Dublin Triumph Over Mayo as Jack McCaffrey and Paul Mannion Opt Out of 2025 Season

Dublin’s footballing hopes for the 2025 season have taken a significant hit, with manager Dessie Farrell confirming that Jack McCaffrey and Paul Mannion will not feature this year. The news comes after Dublin’s 1-17 to 1-15 win over Mayo in their Allianz Football League Division 1 opener at Croke Park.

“Delighted with how some of the lads acquitted themselves- particularly the newer lads. Getting the 2 points was definitely an added bonus…”

Dublin Senior Football manager Dessie Farrell spoke to DubsTV after his side’s Allianz League win over Mayo. #UpTheDubs pic.twitter.com/3EnVCCx78P

— Dublin GAA (@DubGAAOfficial) January 25, 2025

McCaffrey and Mannion Unavailable

McCaffrey and Mannion, who were instrumental in Dublin’s 2023 All-Ireland triumph, have opted out due to professional and personal commitments. Their absence raises questions about their future in inter-county football, though Farrell stressed that the door remains open.

“Jack and Paul, these lads aren’t ones for releasing retirement statements or whatever, but I’d say it’s unlikely that the two lads will be involved with us this year,” Farrell explained. “Of course, the door is always open if there’s any change of hearts or change of minds, but the way discussions have gone, it’s probably unlikely.

“Jack is very busy in his profession; he’s not working in Dublin this year. Paul has significant commitments, work, and family and that type of thing as well. It’s unlikely, but we’ll never close the door, and possibly they don’t want to do so either, so we’ll see how it goes.”

Other Veteran Updates: Cluxton and Fitzsimons

While McCaffrey and Mannion’s absence is a blow, there is positive news for Dublin fans. Farrell confirmed that 43-year-old Stephen Cluxton is expected to continue, despite recently undergoing a minor knee procedure.

“Stephen has been back with us, he’s had a small little clean out of the knee,” Farrell revealed. “He’s working his way back from that, but he’s been involved from the start.”

Meanwhile, Michael Fitzsimons, fresh off an All-Ireland club success with Cuala, may yet return.
“The last conversation I had with Mick was that we’d give him time to see how the club campaign went, which went all the way, which was great for him and the lads,” Farrell said. “I’ll be talking to Mick this week. I just want to give them some time to enjoy their success and give them a little bit of breathing space.”

New Faces Emerging

Dublin’s victory over Mayo highlighted the evolving squad dynamics, with Farrell introducing new talent. Gavin Sheridan, from St Brigid’s, made a surprise debut, hinting at Farrell’s plans to build for the future while integrating younger players into the team.

Challenges Ahead for Dublin in 2025

The loss of McCaffrey and Mannion, alongside recent retirements from stalwarts Brian Fenton and James McCarthy, signals a transitional period for Dublin. However, the expected return of Cluxton and potential involvement of Fitzsimons and other veterans provides hope as Dublin aim to stay competitive in the race for Sam Maguire.

Despite these changes, Farrell remains focused on maintaining Dublin’s dominance, blending experience with fresh talent. With the Allianz Football League underway, all eyes are now on how Dublin’s reshaped squad will rise to the challenge.

Key Quotes from Dessie Farrell
• On McCaffrey and Mannion: “The door is always open… but it’s probably unlikely.”
• On Stephen Cluxton: “He’s working his way back… but he’s been involved from the start.”
• On Michael Fitzsimons: “I’ll be talking to Mick this week… to give them some breathing space.”

Dublin’s journey to adapt and succeed continues, with fans hoping the new-look side can once again climb to the summit of Gaelic football in 2025.

Galway Overcome 14-Man Armagh Under Salthill New Floodlights

Allianz NFL Division 1

Galway: 1-12 (1-3-6)

Armagh: 0-9 (0-0-9)

Pearse Stadium

Galway secured a hard-fought victory over Armagh in their first outing under the newly installed floodlights at Pearse Stadium. Despite the challenging weather and an uninspiring match, it marked a promising start for Galway, who also debuted the latest Gaelic football rules.

Key Highlights:

Galway unveiled their floodlights with GAA President Jarlath Burns pressing the symbolic red button.

Storm Éowyn caused chaos in Salthill, with fallen trees and damaged fences lining Dr Mannix Road.

A red card for Armagh’s Niall Grimley on the hour mark played a pivotal role in Galway’s win.

First Half:

The match began in less-than-ideal conditions, with heavy rain and strong winds delaying throw-in due to traffic congestion. Despite Armagh’s strong start, Galway led 1-4 to 0-5 at half-time.

Galway capitalised on their opportunities, converting 76% of possessions into scoring attempts, compared to Armagh’s 53%. The highlight of the half was Matthew Tierney’s expertly taken penalty following a foul on Cillian Ó Curraoín.

Second Half:

The second half saw the new two-point rule come into play, although it caused confusion. Shane Walsh’s two-point attempt, and similar plays from Ó Curraoín and Paul Conroy, brought moments of excitement to an otherwise scrappy affair.

Armagh’s Ethan Rafferty tried to rally his side after being introduced late in the game, but Galway’s defence held firm. Oisin Conaty, Armagh’s standout performer, managed a four-point haul but couldn’t prevent defeat.

Pádraic Joyce speaks to the media after our Senior Footballers 1-12 to 0-09 win over Armagh in the first round of the Allianz Football League… 💪🏼 pic.twitter.com/yJvx9j6tZ8

— Galway GAA Official (@Galway_GAA) January 25, 2025

Scorers:

Galway:

C. Ó Curraoín 0-5 (1 two-pointer, 2 frees)

M. Tierney 1-1 (1 penalty, 1 free)

P. Conroy 0-2 (1 two-pointer)

S. Walsh 0-2 (1 two-pointer free)
D. O’Flaherty 0-1
F. Ó Laoi 0-1

Armagh:

O. Conaty 0-4

R. Grugan 0-4 (3 frees)

C. Turbitt 0-1 (free)

Team Line-Ups:

Galway:

C. Gleeson; J. McGrath, S. Fitzgerald, D. O’Flaherty; D. McHugh, J. Daly, S. Kelly; P. Conroy, C. McDaid; C. Sweeney, F. Ó Laoi, C. Darcy; C. Ó Curraoín, M. Tierney, S. O’Neill.

Subs: S. Walsh, J. Maher, L. Silke, K. Molloy, J. Heaney.

Armagh:

B. Hughes; T. McCormack, B. McCambridge, A. Forker; C. Mackin, G. McCabe, J. Duffy; B. Crealey, N. Grimley; S. Campbell, S. McPartlan, D. McMullan; O. Conaty, A. Murnin, R. Grugan.

Subs: C. O’Neill, C. Turbitt, R. McQuillan, C. McConville, J. Og Burns, E. Rafferty.

Red Card: N. Grimley (60).

Reflections:

While the game lacked flair, Galway’s performance underlined their efficiency and depth as they look to build on their 2024 All-Ireland success. The unveiling of the floodlights and introduction of new rules signify a step forward for Gaelic football, but their practical impact remains to be fully realised.

Referee: C. Lane (Cork).

Ulster University Showcase Dominance in Sigerson Cup Opener

Reigning Sigerson Cup champions Ulster University (UU) began their title defence with an emphatic 13-point victory over ATU Sligo in a one-sided Round 1 clash. The game, played in Sligo under challenging weather conditions, highlighted the gap in quality between the sides as UU asserted control from the outset.

The visitors wasted no time making their mark, with Down’s Senan Carr netting a first-half goal after a well-timed setup by Tyrone’s Eoin McElholm. By the interval, UU had built a commanding 1-5 to 0-1 lead, with ATU Sligo managing just a single point from a placed ball. This dominance continued throughout the second half, despite a spirited moment from ATU Sligo’s full-back Conor Johnston, who surged forward to score a goal. Remarkably, the home side failed to register a single point from play until stoppage time.

UU’s forward line was electric, led by standout performances from Danny Magill (Down) and Conor Cush (Tyrone). Magill contributed five points from play, while Cush added four in a masterclass of scoring. A second goal came via a penalty, won and converted by Tyrone’s Danny Fullerton, further extending UU’s stranglehold on the match.

The depth of the Ulster University squad was evident as their substitutes, including inter-county players Micheal Hamill (Monaghan), Lorcan McGarrity (Tyrone), Eunan Mulholland (Derry), and Ciaran Moore (Donegal), added four points from play to seal a comprehensive 2-17 to 1-7 victory.

For ATU Sligo, this match was a steep learning curve. While Johnston’s goal briefly rallied the home crowd, their inability to create scoring chances from open play until the dying moments underscored the challenge of competing against a side stacked with inter-county talent.

The win cements UU’s position as firm contenders to retain their crown, with their mix of tactical discipline, scoring efficiency, and bench strength setting the tone for the competition ahead. Meanwhile, ATU Sligo will need to regroup and address key areas of their performance if they hope to make an impact in the tournament.

Elsewhere, adverse weather conditions forced the postponement of the highly anticipated clash between UCC and UCD at the Mardyke, leaving UU’s dominant display as the standout performance of the round.

Galway beat Kildare by 7pts in Senior Football Inter-County Challenge Game

Kildare 0-17 Galway 2-18 – Result

Galway emerged victorious with a 2:18 to 0:17 win over Kildare in this enthralling Senior Football Inter-County Challenge game, thanks to an impressive second-half performance that saw the Tribesmen dominate in key moments. The game seen a first look at county teams playing the new rules. With footballer of the year showing how to kick 2pointers

Early Exchanges: A Tight Start

The second half began with the teams level at 0:8 to 1:5. After a GOAL from play by Matthew Tierney for Galway after 25minutes had brought Galway back into the game. Galway edged ahead within three minutes of the second half , courtesy of a free from Cathal Sweeney, making it 1:6 to 0:8. Kildare quickly responded through Alex Beirne, whose point from play levelled the game again at 0:8 to 1:6 after 7:41 of play.

Jimmy Hyland then added another point for Kildare at 13:22, giving them a narrow lead (0:10 to 1:7). However, Galway hit back almost immediately. Paul Conroy’s exceptional two-point score at 14:33 saw Galway regain the lead (1:9 to 0:11), setting the tone for a strong second-half performance.

Momentum Shifts: Galway Take Control

Kildare fought valiantly to keep the scores close. Brian McLoughlin equalised for Kildare at 15:22, leaving the teams locked at 0:11 to 1:9. But Galway’s Tomo Culhane soon delivered a decisive blow with a well-taken goal at 18:40, giving Galway a three-point lead (2:9 to 0:12).

From here, Galway began to dominate possession and capitalised on scoring opportunities. Kevin Feely and Alex Beirne both registered points for Kildare to bring the deficit back to one (0:13 to 2:9 at 21:29), but Galway remained composed. Colm Costello’s point at 25:13 stretched their lead back to two points (2:10 to 0:14).

The Final Quarter: Galway Pull Away

As the game approached its conclusion, Galway’s experienced players stepped up. Paul Conroy was instrumental, scoring back-to-back two-point plays at 26:36 and 31:43, increasing Galway’s lead to six points (2:14 to 0:14). Liam O’Conghaile followed with another two-pointer at 33:34, and Jimmy Hyland’s reply for Kildare at 34:44 wasn’t enough to stop Galway’s momentum.

Galway finished strongly with Alex Beirne scoring from a free for Kildare, but the Tribesmen had already built an insurmountable lead. The final moments saw Galway add further scores to seal a seven-point victory, with the scoreboard reading 2:18 to 0:17 at full-time.

Key Performances

•Paul Conroy (Galway): A commanding presence, scoring multiple crucial two-pointers that cemented Galway’s dominance in the latter stages.

•Tomo Culhane (Galway): His goal was the turning point, shifting momentum firmly in Galway’s favour.

•Alex Beirne (Kildare): Consistently accurate, contributing vital points to keep Kildare in the contest.

Conclusion

Kildare showed flashes, particularly in the first half and early in the second, but Galway’s clinical finishing and dominance in the latter stages proved decisive.

Galway’s ability to convert opportunities into two-point plays and their defensive solidity ensured their victory, marking a strong showing in this challenge game.

Scorers — Galway: P Conroy 0-8 (4 2p); M Tierney 1-4 (1m, 1f, 1 2pf); C Ó Curraoin 0-3 (1 2pf, 1m); T Culhane 1-0; D Flaherty, C McDaid, C Costello 0-1 each. Kildare: A Beirne 0-9 (5f); K Feely 0-3; J Hyland 0-2; C Bolton, B McLoughlin, R Sinkey 0-1 each.

Galway: C Flaherty; S Fitzgerald, C Hernon, D Flaherty; K Molloy, J Daly, S Kelly; C Darcy, C McDaid; F Ó Laoi, S O’Neill, J McLoughlin; M Thompson, M Tierney, C Ó Curraoin. Subs used: T Culhane, S McGlinchey, C Sweeney, C Gleeson, J McGrath, P Conroy, S Mulkerrin, C Costello, L Ó Conghaile, J O’Neill.

Kildare: D Cordonnier; H O’Neill, M O’Grady, B Byrne; R Houlihan, J McGrath, K Flynn; K Feely, C Bolton; B McLoughlin, A Beirne, C Dalton; R Sinkey, D Flynn, N Kelly. Subs used: D Hyland, E Lawlor, J Hyland, C Barker, D Mangan, C Hagney, T Gill, T Archbold.

Referee: D Gough (Meath)

Starting Teams

Kildare (Cill Dara)

Starting Team:

1.Didier Cordonnier (Two Mile House)

2.Harry O’Neill (Clane)

3.Mick O’Grady (Celbridge)

4.Brian Byrne (Naas)

5.Ryan Houlihan (Moorefield)

6.James McGrath (Athy)

7.Kevin Flynn (Celbridge)

8.Kevin Feely (Athy)

9.Callum Bolton (Sarsfields)

10.Brian McLoughlin (Clane)

11.Alex Beirne (Naas)

12.Cian Bolton (Sallins)

13.Ryan Sinkey (Naas)

14.Daniel Flynn (Johnstownbridge)

15.Niall Kelly (Athy)

Substitutes (Fir Ionaid):

16. Cormac Barker (Killcullen)

17. Mark Dempsey (Moorefield)

18. Eoin Lawlor (Naas)

19. Tommy Gill (Carbury)

20. David Hyland (Athy)

21. Darragh Mangan (Sallins)

22. Cathal Hagney (Naas)

23. Tony Archbold (Celbridge)

24. Jimmy Hyland (Ballyteague)

25. Ben McCormack (Sarsfields)

26. Jack McKevitt (Naas)

27. Tom Browne (Naas)

28. Marcus Kiley (Two Mile House)

29. Luke Killian (Naas)

30. Dean O’Donoghue (Celbridge)

Galway (Gaillimh)

Starting Team:

1.Conor Flaherty (Claregalway)

2.Sean Fitzgerald (Bearna)

3.Cian Hernon (Bearna)

4.Daniel Flaherty (Salthill-Knocknacarra)

5.Kieran Molloy (Corofin)

6.John Daly (Mountbellew-Moylough)

7.Sean Kelly (Moycullen)

8.Cian Darcy (Caherlistrane)

9.Cillian McDaid (Monivea-Abbeyknockmoy)

10.Finian O’Laoi (Spiddal)

11.Sam O’Neill (St. James)

12.James McLoughlin (Moycullen)

13.Matthew Thompson (Salthill-Knocknacarra)

14.Matthew Tierney (Oughterard)

15.Cillian O’Curraoin (Micheál Breathnach)

Substitutes (Fir Ionaid):

16. Connor Gleeson (Dunmore McHale)

17. Johnny McGrath (Caherlistrane)

18. Sean Mulkerin (Oileán Árann)

19. Dylan McHugh (Corofin)

20. Liam Silke (Corofin)

21. Jack O’Neill (St. James)

22. Shay McClinchy (Tuam Stars)

23. Liam O’Conghaile (Micheál Breathnach)

24. Colm Costello (Dunmore McHale)

25. Cathal Sweeney (Salthill-Knocknacarra)

26. Paul Conroy (St. James)

27. Tomo Culhane (Salthill-Knocknacarra)

28. Billy Mannion (Mountbellew-Moylough)

29. Rory O’Connor (Tuam Stars)

30. Diarmuid Kilcommins (Salthill-Knocknacarra)

31. Jack Kirrane (Milltown)

Let me know if you need additional analysis or insights on the teams!

Cork Hurlers Triumph Over Waterford in Hurling Challenge for Charity

Match Report:

Cork’s senior hurlers secured an emphatic 1-15 to 0-10 victory over Waterford in a thrilling challenge match at Fraher Field. The game, organised as part of the Friends of Brian Greene fundraiser in conjunction with Waterford Hospice, saw supporters brave torrential rain and wind to cheer on both teams for a worthy cause.

First Half:

Cork capitalised on the conditions in the first half, racing into an early lead. Declan Dalton found the back of the net to put Cork firmly in control, with Ben Cunningham, Alan Connolly, and Shane Kingston chipping in with points. Cork’s defence stood strong, limiting Waterford’s scoring opportunities and ensuring a commanding 1-11 to 0-3 advantage at half-time.

“Padraig Power, take a bow son” 👏

The @BlarneyGAA forward puts one on a plate for Declan Dalton as the one-way traffic continues in Fraher Field… 🔴⚪️

Watch LIVE on https://t.co/yMkMTpFUIK 📺 | @OfficialCorkGAA pic.twitter.com/Yth0hTRxgb

— Clubber (@clubber) January 4, 2025

Second Half:

Waterford responded with greater intensity after the break, with Shane Bennett leading their charge with six points over the game. Sean Walsh also impressed with his relentless work rate. However, Cork maintained their momentum, with points from Alan Connolly, Padraig Power, and Robbie Cotter ensuring a comprehensive win.

Final Score:

Cork 1-15 (18)

Waterford 0-10

Cork Scorers:

•Declan Dalton (Fr. O’Neills): 1-2

•Alan Connolly (Blackrock): 0-3 (0-1 free)

•Ben Cunningham (St. Finbarr’s): 0-2

•Shane Kingston (Douglas): 0-2

•Robbie Cotter (Blackrock): 0-1

•Padraig Power (Blarney): 0-1

•Cormac O’Brien (Newtownshandrum): 0-1

•Ethan Twomey (St. Finbarr’s): 0-1

•Jack Cahalane (St. Finbarr’s): 0-1

•Brian Roche (Bride Rovers): 0-1

Waterford Scorers:

•Shane Bennett (Ballysaggart): 0-6

•Sean Walsh (Fourmilewater): 0-2

•Thomas Douglas (De La Salle): 0-1

•Reuben Halloran (De La Salle): 0-1

Teams:

Cork:

1.Patrick Collins (Ballinhassig)

2.Niall O’Leary (Castlelyons)

3.Ger Millerick (Fr. O’Neills)

4.Darragh O’Sullivan (Ballinhassig)

5.Michael Mullins (Whitechurch)

6.Robert Downey (Glen Rovers)

7.Ciaran Joyce (Castlemartyr)

8.Ethan Twomey (St. Finbarr’s)

9.Luke Meade (Newcestown)

10.Ben Cunningham (St. Finbarr’s)

11.Declan Dalton (Fr. O’Neills)

12.Brian Hayes (St. Finbarr’s)

13.Robbie Cotter (Blackrock)

14.Padraig Power (Blarney)

15.Alan Connolly (Blackrock)

Waterford:

1.Shaun O’Brien (De La Salle)

2.Seamus Fitzgerald (Kilrossanty)

3.Iarlaith Daly (Lismore)

4.Mairtin Power (Clonea)

5.PJ Fanning (Mount Sion)

6.Tom Barron (Fourmilewater)

7.Paudie Fitzgerald (Kilrossanty)

8.Jamie Barron (Fourmilewater)

9.Reuben Halloran (De La Salle)

10.Shane Bennett (Ballysaggart)

11.Jack Prendergast (Lismore)

12.Tom O’Connell (Brickey Rangers)

13.Thomas Douglas (De La Salle)

14.Sean Walsh (Fourmilewater)

15.Charlie Treen (Abbeyside/Ballinacourty)