After a slow start to the season, Tir Conaill Harps’ men finally secured their first victory in the league, overcoming local rivals Glasgow Gaels Intermediate B team in a hard-fought contest. The match got off to a rocky start for the Harps as Glasgow Gaels opened the scoring with a goal on their first attack. However, Tir Conaill quickly responded, trading points and goals in a tense first half. With seconds remaining before halftime, the Harps struck a crucial goal to take the lead.

The second half saw Tir Conaill Harps surge ahead, scoring an early goal followed by five unanswered points—including the first two-pointer of the match—building an 11-point cushion. Though Glasgow Gaels rallied with two late goals, the Harps held firm to claim a 3-12 to 3-07 victory.

The ladies’ team faced a tougher outing on their midweek trip to Edinburgh, falling to Dunedin Connollys. Despite a promising start to their campaign with a win over Stirling, the Harps struggled against the more experienced Connollys side. While the team’s determination and progress were evident on the pitch, they ultimately succumbed to a 10-17 to 1-03 defeat. The Harps ladies remain encouraged by their efforts and team spirit, which continue to grow with every game.

Back on home turf, the men’s squad hosted Dalriada in a must-win clash crucial for league final aspirations. Tir Conaill Harps started strongly, quickly establishing a five-point lead with a combination of early scores including a goal. Dalriada, hampered by the absence of key players, found it difficult to mount a challenge as the Harps dominated both halves. The final whistle saw Tir Conaill secure a commanding 9-13 to 1-04 victory, keeping their finals hopes alive.

The men’s league campaign concluded with a decisive trip to Edinburgh to face Dunedin Connollys. A win was imperative to secure direct entry to the Intermediate League final. A defeat would leave the Harps relying on other results to secure a play-off spot. The first half was a tight contest, with Connollys holding a slim two-point lead at halftime despite a late sending off. Tir Conaill Harps lifted their performance in the second half, netting two quick goals to seize the lead. Connlys replied with a point of their own to reduce the scoreline to a single kick of the ball, however that would be the Edinburgh’s side last score of the game and the Harps went on to dominate the second half aided by a second sending off for Dunedin, eventually running out comfortable 2-15 to 1-06 winners to book their spot in the league final.

Meanwhile, Tir Conaill Harps’ youth teams took part in the Northern Games, with around 50 kids travelling down to Manchester, fielding squads across all age groups from under-9s to under-17s for both boys and girls. It was a memorable day, with many youngsters competing in their first Gaelic football tournament. Special praise goes to the under-9s who remained undefeated throughout the day. The club is optimistic about the future, as the youth players continue to demonstrate great potential and commitment. A big thank you must go to all the coaches and parents who take time out to make this all possible. A special mention to Stephen Grant who put in so much time and effort in fundraising to make this trip possible and organised the travel and accommodation.