Wicklow stick with a winning side as Oisin McConville names unchanged team for Tailteann Cup semi-final against Offaly

Wicklow are unchanged for Saturday’s Tailteann Cup semi-final against Offaly at Croke Park, with manager Oisín McConville keeping faith in the same starting fifteen that produced last weekend’s quarter-final win over Antrim.

The Garden County head to headquarters for a 5pm throw-in in confident mood after that strong performance, and McConville has opted for continuity rather than disruption at this crucial stage of the competition.

Wicklow booked their place in the last four following a deserved victory over Antrim, and now face an Offaly side who have also impressed on their route to Croke Park.

The Garden County scored the last five points of the game in Antrim, with Dean Healy clipping over the winner, sparking wild celebrations amongst the travelling contingent at Corrigan Park.

However Mickey Harte’s Faithful 15 will be a step-up in class as they bid to reach their second successive Tailteann Cup final. 

Offaly have won three on the bounce against Clare, Down and Wexford. Jack Bryant and Shane O’Toole Greene were outstanding against the Models while for many Dylan Hyland is player of the tournament so far.

The decision to name an unchanged team underlines the stability within the Wicklow panel, with the selectors clearly satisfied with both structure and output across the field after back-to-back wins over Tipperary and Antrim.

There is, however, a significant boost on the bench, with An Tochar’s John Paul Nolan returning to the matchday squad.

Listed at number 27 among the substitutes, the talented youngster adds depth and versatility to Oisin McConville’s options should Wicklow need to adjust during the course of the game.

His return will be seen as a welcome addition at a time when squad depth could prove decisive in a tight semi-final encounter.

Leadership remains central to Wicklow’s challenge, with captain Dean Healy once again wearing the metaphorical armband as he prepares to lead by example on one of the biggest stages in Gaelic football.

His influence has been a constant throughout the campaign, both on and off the ball, kicking the late winner last weekend against the Saffrons in Belfast as Wicklow have steadily built momentum.

In attack, Kevin Quinn, Oisín McGraynor and Eoin Darcy are again named in an unchanged full-forward line, providing continuity in scoring threat and movement inside the final third.

Their understanding and combination play will be key if Wicklow are to break down an Offaly defence that has shown resilience throughout the competition.

All eyes now turn to Croke Park and a semi-final clash that offers Wicklow the chance to reach a first-ever Tailteann Cup final.

With an unchanged team, returning squad depth on the bench, and belief growing within the camp, McConville’s side arrive at headquarters with everything to play for.

Throw in is at 5 pm and East Coast FM's Michael Sargent will have full live online match commentary, available on the East Coast FM app and on eastcoast.fm