Cork connection runs deeps as London Hibs chase a treble

On any given Tuesday night in Barnes, under the glow of floodlights and the hum of London life in the background, a distinctly Cork spirit is alive and well. 

It’s there in the sharp passing, the sideline banter, and the unmistakable camaraderie that defines London Hibernian FC. What began as a recreational outlet for Irish expats has grown into one of the capital’s most ambitious amateur football clubs, with a strong Cork contingent at its heart.

Founded in 2021 from the merger of UCC Diaspora and Tooting Celtic, London Hibs was built on a simple but powerful idea: create a community. For many who made the move from Ireland to London in pursuit of career opportunities, the transition can be daunting. Sport is the thread that reconnects.

Denis O’Mahony, a lifelong College Corinthians man and one of the club’s key figures and founding member knows that journey well. Having moved to London in 2016, he found both professional growth and a renewed sense of belonging through football.

“It’s been the best thing I’ve done.

“That sense of belonging is exactly what London Hibs set out to provide. We wanted to create an environment where people could get involved whether they wanted to play or not." 

RISING

The club fields two teams that train together weekly and compete every Saturday, fostering a unified identity that stretches beyond matchday. Success, however, has followed quickly. In just a few short years, London Hibs have amassed an impressive trophy haul, including an FA London Junior Cup, a League Cup and two league titles. Only the 2023/24 season passed without silverware, a rare lull in an otherwise remarkable rise.

Now, the club stands on the brink of something even bigger.

The Surrey-based side currently sits top of their league and needs just five points from their remaining five games to secure the title in only their third season at this level. Having previously finished fourth and second, it marks steady progression.

But it doesn’t stop there. London Hibs are also preparing for a London Cup final showdown against AMG Ballerz, the reigning champions who knocked them out at the semi-final stage last year. There’s a sense of unfinished business, and the opportunity for redemption adds an extra edge to the occasion.

Meanwhile, they're in the League Cup semi-final, leaving them just five wins away from an extraordinary treble. For a club that trains only once a week for two hours, it’s an achievement that speaks volumes about the quality and commitment within the squad.

At the core of that squad is a strong Cork presence. 

From defenders who “would go through a brick wall” to prolific forwards like former College Corinthians and Avondale player David 'Salty' Dalton, who has racked up 31 goals in just 16 games. 

Players like Chris Healy (college Corinthians) and Josh De Lacey (Kilmichael, Lakewood, Corinthians) have made decisive contributions, while others such as John Quinlan (Leeside), Josh Pickering (Lakewood) and Adam O’Keeffe (Leeds), continue to strengthen the club across both teams.

Off-field, the mission remains clear: grow the community. With increasing numbers and interest, the possibility of adding a third team is already being considered. The club continues to be supported by sponsors, including Tir Na Nóg pub in Wandsworth and Murphys Geospatial, whose backing has been crucial in sustaining its growth.

RITUAL

Leadership, too, reflects the Cork connection. 

O’Mahony recently stepped down as chairman after three seasons, handing over to fellow Cork native and former Lakewood player Killian Murphy.

For all the ambition and success, though, the essence of London Hibs remains simple. It’s about football, friendships, and the familiar ritual of a few pints after the final whistle. It’s about past players returning to support, new arrivals finding their feet, and a shared identity that stretches from Cork to South West London.

And as they chase titles and edge closer to semi-professional status, one thing is certain: London Hibs are no longer just a team. They’re a community, built on passion, driven by ambition, and proudly carrying a piece of home with them every step of the way. Any young lads from Cork who plan on making the move to London would be more than welcome to join up with this great club.