Wicklow Stick With Winning Formula Ahead Of Antrim Trip

Wicklow’s decision to name an unchanged team underlines growing trust in the current starting fifteen, with several key players now firmly established in Oisin McConville’s system.

Wicklow head into Saturday’s Tailteann Cup quarter-final against Antrim at Corrigan Park (2pm) with an unchanged starting fifteen, as manager Oisín McConville keeps faith with the side that secured a strong win over Tipperary in their last outing in Aughrim.

The Garden County boss has named a settled team as Wicklow look to carry momentum into a difficult away assignment in Belfast, with a place in the last four of the competition on the line.

Dean Healy captains the side from midfield once again, partnered by Jack Kirwan, while the free-scoring and in-form Kevin Quinn leads a forward unit that has shown steady improvement across the championship campaign.

Mark Jackson continues in goal behind a defensive unit that includes Tom Moran, Matt Nolan and Malachy Stone.

Consistency key for Wicklow

McConville has consistently stressed the importance of stability and performance standards as Wicklow continue their push through the Tailteann Cup structure.

After earlier championship setbacks, he has been clear about the level required if Wicklow are to compete with the leading teams in the competition.

Following their Leinster Championship defeat to Dublin earlier in the season, McConville admitted the need to eliminate inconsistencies in front of goal, saying:

“That’s why we weren’t promoted, because our decision-making in front of goal probably hasn’t been what it needed to be.”

However, he also praised the response and physicality shown by his team in that performance, adding:

“I thought we were physical, we didn’t shirk any of the challenges.”

Those themes have remained central to Wicklow’s campaign — competitiveness, discipline, and improving game management in tight moments.

The Armagh native has repeatedly spoken about Wicklow’s need to operate at a higher level if they are to progress beyond near-misses in recent seasons.

Reflecting on the broader direction of the team, McConville has been blunt about expectations:

“The days of doing okay and ticking boxes are well and truly gone with this group.”

That message has underpinned Wicklow’s 2026 season, with McConville demanding consistent intensity across league and championship campaigns.

He has also pointed to the importance of repeatedly putting themselves in competitive positions:

“The more we put ourselves in those positions, the better chance we have of winning.”

Tough test awaits in Belfast

Wicklow now face an Antrim side that will have home advantage in Corrigan Park, with the Saffrons expected to bring a strong physical and high-tempo approach.

Antrim’s attacking threat has been a feature of their championship run, and Wicklow will need to replicate the defensive structure and resilience shown in earlier rounds if they are to advance.

McConville’s side have already shown they can compete in tight, high-pressure matches this season, but away championship knockout football in Belfast represents a significant step up.

Team unchanged as belief builds

Wicklow’s decision to name an unchanged team underlines growing trust in the current starting fifteen, with several key players now firmly established in McConville’s system.

Captain Dean Healy remains central to their midfield platform, while Kevin Quinn continues to be a focal point in attack after a strong scoring return in recent weeks.

With both sides fighting for a semi-final place, the margin for error is expected to be minimal.

*Throw in tomorrow -2pm - Tune into East Coast FM online with Michael Sargeant providing coverage from Corrigan park in Belfast.*