The O’Byrne Cup showcased a dominant performance by Glenn Ryan’s Kildare, securing a convincing 2-17 to 10-point victory over Carlow as the 2024 football officially kicked off.
🇲🇱Bainisteoir Niall Carew has named the @Carlow_GAA team to play Kildare in the O’Byrne Cup this evening 7.30pm in Netwatch Cullen Park giving starts to Colin Byrne (Rathvilly), John Murphy (Tinryland) & John Phiri (Asca)
— Carlow GAA (@Carlow_GAA) January 3, 2024
🎟️Tickets must be bought on-line: https://t.co/wIcw0Hh5A3 pic.twitter.com/sjOZQbYbgL
Despite the defeat, Carlow showcased some impressive individual performances, with notable point scorers including Darragh Foley (4), Arron Amond, John Phiri on his debut, Conor Doyle, Colm Hulton, and Jordon Morrissey. The Kildare goals came either side of the half from Shane O’Sullivan and Paddy Woodgate
Adding to the significance of the match were debuts for Colin Byrne (Rathvilly), John Murphy (Tinryland), and John Phiri (Asca), all earning their first Senior Starts.
Looking ahead, Kildare advances to the Quarter Final of the O’Byrne Cup, facing Wexford. On the other hand, Carlow, now preparing for an away game against Wicklow in the O’Byrne Cup Shield, aims to build on the positives from their recent match.
In a separate O’Byrne Cup showdown, Offaly emerged triumphant with a 1-11 to 12 points victory over Laois. This result solidifies Offaly’s early form in the competition and sets the stage for further intriguing matchups in the upcoming fixtures.