Anne Conway and Claire Dunne from Clanard Court Hotel, Kildare pictured with Irish Hotels Federation (IHF) Director of People Services, Deirdre Fitzsimons at the inaugural Quality Employer Awards
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17 Jan 2026
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17 Jan 2026
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The Stradbally AFC team that defeated Killavilla Utd 5-2
The draws for the 2026 CCFL Paddy Cotter Cup and Shield have been completed, and Laois clubs who won their first-round games last weekend now know who they'll play in the next round.
In the Paddy Cotter Cup, the key Laois ties see Ballymahon face Clonaslee United, while Abbeyleix Athletic will face Grange Utd or Killavilla Utd A.
Meanwhile, the CCFL Shield draw includes the eagerly anticipated Laois derby between Portlaoise AFC and Stradbally Town, guaranteeing local bragging rights and an intense first-round contest. Other Laois fixtures in the Shield include Killavilla Utd B vs Portlaoise Ramblers, Ballybrittas Utd vs Clonmore Riverside FC, and Gracefield Utd vs Capakeel Utd.
Five-star Stradbally Town hit top form in win over Killavilla Utd
Meanwhile, Stradbally Town were in action in the CCFL Division 3 last Sunday and produced a strong performance to defeat Killavilla Utd 5-2 at Charter Road.
John Clancy opened the scoring on six minutes, before Killavilla’s number nine drew the visitors level. Just before half-time, Benny Lawlor restored Stradbally’s lead at the back post, leaving the home side 2-1 up at the break.
The second half saw both sides battling tough underfoot conditions, but Stradbally pulled away with goals from Jody Dillon, who completed a second-half hat-trick, and a decisive assist from Ben Dillon for the final goal. Colin Beale, Jody Dillon, and James Devoy were standout performers, while the strong bench made the difference in the second half.
Looking ahead, Stradbally Town will now travel to Blackwater FC in the Leinster Junior Shield last 16 next Sunday, a match expected to provide another tough challenge.
Team: Anto Skelly, Colin Beale, Jack Deegan, Eamon Delaney, Podge Fitzpatrick, John Clancy, James Devoy, Cillian Maher, Benny Lawlor, Fionn McEvoy, Jody Dillon. Subs: Justin Lalor, Conor Buggie, Eoin Buggie, Ben Dillon, Charlie O’Brien. Unused subs: Tadgh Mullen, Noah Delaney, Gavin Langton, Jack Larkin, Cailium Kelly.
READ NEXT: Laois Gaels launch for 2026 as Laois GAA coaching and education calendar goes live
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