeper was out of the country and unavailable to play. This team had already won the Molly Martin Cup and now end the season as league runners up. A fine achievement from the players and their managers - many of whom have been together for several years. We look forward to another season of quality football from them in 2011/2012.

Swords Celtic News - May 2011

30th May 2011
		Awards evening at Balheary The Lord Mayor of Fingal, Ken Farrell and Watford FC Goalkeeper Rene Gilmartin kindly came to Swords Celtic today to make presentations to players and teams in what has been the clubs most successful season for many years. The Lord Mayor spoke of the close working relationship which Swords Celtic have with Fingal Co Co and congratulated the club on its continued development. Rene Gilmartin recalled playing at Balheary at a time when our only facilities was the grass on which the football was played. Awards were made to each of the seven a side teams with the eleven a side teams giving awards for Top Goalscorer, Player of the Year and Most Improved Player. Click HERE for the full awards page

29th May 2011
		High Scoring games at Celtic 24 goals were scored in two home games today as the Under 15 Premiers beat Clontarf 10 - 3. Luke Mc Court shown left scored the 6th while Calvin Dooney scored a hat-trick. At the same time on Pitch 4 the Under 11E team scored eleven goals against visiting Tyrellstown with Celtics Michael Ikoro scoring his second hat-trick in a week.
25th May 2011
	Outcome of Under 15 Premier league on knife-edge Swords Celtic and Malahide Premier teams met this evening for the third time this season in the penultimate game in the Under 15 Premier league. Back in September Malahide came out on top in the away fixture by 2 - 1. The two sides met in the semi final of the Molly Martin cup in mid April - a game which ended nil all at full time, one all at the end of extra time and which Swords eventually won on penalties. Before kick off both teams were neck and neck in the league table - eleven games played - each on 19 points. Malahide took the lead early in tonights game - a game which was once again played with passion and vigor from start to end. Luke Mc Court headed in an excellent goal from a Keith Heller free kick to even the score before half time and with no further scores the game ended at one all. This leaves Swords and Malahide both on 20 points with one game to go - Celtic welcome bottom of the table Clontarf to Balheary on Sunday next - kick off at 10.30. Malahide play 2nd from bottom Boyne Rovers.
24th May 2011
		Under 11 B team win league Congratulation to Stephen Kirwan and his Under 11 side who today pick up the final points they needed to win the 11B league - courtesy of a walkover from Woodlawn. The team hold the proud record of 13 wins from 18 games with five draws and remain unbeaten in the league for the entire season. Congratulations also to the Under 12E team who have topped their league and in doing so were only beaten once in the 2010 / 2011 season in all league games. This brings to Six the number of league titles won by the club this season on top of Five cup wins and Two cup runner up positions.
21st May 2011
			Under 9's end season with away win Well done to the 9B team who travelled to Maynooth for the last game of the season today. A goal from Danny Delaney scored directly from a corner followed by goals from Jeffrey and Malak gave Celtic a 3 - 2 win. The Under 10 Premiers also beat Maynooth by 2 - 0 giving Swords full honours for their trip to Co. Kildare.

17th May 2011
Swords Celtic announce Soccer Camp for players born in 2003 & 2004 Swords Celtic are looking for players born in 2003 & 2004 - currently in the club or looking to join the most successful soccer club in Swords, to take part in an Under 9's soccer camp which will be held between 23rd May and 25th June 2011. Full details of the camp are available by clicking HERE
16th May 2011
	Under 10 Premiers are league champions Congratulations to the Under 10 Premier team, managed by Eddie Darcy and Lar Gilmartin who won the league today when they beat Ratoath Harps away by one goal to nil. Reality Osuoha scored the winning goal just before half time meaning that Celtic win the league with two games yet to play. Several of the Swords players made outstanding contributions during the game - this team which has already won the Under 10 O'Neills Cup and were runners up in the Daily Star cup last weekend will be a force to be reckoned with when they move to 11- a side football next season. Well done to all the Players and Managers
15th May 2011
Under 11B's must wait another week for title The Under 11B team went to Laytown's coastal pitch today knowing that a win in the game would win them the 11B league. With Swords in second place, Laytown in third and still could have overtaken Celtic if results went their way. Top team Baldoyle have already finished all their matches and can only wait to see who overtakes them. A firm wind was with Celtic in the first half but by half time they had failed to score. To make matters worse a penalty shot went wide to let Laytown off the hook. The second half had just started when Kevin Murray put Celtic ahead. Moments later a simple slip to the ground put Darragh O'Grady out of the game with an injured arm and before Celtic had recomposed themselves Laytown scored from a free kick. With the benefit of the wind Laytown continued to attack knowing that they needed the win more than Swords. A break on the right wing allowed them to score their second goal and for a short time it looked like this Celtic team might suffer their first defeat of the season. All credit to Swords who never gave up and with moments to go a fine high cross from Sean O'Briain was knocked into the net by Gavin Ward to give Swords a point. The league will be decided next weekend when Woodlawn come to Swords for the last game of the season.	Goalscorers Gavin Ward and Kevin Murray Match photos are on the 11B team page.
14th May 2011
	Under 10 Premiers beaten by single goal in Cup Final The Under 10 Premiers were beaten today by fellow Premier league side Maynooth Town in the final of the Daily Star Cup. The two sides met in the league at Balheary just two weeks ago when Celtic came from one goal down to beat the visiting Maynooth by two goals to one. Maynooth struck first in todays Cup final when they scored after 15 minutes had gone and although Celtic battled until the end they could not find an equaliser. FAI president John Delaney made the medal presentations. He complimented both teams on the quality of the football played and surprised all by welcoming both teams to the Republic of Ireland v Slovakia match at the Aviva on 2nd September. Both teams will also get to meet the Irish team and manager Giovanni Trapattoni. View Photos from the match HERE
12th May 2011
	Under 10B's win cup in replay Ratoath and Swords Celtic could not be separated in the first game of this cup last weekend - it ended one all after extra time. In tonights replay one winner had to be found. The game was tight with few shots threatening either goalkeepers - but the game will be remembered for a wonderful one handed save by Celtic keeper Paddy Quinn when he pushed a very high shot over the bar to keep the sides even at nil all. Once again extra time came and went with neither sides having scored and the game went to the dreaded penalty shoot out. Swords scored three to Ratoath's two to lift the Muriel McCory and give Celtic their fifth Cup win of the season. View the penalty Shoot out HERE View the Cup presentation HERE
8th May 2011
	Under 8 Premiers win our 4th Cup After Saturdays excitement at NDSL, there was only one Swords Celtic team in action on Sunday. The Under 8 Premier team were playing Glebe North in the final of the Eammon Ludden Cup. Swords opened the scoring after just 5 minutes when a Jake Pope free kick found the back of the net. Glebe were equal on 12 minutes and went ahead just three minutes later after a Celtic own goal. Cian Warren drew the sides level just before the half time whistle - just in time for the half time settling down' talk from managers Conor Warren and Paul Cibotar Swords were the better team in the second half and again took the lead just four minutes after the break with Josh Flannagan scoring. In the dying minutes of the game Cian Warren scored his second goal to give Celtic the victory and their forth Cup Final win of the weekend. View the Under 8 Premier Trophy Presentations by clicking HERE View match and presentation photos by clicking HERE
7th May 2011
Triple Cup Wins at NDSL for Swords Celtic Teams
	What a day for Swords Celtic !!! Four teams were competing in their Cup Finals at NDSL Oscar Traynor Road and we had three winners with the forth team drawing and going for a replay next week. First up was the Under 10 Premiers who were playing Ratoath Harps Premier team. Nil all at half time, but within seconds of the second half starting Reality Osuoha had opened the scoring to put Swords ahead. Late in the second half a Jamie Condon corner was put in the back of the net by a Ratoath player to give Celtic their first Cup win of the day. View the Under 10 Premier Cup Presentation by clicking HERE View match and presentation photos by clicking HERE.
	The Under 15 Premiers took on Stella Maris in the final of the Molly Martin Cup. The game kicked off at a furious pace and it took until the mid point of the first half until the teams started to play football. Nil all was the score at half time. Second half and four minutes into the game Andy Dunne took on and beat the more than competent Stella keeper to score the one and only goal of the game. In each game the referees select one Player of the game - the honour in this game went to Celtics Niall (Neil) Grogan. View the Under 15 Premier team and the presentation of the Molly Martin Cup by clicking HERE View photos from the game and presentation by clicking HERE
	In the final game of the day at NDSL, Swords Celtic finished the day as they started it by winning another Cup - this time it was the Under 17 Premiers and the Mary Farrell cup. Marino FC were the opposition and it took 25 minutes for Celtic to open the scoring when they were awarded a penalty and James Cronin stepped up to bury the ball in the net. Click HERE to view the Penalty Marino got the equaliser before half time leaving the sides all even at the break. Seven minutes into the second half Richie Cray gave Celtic the lead again. Substitute Jack Hargan was on the pitch 3 minutes when he stepped up to take a free kick and score the third Celtic goal while Richie Cray added his second of the game to give the victory to Swords Celtic by four goals to one. The referees selected Celtics Evan Duffy as Man of the match. View the Under 17 Premier presentation of the Mary Farrell Cup by clicking here
Photos from the Under 17 Premier game can be viewed by clicking HERE  The Under 10 B team took on Ratoath Harps at lunchtime in their cup final hoping that Celtic could do the double over Ratoath. A first half goal from Christi Dotia, shown right, gave Swords the lead into the break. Ratoath took advantage of a midfield gap in the second half to break through and equalise. Extra time came and went with no further score and this final will now be replayed next Thursday. ____________________________________________ The club has two Cup Finals to be played next weekend. The Under 10 Premiers play Maynooth in the final of the Daily Star Cup on Saturday 14th at 3.30 pm while the Under 17 Premiers will be trying for the double when they take on Navan Town 18Premier in the finals of the Carlton Cup. This match is on Sunday 15th at 3.00pm. We wish both teams lots of luck.
2nd May 2011
Marathon magic at Balheary
Bank holiday Monday at Swords Celtic was a day full of fun, football and food as the club hosted its annual Soccer Marathon. The sun shone and the breeze stayed calm enough not to disrupt the proceedings as club football players and their families spend much of the day at the club for the day which is now aimed at all the family. Bouncing castles, music and freshly cooked burgers and Hot dogs, face painting and the cake sale were just some of the events taking place in and around the club house while the kids got stuck into the serious footballing activities. Penalty shoot outs, cross bar challenges and team games for all ages from our Pee Wees right up to 13,'s 14's and 15's which took place throughout the day were followed by food and goodie bags. Photos from the Marathon Day are available by Clicking HERE. We thank all those who collected sponsorship for the Marathon Day and now look forward to Marathon 2012 when Swords Celtic will be celebrating its 50th Anniversary. In preparation for this we now are looking for any parents who may be willing to assist with club activities during the next year. If you are interested, please feel free to drop us a mail at Swordsceltic@gmail.com

1st May 2011
Under 14's beat Dingle to win League Well done to the the Under 14A team who beat Dingle United today to win the Under 14 A league. Goals from Merbhan Soco and a penalty from Jason Lynch gave the home team the three points that clinched the title for them and with it promotion to next seasons premier league. Show left Patsy O'Neill celebrates with goalscorer Merbhan Soco. Under 15's Premiers beat league leaders Woodlawn The Under 15 Premiers beat league leaders Woodlawn away today to go joint top of the league with them with one game in hand. With three games remaining in the league this team who are already in the finals of the Molly Martin Cup must now stand a realistic chance of bringing home double silverware this season.
Under 18 Premiers dent Malahides league hopes Well done to the Under 18 Premiers who pulled off the win of the season today when they went to play second place Malahide United in the league. The team were three nil down with 20 minutes to go and with the goalkeeper carried off injured and no substitutes on the sideline Celtic went on to win the game by four goals to three.

Swords Celtic News - April 2011

30th April 2011

Good home wins for Under 10's and Under 12's The Under 10 Premier team came from behind today to pick up a vital three points and move one step closer to securing the 10 Premier 1 league title. Maynooth Town were the visiting opposition and the team that will challenge Celtic in the final of the Daily Star cup scored first and took the one nil lead to the break. Swords had chance after chance before the ball finally broke in the box to Reality Osuoha for a simple tap in past the keeper. Celtic then upped the pressure further in the search for a winner which came in the form of a Karl Stanley penalty. The win brings the Premier 1 team one step closer to the league title. View the Penalty goal HERE Meanwhile on Pitch 1 the Under 12's played DDSL opposition from Naas. Celtic went ahead early in the game and at half time they led one nil. Early in the second half Naas equalised - this moved Celtic to a higher gear that saw Liam Emery score his second and Patrick McDonnell - shown left - knock the ball over the keepers reach to win the game 3 - 1.

28th April 2011
Monday 2nd May 2011 is club Marathon Day Everything is now planned out for the annual Swords Celtic Soccer marathon. The day starts with registration for the Pee Wee's, Under 7's and Under 8's at 10.00am Under 9's and Under 10 b & c teams - register at 11.30am Under 10a and Under 11's register at 12.30pm Under 12's, 13's and 14's register at 1.30pm You should return your Sponsorship Card and the money raised at registration. Apart from the football there are a range of other fun events planned throughout the day so bring your parents, brothers and sisters and join in the fun.
26th April 2011
	17 Premiers dominant in reaching 2nd Cup Final Congratulations to the Under 17 Premier team who for the second time in a week secured their place in a Cup Final. Last Friday they knocked out Rivervalley Under 18's by a single goal in the Carlton Cup - tonight they met the Rivervalley Under 17 Premiers in the semi finals of the Mary Farrell Cup. Celtic should have scored in the first half when the Rivervalley keeper failed to hold the ball and the resulting shot was kept out only by the upright, but at half time scores were even at nil all. The tempo of the game stepped up considerably in the second half and several rash challenges by the visitors were dealt with by means of yellow cards. Jack Hargan (shown left - under the rest of the team) scored the first Celtic goal with James Cronin jumping higher than the keeper to head in the second and win the tie that puts the team into its second Cup Final.

25th April 2011

Under 11's enjoy Easter in Holland Six months of fundraising and bagpacking by the players and parents from the Under 11B team was rewarded this weekend when they went to Holland to take part in the Easter Cup. The team competed in the Under 12's & 13's section and were unbeaten against all other Under 12 teams but found the Under 13's a more difficult challenge. The team must now however put the trip behind them and concentrate on the final few weeks of their league. They are currently sitting in second place in, four points behind Baldoyle but they have four games less played than the leaders. With five games left to play, the team who remain unbeaten all season must be confident of picking up the required points to top the table and win promotion to next seasons 'A' division. To View Photos from Holland Click HERE

22nd April 2011

17 Premiers work hard to earn place in Carlton Cup Finals Well done to the Swords Celtic Under 17 Premier team who have tonight beaten Rivervalley Under 18 Premiers to get their place in the final of the Under 17 / 18 Carlton Cup. Just one goal divided the sides in a clash that saw schoolmates from both sides of the valley come together at Balheary for the first of two cup semi finals for the Celtic 17's. The game was tense with lots of missed chances on both sides, a number of Celtic players taken off injured and a missed penalty which could have sown up the result midway through the second half. However it was the single goal from Ronan White which decided the game and put the team into their first cup final of the season. Next up the team will meet the Rivervalley Under 17 A team in the semi Finals of the Mary Farrell Cup - heres hoping for another win and a second cup final for the team to look forward to.

21st April 2011
Ferris Heidar	Justin Hogan	Under 8's lose out in Cup Semi final replay After last weeks 1 all draw, Castleknock Celtic came to Swords to play the replay of this cup semi final.   A good crowd attended on both sides to support the teams. Swords went behind early in the first half and despite putting non stop pressure on the Castleknock goal they could not get the ball over the line. Early in the second half the signs looked ominous when the visitors scored a second to lead by two - nil. One goal can often make a difference and Ferris Heidar - pictured far left scored it five minutes from full time. The Swords team got that extra step in their pace and knew that all was not lost. In the dying seconds of the game and with frantic goalmouth activity Justin Hogan - left - equalised and sent the game into extra time. Just one goal separated the teams at the full time whistle with Castleknock clinching the place in the final. Match photos are on the Team Page - click HERE

20th April 2011

Under 11E's beaten in Cup Semi Final by Rush 'D' league leaders Another fine evening, another cup semi final, and another thrilling game at Balheary on this Wednesday evening. Brian Batton's Under 11E team took on visiting Rush in the semi Finals of the Hugh Donnelly cup. Although Rush are in a league higher and are currently at the top of that league, it was Swords who opened the scoring when Harry Nugent - shown left knocked the ball in the net late in the first half. Rush responded well and had equalised before the half time break. Straight from the 2nd half whistle Rush attached and piled on the pressure which finally resulted in them taking the lead. A Celtic reshuffle saw Harry Nugent move from the back to the striker position allowing him to equalise and take the game to extra time. Ten added minutes each way and a goal from the visitors which was cancelled out by one from Charles Okoye brought the dreaded penalty shoot out. Twelve penalty shots later and Rush had won the game after scoring five to Swords Celtics four. It was hard luck on the Celtic players who did themselves proud to get so close to the Cup Finals. View the Penalty Shoot out here.

17th April 2011

Under 15 and Under 10 Premiers get Cup Final places There was dramatic action today at Swords Celtic when the Under 15 Premiers took on local rivals Malahide in the semi finals of the Molly Martin Cup. The game was class with two quality sides pitted against each other. Every ball was fought for and every tackle was committed 100%. The game had the look of one which would be won or lost by a single goal. At the end of normal time that goal had not materialised and the two teams prepared for extra time - 10 minutes each way. The battle continued and on the stroke of half time Malahide got the lucky break and scored the opener. A quick 30 second tactical team talk took place during the change and the game got underway again. Its never over until the final whistle is blown - Celtic waited until the referee was reaching for the whistle before Sean Gelling (left) bundled the ball into the Malahide net after a frantic goal mouth scramble. Only one team could progress to the final - and this was decided by way of the Penalty shoot out. Three fine saves by Swords goalkeeper Graham Mc Connell and a final winner from Brian Finnegan won the tie for Celtic by 4 - 3. View the penalties by clicking HERE The Under 10 Premiers booked their place in their second Cup final on Saturday when they went to Corduff and beat them by seven goals to nil to earn the right to challenge in the final of the Daily Star cup. Finally congratulations to the Under 17 Premiers who beat Balscadden Boys 3 - 1 in the Quarter finals of the Mary Farrell Cup

10th April 2011
	Under 17 Premiers power into Cup Semi's Richie Cray, shown left, scored the 4th Swords Celtic goal today in their Carlton Knockout Cup game against Santos 15's, Under 18 team. Mid way through the first half the teams were drawn at 2 - 2 but the composure and quality of the Swords team came out when they scored a further four goals to beat the Under 18 Premier leaders by 6 - 2. They go on to play the winners of Balbriggan v Rivervalley in the cup semi finals. ____________________________________________________ Under 14's score twice in first 70 seconds The Under 14A team, currently topping their league played Tolka Rovers in the midweek fixture last Tuesday. Conor Gilhooley put them one up after 24 seconds and Jason Lynch added a second on 70 seconds. Two goals in 70 seconds???? Does anyone know if this is a record?? ____________________________________________________   Under 12' beat nearest rivals The Under 12 E team sit proudly on top of their league today after they went to mid Sutton and beat them by six goals to two. Sutton were three points behind Celtic in second place in the league prior to kick off but the win puts the Celtic team ahead by up to 6 points depending on other results not yet in.
9th April 2011
	Under 10 Premiers overcome Balbriggan in Cup The Under 10 premiers played Balbriggan for the third time in three weeks today in the replay of the Daily Star Cup quarter final. In the first game, Celtic were winning until a last minute equaliser gave Balbriggan the right to come to Balheary for a replay. Late week in the league Balbriggan became the first team this season to beat Swords Celtic and in doing so they set up a much anticipated replay. The game was played at a furious pace with both sides challenging for every ball. Swords however took the lead when the referee gave a penalty against the visitors. View Karl Stanleys penalty HERE. By half time Karl had added a second and Jamie Condon a third - the home side were coasting. Balbriggan kept the pressure up for the second half and this combined with an increased wind and a wicked bounce gave them their first goal. A free kick knocked directly into the top of the net made it 3 - 2 but despite the best efforts of Balbriggan they ran out of time and Celtic progressed into the semi finals of the Cup.

7th April 2011
	Under 11B team - unbeatable Enda Delaney, left, scored the only goal in tonights game against Rivervalley Rangers to leave the team with a proud record of being unbeaten in the league after eleven games played. The team could have scored a number of times during the game - but as is the way in games with a single goal margin, Rivervalley pounced late in the game and it took two fine saves from goalkeeper A.J Mc Cormack to keep the clean sheet and gives Celtic the points. The team currently lie in 3rd place but have 6 games less played than leaders Baldoyle and 3 less than 2nd place Laytown. Fingers crossed for a good run in to the end of the season and hopefully the league title.

6th April 2011
	Under 16 Premiers defeat Portmarnock 4 - 0 A hat-trick from Gavin Purcell and a goal from Graham Callan all in the first half sent Portmarnock home tonight with a heavy 4 nil defeat - only their second defeat of the season. The three points sends Celtic back to the top of the Premier league but with Skerries, Hartstown and Portmarnock all having games in hand the final outcome of the league remains uncertain. Swords were on top before last weekends games but were beaten by second place Hartstown by 2 -1. Next weekends fixture sees local rivals Swords Rovers cross the road to play at the Celtics grounds - the away game against Rovers saw the game drawn at 2 all - if Celtic have any title aspirations then a win in this fixture is essential. Kick off at Balheary is at 1.15 pm on Sunday.
3rd April 2011
Under 15C goalscorers, Daniel Gammell, Craig Monaghan and Dylan Farrell	Cup Wins for Under 17Premier and Under 15 Premier teams. Well done to the Under 17 Premiers who convincingly beat Castleknock Celtic 6 - 2 at Home in the 3rd Round of the Carton Cup. Their reward is a quarter final game against Under 18 Premier team Santos 15. The Carlton Cup involves Under 17 and Under 18 teams and Swords Celtic are the only club with an Under 17 team at the quarter final stage. The Under 15 Premier team went to Kinegad and came home with a place in the place in the Semi Finals of the Molly Martin Cup. The team put nine goals past the 'A' league opposition with a clean sheet on the Celtic side. Pictured left are three of the goalscorers from the Under 15 C teams game at Ashbourne today. Ten goals were scored in the game with Swords Celtic coming out on top by a margin of 6-4.

2nd April 2011
Winners all the way
Tommy McDonnell, left, scored the opening goal for the 6A team today - Celtic went on to beat St. Columbans  by  7 - 3.	Faruk scored the games only goal against visiting Ratoath today in the Under 8C1 game.	Aaron Clarkes goal for the Under 10B team game them the three points against Malahide today in a one nil home win.

Swords Celtic News - March 2011

31st March 2011
			Under 11E 3-Under 11F 0 This second round game in the Under 11's cup brought two Swords Celtic teams face to face. Both the 11E and 11F teams currently hold 2nd place in their leagues but only one could progress to the next round of the cup. That honour goes to Brian Batton's 11E's - they won with a first half goal from Craig Wright and second half goals from Robbie Stapleton and Charles Okoye. Gerry Munroe's 11F's were unable to put the ball past David Batton even though most of the second half was played in front of his goal.

29th March 2011
	Under 14's selected for NDSL squad Well done to Merbhan Soco and Patsy O'Neill, both from the 14A team who have been selected to play on the NDSL squad for this season. The duo get the opportunity to team up with players from other teams including Stella Maris, Balbriggan, Ashbourne and Woodlawn and will compete representing the North Dublin Schoolboys League throughout Ireland. We wish the lots of success throughout the season. ______________________________________ Well done to the Under 8 teams last weekend who all had wins in their league games. The 8Premiers beat visiting Glebe North by 4 - 0 and moved to third in their league. The 8C team beat Baldoyle at Balheary by two goals to one while the 8 C1 team went to Woodlawn and beat their closest league rivals by 2 - 1 to go top of their league
20th March 2011
Revenge is a dish best served cold...today was the day
	When the Under 16 Premier team went to Balbriggan last October they were shocked with a 3 - 1 defeat, their first of the season. The return fixture at Balheary today showed a changed Celtic team that was brimming with confidence. Balbriggan appeared in a different class and were overcome by a Swords team which knocked in six goals to the visitors single penalty goal. Gavin Purcell scored a hat-trick while Josh Woods moved from the back late in the game to score the 6th and final of the game. Pictured left - Josh Woods, No. 3, is congratulated on scoring by Jamie Darcy and Shane Geddis who also scored. ____________________________ In the away game against Castleknock, the Under 14C team led 4 - 1 with 20 minutes to go only to squander this lead and draw the game at four all. For todays return game the team was seriously depleted with several injuries leaving a squad of only 12 available to play. Terry Onyabour calmed the teams nerves early in the first half when he coolly took down and controlled the visiting keepers save and firmly knocked it back into the net for the opening goal. Kenny Wilde made it two nil at half time. Castleknock opened the second half with lots of pressure and the minds of the Celtic team must have been on those goals that were given away late in the away game. Dean Wright settled the game in the last five minutes with his 6th goal of the season to give the Celtic team the well deserved win and all important 3 points.
Celtic's Terry Onyabour, Conor McGrath and Dylan Rossiter at todays game against Castleknock
19th March 2011
	Congratulations to the Under 8P team. The team beat Corduff today by 6 - 3 in the Semi Finals of the Eammon Ludden Cup. They become the third Swords Celtic team to have booked Cup Final places so far this season. Also further congratulations to the Under 10 Premier team who remain unbeaten all season following their 5 - 0 Win over Corduff. Reality Osuoha scored a hat trick for Celtic - see the Hat-trick page. The team is currently at the top of the league leading by 9 points and are in the final of the Under 10 O'Neills Cup and in the last eight of the Daily Star cup.
17th March 2011
	Swords Celtic F.C. Proud to lead the St. Patrick's Day Parade 2011 Over 100 players from Swords Celtic proudly led the St. Patrick's Day Parade 2011 through Swords Town Centre today. Players from ages Under 7 to Under 14's wore the Green and Black Celtic colours while the new club Flags were carried at the head of the parade by Aaron Lynch, Conor McGrath and David Wright. The Swords Celtic contingent was the biggest single group in the parade reflecting the clubs position as the largest Soccer club in the Fingal capital. Photos from the parade are available by clicking HERE

13th March 2011
	Lions Club cup win for Under 14's The Under 14 A team continued its winning ways in the next round of the Lions Club Under 14 cup today at Balheary when they beat visiting DDSL side St. Joseph's. Goals from Jack O'Grady and Conor Gilhooly won the tie for the home side - this follows up their away win against Carrick Rovers in this competition in February. Clontarf teams suffer heavy defeats Two visiting Clontarf teams to Swords Celtic left Balheary today having conceded a total of fifteen goals between them. The Under 12's kicked of first and the team retained their place at the top of the 12E league with a convincing 7 - 2 win. At lunchtime, the Under 17 Premiers took on Clontarf 'A' in the Mary Farrell cup - a game which was somewhat of a mismatch. An 8 - 1 win puts Larry Gilligans team into the quarter finals of the cup where they will meet Premier rivals Balscadden Boys.
Lions Club Cup visitors - St. Joseph's

12th March 2011
	'Reality' bites Ratoath in Cup The Under 10 Premiers meet Ratoath in the Final of the O'Neills Cup in May - today the teams met at Balheary in the last 16 round of games in the Daily Star cup. At the end of a very competitive and even first half the score stood at nil all - Celtic having been denied the opening goal when the ball crossed the line but was unseen doing so by the referee. In the second half, Reality Osuoha, pictured left, came on and scored two cracking goals to give Celtic the lead. Karl Stanley scored the third that ensured Celtic won their place in the quarter final of this cup - their opposition next round will be Balbriggan.
	Under 9 Premiers win Cup tie in Extra time The final match of the day at Swords Celtic was well worth the wait. It was the cup tie against local rivals Swords Manor - the prize - a quarter final place in the Lee Brothers Cup. The first half was scoreless - a close encounter in which both sides failed to take several chances which could have secured victory. The Celtic keeper, Eddie Covasa made several fine saves to keep out the Swords Manor attacks but early into the second half was beaten after the Manor sliced through the Celtic defence to score the opener. Josh Llyod Pete equalised from one of his many impressive runs to send the game to extra time. Kyle Grace scored the winner during the first extra period and from then on Celtic took hold of the game until the final whistle. Balbriggan at home in the last 8 is the reward - and we wish the team best of luck in that fixture.
	Rachel Darcy, Daniel Nevin and Patrick Mihas were the goalscorers for the Under 9C team today as they enjoyed a 4 - 1 win over visiting Balscadden. ________________________________________________ Well done to the Under 8 Premiers who went to Rivervalley today and won by 7 - 3 thereby completing a trio of victories by our under 8, 9 and 10 Premier teams.
6th March 2011
	Under 14's make it three wins over local rivals Swords Manor this weekend. Kenny Wilde, pictured left, made the difference between the teams when they met at Swords Manor this morning. Having beaten the Manor at home earlier in the season, Celtic were hoping for a repeat performance for the return fixture. Half way through the first half a cross from Terry Onyabour was flicked on by Kenny Wilde to Dean Wright who scored his 5th goal of the season. On the stroke of half time a Swords Manor attack drew the sides at 1 - 1. After the break the opposition were unable to keep up with the skill and ball control shown by Kenny and the game was decided by a fantastic break from halfway when Kenny cut through several Swords Manor players before neatly placing the ball in the opposition net. Following on from yesterdays wins at Under 7 and Under 8 ages, this gives Swords Celtic a nice hat trick of wins over one of the local rivals. _______________________________________________________ Well done to the Under 13's who beat Swords Rovers by three goals to one after extra time to progress to the last eight of the Under 13 cup.

5th March 2011
Under 10 P and Under 10 B teams into Cup Finals
	Patrick Jordan, left, scored the games only goal in a very closely fought match in the Muriel McCory Cup Semi Final at Swords Celtic today. But for the efforts of the outstanding Orla form the Navan Road the score would have been much higher, however only one goal late in the game gave victory to Swords. They will meet the winners of the Drumcondra / Ratoath game in the finals at the Oscar Traynor centre in early May. ___________________________ Josh Reilly, Right, scored four goals for the Under 9b team against Artane Beaumont today to complete the teams double over the visitors this season. The win moves the team into forth place in their league. Well done to the Under 9's

Thomas de Burca and Josh Doyle were the goalscorers for the Under 8's in the derby game against Swords Manor today. A well deserved victory in which Celtic shone brighter than the visiting Manor team. Doyle scored a hat trick and the result brings the team to 2nd place in the league, a point behind the leaders Maynooth who have played one more game. To see Photos from the game click here and go to the team page __________________________________________________ Congratulations to the Under 10 Premier team who booked their place in the final of the O'Neills Cup today when they beat Clontarf at St. Annes by a single goal. The team now have their eyes firmly set on winning both Cup and League this season - they currently top their league by seven points.

Swords Celtic News - February 2011

27th February 2011
Sean Gelling & Brian Finnegan	Under 15 Premier's defeat local rivals Malahide United in the Cup. Having being beaten in the early days of the league 2 - 1 by Malahide, there was a score to be settled between the two teams at Balheary today. The visitors currently hold top slot in the 15 Premier league but despite scoring first in todays game, they left Swords having exited the Molly Martin cup. Malahide went ahead early in the game and led at the break. Celtic came out of the half time in determined form and attacked straight from the kick off. Brian Finnegan equalized early in the second half and from then on Swords always looked like the team to win the tie. Sean Gelling terrorised the Malahide defence with numerous runs into their goal mouth and was rewarded when the Malahide keeper failed to hold the ball and Sean tipped it into the empty net. Indeed Sean could have scored again shortly after when the Malahide keeper was faced with a two on one with the Swords players only to have the effort well saved. The win puts the Celtic team into the last eight of the Molly Martin cup.
	Under 16 Premiers defeat league leaders When you play the league leaders the last thing you want is loosing an early goal. Within minutes of todays kick off at Swords Celtic, Hartstown scored kicking into the wind with a shot that lobbed the Celtic keeper. The Celtic equaliser came from a cracking free kick from Daviss, pictured right, with a kick too powerful for the Hartstown keeper to stop. One all at half time and with the wind picking up and blowing the ball around, the game lost some of its earlier style. A well deserved Jamie Hoare goal won the 3 points for Celtic - just reward for the pacey winger who showed some of his abundant skill that we have grown accustomed to over the years to score and win the game.
Under 14 A team win local Cup derby against Swords Manor. Well done to the Under 14A team who progress to the last 8 of the Under 14 cup with a comprehensive victory over local rivals Swords Manor. A hat-trick from Jack O'Grady and goals from Adam Burch, Conor Gilhooly and Mervyn Soco won the tie for Celtic.
19th & 20th February
While most of the Swords Celtic teams enjoyed another weather enforced break, a group of 31 players and parents from the the Under 15 premier team were flying to the UK for a weekend of football. Snow threatened both their flight and the Leeds United game, however both went ahead as planned. Rothwell United provided the local opposition on an indoor Astro pitch which was followed by a tour of Elland Road and a fine meal in Billy's Bar where the team met the Leeds United captain Johnny Houson and the managers met club Chairman Ken Bates. The two all draw against Norwich keeps Leeds in the Championship play off places - so maybe the next trip for the Swords team will be to a Premiership match... Photos from the trip can be view by clicking HERE
20th February 2011
The Under 14A team are currently participating in the Annual Lions Club tournament. The competition is held at Under 14 age group and was won by Swords Celtic in 2009. Last week Swords played Carrick Rovers, and their club has posted the match report - Click here to view the report
Another week of wet weather once again meant all the home pitches were off for this weekend. Only seven matches survived elsewhere - these games saw the Under 9's beaten in Castleknock in the cup, the Under 14A team lose away to Crumlin United in the All Ireland Cup and the Under 16 and 18's both lose their league cup ties. Well done to the Under 11F team who beat Castleknock Celtic 2 goals to one to move to the next round of the cup

8th February 2011
Supporting the National team - Ireland v Wales at the Aviva - 8th February 2011

5th February 2011
Swords Celtic host FAI Kick Start 1 course
	Almost 50 participants took place in the FAI Kick Start 1 coaching course at Swords Celtic today. Coaches from Swords Celtic, Shelbourne, Woodlawn and Swords Manor attended the course run by FAI's Mick Pender and Denis Hyland. Kick Start 1 is the introductory course and is designed for coaches dealing with children in the 6 - 9 age group. Successful participants are eligible to participate in Kick Start 2 (9 - 12 ages) and Youth certificate which deals with kids up to 18yrs old. Denis Hyland - left, demonstrates some of the simple and fun exercises.

Swords Celtic News - January 2011

29th January 2011
Photos from todays Under 12B ddsl game against Ballyfermot which ended one all.

Ross Hampson who scored his Hattrick against Ratoath today

Under 8 Premiers share the points at Ratoath The Swords Celtic 8P team had an away match this morning against the league leaders, Ratoath Harps. To date Ratoath are unbeaten this season, and only failed to win on one occasion, this was going to be a tough game. It became even tougher when, from our squad of 10 players, 3 of the players were unavailable to play, due to illness. Down to the bare 7 players, with no substitutes, and no chance for any of the players to get a rest during the game, the Celtic team were going to have to be at their very best to get anything from this game. The team started well, and were unlucky to go a goal down, but came back to equalise through Jake Pope in the first half. At half time, it was one-all. Ross Hampson sustained a leg injury in the first half, but bravely played on. In the second half, Swords Celtic went behind again, and Ross got the equaliser. Two all. Then Ratoath scored twice. A team could be forgiven for giving up at this stage, but not Swords Celtic. The team stormed back with some great passing, excellent defending, and some outstanding saves by Jack Dolan in goal. All of this good play paid dividends, and Ross Hampson scored 2 more goals, to get his hat-trick, and to make the game level. The ref blew the final whistle and the match finished 4-all. A fantastic performance from both teams, and a great result for Swords Celtic.

23rd January 2011
		Celtic left with the Crums The weekend brought SFAI Cup disappointment for the Under 15 and Under 16 Premier teams. The Under 15's travelled to Curracloe, Co.Wexford for their Last 64 round game but went out by 2 - 1. Sunday in Balheary saw DDSL side Crumlin visit in the Under 16 Premier last 64. The first half was evenly matched with neither side dominating. After the break however Crumlin upped the pace and went one nil up. They persisted with the pressure and took their chances and scored a second goal that killed off any chance of a Celtic comeback. Left - Celtic's Shane Kearns chases the attacking Crumlin visitors
22nd January 2011
Patrick Mihas and Faruk who scored twice giving the Under 9C team their 2nd league win of the season by beating Castleknock at home today.	Under 10 Premier On the right, Karl Stanley breaks through the Ratoath defence and went on to score the opening goal of this Under 10 Premier game. Aaron Duffy scored a second to give Celtic a comfortable two nil lead at the break. This was a top of the table clash with Swords leading Ratoath by five points and Ratoath having a game in hand. Both teams are unbeaten this season and the visitors worked hard and drew the game two all to keep the top of the league tight.
17th January 2011
15B team off to a good start after the Winter break 31st of October was the last time this team played in the league. They won that game 5 - 4. This week, after 2 months of inactivity, they came to play at home against Castleknock Celtic. After 2 minutes it was 1-0 to the home team. Twenty minutes later however the Castleknock was leading 3-1 - disaster. Leading into the half time break Swords had leveled the game at 3-3. The team talk worked for Swords Celtic, and they went on to win 8-4 in a game of twists and turns. Dylan Hamilton scored 4 goals, but man of the match, went to Arron Scully, who ran his socks off, to get the result. Scorers for the day were four goals from Dylan, with one a piece for J.Storey, C.Brady, V.Ikaro , and J Walshe. Overall, after 12 weeks without a game, Manager, Dave Haskins was happy with the result, but said "We've a lot more to do."
14th January 2011
Age realignment in leagues postponed Tony Gaines in NDSL advises us the following; 'I recently attended an SFAI meeting and on the agenda was the issue of age realignment.  I am happy to advise all clubs that the Executive of SFAI have agreed to defer the age alignment rule which was to come in to force for 2011/2012 next season. It will now go to SFAI AGM to vote whether the rule will come into effect the following season 2012/2013.   The status quo remains for next season'. This rule change would have had a major impact on teams in the club, meaning that each team would have skipped a year's football - this seasons Under 14 would have played at Under 16's level next season. Swords Celtic along with many other NDSL clubs had opposed this change are are happy at the decision of the SFAI to defer it at this time.
10th January 2011
With the commencement of the new season comes the new start time for the first matches at Swords Celtic. Traditionally the first kick off time at the club was 10.30 am- the was to allow the away teams extra time to travel to our 'country' venue. Effective from the next weekend, this time now moves to 10.00 am for the first kick-off with other kick off times also moving from their usual slots.

7th January 2011

Following a lengthy Christmas break without football, the second half of the season is ready to kick of on Saturday 15th January for the 11 a-side teams. Full Fixture details will be posted on the website on Monday evening next.

This weekend however, the Under 8's, 9's and 10's start their participation in the Futsul indoor tournament at Gormanstown College.

For those of you who dont know what Futsul is - listen up..

Futsal is a variant of association football that is played on a smaller playing surface and mainly played indoors. Its name is derived from the Portuguese futebol de salão and the Spanish fútbol de salón, which can be translated as "hall football" or "indoor football".

Futsal is played between two teams of five players, one of whom is the goalkeeper - Unlimited substitutes per team are permitted. Futsal is also played with a smaller ball with less bounce than a regular football. The rules create an emphasis on improvisation, creativity and technique as well as ball control and passing in small spaces.

Details of this weekend Futsul fixtures are available HERE

Swords Celtic News - December 2010

24th December 2010

Happy Christmas to everyone at snowy Swords Celtic.

Please note that the Christmas Tournament on 28th December at the Gormanston College Complex has been cancelled.

10th December 2010
	All NDSL matches are off this weekend, 11th and 12th December. Futsul at Gormanstown is also off until the new year. Happy Christmas to all out players, managers and parents. Next matches are the weekend 15th & 16th January 2011.

2nd December 2010

All NDSL Matches are Off on the weekend of 4th and 5th December - the Futsul games for the Under 8's, Under 9's and Under 10's are postponed and will now take place on the 12th December.

Swords Celtic News - November 2010

29th November 2010

Christmas Holidays - All pitches close after the games on 11th & 12th December and reopen 15th & 16th January 2011.

28th November 2010
		sNOw Matches this weekend. All club matches this weekend were cancelled due to the snowfall. For those who dont like the cold, indoor Futsul for Under 8's and Under 9's starts at Gormanston College on 5th December for 6 weeks.
22nd November 2010
Five cup wins for the 11-a-side teams Well done to Our Under 11B team who beat Dunshaughlin away 2 - 1 in the 1st rounds of the NDSL cup. The 11E team went one better beating Willow FC 3 - 1 in their 1st round game. The Under 14 second team welcomed league newcomers Phoenix FC to Swords - and knocked in four to their one goal. The Under 15 Premier team had a five nil win over Drogheda Boys in the 1st Round of the Molly Martin Cup - Swords Celtic were runners up in this Cup competition last year - so we know what we want this year ???? In the last game of the day the Under 16 Premiers went to Clontarf and enjoyed a two nil win in the NDSL cup. Three more teams will be involved in Cup action next weekend - the 15 Premiers getting the longest journey of the day - 101 miles to Curracloue Utd in Wexford - lets hope they have a good and successful trip to the Sunny South East.
17th November 2010
Good weekend all round for our 11 a-side 'A' teams. It was a busy but successful weekend for the 'A' and Premier teams at 11-a side with wins at all age groups. The Under 11's went to Dunshaughlin and took the points in a close 5 - 4 win while the club's only DDSL side played Lourdes Celtic beating them by four goals to two. The Under 14A team travelled to Mullingar and picked up another 3 points - keeping them firmly on the top of their league. Conor Gilhooley scored a hat trick in the 4 - 2 win. At Premier level, the Under 15's had a convincing win over Balbriggan - eight nil the score while the Under 16 Premiers hosted Shamrocks and easily beat them 6 - 2. Gavin Purcell stole the show scoring 5 of the six goals with a large assist on the 6th also. Top result of the day went to the 17 Premiers who beat Marino in the cup by a whooping eleven goals to nil.
		Left - Dylan Buchannan - 17 P Centre - Vandross Ikoro - 15B Above - Gavin Purcell - 16P
10th November 2010
Goalkeepers complete 9 weeks of training with Fingal's Brendan Clarke.
		Pictured left are goalkeepers from the Under 10's - Under 14 teams who have just completed nine weeks of coaching from Sporting Fingal's No 1 keeper, Brendan Clarke. Originally planned as a six week course - it was extended to nine weeks and covered all aspects of the keepers role. There was an impressive attendance each week clearly proof of how much the kids enjoyed the training. Each of the keepers were presented with padded goalie shorts by club chairman, Eddie Darcy who pointed out that goalies have extra expense over other players having to purchase gloves and shorts themselves. The club hope to run another coarse after the Christmas break - until then lets hope for lots of clean sheets.

9th November 2010

League and club warn about behavior on the sidelines

Its difficult not to have seen the recent newspaper articles regarding a number of league games that were abandoned because of inappropriate and in some cases violent behavior from managers and supporters on the sidelines.

Swords Celtic has always enjoyed a good reputation both on and off the pitch and in order to maintain this we wish to bring to your attention some 'Golden rules'.

* Never criticize or abuse the Referee before, during or after a game. Without referees there will be no matches.

* Never ridicule or shout at a player for making a mistake or loosing a match - if they make a mistake they don't need adults shouting at them to know that they erred.

* Never verbally abuse a player, referee or other supporters at a game. Remember the referee can order any player or supporter to leave the ground.

* Criticism of a player should be in the form of individual discussion and should include elements of praise.

The Swords Celtic Child Protection Officer is Eddie Darcy. His role includes ensuring that children at our club are treated in a proper manner at all times including during training and matches.

If needed, he can be contacted at 087 1262691

We urge all parents, supporters and players to comply fully with the above guidelines and to report any incidents which breach them to a club official.

Full details of the club policy in this area are at www.swords-celtic.com/history.htm

Let the children play......

Swords Celtic News - October 2010

31st October 2010

Wright - in the first minute

That's all it took for Dean Wright to open the scoring today in the Under 14's derby match against local rivals Swords Manor. From the kick off the ball was sent wide to Terry Onyeabour on the left wing who passed it across the field to Wright who made no mistake in opening the score. The Manor scored a 2nd half goal from a free kick but could not match goals from Onyeabour, Bill Dennis, Ian Scanlon and two from Cian Hodges.

SFAI games for the Under 14A and Under 16P teams were called off, but the Under 11B's were beaten in a penalty shootout following extra time by the visiting Kells Blackwater.

Into the next round of the SFAI cup go the Under 15 Premier team who beat North Dublin's Glebe North by a whooping nine goals to nil.

28th October 2010

Fundraising Bag Pack this weekend

Well done to the Under 14 and Under 15 Swords Celtic Teams that participated in the annual  fundraising Bag Pack at Dunnes Stores in the Pavilions this weekend.

24th October 2010
Trio of visits to Castleknock brings mixed results.
Isaac Kiely, Kieran, and Ben Murphy were the goal scorers for the Under 12's.	Sunday morning brought our Under 12's, 14B's and 15 C teams to Porterstown to play Castleknock Celtic. The opening game saw Christy Colligan's Under 12's beat their hosts by 5 - 1. Next up, the Under 14B team shot into a 3 - 1 lead at half time only to be pegged back to draw the game at a disappointing 4 - 4. The final game of the morning saw the clubs newest team, the 15 C team lose by a single goal. Mixed fortunes on a sunny day in Castleknock.

18th October 2010
Matthew Farrell - 9 B team	Hatricks all round on Saturday for the Swords Celtic Under 9's. The 9C team kicked off at home against Skerries and by the middle of the 1st half Faruk, pictured right, had sent them into a 2 - 0 lead. Skerries fought back and soon leveled the match at 2 all. The second half saw the game go to 3 - 3 before Faruk again stepped up to win the game for Swords by scoring his 3rd and 4th of the game. The 9B team went to Woodlawn where Matthew Farrell had the team ahead by three before the end of the 1st half. Careless play in the second half allowed Woodlawn back in the game before final goals on each side ended the game at four all.	Faruk scored all four goals against Skerries

10th October 2010
	14B team pick up 1st win of the season Congratulations to the Under 14 B team on their away win at Ratoath today. The team dominated the opposition in a game that saw some fluid play and good passing. Lee Curtis scored his first goals for the team - both headers from corners, while Terry Onyeabor also scored two. The fifth was scored by Aaron Grehan, his first eleven a side goal - Aaron recently moved from the back to midfield where he displayed a commanding performance in that role. Final score - Swords Celtic 5 - Ratoath 0
9th October 2010
	Win for Under 9's over Swords Manor ______________________ Well done to the Under 9B team who won the Swords Derby today at Balheary. Swords Manor went ahead in the first half from a corner kick and when Celtic missed a penalty the result looked doomed. However a goal from Matthew followed by two goals from Danny (both pictured left) gave the team its first victory of the season. __________________________ On the adjoining pitch the Under 10 Premier1 team continued its fine form with a three nil win over visiting Balbriggan. Click HERE to view their Penalty goal _______________________ Hard luck to the 12A ddsl team. They played Lourdes Celtic in the Hillary Cup - the team were 3 - 1 up before a last minute goal drew the match. In extra time a single goal from Lourdes gave them victory.
3rd October 2010
Club continues to grow - Welcome to the Under 15C team
Swords Celtic has seen a substantial influx of new players to the club this season and is now undoubtedly the most prominent soccer club in Swords. The new players have strengthened our first teams, we now have teams playing in the NDSL Premier leagues at Under 8, 9, 10, 15, 16, 17 and 18 levels - as well as expanding the overall numbers of teams that the club is running. Our new Under 16B team remain unbeaten after their first three games following todays away 'four all' draw against Raheny. Also today the Under 15C team became the newest addition to the club and although they suffered an opening defeat away to Clonee the coming weeks should see them gel together as a team and hopefully get some better results.

Swords Celtic News - September 2010

30th September 2010

Fees are now due

Club fees for this season are now due. You can pay €155 for the year or pay in two sums, €85 now and €80 in January 2011. Please pay Carolyn or your manager as soon as possible.

The fees now include a sum to cover the new Insurance Policy which Swords Celtic has taken out. This policy covers all players while attending home or away fixtures, training organised by the club or any club social activities. The policy covers Physiotherapy, Osteopathy, Chiropractic, Sports massage and Acupuncture. The first €100 of a claim for Dental, Physiotherapy or Medical is not covered.

26th September 2010
Wins all round for our Under 11 teams
Kevin Murray, right, from the Under 11B team scored the opening goal against Baldoyle at home today. The Swords side won the match 6 - 3 to bring their season tally to date to played four - won three - drawn one having scored 20 goals during the games. A short time later, Gerry Monroe's team in the 11F division welcomed the Castleknock Under 11's to the club and beat them by a 3 - 1 margin - that makes it three in a row for Gerry's team following on from their 10 - 1 away win over Balbriggan last week and  a 7 - 5 Win over Ratoath the previous week. Not to be the odd one out, Brian Batton send news from Clontarf of a good away win for the 11E team - seven five the final score to round of a perfect weekend for the Under 11's. Welcome to the Under 16B team The newest team in Swords Celtic, the Under 16B's have got their season off to the best possible start with a good home win today over Dunshaughlin following up on the first league match win last week when they beat Marino 3-2 away. Good luck to them for the season.

25th September 2010
The Under 10 Premier 1 team continue their fine form today with an 8 - 1 away win over Rush Athletic. In the first four games of the season they have scored twenty two goals and conceded just two.	Clontarf visited Balheary today for the Under 9 Premier 2 fixture which ended in a three nil defeat for the home side. Shown above the Celtic keeper makes a save - anxiously watched from the sideline by his mother.

12th September 2010

Sean Barrett, left, scored the winner for the 10 Premier 1 team at home against Maynooth on Saturday. Last years Under 9 premier league champions are unbeaten after the first two games of the season. _________ The 12B ddsl team followed up last weeks away 5 - 0 win over Lucan with a 4 - 0 win over Southside visitors Templeogue. _________ In the 11 a-side Premier divisions Phil Gellings Under 15's recorded an impressive away win at Raheny: 7 - 2 the final score - that after an opening win over new league members Stella Maris last week. _________ The Under 16 and Under 17 Premiers both won away games, in Boyne Rovers and Clontarf respectively.

8th September 2010
	Goalkeeper coaching returns
	Swords Celtic is pleased to welcome Sporting Fingal Goalkeeper Brendan Clarke (left) to the club where he will provide goalkeeper coaching to the clubs keepers starting on Wednesday 15th September. Coaching will start at 6.30 pm for keepers from the Under 11, 12, 13 and 14 teams. Under 15 - 18 teams will be from 7.30 - 8.30 pm. Coaching will on each week for the next six weeks.

5th September 2010

The Swords Celtic AGM took place on 31st August 2010.

The committee outlined the performance of the club both on the field and in financial matters for the year just completed. Its easy to forget the amount of activities undertaken in the year - the Secretaries Report outlined that we had three teams win their leagues, six teams were runners up and the Under 17's were triple Cup winners for the season - on top of that we ran the Swords Street Leagues, the Soccer Marathon, our presentation evening, Christmas Party, Summer Camp and opened Pitch 1 after its redevelopment. Swords Celtic were also very involved in putting forward rule changes within the NDSL on the operation of the leagues that we play in.

The AGM voted that the annual Subscription - your fees - for the next year will be €155 or if you pay in two installments it will be €85 in September 2010 and €80 in January 2011. Please work with the managers to have all fees promptly paid up.

The fee of €155 is a €5.00 increase over last year - this €5.00 charge will go to a new Insurance Scheme which the club is currently finalising. The Scheme will give insurance cover for all Swords Celtic Players for injuries incurred during club activities.

When the policy is finalised full details will be available on the website.

Watch out for the new Player Photo ID cards - they are being introduced this season.

Every club and every team in the NDSL will be covered by this new ID card.

The purpose of the ID card is to cut out cheating and stop clubs playing overage players when they are trying to win a league or cup.

The Photos will be done at Swords Celtic - we don't have any dates yet - but each child will be required to bring their Passport with them as proof of their date of birth when their photo is being taken.

After that, the manager will hold the Player ID and will make it available to the referee at each match as required.

More details of this will be made available when we have the dates for Swords Celtic to have their photos taken.

Swords Celtic News - August 2010

30th August 2010

Swords Celtic Website results

During the past 12 months, the Swords Celtic website has had 19,640 visits, from 7,715 visitors - in total these visitors viewed 67,272 pages. Our visitors came from 68 different countries from as far away as the USA, Australia, Russia and Moldova.

Most popular webpages were the 'Home Page', followed by the 'Fixture & Results' and 'Teams Pages'.

We look forward to another successful season both for our club - and our website.

Your comments, suggestions, views, match reports and photographs are all welcome - simply mail them to us at swordsceltic@gmail.com

23rd August 2010

Shown above at Fulwell Quarry, Wearside is the Swords Celtic Under 16 Premier team and their hosts Redby FC (see their Website for the match report posted) during the teams visit to Sunderland last weekend. Below is a mail sent by their club chairman;

To the chairman of Swords Celtic,Football club.

Dear Sir. Just a short line to thank Swords Celtic for taking the time and effort to come across to Sunderland to play friendly games over the weekend of 20-08-2010. In what was an entertaining game, undertaken in blustery conditions both sets of lads played the game with the maximum amount of effort! A hard fought game which Redby were  fortunate to have won 3-1, in a game which could have gone either way, however football was the winner on the day ,and we now count yourselves as friends gained in the world of footy!

Best wishes for the future, Kev Wardle [Redby c.a.f.c. chairman]

21st August 2010

The countdown to the 2010/2011 season is now underway with the leagues starting on 4th September for 7 a-side teams and on 5th for 11 a-sides.

Training has been underway for several weeks and the final team selections are being made this week. Any players who have not yet returned to training should do so without delay to ensure that they retain their place on the team.

Any managers arranging friendly games MUST book a pitch with Carolyn Darcy.

The Under 16 Premier team traveled to Sunderland for coaching sessions and to play two matches this weekend as part of their pre-season preparation.

Swords Celtic News - July 2010

26th July 2010
Congratulations to the Swords Celtic players who took part in the NDSL squad in the Foyle cup last week. The squad won their qualifying group with wins over Ottowa Fury from Canada and Shankill Belfast and a draw against Institute from Derry. Beaten by Hull FC and Armagh, the NDSL beat Derry & Districts to finish 7th out of 32 teams - Gavin Purcell scoring in this match.
19th July 2010
Five club players representing NDSL at Foyle Cup Five players from last seasons Under 15 Premier team have been selected as part of the NDSL squad which has traveled to the Foyle Cup in Derry. The tournament kicks of on Tuesday 20th with matches each day up until the finals on Saturday 24th. 32 teams from Ireland, Northern Ireland, England, Spain, the United States and Canada compete at the Under 16 age group. The NDSL team have been drawn to play Institute FC from Derry, Shankill Youth from Belfast and Ottawa Fury from Canada. Best of luck to the Swords Celtic players - Danny Murphy, Gavin Purcell, Graham Callan, Cian Gaffney and Gareth McGrath.
15th July 2010
Swords Celtic have a limited number of tickets for the return leg of the Sporting Fingal v CS Maritimo match which will take place at Dalymount Park on 22nd July. If interested, please contact Eddie Darcy at 087 1262691 - first come - first served basis - open only to Swords Celtic members.
9th July 2010
Annual Summer camp takes place
Photos from the camp are available by clicking HERE				The Annual Summer camp took place this week in Swords Celtic with over 60 kids between 5 - 13 years of age taking part. The camp was run by Willie Bell, Paul Darcy and Gareth Conlon with help from Collie, Jamie and John and had a mix of fun and serious training during the week. The finale of the week was the games between the coaches and the kids followed by the presentations and finally the annual water pistol attack on the coaches.
4th July 2010
Windy Finals day ends Swords Street League 2010
Match photos and presentations of Winner and Runner up trophies can be viewed at the Street Leagues page.				Strong winds greeted the last day of the Street Leagues today, and the Under 10 age group were soaked by driving rain during their finals match. However the remainder of the matches stayed dry, although the teams had to battle with the wind for at least half of each game. We saw some very competitive battles, particularly at the Under 12 and Under 14 groups, the Under 14's only being decided by a last minute penalty.
2nd July 2010
Street Leagues Finals set for Sunday 4th July
After 47 games at five different age levels, the finals of the Street Leagues tournament will be held this Sunday, 4th July. Times are posted on the Street League webpage. The Under 18's Final between Rivervalley 1 and Donabate ended in a draw and a penalty shoot out was needed to find a winner. Penalty 1 - Penalty 2 - Penalty 3 - Penalty 4 Penalty 5 - Penalty 6 - Penalty 7
The Under 14's also had a penalty shootout for third / fourth place. Click HERE to view it.

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