Dulwich Harps - Club Notes, 7th June

A single point was all that separated the teams as the final whistle blew on Saturday evening in the Intermediate Football Championship Final in Ruislip.

Dulwich made a promising start with two points from Rian Kealey, but conceded a goal just before the water break which gave St Brendan’s the advantage. The Harps battled well to secure possession, showed composure on the ball and were patient in their build-up play to find openings in the opposition’s defence. Niall Russell stepped up to convert long range free kicks while Darren White, James Mc Dermott and Michael Clarke added points from play. Niall Yore found the bottom corner of the net in the closing stages to put St Brendan’s under pressure but they just about held on to claim the title after a tense finish.

While this was not the desired result the players and management are to be commended on a spirited performance. This game marked the culmination of the 2020 season; a campaign that has been subject to much delay, disruption and restrictions. Despite these challenges, the team persevered to achieve a significant milestone in the club’s history by reaching a first ever championship final at intermediate level.

We bid a fond farewell to James Mc Dermott and John Keyes following their last game with the Harps and wish them well as they return to Ireland. Their contribution as players and committee members over the past five/six seasons has been greatly appreciated.

Next Saturday morning the ladies travel to Greenford to play St Anthony’s in round 5 of the league. The Harps aim to continue their unbeaten run and secure a place in the Junior League Final.

Over the coming weeks the men will participate in a knockout cup competition. At time of writing, the details of these fixtures have yet to be confirmed.

Ladies training continues on Monday and Wednesday evening. The men will take a break before returning to training on Thursday. All sessions start at 7.15pm on Peckham Rye Common.