Éire Óg and defending champions Old Leighlin got their 2026 Carlow Senior Football Championship campaigns off to winning starts at Netwatch Cullen Park last night.
In the opening game, Éire Óg overcame Bagenalstown Gaels by 1-20 to 2-13, bouncing back from a difficult 2025 season in which the club was forced into a relegation play-off to preserve its senior status.
Speaking to KCLR after the victory, Éire Óg forward Chris Blake admitted there was huge pressure on the side to make a positive start.
“We had such a disappointing campaign last year. Getting in the relegation final was an embarrassment for the club and all the individuals in the dressing room.
“So a lot of emphasis went on tonight’s game. We are happy to get out with the win and get the campaign started.”
In the second senior fixture of the evening, reigning champions Old Leighlin began the defence of their title in impressive fashion, defeating Fenagh 1-18 to 0-10.
There was also action in the Intermediate Football Championship, where St Patrick’s of Tullow claimed a 4-13 to 1-15 victory over Tinryland.
The opening weekend of the senior championship continues tonight, with Rathvilly taking on Grange at 8.30pm in Netwatch Cullen Park.
