Match Report: Kerry FC 2–1 Longford Town | Ireland First Division | June 27, 2026

Kerry FC secured a crucial 2–1 home victory over Longford Town at Mounthawk Park, lifting themselves away from the relegation zone. The hosts produced a spirited second-half performance after falling behind early, turning the game around with goals from Ian O’Reilly and substitute David Murphy.

Match Overview

Longford Town started brightly and took a deserved lead in the 11th minute when striker Aaron Walsh headed in from a free-kick. Kerry looked nervy initially, struggling to keep possession under Longford’s press. But as the half wore on, the home side grew into the game, equalising in first-half stoppage time through a well-placed shot from Ian O’Reilly.

The second half was a more even contest, but Kerry’s determination told in the 68th minute when David Murphy, introduced just 15 minutes earlier, volleyed home from a corner to give Kerry the lead. Longford pushed for an equaliser but could not find a way past a resolute Kerry defence.

Key Moments

• 11’ – Longford goal: Aaron Walsh heads in from a set piece, giving the visitors an early lead.
• 45+2’ – Equaliser: Ian O’Reilly fires low into the bottom corner after a defensive lapse from Longford.
• 68’ – Winner: David Murphy scores on the half-volley from a corner routine.
• 88’ – Late save: Kerry goalkeeper Sean O’Leary denies Longford’s Dylan Costello with a diving stop.

Tactical Story

Kerry FC started in a 4-2-3-1 but struggled to cope with Longford’s direct play early on. After the equaliser, manager Billy O’Connor switched to a more aggressive 4-4-2, pushing higher and pressing more effectively. Longford, playing a 3-5-2, were strong in midfield but lacked creativity in the final third, particularly after losing their rhythm following Kerry’s second goal.

Standout Players

• Kerry FC: David Murphy – The substitute made a decisive impact with the winning goal and added energy to the attack.
• Longford Town: Aaron Walsh – Scored the opener and held the ball up well, but lacked support from midfield.

Table & Season Impact

Kerry FC move up to 8th place with 18 points, now three points clear of the relegation zone. Longford Town stay in 4th position with 32 points, but this loss halts their momentum after a run of three wins. The win is a major boost for Kerry as they aim to avoid the drop in their debut First Division season.