Arklow Town FC vs Wicklow Rovers U9 Blues Saturday, 12:00pm | Away

Our U9 Blues produced another spectacular performance on Saturday, sharing the spoils in an enthralling encounter with Arklow Town that showcased the very best of youth football.

On a beautiful autumn morning, the boys delivered an energetic and passionate display, leaving everything on the pitch. The team's development was evident throughout, with excellent link-up play, intelligent wing combinations, and smart defensive action breaking down opposition attacks.

Jack Collard-Cody marked his return to action in style with a brilliant brace, showing no signs of rust after missing last week's victory. His clinical finishing proved crucial in what became a goal-filled spectacle.

Illias Karamalis continued his stellar form with another performance beyond his years. The young star bagged a brace and remarkably contributed a brilliant assist from his own goal while operating as goalkeeper – a moment of pure quality that epitomized his all-round game.

Nachiket Alathukattil was once again impactful down the left wing, his driving runs causing constant problems for the Arklow defence. He registered two assists with his dangerous deliveries and capped his display with a well-taken goal.

Between the posts, Justas Vaizgiela produced several brilliant saves to keep Rovers in front before venturing forward to score himself in the second half – another example of the team's attacking threat from every position.

Caolan Byrne was the connector in midfield, consistently receiving the ball under pressure and executing slick flicks to find teammates in dangerous positions.

Tadhg Lambe led the defensive line with authority while showcasing his box-to-box capabilities with decisive forward runs, riding tackles as he drove through midfield.

Ben Doyle and Tiernan Rogers brought intensity and tenacity to their defensive duties, displaying the fighting spirit that has become a hallmark of this team.

Volodymyr Lehostaiev was his usual silky self, gliding past several Arklow players with effortless dribbling and drawing fouls before creating two assists for his teammates.

The work rate of Illias, Nachiket, Jack, and Youssef Atiya was nothing short of exceptional, with all four covering every blade of grass whenever they were on the pitch.

Credit must go to Arklow Town, who matched our boys in every department. After Rovers looked comfortable, the hosts powered their way back into the contest with tremendous intensity and passion in the closing minutes, scoring twice to level the scores in a thrilling finale.

This highly entertaining goal fest was a perfect advertisement for grassroots football, and we're immensely proud of the way these boys continue to develop week after week.

Thanks to Arklow Town FC for their excellent hospitality and for providing such a fantastic contest.