New CCFL season ready to kick off

The new Combined Counties Football League season gets underway this Sunday as defending champions Clara Town begin their Senior Division campaign against Athlone outfit St Peter’s at McCarthy Park (11am).

Clara are aiming for three titles in a row while Monksland United - who have gone very close for the past two seasons – will again be striving for ultimate success. Monksland begin with a home match against Mullingar Town on Sunday.

With Mark McConnell now in charge, a revitalised St Peter’s have recruited a number of renowned players and they are likely to make a strong bid for honours.

Keith Rohan has taken over as manager of Ballinahown, who begin with a trip to Birr Town. Despite losing some key players, Ballinahown will be hoping to cause the other sides problems again this season.

The other teams in the Senior Division are Willow Park (the Athlone club’s second team), Gallen United (the Ferbane side was promoted last season) and Abbeyleix.

See below for this weekend's CCFL fixtures.

FIXTURES

Saturday, September 9th

CCFL Over 35 Cup Final

Portlaoise v Willow Park, 5.30, Leah Victoria Park, Tullamore.

Sunday, September 10th

Senior Division

St Peter’s v Clara Town, 11am, McCarthy Park, Athlone.

Monksland United v Mullingar Town, 11am, Cushla Park, Athlone.

Birr Town v Ballinahown, 2pm, Frank O’Connell Park, Birr.

RESULTS

CCFL Over 35 Shield Final: Temple Villa 4, Mountmellick Utd 2.