The FAI Junior Cup, one of Ireland’s most prestigious football competitions at the grassroots level, is back for the 2024-25 season.
The first-round draw for the Leinster region has thrown up some exciting fixtures, especially for teams from the Kilkenny and Carlow leagues. Both counties have a proud tradition in the competition, and this year promises to be no different. Let’s delve into the key matchups and what we can expect from these teams.
Kilkenny in focus
Clover United vs. Wexford Bohemians FC
- Clover United, representing Division 1 of the Kilkenny & District League, will host Wexford Bohemians.
Lions AFC Durrow vs. North End United
- Lions AFC faces a challenging trip to Wexford to take on North End United, one of the stronger teams from the Wexford League. Lions will need to be at their best to secure a result and progress to the next round.
Fort Rangers FC vs. Shamrock Rovers AFC (Wexford)
- Newly returned Fort Rangers, another Kilkenny-based team, will travel to Wexford to take on Shamrock Rovers AFC.
Freebooters AFC vs. Newpark AFC
- In an all-Kilkenny affair, Freebooters AFC will battle Newpark AFC. Both teams are well-acquainted with each other.
River Rangers vs. All Blacks AFC
- River Rangers, representing Kilkenny, will face All Blacks AFC in what could be a closely fought encounter. Rangers will look to leverage their home ground advantage to secure a win, as Clonnard is always a tough place to go.
Bridge United vs. Highview Athletic
- Another all-Kilkenny clash sees McCalmont Cup champions Bridge United taking on Highview Athletic.
Carlow Focus
New Oak FC vs. Crettyard United
- A Carlow derby right out of the gate, with New Oak FC taking on Crettyard United. This matchup will surely draw significant local interest, with both teams eager to claim bragging rights and advance.
Killeshin FC vs. Crossabeg AFC
- Killeshin FC will welcome Wexford’s Crossabeg AFC. As one of Carlow’s prominent teams, Killeshin will aim to secure a victory on home turf and set the tone for their cup campaign.
Vale Wanderers vs. Glynn Barntown AFC
- Vale Wanderers will be tested against Glynn Barntown AFC in another Carlow vs. Wexford fixture.
Kilree Celtic vs. Rosslare Rangers AFC
- Kilree Celtic will face off against Rosslare Rangers. With the Carlow team playing at home, they’ll be keen to make that advantage count against their Wexford opponents.
Parkville United vs. Kilmore United
- Parkville United has been drawn against Kilmore United.
Intercounty Clash
Castlewarren Celtic vs. Bagenalstown AFC
- In a Carlow vs. Kilkenny clash, Bagenalstown AFC will travel to face Castlewarren Celtic in the iconic Buckley Park.
Deen Celtic AFC vs. St. Patrick’s Boys AFC
- St. Patrick’s Boys will take on Kilkenny’s Deen Celtic.
Callan United vs. Forth Celtic
- Callan United is set for a tough encounter against Forth Celtic. This Kilkenny versus Wexford clash will test Callan’s mettle as they aim to make a deep run in the competition.
Dolmen Celtic, St. Fiaccs AFC, Evergreen FC & Thomastown United (Byes)
With local derbies and inter-county clashes, fans are in for a treat as their teams battle for a place in the next round. As the competition unfolds, these early encounters could set the stage for memorable runs in one of Ireland’s most cherished football tournaments.
