Ballyogan Celtic back home

AFTER three years’ absence from their home pitch due to the construction of the new Samuel Beckett Civic Centre, Ballyogan Celtic has returned home.

Their new pitch was officially opened by the CEO of the Football Association of Ireland, John Delaney last week.

The event was also attended by the  Minister for Sport Shane Ross, the caithaorleach of Dún Laoghaire Rathdown County Council, Cllr Tom Murphy and Club Chairperson and Sinn Fein councillor Chris Curran.

Ballyogan Celtic marked the day with a 4-1 win against Kilmore.

There were two goals from player-manager Seán Archbald, one from Liam Byrne and one from Shane Andrews that were enough to see off the visitors.

Speaking on the occasion Club Chairperson, Cllr Chris Curran said: “We are delighted to be back home where we belong.

“And the crowd that has come out to watch today’s match is testament to this community.

“Ballyogan Celtic is now firmly on the map and building for success.”

Cllr Curran added: “I want to thank FAI CEO John Delaney for kindly coming out to officially open our new pitch.

“I also want to thank Minister Shane Ross and caithaorleach Tom Murphy for their attendance also.

“I also want to thank Wayside Celtic Football Club for ensuring we didn’t go homeless while the Samuel Beckett Civic Centre was in construction.”

Cllr Crran said: “In our six years of existence we have won a league title and two cups and narrowly missed out on the league last year which shows the talent we have here in Ballyogan.

“We have also established a second senior team and now that we are back home we expect more success to follow.”