Posts Tagged ‘ Killian Brennan ’

Saints See Off Students To Progress In FAI Cup

ftrSt Patrick’s Athletic put four goals past UCD in the FAI Cup on Saturday evening, a week after putting five past the same opposition a week earlier in the league.

In a bit of a quiet opening to the game at Richmond, UCD had the first major chance as Dean Clarke ran in at the back post to see his header drift wide of the right hand post while up the other end Pats nearly took the lead through Conan Byrne as he smashed his shot up and over O’Donnell’s goal. Read more

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2013
06/02
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Supersaints Hand Champions First League Defeat

St Patrick’s Athletic ended Sligo Rovers 100% start to the new season on Friday night with a resounding 2-0 win at Richmond Park.

Goals from Conan Byrne and a late Killian Brennan penalty were enough for Pats to earn a vital three points and keep them in touch with their challengers. Read more

2013
04/20
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Pats Primed For Silverware As O’Brien Gives Us An Inside View To Life In Inchicore

gerobrienPre-season this year felt very normal to us at St Pats with so many familiar faces still around from last year. Normally in this country there’s a new influx of players every year with most teams but we have managed to keep a large bulk of our squad which is great. Many of us had other offers to go elsewhere so it’s great to see so many committing to the club for the coming season. It’s a fantastic dressing room to be involved in and with the new faces we have added I’m hoping we can go a bit better than last year and get our hands on some silverware. Read more

2013
03/14
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Wait Is Over As League of Ireland Resumes

LOIAfter a busy off season the League of Ireland makes a highly anticipated return on Friday with many believing this season may well be the most competitive yet. In our second preview ahead of the big kick off Alan Finn highlights the contenders, the pretenders and those who best be ready for a long relegation battle. 

Sligo Rovers

Prediction: Title challenge

Key Player: Lee Lynch

Last Season: Champions

Sligo Rovers should be well capable of putting up a decent defence of their Airtricity League title this season. Jason McGuinness and Mark Quigley are big losses for the champions this year, but Evan McMillan looks to be the ideal replacement for the big centre back while Anthony Elding has arrived from England to take on the goal scoring duties. There will be a number of key players for The Bit O’Red next season, Gavin Peers at the back, Danny Ventre in the middle but I feel anything good attacking wise for the side will involve Lee Lynch who has been a stand out player in Pre-season and I would expect him to build on his impressive 2012 debut season at The Showgrounds. Also keep an eye out for young Liam Martin who has been in flying form in pre-season, with six goals in six games.

St. Patrick’s Athletic

Prediction: Title challenge

Key Player: Chris Forrester

Last Season: 3rd

Having retained the majority of their squad and making a couple of decent acquisitions, Pats should be in for another title challenge this year. Of their new signings, Killian Brennan will certainly be the one to watch this season. Despite coming off the back of a horrid season with Shamrock Rovers, the winger can be the best player in the League on his day and if he gets his head down and works hard, he will prove to be a valuable player for the Saints. Chris Forrester and Jake Carroll, the stand out duo for the club for last season, will also be crucial to any success for Pats this season and you can’t help but feel the best is yet to come from both players.

Shamrock Rovers

Prediction: Title challenge

Key Player: Mark Quigley

Last Season: 4th

As the Shamrock Rovers fans desperately seek to put last season behind them, they certainly look in much better shape to challenge for the title this year. They have been the most active club in the transfer market during the off-season, bringing in players such as James Chambers and PFAI Player of the year nominees  Sean O’Connor, Jason McGuinness and Mark Quigley. Quigley, who won the award in the end, will more than likely be their key player next season, but with so many new players in the Hoops squad, it may take the team time to gel when the League campaign kicks off. Ciaran Kilduff looks set to be Gary Twigg’s replacement up top and he has certainly gotten off to a good start with winning goals against Coleraine and Wexford Youths in the past week.

Derry City

Prediction: Title challenge

Key Player: Rory Patterson

Last Season: 5th

Despite the departure of Stephen McLaughlin to Nottingham Forest, I can see Derry improving on last season’s finish. After finally securing the signature of Mark Griffin following a long, drawn out process, I feel a striking partnership with Rory Patterson has a lot of potential. We saw in last season’s FAI Ford Cup Final what Patterson can do when fully fit and with a promising prospect like Griffin beside him (assuming that is their strike force) then scoring goals should certainly not be a problem for the Candystripes.

Drogheda United

Prediction: Title challenge/European places

Key Player: Eric Foley

Last Season: 2nd

Following a marvellous 2012 campaign, will Drogheda repeat last season’s form? In my opinion, I think they will but with what is likely to be a more competitive League this year, I can’t see them finishing in the top two again. Mick Cooke has done a great job retaining the majority of his squad and has made one stand out signing in the form of Paul O’Conor from UCD. The midfielder will play alongside Eric Foley and if they click together, the Drogs midfield will be a joy to watch in action.

Cork City

Prediction: European places/mid-table

Key Player: Gearoid Morrisey

Last Season: 6th

After a disappointing return to the Premier Division last season, I feel Cork City are another team we will see improvement from this year. Tommy Dunne has been active in the transfer window, bringing in goalscorers such as Daryl Kavanagh and Danny Furlong, an area where they seemed to lack in 2012 but if Kavanagh can link up with Furlong like he did with Danny North and the striker can score goals like he did in the First Division, finding the back of the net shouldn’t be a problem this time around.

Bohemians

Prediction: Mid-table

Key Player: Ryan McEvoy

Last Season: 7th

Despite a very slow start to their last campaign, Bohemians went on to have a decent season in 2012, most notably recording a 4-0 win over Shamrock Rovers before picking up their first ever victory in Tallaght Stadium. Evan McMillan will be the Gypsies biggest loss from last season, but his replacement Stephen Paisley has shown he may just have the same eye for goal as the 26-year-old (in pre-season at least!). Ryan McEvoy caught the eye of many fans around the League last season with impressive performances and outstanding goals and I think he will be Bohs key man this year.

Dundalk

Prediction: Mid-table

Key Player: Kurtis Byrne

Last Season: 11th

New season, new hopes and new expectations for Dundalk. Following a disastrous 2012 campaign, newly appointed manager Stephen Kenny looks like he is already well on his way to changing the Lilywhites fortunes, assembling a decent squad for the year ahead. John Dillon, Kurtis Byrne, Richie Towell, Keith Ward and Mark Rossiter (when fit) could all be fantastic signings for the club if they play to the best of their abilities and Byrne looks like the man they will be relying on for goals up top and he has certainly made a good start to life at Oriel Park as he comes off the back of a decent pre-season.

Limerick

Prediction: Mid-table

Key Player: Rory Gaffney

Last Season: Champions (First Division)

For the first time in almost 20 years, Limerick will be playing in the top flight of Irish football. As they depart their old home of Jackman Park, the newly promoted side begin life in the Premier Division in Thomond Park. Location isn’t the only new change at the club, with ex-Drogheda United man Stuart Taylor stepping into the world of management for the first time, bringing with him some new faces to the club such as Robbie Williams on loan from Plymouth Argyle, Danny Galbraith from Hibernian and Belgian striker Axel Bossekota. Limerick’s progress will be an interesting one to watch, I can see them staying up as they appear destined for a mid table finish.

Bray Wanderers

Prediction: mid-table/relegation zone

Key Player: Kieran Marty Waters

Last Season: 10th

Pat Devlin goes into 2013 with mostly the same squad as last season, but one signing could make all the difference for his side this year – Gary Dempsey. I can see Bray lingering around the bottom half of the table this season, but they should have enough quality about to just keep their heads above water. As well as Dempsey, Jason Byrne, Darren Quigley and Kieran Marty Waters will be vital to Bray’s season.

Shelbourne

Prediction: Relegation zone

Key Player: Philly Hughes

Last Season: 8th

If Pre-season is anything to go by suspensions could be a big worry for Shelbourne this year. Kevin Dawson’s move to Yeovil Town is a major loss for the club and they have failed to fill the gsping hole in their midfield during the off season. I don’t have a lot of hope for Shels this season and I think they are destined for the bottom two, most likely the play-off spot.

UCD

Prediction: Relegation zone

Key Player: Robert Creevy

Last Season: 9th

Since last summer, UCD have lost players of the standard of Paul Corry, Paul O’Conor, Graham Rusk and Ciaran Nangle. Personally, I find it difficult to have any faith in them to escape relegation this season and  unfortunately for the Students they look most likely to suffer the dreaded drop into the First Division.

 

2013
03/03
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Rovers And Pats Busy As LOI Transfer Window Gets Into Full Swing

Rover and Out: Killian Brennan

The League of Ireland transfer season is in full swing as teams try to snap up the best available talent ahead of next March. For many teams the emphasis is on securing much of their current squad but for the others it’s about attracting the league’s finest.

Already a number of significant deals have took place, with Shamrock Rovers and St Patrick’s Athletic among the most active thus far.

Shamrock Rovers have added PFAI player of the year Mark Quigley and fellow nominee Jason McGuinness from league champions Sligo Rovers. Sean O’Connor has moved from Pats to Rovers ensuring new manager Trevor Croly now possesses all four PFAI nominees within his squad. James Chambers has also followed Croly and O’Connor in making the move from Pats to Rovers.

The Hoops have also re-signed Shane Robinson, who returns to the league following a stint in Finland with Haka. Shane McFaul has also returned from Scandinavia with his ex Haka teammate, opting to join Pats instead. Scottish duo Gary Twigg and Craig Sives have left Rovers after enjoying three successful years with the club.

Pats have been busy thus far, confirming the signatures of Killian Brennan, Sean Gannon (Both Rovers) and Conan Byrne (Shelbourne). The Saints have also re-signed eight players from last year, with potent goal poacher Christy Fagan among them. Liam Buckley will be delighted that a number of players have spurned the opportunity to jump ship with Croly. Interestingly enough the Saints have yet to sign a goalkeeper despite having both Brendan Clarke and Barry Murphy, two of the league’s finest on their books last term.

Last season’s surprise package Drogheda United have been quick to bolster their ranks by securing the signing of UCD duo Graham Rusk and Paul O’Conor. The Drogs have also secured the services of Gary O’Neill from Rovers while David Cassidy joins from Shelbourne.

It’s been fairly quiet in the North West as champions Sligo have yet to announce any new signings although they have re-signed some key players from 2012. They will be rocked by the departure of both Quigley and McGuinness to Rovers.

Derry City have only added Paddy Kavanagh (Shelbourne) to their ranks so far but Declan Devine will be buoyed by the fact he will retain much of his FAI Cup winning squad next term.

Cork City have secured the services of forgotten man Daryl Kavanagh (Shamrock Rovers) while first division joint top scorer Danny Furlong has joined from Wexford Youths.

Bohemians, Bray Wanderers, Dundalk, Shelbourne and UCD have yet to announce any new signings but have tied down some key players from last term.

Bohs will find it difficult to replace Kevin Feely who has joined Championship side Charlton Athletic after impressing on trial.

New boys Limerick have likewise yet to announce any new signings as they prioritise filling the managerial void left by the departed Pat Scully.

We have yet to hit December but already a number of clubs have been busy however such is the market a large number of players still remain without a club and are currently training at the PFAI camp.

And who knows what may occur when the English transfer window opens in January as some contracted players may well find themselves following in the footsteps of Keith Fahey, Enda Stevens and co.

2012
11/27
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Five League of Ireland Stars Who Could Make It Abroad

The League of Ireland has become a haven for talent in recent years with stars such as James McClean, Seamus Coleman, Keith Fahey, Shane Long and Kevin Doyle becoming mainstays of the Irish national team.

Other potential talents such as Daniel Kearns, Ben McLaughlin and Eoin Doyle have also been plucked from the League, with the former duo earmarked as Irish stars of the future.

There has been something of a rapid transformation in recent years as the talent emerging from the League is greater than ever before.

Here Irish News Review details five potential stars that soon could be making waves abroad.  

Chris Forrester

Pats star Forrester is widely considered the most talented player in the League of Ireland and it’s not hard to see why. The Dublin native has been linked to numerous clubs in England and Scotland, with Sunderland, Hibernian and others believed to be among potential suitors. Forrester is something of a football genius and at such a young age he is yet to reach his full potential. His dribbling skills, command of the ball and overall eye for goal are something to be witnessed. Few can say they have faced the tricky Forrester and won the battle. Forrester may well be off to pastures new this off season and he will be more than ready for anything foreign soil has to offer. There is no doubt the ex Bohemians star is a future Ireland international.

 Ronan Finn

Shamrock Rovers PFAI player of the year nominee is one of the most gifted and well rounded individuals in the League of Ireland and has been for some time. The ex UCD star was linked to Hibs this week, along with Forrester but Pat Fenlon has revealed his January priorities lie in tying down three current players he has on loan. Some reports have suggested Finn recently turned down a move to Crystal Palace, the reasons remain unknown but it is a very questionable decision given the current form of Ian Holloway’s Eagles. A January move to England looks extremely likely for Finn but his destination remains a mystery. Many would argue Finn is on a different level to Paul Corry, another ex UCD star who recently moved to Sheffield Wednesday and has impressed thus far. Expect Finn to light up the Championship in the next year at least.

 Stephen McLaughlin

Few could have dreamed that Derry City would have an automatic replacement for the immaculate James McClean when the star departed the Brandywell for Sunderland. But Stephen McLaughlin stepped up to the plate following McClean’s departure and the Derry star is one of the most gifted wingers the League of Ireland has ever seen. Declan Devine will do extremely well to hang onto him and it’s widely expected he will be the subject of much interest come the transfer window. McLaughlin certainly possesses a bright future and the cup final winner is another star with the potential to represent a national side, be it Ireland or Northern Ireland, in the not too distant future.

Ryan Brennan

Drogheda United have defied expectations this season and managed to finish in a staggering second place position, thanks in large part to the Brennan brothers, of which Ryan has the most potential. 2012 was a defining season for Ryan who shone as the Drogs mounted a surprisingly serious title tilt, emerging from the shadows of his brother Killian, who endured a less than spectacular season at Shamrock Rovers. Ryan possesses everything a manager looks for in a winger. His rise from Monaghan United and the First Division to the lofty heights of the Premier Division under the guidance of Mick Cooke has been something special. But his rise to stardom is far from over. Ryan Brennan is definitely another player who will no doubt be at the forefront of some manager’s thoughts and his rise to prominence will develop further with a move abroad.

Kevin Feely

Bohemians starlet Kevin Feely has been the subject of much speculation in recent weeks with Everton been known admirers of the Kildare natives talents. Charlton Athletic have also shown an interest, inviting the former Kildare GAA minor player over for a second trial in the coming weeks. The 19 year old enjoyed a solid season in the League of Ireland and has earned high praise from Bohs manager Aaron Callaghan.

2012
11/17
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Hoops Hoping To Overturn Three Goal Deficit To Reach Final

Shamrock Rovers travel to the Brandywell tomorrow night to take on Derry City in the Setanta Sports Cup semi-final, second leg.

The Hoops trail Derry City by three goals to nil after capitulating in Tallaght last week. The Hoops will have to overturn this deficit to reach this year’s Setanta Sports Cup final, where a possible date with Crusaders looks most likely as the Seaview men lead Sligo Rovers 2-0 after the first leg.

 Rovers will be without Kerrea Gilbert (hamstring), Ciaran Kilduff (broken metatarsal) and Stephen O’Donnell (knee cartilage). Killian Brennan (calf) and Gary O’Neill (ankle) will face late fitness tests. Reyaad Pieterse is suspended.

Derry will be looking to finish off Rovers whose form as of late has been very inconsistent. Following the shock 5-1 defeat at the hand of arch rivals St Patricks Athletic, Rovers put six past Dundalk before losing to the Candystripes and then having to claw back a two goal deficit to earn a draw with Bray Wanderers on Friday.

Speaking ahead of the game, Hoops boss, Stephen Kenny said: “We’ll be making some changes in the team, including for Reyaad Pieterse who is suspended. Kerrea Gilbert has resumed some light training, but isn’t expected to make tomorrow’s game. We’ll also give fitness tests to Killian Brennan who has a calf injury and Gary O’Neill who hurt his ankle in Friday night’s game against Bray.”

2012
04/22
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League of Ireland Preview: Rovers Aim For Three In A Row

The League of Ireland returns this week as Shamrock Rovers seek to make it three successive titles in a row under the guidance of new manager Stephen Kenny.

The Hoops have enjoyed a good off-season and a smooth transition to the Kenny era after the departure of Michael O`Neill to take over as manager of Northern Ireland. Kenny has added well to the squad he inherited enlisting the services of Killian Brennan (Bohemians) and Daryl Kavanagh (St Patricks Athletic) amongst others. Anything other than title success will be deemed as a failure by Hoops fans who have high aspirations of cracking the Champions League this term after their Europa League adventure last year.

Many would have predicted Sligo Rovers to push the Hoops all the way this year yet their pre season plans have hit a wall with the departure of manager Paul Cook to Accrington Stanley. Prior to his departure Cook did well in the transfer market adding some talented stars such as Mark Quigley (Dundalk) and Danny North (St Patricks Athletic). The Bit O`Red have yet to find a replacement for Cook and it looks like they will begin their league campaign managerless. The club will be without the mercurial Richie Ryan who left the North West in the off season for SPL side Dundee United, John Russell who has joined St Patricks Athletic and Aaron Greene who has joined Shamrock Rovers.

Outside of last season’s top two St Patricks Athletic are expected to mount a title challenge although their squad may just fall short. Liam Buckley has taken over the reins at Richmond Park and culled much of last season’s squad. In their place he has brought in some of the finest rising stars in the league who will be looking to step up to the plate. Among the stars set to pull on the famous red shirt this year include the returning Brendan Clarke (Sligo Rovers), Ger O`Brien (Bohemians), Christy Fagan (Bohemians) and Jake Kelly (Bray Wanderers). Much focus will also shine on James Chambers who returns to the league after a spell in Scotland with Hamilton Academical. The Saints haven’t endured the best pre season to date having been dumped out of the Setanta Cup at the first hurdle by Cliftonville. Should the squad gel together quickly then a title tilt is likely however it will probably be next season when this team begin to flourish, if Buckley can maintain the solid core of the team.

Few would bet against Derry City vying against a title challenge and they will definitely be in contention for a European spot despite losing stars such as James McClean (Sunderland), Eamon Zayed (Persepolis) and Daniel Lafferty (Burnley). Declan Devine has taken over the managerial reins following Kenny`s departure and his stability will no doubt benefit the Foylesiders. Kenny`s former right hand man has acted swiftly in the transfer market securing the services of highly rated hitman Rory Patterson, who already has a Setanta Cup hat trick to his name. The golden boot may well be heading to the Brandywell for a second season in a row if Patterson can continue his blistering start.

The Candystripes may face a tough battle for Europe from newly promoted Cork City, who look set to be this years surprise package. Tommy Dunne has steadied the ship on Leeside and despite the loss of key striker Graham Cummins to Preston, Cork look like they will pose a threat to any team. Dunne has managed to convince Northampton Town striker Tadhg Purcell to return home and this signing could prove to be a shrew acquisition. The club will also be boosted by the return of former captain Dan Murray who arrives back at Turners Cross following a spell with Shamrock Rovers. Former Ireland international Colin Healy (Ipswich Town) has also returned to Turners Cross providing further evidence that this Cork side can push for a European spot.

The rest of the league is somewhat of a mixed bag. Bohemians and Shelbourne should have enough to avoid the drop. Mid table obscurity looks like the order of the day for the fallen Dublin giants. Bohs have blended some experience with a vastly young side while Shels have added considerably to their ranks following promotion. The First Division runners up will be glad to be back in the big time but a good cup run is probably the best both sides can hope for. Bohs however have been handed a huge boost with the news that they are to take Derry City`s place in the Europa League as the latter doesn’t meet the appropriate requirements. Sean McCaffrey and his new Dundalk side will be looking to challenge the Dublin duo. McCaffrey`s first foray into the League of Ireland has seen him assemble a young squad although in Shane O`Neill and Chris Shields he has secured two stars with real potential.

The battle to avoid the drop looks like a clash between four sides- Bray Wanderers, Drogheda United, Monaghan United and UCD. Bray and Drogheda have both been handed a boost with the return of key stars such as Jason Byrne (Bray) and Declan O`Brien (Drogheda). Both strikers will play a key role in helping their teams stay afloat. Drogheda seem like the best side among this quartet to retain their premier division status. Mick Cooke has built upon the foundations he inherited last term and if Paul Crowley can return to fitness it will further boost the Boynesiders cause. Bray have been rocked by some big departures such as Shields, O`Neill (Both Dundalk), Kelly (Pats), Gary Dempsey (Waterford United) and Conor Murphy (Monaghan United). Pat Devlin will do well to keep the Seagulls in the top flight this term.

UCD will benefit from Paul Corry`s decision to remain at Belfield. The midfield star looked set to join Pats but the two clubs failed to agree compensation. The club noted for their silky passing will no doubt have some talented youngsters to unleash on the league this year yet their time at the top table may just have run out.

Monaghan United are something of an unknown entity. Consistent performances in the first division combined with some impressive FAI Cup results will give their fans hope yet it remains to be seen how Roddy Collins charges will adopt to life in the premier division. The loss of Declan O`Brien to Drogheda will hit them hard. Shaun Maher (Limerick) and Robert Bayly (Bohemians) are the calibre of player the Gortakeegan outfit will rely on to stay in the premier division while a huge emphasis will be placed on the goalscoring ability of new recruit Conor Murphy (Bray Wanderers).

Predictions

1.Shamrock Rovers

2.Sligo Rovers

3.St Patricks Athletic

4.Derry City

5.Cork City

6.Bohemians

7.Shelbourne

8.Dundalk

9.Drogheda United

10.Bray Wanderers

11.UCD.

12.Monaghan United

2012
02/27
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Bohs Financial Plight Could Spell The End For Famous Dublin Club

Bohemian’s season continues to go from bad to worse after last night’s 3-0 drubbing by title chasing Sligo Rovers at Dalymount Park. But behind the scenes there are far more severe worries than what occurs on the field with the very existence of the famous club been thrown into doubt.

The eleven time League of Ireland champions are staring into the abyss after years of success with the recession having such a dramatic effect on their finances. Attempts to save the club by members and fans have beared some fruition yet there is only so much they can do. The club is in dire need for new investment and if they don’t find some investment soon they may well be joining Dublin City, Sporting Fingal and others in the graveyard of Irish football.

The famous Phibsborough club, who were founded in 1890, have always been at the forefront of Irish football, achieving success more often than not and remaining as an ever present in the top tier of the League of Ireland. However, those days seem a long time ago for the Gypsies faithful who are staring at the possibility of playing in the first division next year unless they can resolve their financial situation.

On the pitch the outlook is also different to past glories. Gone are the celebrated heroes of yesteryear, the famous names of Turlough O`Connor, Glen Crowe and Jason Byrne. Fast forward to 2011 and the contrast between the established talent and the up and coming couldn’t be greater. For every Killian Brennan reads a Keith Buckley, a young star who etched his name into the annals this year with a goal against fierce rivals Shamrock Rovers, only to dart off to his job as a barman shortly after and have no time to bask in his success. Such is the state of football in Ireland that the FAI won’t support players and clubs.

You only have to look to 2010 to see how close the Gypsies came to been consigned to the history books. On the field the players ran Shamrock Rovers close as The Hoops eventually won the title , despite distractions off field such as the clubs inability to pay players wages. The issue became so heated that two of the clubs players, Brian Shelley and Steven Gray, sought to have the club wound up in the High Court. However an agreement was reached with the players and the case was resolved prior to going to court.

Four years earlier Bohs appeared to be at the pinnacle of Irish soccer, having reached an agreement with property developer Liam Carroll to sell Dalymount Park and move to a new 10,000 seater stadium at Harristown. The club looked set to pocket €45 million aswel as the new stadium until the deal was put on hold after Albion Ltd, who own some of the stadium, blocked the clubs efforts.

Speaking recently manager Pat Fenlon revealed his fears for the club stating that the next two months  would pose a great challenge. “I think the important thing now is that the club needs to be saved. That’s the bottom line here and everything else goes out the window.”

“From my point of view at this stage of the season you’re looking to next season, what kind of budget you have and can you get players. That’s not going to happen, I understand that.

” It’s a big two months coming up for the club so it’s important that we all pull in one direction,” Fenlon insisted.

“I think the problem that we’ve had over the years is that the club has been divided and we need to be going in the one direction. Hopefully we can sort things out but it’s going to be difficult.”

Fenlon, who has won the league twice in his four years at Dalymount, has stated his intentions to remain at the club if they still want him however whether he can operate under further financial restraints remains to be seen.

The priority for everybody within the League of Ireland is to keep Bohs afloat. Far too many clubs have ceased trading in recent years and the FAI has failed to provide sufficient financial support to struggling clubs. But now the FAI have a huge opportunity to make amends for past errors by ensuring the survival of one of Ireland`s greatest footballing fraternities.

2011
10/22
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League of Ireland Preview

The League of Ireland begins tonight with anxious fans awaiting what will hopefully be a great season both on and off the pitch.

 Recent matters such as the demise of Sporting Fingal and other licencing issues have soured some people`s expectations but now normal order is set to resume as the 10 teams get set to battle once again. 

Shamrock Rovers are clear favourites to regain their crown and there is no reason to see why they can`t. The Hoops have brought in some of the best players in the league with the likes of Karl Sheppard, Ronan Finn, Ken Oman, Ciaran Kilduff, Gary McCabe and Gary O`Neill all moving to Tallaght. Michael O`Neill has also bolstered his ranks with the addition of exciting prospect Conor McCormack, formerly of Triestina in Italy.   

 The Hoops will still be smarting after last season`s FAI Cup final defeat to Sligo Rovers. It is the Bit O`Red who like the main challengers to the Hoops title ambitions. Paul Cook has worked his magic in the North West for many seasons now and the Merseysider is well aware that the club must transform their domestic cup success into the League. 

Sligo started off slowly last season but a tremendous push towards the end saw them prosper and the threat they pose cannot be underestimated. Sligo have added tremendous strength to their squad for the forthcoming season with Brendan Clarke, Aaron Greene and Jason McGuinness  all signing on at the Showgrounds. However it is the capture of former favourite Raffaele Cretaro that has many Sligo fans bursting with excitement.

 Pats and Dundalk seem the most likely to challenge The Hoops and Sligo, all though whether they can last the distance or not is the key question. Pats burst into life last season as they went unbeaten in their first six games. The Inchicore faithful believed that it could be their year under the guidance of Pete Mahon however they fell off in the final third of the season, eventually finishing 5th.

 Ian Foster`s side finished 6th last season however recent  acquisistions have the Oriel Park fans believing it is their time to shine. Striking duo Jason Byrne and Mark Quigley  have joined from Bohemians in what was a shrew piece of business. The duo will be well complimented on the wings by Daniel Kearns and Ross Gaynor, two of the finest talents in the league last term that Foster has done well to keep a hold off. 

Derry City and Bohemians will consider themselves to be in with a shout of securing European football. Derry City have been promoted as Champions of the First Division under the astute guidance of Stephen Kenny. Kenny has installed great spirit in his young side with the McEleney brothers, James McClean and David McDaid all sett to rip up the Premier Division.  The return of key duo Ruaidhri Higgins and Gareth McGlynn will add experience to the Candystripes while the signing of Eamon Zayed will fill the void left by Mark Farren.

As for Bohs it will be a case of restoring some pride. The 2009 champions finished second on goal difference last season however financial turmoil over the close season left the club`s future in serious doubt. Thankfully financial matters have eased and all players that were owed money have been paid. However some Bohs fans remain cautious at the club`s spending. Pat Fenlon lured Killian Brennan back to Dalymount Park after Sligo baulked at his wages. While many fans appreciate Brennan they are aware that the survival of the club is of foremost importance. The additions of Ger O`Brien, Aidan Price, Anto Flood and Robert Bayly will give Bohs a strong first time but should any injuries or suspensions occur the squad will struggle.   

The remainder of the teams will contest a four team relegation shootout. UCD played some great football last season but must start from scratch having lost their finest talents to other clubs. Martin Russell will be hoping his next batch of youngsters can produce some form of cup run.

 Bray Wanderers narrowly survived last season, beating Monaghan United on penalties in the crucial relegation play off. The Seagulls have kept hold of their prize assets such as Jay Kelly and Shane O`Neill but a relegation fight is definitely on the cards for Pat Devlin`s men .

Galway United and Drogheda United make up the final two teams, despite much controversy over the licencing system. Galway were demoted to the A Championship only to be reinstated to the league following a successful appeal. Sean Connor will again be looking to work wonders on a shoestring budget .

 Mick Cooke has taken over the reigns at Drogheda United and will do well to keep the Boynesiders up. Drogheda finished bottom last term and only return to the Premier Division following the untimely demise of Sporting Fingal.The former Monaghan United supremo has added to his ranks with some talent from the First Division, although he will be kicking himself that he brought Ryan Brennan to Monaghan before departing the club. 

Verdict

  1. Shamrock Rovers
  2. Sligo Rovers
  3. St Patricks Athletic
  4. Dundalk
  5.  Derry City
  6. Bohemians
  7. UCD
  8. Bray Wanderers
  9. Galway United
  10. Drogheda United

 

FAI Cup: St Patricks Athletic

 League Cup: Sligo Rovers

 Setanta Cup: Shamrock Rovers

2011
03/04
POSTED BY
CATEGORY
Irish News
League of Ireland
Sport
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