Clare v Wexford




This is not your average rivalry, typical of GAA. This rivalry is unique and bitter and it goes much deeper than what happens on the field. Geographically, these two counties are separated by a bridge over the river Slaney at the southern tip of county Wexford and the northern tip of county Wexford.


Historically, the two counties have been in conflict since ancient times. The border between the two counties was often disputed, and there were frequent raids and skirmishes between the two sides. The most famous of these conflicts was the Battle of Gorey in 1399, which resulted in a victory for the Wexfordmen. The battle is still commemorated in County Wexford today, and it is considered to be one of the most important events in the county's history.

The rivalry between Clare and Wexford continued into the modern era. In the 19th century, the two counties were often on opposite sides of the political divide. Clare was a stronghold of the Home Rule movement, while Wexford was a stronghold of the Unionist movement. The two counties also had different economic interests. Clare was a predominantly rural county, while Wexford was a more industrialized county. This led to economic tensions between the two counties that further fueled the rivalry.

The rivalry between Clare and Wexford reached its peak in the early 20th century. In 1901, a group of Wexfordmen attacked a group of Claremen in Enniscorthy, County Wexford. The attack resulted in the deaths of several Claremen, and it sparked outrage throughout the county. The Claremen retaliated by attacking a group of Wexfordmen in Killaloe, County Clare. The attack resulted in the deaths of several Wexfordmen, and it further inflamed the rivalry between the two counties.

The rivalry between Clare and Wexford has continued to this day. The two counties still meet on the field of play regularly, and the matches are often fiercely contested. The rivalry is also evident in the stands, where the fans of the two counties often engage in heated debates and arguments.

The rivalry between Clare and Wexford is a complex and fascinating phenomenon. It is a rivalry that is rooted in history, politics, economics, and geography. It is a rivalry that has been passed down from generation to generation, and it is a rivalry that will likely continue for many years to come.

What is the future of the Clare-Wexford rivalry? It is hard to say. The rivalry has been going on for centuries, and it is likely to continue for many years to come. However, it is possible that the rivalry will eventually die down. As the two counties become more integrated, the differences between them may become less pronounced. This could lead to a decrease in the rivalry between the two counties.

Only time will tell what the future holds for the Clare-Wexford rivalry. However, one thing is for sure: it is a rivalry that is deeply rooted in the history and culture of both counties. It is a rivalry that is unlikely to be forgotten anytime soon.