Scoreline.ie: The Knock On Rugby Podcast

This week on The Knock On, KCLR Sport's weekly rugby podcast, Stephen Byrne is joined by Tom Crotty (Carlow Rugby Club), James Blanchfield (Kilkenny RFC), and Paddy Browne (Tullow RFC) to break down all the latest rugby action.Kilkenny's seconds were in Towns Cup action, the women's team are wrapping up their season, and the U18s had a strong campaign—losing just three players ahead of next year. We also touch on the ongoing challenge of losing players to Kilkenny College.Tullow's women's team could have a lifeline in the AIL, with Suttonians reportedly withdrawing from the league. The club continues to thrive at underage level, with impressive participation and development.We preview Carlow's big clash against Athy in the Towns Cup final this Sunday at 3pm in Naas. Tom Crotty highlights the importance of a solid defence against Athy's attacking prowess, noting that getting to a final is tough—but winning it is even tougher. We also check in on Carlow's J2s and youth teams as their season winds down. Tune in for all this and more on The Knock On! 

This week on The Knock On, KCLR Sport's weekly rugby podcast, Stephen Byrne is joined by Tom Crotty (Carlow Rugby Club), James Blanchfield (Kilkenny RFC), and Paddy Browne (Tullow RFC) to discuss all the latest rugby action.Carlow RFC: Carlow has been relegated to Leinster League Division 1B after losing their playoff game against Wexford. Their goal for next season is to get promoted back to Division 1A. The focus, however, is on the Towns Cup Semi-Final this weekend, where they will face Wicklow at Cill Dara's grounds. The J3s will also be in action, taking on Ardee in the Anderson Cup Quarter-Finals.Tullow RFC: Tullow will play against Athy in the Towns Cup Semi-Final on Sunday, also at Cill Dara, after defeating Gorey in the Quarter-Finals. The youth teams are doing well, reaching four finals. Paddy Browne also spoke highly of the Tullow Ladies' Team and their successful season in the AIL.Fixtures & Youth Rugby Review: We round up all the latest youth rugby results and upcoming fixtures for Tullow, Carlow, and Kilkenny RFCs.Tune in for all this and more on The Knock On!

Carlow will face Athy in the Bank of Ireland Towns Cup Final. They squeezed out a 10-9 win against Wicklow, unfortunately Tullow lost out in the first semi-final against Athy. We had live coverage of both game on KCLR and afterwards got some post-match from both camps. The final is on in Naas on Sunday April 27th and will be live on KCLR.

This week on The Knock On, KCLR Sport's weekly rugby podcast, Stephen Byrne is joined by Tom Crotty (Carlow Rugby Club), James Blanchfield (Kilkenny RFC), and Paddy Browne (Tullow RFC) to discuss all the latest rugby action.Towns Cup ActionTullow progressed to the Quarter-Finals after Skerries conceded their match. They now face Gorey away on Sunday.Carlow takes on a strong Boyne side, who recently won Division 1B of the league.We have the team sheets for both Tullow and Carlow's upcoming matches.Club UpdatesTullow RFCJ2's face New Ross.Tullow Ladies played their final home league game, falling short against Cooke RFC.Katie Corrigan & Dannah O'Brien are in action with the Irish squad.Carlow RFCJ2's meet Wexford Wanderers.J3's face Longford in the Anderson Cup.Kilkenny RFCJ2's take on Edenderry.J3's battle Portarlington.Silverware success for the Kilkenny youth teams at Foulkstown.Tag Rugby returns this summer—James shares details on how to get involved.Fixtures & Youth Rugby ReviewWe round up all the latest youth rugby results and upcoming fixtures for Tullow, Carlow, and Kilkenny RFCs.

This week on The Knock On, KCLR Sport's weekly rugby podcast, Stephen Byrne is joined by Tom Crotty (Carlow Rugby Club), James Blanchfield (Kilkenny RFC), and Paddy Browne (Tullow RFC) to discuss all the latest action.Tullow RFC: Their Towns Cup game was postponed last week due to a bereavement in Suttonians, but it will take place this weekend. Tullow have nearly a full squad available, with just one change in the pack that dominated the scrum last time out. The winners will face Gorey away in the next round.Kilkenny RFC: A disappointing loss to Wicklow in a game they felt they let slip away. With many players unavailable, Kilkenny have decided not to compete in the Plate, instead giving players a rest with some taking holidays.Carlow RFC: Through to the next round of the Towns Cup, but Tom Crotty felt they were flat despite the win. With areas to improve, they now face Boyne away in the next round. Carlow also have a crucial Leinster League Division 1A playoff against Wexford the following week.Plus, we review all the youths' fixtures and results across the three clubs.

This week, Stephen Byrne is joined by Tom Crotty (Carlow Rugby Club), James Blanchfield (Kilkenny RFC), and Paddy Browne (Tullow RFC) to break down all the latest rugby action across Carlow, Kilkenny, and Tullow.Kilkenny RFC traveled to Cill Dara with a weakened squad and fell 34-7. They now shift their focus to a home clash against Wicklow in the Towns Cup, where they've named a strong and experienced lineup. Meanwhile, Kilkenny's women's team were defeated by Edenderry in Division 3 and now preparing to take on CYM this weekend.Tullow RFC edged out Bective 28-27 in a nail-biting contest, securing their place in Division 1A for next season. Theseconds team suffered a defeat. Their Towns Cup fixture against Skerries has been postponed due to a bereavement at the Dublin club. Tullow's women put up a fierce fight but fell short against Galwegians; they now look ahead to an away game against Ballincollig.Carlow RFC battled hard against Suttonians in Dublin but now faces a relegation playoff. The seconds team picked up a win, and the firsts will meet Longford in the Towns Cup. Carlow's J2s will also take on Athy in a friendly. On a high note, Carlow's women's team clinched the Division 6 Cup with a 26-12 victory over Midlands Warriors.Plus, we'll have a full report on all the latest news from the three clubs.

This week on The Knock On, KCLR Sport's weekly rugby podcast, Stephen Byrne is joined by Tom Crotty (Carlow Rugby Club), James Blanchfield (Kilkenny RFC), and Paddy Browne (Tullow RFC) to discuss all the latest action.

This is The Knock On, KCLR Sport's weekly rugby podcast.Stephen Byrne talks to James Blanchfield from Kilkenny RFC, Tom Crotty from Carlow RFC and Paddy Browne from Tullow RFC.Tullow were beaten by Seapoint at the weekend in what is a tough run into the end of the season. Seapoint's try at the end of the game put Tullow out of contention for a losing bonus point. Paddy says it's going to be tough to avoid the second from bottom place on the table. Sean O'Brien played at full back and got the last 15 minutes of the game. They take on Athy this weekend in what is another local derby. Tullow women were away to Suttonians in the AIL and were beaten, they take on Railway Union this weekend.Carlow firsts were away to Athy last weekend where they lost but did pick up two points, the seconds won their game. They take on Ashbourne this weekend at home. The women's team take on Lansdowne.Kilkenny were at home to Wexford at the weekend, slow start, good middle and shocking end said James Blanchfield. Kilkenny take on Dundalk this weekend. The women take on Longford at home this weekend.We also have updates on all the youths fixtures from the weekend for the clubs.And some chat about Ireland in the Six Nations.

Stephen Byrne talks to James Blanchfield from Kilkenny RFC, Tom Crotty from Carlow RFC and Paddy Browne from Tullow RFC.Tullow are at home to Seapoint this weekend, Tullow have three games left in the Leinster League and have what Paddy says is the tougher side of the draw. Tullow women away to Suttonians in the AIL and the J1's play Barnhall. There's a club development application going in for female changing rooms, referee changing rooms, disabled toilets and parking, first floor bar and viewing gallery. Kilkenny beat De La Salle Palmerston 36-24, they were missing six starters including their front row. Kilkenny put in a great performance, James Blanchfield said. The seconds lost. Kilkenny are at home to Wexford this weekend in what was a rescheduled game due to snow a few weeks ago. Kilkenny women beat Tallaght.Carlow are away to Athy this weekend, the confidence is up having had a good win over Wicklow a few weeks ago. Tom says they are under no illusions about this game or what's to come towards the end of the season, he says Carlow are in a good place but you must play the full 80 minutes against Athy.     We also have updates on all the youths fixtures from the weekend for the clubs. 

This is The Knock On, KCLR Sport's weekly rugby podcast.Stephen Byrne talks to James Blanchfield from Kilkenny RFC, Tom Crotty from Carlow RFC and Paddy Browne from Tullow RFC.Carlow got the better of Tullow in the Leinster League Division 1A, the seconds won their game. Paddy Browne says Tullow are not going well at the moment and says Carlow could edge them at the end of the season. Carlow take on Wicklow next in their recently postponed game.Kilkenny lost to Boyne at the weekend.

This is The Knock On, KCLR Sport's weekly rugby podcast.Stephen Byrne talks to James Blanchfield from Kilkenny RFC, Tom Crotty from Carlow RFC and Paddy Browne from Tullow RFC.The Carlow v Wicklow game was called off due to snow still lying on the pitch and has been rescheduled for the weekend of 25th January. Carlow host Tullow this weekend in the big local derby, which is always a big clash. The women's team has a win at the weekend against De La Salle/St Mary's/Guinness.Kilkenny's games against Wexford last weekend were called off due to the snow as were a lot of other underage fixtures. Kilkenny are away to Boyne this weekend in the league. They've been a bogey team for the side in some of their past meetings and have a dangerous attack. Kilkenny's women lost to Ashbourne.Tullow beat Suttonians 13-7. A monumental effort from the club members saw over 60 people grab a shovel, brush and wheelbarrow and clear the pitch of snow so that games could go ahead. Tullow had a huge defensive effort to keep the Dublin side out and it was even 0-0 at half time. The women's team were in action against Old Belvedere however they lost that one. Their next game is against Swords.We also have all the youths' updates and fixtures.

This is The Knock On, KCLR Sport's weekly rugby podcast.Stephen Byrne talks to James Blanchfield from Kilkenny RFC, Tom Crotty from Carlow RFC and Paddy Browne from Tullow RFC.Tullow were beaten by Wicklow in the league, they had targeted the three games over the Christmas period, and with the loss, Paddy Browne says they face an uphill battle in this part of the season, he says the team is not clicking at the moment. They take on Suttonians this weekend who are third on the table. There were a number of games cancelled in Tullow due to the  weather. The women's team are in action against Old Belvedere.Carlow came up just short against Bective, Carlow had injuries and illness to contend with in the run up the games. The seconds also lost their game, they had to be shuffled around as the first team needed a few of them. They take on Wicklow this weekend which will be a tough game.We also have all the women's and youths' updates and fixtures.We also chat Leinster and Munster ahead of their Champions Cup games this weekend. 

This is The Knock On, KCLR Sport's weekly rugby podcast.The weather was the reason a lot of games were called off last weekend. However Tullow's firsts were in action against Ashbourne and got the win there in a gale, the seconds had to concede their game. Tullow have a few injuries on their books and are trying to navigate their way through this period. This Saturday Tullow take on Enniskillen in Tullow in the Semi Final of the AIL Junior Cup. A number of the youths' fixtures fell foul of the weather.The firsts and seconds lost their games in the league against Seapoint. They suffered late injuries too. Their next game is against Bective in the new year. The women had no match at the weekend. 

This is The Knock On, KCLR Sport's weekly rugby podcast.In this episode, Stephen Byrne is joined by Tom Crotty from Carlow Rugby Club, James Blanchfield from Kilkenny RFC, and Paddy Browne from Tullow RFC.Carlow's development side played SETU and won, a good crowd watched the game, and thanks to Johnny Tobin who helped organize the game. SETU won the league recently and included Carlow, Tullow, and Kilkenny players. There was a win for Carlow over Suttonians at home in the league, the second team won well. The J1s had a strong win despite losing their tighthead prop Ross Byrne during the warm-up. Tom Crotty says "To beat a top-three team is huge for us". Seapoint is up next and they will be a tough game, but Tom says the team will be far stronger this time around. The Carlow Christmas Party is this weekend too.It was a quiet weekend last weekend for Kilkenny, youth games took place. The men's first and second teams welcome Mullingar this Sunday. They lost to the same side at the start of the season so they'll be looking for a better performance this time. The Westmeath side are top of the league at the moment. James says they are the underdogs coming into this game and they need an 80-minute performance.Tullow was in action against Bective at the weekend, both teams were beaten, however. Tullow's seconds had injuries to contend with but Paddy said Bective has a fantastic side. Tullow stayed in touch into the second half but the Dublin side pulled away then. Tullow put out a younger side but ran out of steam and bodies. The first were also struggling with injuries. Tullow had to dip into the subs panel a lot on the day due to injuries picked up, 42-19 was the final score. They're up against Ashbourne next week and need a win there to stay in good shape.We have a round-up of all the youth's action from the three clubs as well.

This is The Knock On, KCLR Sport's weekly rugby podcast. In this episode, Stephen Byrne is joined by Tom Crotty from Carlow Rugby Club, James Blanchfield from Kilkenny RFC and Paddy Browne from Tullow RFC. Tullow had a win in the AIL Junior Cup against Seapoint, they trailed 17-14 at halftime but pushed on and won the game 24-27. It was a particularly satisfying win says Paddy Browne as Tullow were beaten by the Dublin side in the league in their recent run-ins. Paddy says "Things are lifting a bit" as the team finds more consistency. They take on Enniskillen in the next round on the 14th of December. The women's side lost to Suttonians 12-48 in their AIL league game. They're up against UL Bohs on the 17th of December in a game that must be rescheduled. There was great mention of the U13 side, they have 41 players in the panel, so much so that they have problems trying to rotate the panel, they've a brilliant win record too this season. Carlow had a development side in action last weekend where they beat Clondalkin. They've 40 players training in the senior ranks and this gave a chance to provide some of the other players a game said Tom Crotty. 20-24 was the final score in the game. The side has been using the downtime recently too to sharpen their skills and intensity, they had a recent training camp with well-known fitness trainer Paul Ward from Paulies Bootcamp. There's no game this weekend for the senior men, their next game is against Suttonians. The Carlow women played the Midland Warriors at the weekend beating them 30-0. They've 24 players now on the panel and are going from strength to strength in what is their first season competing. We have news from all the youth's sides from the weekend as well.

This is The Knock On, KCLR Sport's weekly rugby podcast.In this episode, Stephen Byrne is joined by Tom Crotty from Carlow Rugby Club, James Blanchfield from Kilkenny RFC and Paddy Browne from Tullow RFC.Tullow and Athy drew in their game in the firsts, Paddy Browne gives us a run down of that game, we also hear about the women's game in the AIL and more.Kilkenny lost to Dundalk despite going sixteen points up, which James says they can't understand, however the seconds won. Kilkenny's women's teams however had great weekend.Carlow beat Ashbourne after a tough start to the season. Preparations were disrupted too as the ref was an hour late for the game. Tom Crotty says they're happy with their performance and that they are going in the right direction, the break this weekend means that the players can recuperate and get ready for the next game. The J3 team are in action this weekend where they take on Clondalkin. Carlow's women's team are at home against the Midlands Warriors, it will also be their first game with 15 on 15.We have news from all the youth's sides from the weekend as well.

This is The Knock On, KCLR Sport's weekly rugby podcast. In this episode, Stephen Byrne is joined by Tom Crotty from Carlow Rugby Club, James Blanchfield from Kilkenny RFC and Paddy Browne from Tullow RFC. Kilkenny were away to De La Salle Palmerston in a nail-biting game, Kilkenny got a last minute kick to win it 19-21, their first away win of the season. They're away to Dundalk at the weekend and could have a few injuries to contend with. Kilkenny women head for Longford this weekend in the league. Tullow played Seapoint who sit on top of the table, both the J1 and J2 teams were beaten. Tullow had a few injuries before the game so it disturbed preparations. The consolation was that they did pick up bonus points against the Dublin club. Tullow take on Athy this weekend. The women take on Railway Union in the AIL. Carlow took on Athy in a tight affair and lost, "another game we should have won" says Tom Crotty. He said mistakes and lapses of concentration hurt them. He says " they're so close to getting it right".  Carlow head for Ashbourne this weekend in an almost "must win" game as Carlow need to stay off the bottom of the league table. Carlow ladies had a friendly against Thurles and were beaten, but plenty learned from the game. They take on Lansdowne this weekend. SETU were in action during the week where they beat UL with some local players involved. We have news from all the youth

This is The Knock On, KCLR Sports weekly rugby podcast. In this episode, Stephen Byrne is joined by Tom Crotty from Carlow Rugby Club, James Blanchfield from Kilkenny RFC and Paddy Browne from Tullow RFC. Tullow were the only club in action last weekend in terms of men's games. They won their AIL Cup game against Creggs 34-26, they're away to Seapoint in the next round. As it turns out, Tullow are away to Seapoint this weekend in the Leinster League Division 1A. The women were beaten last weekend against Galwegians, they have a break this weekend. Carlow host Athy in the Leinster League this weekend, it's another local derby Tom Crotty says, "We are on target preparations wise" he says for what should be a close game. The Carlow ladies take on Thurles in a friendly at home this weekend. Kilkenny meanwhile are away to De La Salle Palmerston. We also have updates from all the youths games across the clubs this weekend and we have some reaction to Graham Rowntree departing Munster.

This is The Knock On, KCLR Sport's weekly rugby podcast. In this episode, Stephen Byrne is joined by Tom Crotty from Carlow Rugby Club, James Blanchfield from Kilkenny RFC and Paddy Browne from Tullow RFC. Tullow beat Carlow 37-31 in the big local derby at the weekend, the seconds won 15-12. Tullow got a good start initially but Carlow kept in touch in the firsts, but Tullow made a lot of ground in the second half and was too much for Carlow to catch. Tom Crotty says their slow start cost them and they were playing catch up after that. The Carlow seconds were looking good for a win in what was a great game, but Tullow got a late try and sealed the deal. Carlow were happy to pick up the losing bonus points. The Tullow men are in the All Ireland Junior Cup this weekend.Tullow's women lost 26-10 to Barnhall. Kilkenny firsts beat Boyne, and the seconds lost to Boyne. James Blanchfield says their centre's were the difference in the J1 game, they were in flying form both in attack and defence. Kilkenny women lost on the road to Greystones, they're having a tough opening campaign in the league, they take on Tallaght this weekend. Carlow and Kilkenny have no men's games this weekend. We have updates from all the youths action in the three clubs and previews of this weekend's action. The lads also discussed the naming of the Ireland squad for the Autumn Internationals.

In this episode, Stephen Byrne is joined by Tom Crotty from Carlow Rugby Club, James Blanchfield from Kilkenny RFC and Paddy Browne from Tullow RFC.Tullow lost to Suttonians in their league game at the weekend, their fourth loss on the trot. Tullow conceded the second game. The women's team had no game at the weekend. However, the second team was away to Clondalkin, making history in the process by being the first ladies' second side in quite some time. They won 78-14. They're in action against Ballincollig this weekend at home. It was a mixed bag with the youth teams.Kilkenny lost to Wanderers, had a strong team out but can't put their finger on why they lost. Performances are very disjointed says James Blanchfield, discipline was a factor again this weekend. James says the team just aren't gelling well together, he did say there are a lot of positives too. The seconds won their game. The women's team lost out as well. The youths had some cracking games. Kilkenny host Boyne this weekend, they tend to struggle against this side and James says it's their bogey team. The women's team are away to Greystones.Carlow lost to Wicklow and suffered a few injuries during the game, Tom Crotty says he's not too worried at this stage of the season he says, they need to regroup this week and figure out what they need to do. The Seconds beat Wicklow and got the breeze in the first half too which helped a lot. The Youths had a mixed bag.Tullow hosts Carlow this weekend. It's a huge derby game and a “different kettle of fish” says Tom. Paddy Browne says there are three games on in Tullow this weekend with the two derbies, and the Tullow ladies' game is also a home game in the AIL.The lads also discussed the development of players and how many stay on in their own club after the age of 18, and there's a percentage of players that play senior rugby and didn't come up through the youths in that club.

This is The Knock On, KCLR, and Scoreline.ie's weekly rugby podcast. In this episode, Stephen Byrne is joined by Tom Crotty from Carlow Rugby Club, James Blanchfield from Kilkenny RFC and Paddy Browne from Tullow RFC. Kilkenny got the better of Gorey by a point in what was a cracking game, says James Blanchfield. However, discipline is an issue, as they saw another two cards handed out—that's five in two games. The second team lost their game. The Kilkenny women were beaten heavily by Ashbourne, and they play the South East Lions next. The youth sides had a mixed bag at the weekend. Kilkenny takes on Wexford in J1 and J2 this weekend. The Carlow youths had a good weekend with a few wins chalked up while the U18s lost. Carlow's ladies' team had their first game in over a decade against De La Salle Palmerston and won. Tom Crotty says they've 22 players in the squad and more coming on board now. The U18 Rhinos team played with 14 players and had a great win. The J1 and J2 teams travel to Wicklow this weekend in the league in what's another tough encounter. Tom Crotty is expecting a big physical game and they've yet to adjust to the step up to Division 1 rugby. The Tullow ladies took on Cooke in their second round of the AIL, they lost the game 36-12. Their women's seconds team will make their debut, making more history for ladies' rugby in the club. Tullow's J1 and J2's head for Suttonians this weekend where Paddy Browne is expected another tough game. The youths sides won seven out of the eight games they played. Tullow got twenty thousand euro in funding as well to upgrade their walking track. The lads also talk about the advantage the Dublin teams have in Division 1A of the league in terms of strength and so on. Country players have quite a lot of commuting for work, and physical work, and lose young players when they head off to college in Dublin. 

This is The Knock On, KCLR, and Scoreline.ie's weekly rugby podcast. In this episode, Stephen Byrne is joined by Tom Crotty from Carlow Rugby Club, James Blanchfield from Kilkenny RFC and Paddy Browne from Tullow RFC. The Kilkenny men's fixtures on Sunday last were called off late due to the stormy weather. The J1 and J2 games against Gorey have been refixed for this Saturday. The Kilkenny women are at home to Ashbourne, it's their first game of the league this season. Bective beat Carlow's J1's at the weekend, Tom Crotty felt they could have won it and that their scores came off Carlow's mistakes. They were disappointed not to get a losing bonus point and the seconds had a better game beating the Dublin side. Tom says the fitness levels required for Division 1A are huge, the ball is faster and they feel like they haven't caught up quick enough. Carlow's ladies' team have their first game in over a decade this weekend against De La Salle Palmerston. Tullow's Dannah O Brien was part of the Irish women's senior team who made history at the weekend beating the Black Ferns. Dannah kicked the score that won the game at the end. Meanwhile, Wicklow beat Tullow's men's teams in the league. Paddy Browne says Wicklow were relentless and Tullow had a hard day against them. Tullow could have some luck on their side for the next game though as Adam Johnson and Stevie Smith could be back for the clash in a week. The women were also beaten in their opening AIL game at home to Wicklow, they picked up three player injuries. The ladies play Cooke near Belfast in the next round.

This is The Knock On, KCLR, and Scoreline.ie's weekly rugby podcast.In this episode, Stephen Byrne is joined by Tom Crotty from Carlow Rugby Club, James Blanchfield from Kilkenny RFC, and Paddy Browne from Tullow RFC.Tullow started their Leinster League season with a loss to Ashbourne. It's a game they would have been aiming to win having come up against them a lot over the past few years. The second team however did beat Ashbourne and even brought on their BUM-SQUAD as they call it which included 62-year-old Tommy Dwyer. The men travel to face Wicklow this weekend in a tough match against their old rivals.It's a huge week for the women's team as they start life in the AIL on Saturday when they take on Wicklow at home, a huge crowd is expected for that one.Carlow lost in their league opening game in Division 1A away to Suttonians. They have another tough game in store this weekend as they take on Dublin side Bective, however they do have home advantage for that one.Kilkenny lost to Mullingar in their opening league game. Several players made their debut on the day however it was the three sin-binnings that did the damage as the backs lost continuity during the game and it's something they'll have to work on this week says James Blanchfield. The Seconds also had several debuts on their team and won their match.Kilkenny are at home to Gorey this weekend where they're looking to bounce back and are expecting big numbers at Foulkstown to watch that one.The Kilkenny women are in action against the South East Lions.

This is The Knock On, KCLR, and Scoreline.ie's weekly rugby podcast. In this episode, Stephen Byrne is joined by Tom Crotty from Carlow Rugby Club, James Blanchfield from Kilkenny RFC, and Paddy Browne from Tullow RFC. Carlow open their Leinster League campaign away to Seapoint this weekend in their first Division 1A game this season. They have already picked up silverware this season with the South East League title. Carlow has a women's team for the first time in over a decade again, and we hear the news from over the summer as well as youth news.Kilkenny are away to Mullingar this weekend in Division 1B of the league, James Blanchfield is quietly confident. He talks about the club's new players this year, the departing ones, and new coaches. Kilkenny's focus will be all on the pitch action after investments into their facilities over the last number of years. James also talks about women's and youth rugby. Tullow get their Division 1A season up and running at home this weekend against Ashbourne. Paddy thinks they're a bit undercooked coming into this one as they didn't play in the South East League, and their training numbers are down due to the GAA season still in progress. Sean O'Brien is also a huge doubt this season playing with Tullow as he struggles with a hip injury. The Tullow women begin life as a senior team in the AIL when they take on Wicklow on the 28th of September.

On the final edition of The Knock On for season 3 (the 2023/24 club season), The Knock On team wrap up the season and have a look back over what was a successful campaign for the three clubs of Tullow, Kilkenny and Carlow including Back-to-back Provincial Towns Cup wins for Tullow, and promotion to Division 1A for CarlowTullow ladies securing AIL rugby for the 2024/25 seasonSean O'Brien and Stevie Smith also revealed that they will play again next season as they bid for the three in a row.Kilkenny turning their focus to onfield matters for 2024/25 following facility improvements and club developments this season in Division 1BPlus, Doc O'Connor has stepped down as the coach of the Kilkenny firsts, however, he will remain on as a player with Corey Carthy comes in as the new manager for next season.

On the show, we have a preview of the Provincial Towns Cup Final between Tullow and Ashbourne which takes place on Sunday at 3pm in Carlow Rugby Club.The lads feel that Tullow are favourites going into the game with Sean O'Brien's rugby brain and knowledge the key factor in the clash.The Tullow ladies lost in the final of the Paul Flood Cup last weekend however, they have a huge game this weekend against Queens University in the AIL promotional playoff.Tullow's Dannah O'Brien and Katie Corrigan are on the Ireland women's team to take on England in the Six Nations this weekend.We check up on youth fixtures and chat about J2 and J3 action in the local clubs.

On this edition of The Knock On Rugby Podcast... Tullow are into the final of the Towns Cup with a 36-26 win over Gorey and now play Ashbourne in the decider after they beat Wicklow 24-22. The final is in Carlow on Sunday week and we look ahead to the big game.The Paul Flood Cup final takes on Sunday where the Tullow ladies take on MU Barnhall.There's J3 action as well with the local clubs involved, Kilkenny has never won the Anderson Cup, we discuss that and what the lads refer to as 'old relics' coming back and togging out for it.And Carlow are hosting a 'give it a try' initiative at the club over the next few weeks, it's for ladies and they try to set up a ladies team. #rugby #podcast #rugbypodcast

On this week's edition of The Knock On rugby podcast…Carlow and Tullow get ready for a Provincial Towns Cup quarter-final showdown this weekend with the Division 1B champions and the reigning cup champions squaring up at the Black Gates on Sunday.Carlow beat Portlaoise 41-7 in their quarter-final, Kilkenny beat North Kildare 27-20 and Tullow beat Athy 34-3.The quarter final draw sees Mullingar v Wicklow, Gorey v Kilkenny, Tullow v County Carlow and Cill Dara v Ashbourne all with the possibility that should Kilkenny progress past Gorey we may see yet another local derby at the semi-final stages.And we discuss SETU's loss to DCU in Iris colleges final.

 This week... Carlow are the Leinster League Division 1B champions, they join Tullow in 1A next season.We preview a weekend of Towns Cup action, Kilkenny head for North Kildare, Carlow entertain Portlaoise and Tullow host Athy.Tullow ladies team get the better of Mullingar in the Paul Flood Cup while Kilkenny beat Wanderers in the Paul Cusack Cup.Tributes are paid to the late James Coady who played for Kilkenny and was buried on Thursday and also to club man Willie Purcell from Tullow. 

Carlow needs just a win or draw away to Cill Dara this weekend to win the league, it comes after they beat neighbours Kilkenny in last weekend's clash.Tullow play top of table Monkstown this weekend, they'll finish the league in fourth place, something Paddy Browne says they're very happy with it in their first season back up in division 1A. A top-four finish means Tullow can play in the AIL Cup next season.Kilkenny are at home to Longford this weekend.We chat about women's and youth's rugby this weekend and get the lads' predictions on Ireland's Six Nations game against England.

Tullow Ladies win the Div 1 cup beating Mullingar 60-7, they now go into a round-robin to try and go Senior into AIL, also looking to retain Paul Flood Cup when it returns in a few weeks.Tullow firsts lose out to Seapoint in the Leinster League  27-20.Carlow beat Dundalk 46-29 in a tough encounter, it keeps the momentum going for the side who are looking to finish the season with a chance to go for promotion. Kilkenny lose to Boyne 40-31, down a lot of players through injury and other reasons. Kilkenny Ladies lost to South East Lions.All sides have a weekend off this weekend.

On this week's edition of The Knock On Rugby Podcast...We look back at the weekend of action for Carlow Kilkenny and Tullow last weekend; Tullow had a bye for the Towns Cup, however, Kilkenny started their campaign with a win over Clondalkin and face Athy this Saturday in a crucial league game in the Leinster League.Carlow in the Towns Cup had a good win over Boyne and they're in action this weekend in the league as well. We all hear about youth rugby and women's rugby and of course Ireland in the Six Nations.

Stephen, Paddy and Pat are back for another helping of The Knock On.This week there's a look at - Tullow's win over Ashbourne- Carlow's latest from the Leinster League and the start of their Provincial Towns Cup campaign facing Boyne on Sunday- Updates from local kids, and minis- And there's a nod to former contributor Johnny Tobin who leads SETU Carlow into the All-Ireland colleges rugby series this coming week.- And it's Six Nations weekend!

On this week's edition of The Knock On Rugby Podcast we'll discussTullow's Division 1A loss to Bective and preview their clash with WicklowCarlow's defeat of Boyne ahead of facing LongfordAnother win in Division 1B for Kilkenny over DLSP with Athy waiting in the wingsTullow Ladies' victory over Tullamoreand the lay of the land for this year's Provincial Towns Cup as 2023 champions Tullow collect a bye into round 2 with Kilkenny and Carlow getting ready for their first taste of cup action this year.

On this week's edition of The Knock On rugby podcast... Tullow pushing on in Division 1A and putting it up to the Dublin sides with a win over Suttonians. Carlow is happy with progress and have themselves in a good position heading into the Christmas break, we look at their last-gasp win over Athy. Kilkenny is finding their stride in Division 1B and powered past Cill Dara. We chat women's rugby including Kilkenny's win over Wanderers and Tullow's loss to MU Barnhall. And we chat about Leinster and the Irish Provinces ahead of the Champions Cup opening weekend Back with more next week!

We review the weekend's action which saw Tullow lose out to Monkstown, Carlow to Cill Dara, however, Kilkenny got the better of Longford.Are Tullow fit enough the lads ask, is it something they need to work on?We look ahead to the weekend's action, Tullow v Suttonians, Carlow V Athy and Cill Dara v Kilkenny.We talk women's rugby and Kilkenny struggling after another loss, this time to Edenderry, while Tullow hammers Dublin University.Youth fixtures and results are discussed for the three clubs and more.

On this weeks show, The Knock On team are talking about... Carlow's derby win over Kilkenny in the Leinster League.  We look back at Tullow's win over Gorey in Division 1A. The lads discuss ladies' rugby in the three counties. We look at how the local youth's teams are getting on. And we preview the weekend's provinces games in the URC. Get more on scoreline.ie or wherever you do your podcast listening.

On the ShowTullow's narrow loss to Seapoint last week in Div 1A while Kilkenny lost out to Boyne in 1B while Carlow leave Dundalk with a draw and two points.This weekend, Tullow take on Gorey and Kilkenny and Carlow battle it out.We look back at Tullow ladies' win over Blackrock with three tries from Alex O Brien while the Kilkenny women lost out to Tallaght.We also chat youth rugby and more.

*Episode originally recorded on 27 October*The Leinster League continues and saw Tullow suffer a one-point loss against Ashbourne in 1A, while in 1B, Kilkenny beat Dundalk and Carlow got the better of De La Salle Palmerston.Carlow is the only side in action this weekend in a friendly against Portlaoise where they'll give their seconds and bench players a run-out.We look back at a win for the Tullow ladies over Railway Union while Kilkenny lost to Ashbourne.It was a successful weekend for the local youth's sides.The World Cup final takes place this weekend, we chat about that and the return of the URC.

On this week's podcast ..Tributes paid to Tullow player Conor Duffy who passed away unexpectedly, on October 8th. RIPWe preview Athy v Kilkenny and Longford v Carlow in the Leinster League.We look ahead to the women's league action with Tullow v Tullamore and Kilkenny v Tullamore J1's.And we preview Ireland's World Cup Quarter-final clash against the All Black

On this week's edition of The Knock On rugby podcast, Carlow under-perform in loss to Athy but get back to winning ways against Boyne. Kilkenny is unbeaten so far, with a newish-looking squad getting used to life in Division 1B. Tullow get a big scalp in win over Bective however rivals Wicklow bring them back to earth. We hear how the youth's and women's sides are going. and we talk showing respect for referees and we chat about the Ireland team to play Scotland in the Rugby World Cup. Keep an eye on Scoreline.ie or wherever you do your podcast listening for more from The Knock On and Leinster League coverage. 

On this week's podcast, Tullow get their Division 1A campaign off to a winning start by beating Suttonians with Sean O'Brien in the number 10 jersey as they face Bernard Jackman's Bective this weekend.Carlow beat Kilkenny in the South East League during the week, Carlow start their league against neighbours Athy this weekend while Kilkenny face Cill Dara.We look back at Ireland's win over Tonga in the World Cup, and how they're going to beat South Africa this weekend.

The Knock On is back for a third season and with the Leinster League two weeks away from a return for Carlow, Kilkenny and Tullow, we'll explore how pre-season is going for each of the clubs along with an update on the latest from SETU Carlow. Plus, the Rugby World Cup is underway, so it's time to have a look at Ireland's prospects. Can they advance past the quarter-final stages at long last? 

This is The Knock On, KCLR, and Scoreline.ie's weekly rugby podcast.In this episode, Stephen Byrne is joined by Tom Crotty from Carlow Rugby Club, James Blanchfield from Kilkenny RFC, and Johnny Tobin from Tullow RFC.On the show... We look back at Kilkenny's season for the first, seconds, ladies and youths. We look ahead to Kilkenny's plans for next season including personnel changes, coaching, and more. Johnny Tobin describes what Tullow RFC has been like over the past few weeks. We chat about Tullow's wins at all levels this season and plans for next season including moving up to Division 1A of the league Johnny talks about the people and players behind Tullow rugby club and what make them successful this season Don't forget to visit scoreline.ie for more on rugby, and of course, if you're into your GAA, we have the clash act and lots more.

Continuing our look at the 2023 Bank of Ireland Provincial Towns Cup, we joined some of Tullow Rugby Club at Black Gates to talk all things rugby including- Womens' captain Lana Brennan- Directory of Rugby Tom Nolan- Club president Pat Byrne- Former player and club great Pat Nolan- Club chair Robin Johnson- Rugby analyst and coach Johnny TobinThis preview is with thanks to Carlow Concrete Tanks and was originally broadcast on KCLR on Friday 21 April 2023.

The first part of our 2023 Bank of Ireland Provincial Towns Cup Final preview show, focusing on Kilkenny Rugby Club, .ith thanks to Poe Kiely Hogan Lanigan, Kilkenny's leading law firm. See a full list of their services at pkhl.ie. For this preview, Brendan Hennessy is joined by Kilkenny Rugby Club PRO James Blanchfield, team manager Ray Pembroke, last year's Provincial Towns Cup-winning coach Steve Ashmore, club president Dave Matthews and team manager Eamon Dooley.Originally broadcast on Thursday 20 April 2023 on KCLR

This is The Knock On, KCLR, and Scoreline.ie's weekly rugby podcast.In this episode, Stephen Byrne is joined by Tom Crotty from Carlow Rugby Club, James Blanchfield from Kilkenny RFC, and Johnny Tobin from Tullow RFC.On the show... We preview the big Towns Cup semi-final clashes this weekend as Carlow and Tullow get ready to battle it out while Kilkenny faces the mighty Cill Dara. We look back at a winning weekend for Carlow, Kilkenny and Tullow in the Seconds Towns Cup, and look ahead to their next rounds. Carlow continues their journey in the J3 Anderson Cup with a win over Ashbourne. Tullow ladies get the better of MU Barnhall in a cracker of a game in the Paul Flood Cup We look back over the weekends youths' action from the three clubs. Don't forget to visit scoreline.ie for more on rugby, and of course, if you're into your GAA, we have the clash act and lots more.

This is The Knock On, KCLR, and Scoreline.ie's weekly rugby podcast.In this episode, Stephen Byrne is joined by Tom Crotty from Carlow Rugby Club, James Blanchfield from Kilkenny RFC, and Johnny Tobin from Tullow RFC.On the show... Tullow crowned Leinster League Division 1B champions after win over Cill Dara, they'll play Division 1A next season. Carlow finish their league in style with a win over Wicklow. Kilkenny books their place in the next round of the second's towns cup with a win over Boyne. We look ahead to more seconds towns cup action where Carlow faces Portlarlington, Kilkenny plays Wicklow and Tullow takes on the Midlands Warriors. Carlow goes up against Ashbourne in the J3 Anderson Cup. We discuss the current strength of rugby locally and the southeast and the strong youths competitions We chat women's rugby including the Paul Flood Cup and the Carlow/Tullow Rhinos Don't forget to visit scoreline.ie for more on rugby, and of course, if you're into your GAA, we have the clash act and lots more.

This is The Knock On, KCLR, and Scoreline.ie's weekly rugby podcast.In this episode, Stephen Byrne is joined by Tom Crotty from Carlow Rugby Club, James Blanchfield from Kilkenny RFC, and Johnny Tobin from Tullow RFC.On the show... Kilkenny relegated from Division 1A of the Leinster League to Division 1B, we chat to James Blanchfield about that. We look at the Towns Cup Quarter final wins for Carlow, Tullow, and Kilkenny, and preview the semi-finals. Tullow goes for promotion to Division 1A of the Leinster League with a trip to Cill Dara this weekend. We preview Carlow's trip to Wicklow in the last league game of the season. We chat women's rugby with Paul Flood and Paul Cusack Cup competitions taking place. We look at youth action across the three clubs and the Carlow/Tullow Rhinos. Don't forget to visit scoreline.ie for more on rugby, and of course, if you're into your GAA, we have the clash act and lots more.

This is The Knock On, KCLR, and Scoreline.ie's weekly rugby podcast.In this episode, Stephen Byrne is joined by Tom Crotty from Carlow Rugby Club, James Blanchfield from Kilkenny RFC, and Johnny Tobin from Tullow RFC.On the show... Carlow secured safety in Division 1B of the league after a strong Cill Dara win. Kilkenny into a battle to stay in Division 1A after the weekend's loss to Boyne. Tullow continues incredible form thrashing Dundalk 69-16. We preview the Second's Towns Cup with Carlow away to Longford and Tullow at home to Balbriggan. The Tullow and Kilkenny women's teams are in separate cup action this weekend, we chat about that. And we have a look at the youth's action. Don't forget to visit scoreline.ie for more on rugby, and of course, if you're into your GAA, we have the clash act and lots more.

This is The Knock On, KCLR, and Scoreline.ie's weekly rugby podcast.In this episode, Stephen Byrne is joined by Tom Crotty from Carlow Rugby Club, James Blanchfield from Kilkenny RFC, and Johnny Tobin from Tullow RFC.On the show... Kilkenny gets back on the horse with a good win over Ashbourne in the Towns Cup, we look back at that and preview their league clash this weekend against Boyne. Carlow ran nine tries past New Ross, but there's room for improvement says Tom Crotty, we also preview their away league game against Cill Dara. Tullow scrape past Boyne in the Towns Cup, we chat about that and their league clash against Dundalk. We discuss women's rugby including Kilkenny's win over Navan and Tullow's over Blackrock and have a look ahead to the next games. We bring your round-up of the youth's action at the local clubs. People are coming back to the clubhouses to watch games again and numbers are growing which is good news for the clubs. Don't forget to visit scoreline.ie for more on rugby, and of course, if you're into your GAA, we have the clash act and lots more.