Countdown Begins for Louth Senior Football Final Showdown
By ArdeePost Reporter
Countdown Begins for Louth Senior Football Final Showdown
The excitement is building across County Louth as fans prepare for one of the most anticipated games of the year — the 2025 Louth Senior Football Championship Final between Newtown Blues and Naomh Mairtín.
Taking place this Sunday at Integral GAA Park, Drogheda (2.45pm), the clash brings together two of the county’s top sides in a rivalry rich with history and pride. This will be the third-ever Championship Final meeting between the clubs, with the Blues winning both previous encounters in 2018 and 2019.
A Louth Rivalry Rekindled
Earlier this season, Naomh Mairtín showed their fighting spirit with a dramatic one-point comeback win over the Blues during the group stages — overturning a six-point deficit in the final minutes. That victory saw the Jocks top their group, while the Blues rebounded with an impressive win over the Joes to secure second place.
In the knockout stages, Newtown Blues reignited their championship campaign with a statement win, ending Ardee St Mary’s bid for a four-in-a-row with a six-point victory. Meanwhile, Naomh Mairtín edged past St Patrick’s Lordship after a replay before seeing off Dundalk Gaels to book their place in another final.
Newtown Blues: Eyes on Another Title
For the Blues, Sunday is a chance to restore their dominance and bring the Joe Ward Cup back to Drogheda. Their semi-final victory over the Dreadnots showcased their experience and composure under pressure.
Among the Blues’ management team are familiar figures — Eugene Judge, a club legend who has been there for many of the team’s greatest triumphs, and John Kermode, a five-time Senior Championship winner now bringing his expertise from the sideline.
Leading from the front is captain Ciarán Downey, who already has a Leinster medal and a history of success with the Blues’ three-in-a-row team (2017–2019). Downey’s leadership and accuracy will be crucial as they look to reclaim county glory.
Naomh Mairtín: Consistency and Determination
For Naomh Mairtín, the 2025 final marks their seventh final appearance in eight seasons — a testament to their incredible consistency.
Tom Sullivan, who has featured in all six previous deciders, said it remains “an honour” to compete in such occasions. Team captain Eoghan Callaghan returns after missing last year’s final while in Australia and is determined to make up for lost time.
Defender Conor Healy, chasing a third county medal, said the team’s focus is on “hard work and belief.” Their defensive structure and attacking fluidity will be tested against a battle-hardened Blues side.
A County Divided — A Game United
As the Louth Senior Football Final approaches, anticipation is high from Drogheda to Monasterboice. The Newtown Blues will rely on experience, while Naomh Mairtín will bring youthful hunger and a point to prove.
With the Joe Ward Cup on the line and pride at stake, Sunday’s decider promises to deliver another unforgettable chapter in Louth GAA history.
