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The FAI and the Republic of Ireland: A Story of Chaos and Decline

The FAI and the Republic of Ireland: A Story of Chaos and Decline

The last two years have been nothing short of a shambles for Irish football. From boardroom resignations to disastrous performances on the pitch, the Football Association of Ireland (FAI) has presided over one crisis after another. The result? A game in freefall, a fanbase alienated, and players struggling to find form under the national jersey.

Managerial Instability

  • Stephen Kenny was sacked in November 2023.
  • John O’Shea filled in with four friendlies as caretaker, essentially auditioning for the role.
  • It took seven months for the FAI to appoint Heimir Hallgrímsson as their “first-choice” manager, on a reported €650,000 salary.

Boardroom Chaos

  • CEO Jonathan Hill resigned in April 2024.
  • Marc Canham, the FAI’s Director of Football, stepped down in April 2025.
  • The FAI launched a voluntary redundancy programme in August 2025, with compulsory job losses looming as part of restructuring.
  • Debt stands at a staggering €43 million.

Controversies and Legal Battles

  • RTÉ aired a documentary in July 2024 exposing the mistreatment of female players by coaches.
  • Colin Healy claimed he was dismissed despite reassurances he’d stay with the WNT staff (December 2024).
  • Eileen Gleeson has launched legal action against the FAI for gender discrimination (August 2025).

On the Pitch: A Shattered Identity

  • The team survived in Nations League B only by beating Bulgaria home and away.
  • They were humiliated by Armenia and went 2–0 down inside 15 minutes at home to Hungary with Matt Doherty bizarrely played at left-back.
  • No clear structure, no defensive solidity, and a reliance on ineffective long throw-ins.
  • Irish players consistently perform better for their clubs than for the national side.
  • Heimir’s team has conceded first in nine of his ten competitive games.

Domestic Neglect

  • League of Ireland champions still only receive €125,000.
  • FAI Cup winners earn €32,000 plus gate receipts.
  • Shamrock Rovers and Shelbourne’s success in Europe this season has come in spite of their governing body, not because of it.
  • Will Clarke’s August 2025 Academy Report revealed glaring issues with facilities and infrastructure nationwide.
  • The proposed “summer soccer” plan was defeated in August 2025, leaving no clear strategy for development.
  • Damien Duff, the headline act of the domestic league and one of the most respected young managers, has departed Shelbourne—an enormous blow for the LOI’s profile.

Fans Left in the Cold

  • Supporters can only buy tickets in restrictive three-match bundles until shortly before games.
  • Meanwhile, performances on the pitch offer little incentive to attend.

Conclusion

The FAI has failed Irish football. Between staggering debts, broken governance, failed structures, and embarrassing performances on the pitch, it is clear that the Republic of Ireland’s game is suffering at every level. With Damien Duff’s departure from Shelbourne further weakening the League of Ireland’s appeal, Irish football risks losing not only its next generation of talent but also its connection with the fans who care most. Until the association faces real reform—root and branch—the chaos will continue.

NFL Week 1 NFC Players of the Week: J.J. McCarthy, Nate Landman & Kameron Johnson

 

🏈 NFC Players of the Week – Kickoff Weekend 2025

NEW YORK — Sept. 10, 2025 — Minnesota Vikings quarterback J.J. McCarthy, Los Angeles Rams linebacker Nate Landman, and Tampa Bay Buccaneers wide receiver Kameron Johnson have been named the NFC Offensive, Defensive and Special Teams Players of the Week for games played on Kickoff Weekend (September 4–5, 7–8).

🔹 Offense: QB J.J. McCarthy, Minnesota Vikings

  • McCarthy accounted for three touchdowns (two passing, one rushing) as Minnesota rallied from an 11-point fourth-quarter deficit to defeat Chicago, 27–24.
  • Became the first QB to erase a 10+ point deficit in the 4th quarter of an NFL debut and win in regulation since Hall of Famer Steve Young (1985).
  • First player with at least two TD passes and a rushing score in an NFL debut since Cam Newton (2011).
  • Third Vikings quarterback to earn Week 1 Player of the Week honours (Daunte Culpepper, 2004; Sam Bradford, 2017).
  • Joined Tom Brady as the only former Michigan quarterbacks to win the award over the last 15 seasons (2011–25).

🔹 Defense: LB Nate Landman, Los Angeles Rams

  • Registered 10 tackles and a game-sealing forced fumble in the Rams’ 14–9 victory over Houston.
  • The decisive forced fumble came with 1:51 left as the Texans entered the red zone.
  • Earned his first Defensive Player of the Week Award.
  • Fourth Ram to claim Week 1 honours (Robert Quinn, 2013; Aaron Donald, 2015; Trumaine Johnson, 2017).
  • First Colorado alum to win since Chad Brown in 2003.

🔹 Special Teams: WR Kameron Johnson, Tampa Bay Buccaneers

  • Delivered a 54-yard punt return in the third quarter of Tampa Bay’s 23–20 win at Atlanta — the longest return in the NFL during Week 1.
  • Contributed on 12 special teams snaps as both a returner and a gunner.
  • Earned his first career Player of the Week award.
  • Second Buccaneer to win Special Teams Player of the Week in Week 1 (Bradley Pinion, 2021).
  • First Barton College player ever to secure a Player of the Week honour.

📊 Source: NFL Compute – Week 1 Awards (2025 Season)

 

League of Ireland FAI Cup: Who Will Be King in the Knockouts?

September in Ireland always carries a buzz, and this year it’s not just the drizzle and crisp evenings-it’s the League of Ireland FAI Cup lighting up the football scene, something I’ve been following as closely as I keep up with a fresh discowin review. Having grown up with the tournament’s tales, from my dad’s stories of Shamrock Rovers’ glory days to last year’s nail-biting final, I’ve got a soft spot for its magic. This year, with 44 teams from Dublin’s bustling streets to Derry’s windy pitches slugging it out, the question’s on everyone’s lips: who’ll wear the crown come November 9 at the Aviva Stadium? After a summer of shocks and goals-135 of them across 36 matches-I’ve been chewing over the contenders, the big clashes, and the heart that’ll decide it all, so let’s wander through this football saga together.

A Summer of Surprises and Goal Frenzy

The FAI Cup 2025 has been a wild ride so far, with the knockouts now kicking into gear after a summer that’s kept fans on their toes. This 105th edition kicked off in May with 44 clubs-20 from the League of Ireland and 24 regional dreamers-delivering 135 goals in 36 matches, a tally that’s got me scribbling notes over my morning tea. I was at the pub for that August 17 thriller where Shamrock Rovers nicked a 2-1 win over Longford Town, the crowd roaring as Rory Gaffney’s late strike sealed it-pure drama! Then there were the upsets: Salthill Devon’s cheeky 1-0 poke at St Michael’s and Cork City’s 3-0 thumping of Leicester Celtic, reminding us the cup’s got a knack for turning tables. With the quarter-finals lined up for September 12-14, it’s anyone’s game, and I’m itching to see how the underdogs stack up against the big guns.

The Teams Vying for the Throne

A handful of sides have caught my eye as potential kings, each with a story that could lead them to Aviva glory.

Shamrock Rovers: The Hoops with a Habit

Shamrock Rovers, with their two titles in the last three years, are the lads to beat, and Stephen Bradley’s got them ticking like a well-oiled machine. That 2-1 scrape past Longford Town in August, with Gaffney’s last-gasp goal, showed their grit, backed by 12 wins in 18 league games this year. I watched their 4-0 demolition of Derry City earlier, munching on a sandwich, and their defense-leaking just 12 goals-looks rock-solid. They’ve got the experience to go the distance, and I’d bet my last euro on their hunger.

Derry City: The Candystripes with Fire

Derry City, still smarting from last year’s 1-2 penalty shootout loss to Drogheda United, are roaring back with Pat Hoban leading the charge. His 10 goals this season and a 3-1 FAI Cup win over Treaty United have me nodding in approval, especially after their July 20 triumph. The Brandywell’s raucous crowd could be their secret weapon, a vibe I felt during a mate’s visit up north. They’ve got the heart to challenge anyone.

St Patrick’s Athletic: The Saints with Swagger

St Patrick’s Athletic are turning heads with an 8-0 thrashing of UCC, and Jake Mulraney’s 8 assists are the talk of Dublin. With 11 wins in 19 league games, their 2-0 August 17 victory over Shelbourne showed their mettle. I remember their semi-final scrap last year, a battle of wills that nearly toppled Rovers, and that tenacity could carry them far in the knockouts.

Sligo Rovers: The Bit O’Red Underdogs

Sligo Rovers have stolen the spotlight with a 1-0 upset over Bohemians, a classic cup fairy tale. Stefan Radosavljevic’s 7 goals and 9 wins in 18 games this year have me grinning, especially after their July 20 Salthill Devon win that had the local crowd buzzing. Their scrappy style could be the surprise package, and I’m rooting for their underdog charm.

Wildcards in the Pack

  • Galway United: Undefeated in August, their 4-0 rout of Salthill Devon, with Patrick Hickey’s 6 goals, marks them as dark horses.
  • Cork City: A 3-0 FAI Cup win over Waterford, driven by Cian Murphy’s 9 goals, keeps them in the hunt.
  • Drogheda United: Cup specialists, their 3-1 penalty win over Derry City adds a twist.

These teams bring a mix of flair and fight to the fray.

Contender Line-Up

Team Key Player 2025 Form (Wins) Recent FAI Cup Result Odds to Win
Shamrock Rovers Rory Gaffney 12/18 2-1 vs. Longford 3/1
Derry City Pat Hoban 10/17 1-2 pen vs. Drogheda 4/1
St Patrick’s Athletic Jake Mulraney 11/19 2-0 vs. Shelbourne 5/1
Sligo Rovers Stefan Radosavljevic 9/18 1-0 vs. Bohemians 8/1
Galway United Patrick Hickey 8/16 4-0 vs. Salthill 10/1

Fixtures That Could Steal the Show

The knockout path is dotted with must-see moments. The quarter-finals on September 12-14 might see Shamrock Rovers tangle with Galway United, a clash of styles, while Derry City vs. Sligo Rovers could be a northern brawl. The semi-finals on October 3-5 could pair Rovers with St Patrick’s, with a Derry-Sligo upset adding spice. The final on November 9 at the Aviva Stadium, its 51,700 seats buzzing, will crown the king. I’m circling the Rovers-Galway tie, remembering their 2024 semi-final penalty shootout that had me holding my breath.

Tactical Edge and My Gut Feeling

Shamrock Rovers’ 4-3-3, with Gaffney’s knack for goals, could outmaneuver Galway’s 4-2-3-1 if they neutralize Hickey’s speed-a move I’ve seen Bradley pull off before. Derry’s 4-4-2, leaning on Hoban’s scoring touch, might overpower Sligo’s 4-1-4-1, especially if Radosavljevic shines, a pattern I’ve clocked in their recent form. St Patrick’s 4-3-3 hinges on Mulraney’s flair, a trick I’ve watched unravel defenses in tight spots. The knockouts often favor the seasoned, but Salthill’s earlier shock keeps hope alive for underdogs. My hunch is a Shamrock Rovers vs. Derry City final, echoing their 2023 classic, with Rovers nicking it 2-1 on a late header.

The Road to Aviva: A Tale of Heart and Hustle

The FAI Cup’s 105-year history is a treasure trove of underdog tales and dramatic finishes, setting the stage for a memorable November 9. Rovers’ recent haul-two titles in three years-gives them a mental edge, while Derry’s northern grit and Sligo’s fairy-tale run add layers of intrigue. I’ve been hooked on cup runs since 2010, and the Aviva final never disappoints-last year’s 2-1 squeaker still plays in my head. With 135 goals already, the knockouts promise more magic, a test of spirit that could see a new king rise or an old one reign again.

Conclusion

The League of Ireland FAI Cup 2025 knockout stages, igniting on September 12, spotlight Shamrock Rovers’ Gaffney-led dominance, Derry City’s Hoban-fueled revival, St Patrick’s Athletic’s Mulraney-driven flair, and Sligo Rovers’ Radosavljevic-backed underdog spirit, alongside Galway United’s Hickey-inspired surge, all chasing the Aviva Stadium crown on November 9. With 135 goals in 36 matches and a legacy of shocks, the quarter-finals and semi-finals will hinge on tactical nous and heart, likely crowning Rovers or Derry as king, a forecast shaped by their 2025 form and cup heritage.

Squad Update: Munster Prepare for Bath at Virgin Media Park

Squad Update: Munster Prepare for Bath at Virgin Media Park

The Munster Rugby squad are preparing at the High Performance Centre ahead of Friday’s pre-season clash with Premiership champions Bath at Virgin Media Park (7pm). Tickets are available here.

A total of 39 Munster players were in action last weekend, with 31 featuring against Gloucester and eight others lining out in the Bank of Ireland Munster Senior Challenge Cup for their clubs.

Positive Injury Update

There was good news for head coach Clayton McMillan as all 31 players came through the Gloucester clash with no new injury concerns. In addition, Shane Daly, Jeremy Loughman, Ethan Coughlan, Oli Jager and Lee Barron all made successful returns from injury.

With just under three weeks to go until the United Rugby Championship opener away to Scarlets, several players are stepping up their recovery and beginning to reintegrate into training:

  • Jean Kleyn (knee)
  • Diarmuid Barron (shoulder)
  • Edwin Edogbo (back)
  • Roman Salanoa (knee)

Munster Senior Challenge Cup Action

Eight Munster players also saw club action at the weekend in the Bank of Ireland Munster Senior Challenge Cup:

  • Young Munster: Conor Bartley, Fionn Gibbons, and Academy scrum-half Jake O’Riordan featured in their win over Clonmel RFC.
  • Cork Constitution: Academy out-half Dylan Hicks made his club debut alongside hooker Danny Sheahan in a victory over Dolphin RFC.
  • Garryowen: Academy centre Gordon Wood and prop Ronan Foxe helped secure victory against Old Crescent.
  • Nenagh Ormond: Darragh McSweeney made his debut as holders defeated UL Bohemian.

Upcoming Fixtures & Tickets

  • Friday, September 12 – Pre-Season: Munster Rugby v Bath Rugby, Virgin Media Park, 7pm | Buy tickets here
  • Saturday, October 4 – URC Round 2: Munster Rugby v Cardiff Rugby, Thomond Park, 7.45pm | Buy tickets here
  • Friday, October 10 – URC Round 3: Munster Rugby v Edinburgh, Virgin Media Park, 7.45pm | Buy tickets
  • Saturday, October 25 – URC Round 5: Munster Rugby v Connacht, Thomond Park, 7.45pm | Buy tickets here
  • Saturday, November 1 – Munster Rugby v Argentina XV, Thomond Park, 5pm | Buy tickets here
  • Saturday, November 29 – URC Round 6: Munster Rugby v DHL Stormers, Thomond Park, 5.30pm | Buy tickets here
  • Saturday, December 13 – Champions Cup Round 2: Munster Rugby v Gloucester Rugby, SuperValu Páirc Uí Chaoimh, 5.30pm | Buy tickets here

Clayton McMillan Outlines His Vision as New Munster Head Coach

Clayton McMillan Outlines His Vision as New Munster Head Coach

Clayton McMillan made his first appearance in front of the media as Munster head coach this week, bringing with him a commanding presence that left an immediate impression.The former Chiefs and Māori All Blacks boss addressed reporters at Munster’s high-performance centre in Limerick, setting out his philosophy and the cultural approach he plans to bring to the province.

The 51-year-old New Zealander, a former police officer, spoke with authority and honesty, leaving no doubt that while he respects Munster’s current set-up, he has also been brought in to challenge and evolve the environment.

‘A Different Set of Eyes’

“There is a lot of good stuff being done here. Everything that we are doing well, I don’t find any reason to disrupt. But it’s also my job to be a little bit of a disruptor – to bring a different set of eyes, look at things differently, and challenge the way things are being done.”

McMillan stressed that healthy debate among the coaching staff will be central to Munster’s growth. “We don’t always agree, but at some stage you’ve got to commit and move forward. That, to me, is a highly functioning coaching group. Not one that just agrees with everything I say.”

Settling in Limerick

McMillan has relocated to Limerick with his wife and two children, Ari (16) and Peata (14). He arrives with a reputation as one of New Zealand rugby’s most respected coaches, having been tipped as a future All Blacks boss after successful stints with the Chiefs, Māori All Blacks, and All Blacks XV. It was with the latter that he oversaw a win against Munster in Thomond Park last November.

Before accepting the Munster role, McMillan sought advice from influential rugby figures including Joe Schmidt, Rob Penney, and former Munster players Jason Holland and Rua Tipoki.

“There’s been a number of people that I’ve spoken to, just to get guidance around Irish culture. What am I walking into? What am I likely to expect? It was about removing some of the unknowns.”

Embracing Irish Culture

McMillan admitted that adapting to Irish culture is one of the most important aspects of his role. Known for his expertise in building culture during his four years with the Chiefs, he is taking a patient approach in Limerick, observing and asking questions as he learns.

“I asked the players for feedback at the end of training. The session may have gone really well, but the Irish way seems to be focusing on the three or four things that didn’t go well. Everyone tells me, ‘That’s just the Irish, we’re glass-half-empty people.’ That’s not my view, but it’s important we also recognise the good things.”

Smiling, McMillan added: “So, in other words, I’m here to make Munster’s glass half full – hopefully, all the way full.”

Raising Standards and Player Empowerment

McMillan made it clear that while assistants Mike Prendergast (attack) and Denis Leamy (defence) will have autonomy in their roles, ultimate responsibility lies with him. His philosophy is focused on consistency, culture, and player development.

“It’s not about judging ourselves when we’re at our best, it’s about judging ourselves when we’re at our worst. We need to raise the floor instead of raising the bar. My job is to empower players and get as many Munster players into green jerseys as possible.”

He also underlined his belief that culture drives success: “Leaders create culture. Culture is driven by behaviours, and behaviours determine outcomes.”

As McMillan settles into life in Limerick, he is already winning respect for his clarity of thought and cultural awareness. The real test, however, will begin when Munster’s season kicks off and his philosophy is put into practice on the pitch.

In more good news for Munster fans

Shane Daly, Jeremy Loughman, Ethan Coughlan, Oli Jager and Lee Barron all made successful returns from injury.

With almost three weeks until the URC campaign kicks off away to Scarlets, the following players are increasing their training load and beginning to reintegrate to team training: Jean Kleyn (knee), Diarmuid Barron (shoulder), Edwin Edogbo (back) and Roman Salanoa (knee).

 

Heimir Hallgrimsson: Ireland Need a Miracle After Armenia Defeat

Heimir Hallgrimsson Admits Ireland Need a Miracle After Armenia Defeat

Heimir Hallgrimsson has admitted that his role as Ireland manager will now come under serious scrutiny after a crushing defeat in Yerevan.
Ireland’s hopes of staying alive in the World Cup qualifying campaign hang by a thread following a 2-1 loss to Armenia, a team ranked 105th in the world.The Icelandic coach, visibly frustrated, described himself as “lost for words” and acknowledged that his future will be questioned in the aftermath of the result. His contract runs until the end of Ireland’s World Cup journey, but with only one point collected from this crucial window, Hallgrimsson accepted that qualification now requires nothing short of a miracle.

Manager Under Pressure

At the start of the campaign, Hallgrimsson had stressed that full points against Armenia were essential. Instead, Ireland fell short, leaving their manager to confront uncomfortable questions about his own position.

“I’m not concerned about me. When you have a performance like this, the coach’s job is under question, that’s just the name of the game. The campaign? We probably need a miracle to qualify from now.”

Hallgrimsson insisted that he constantly reviews his position, win or lose, but admitted this performance was particularly difficult to justify. “You always want to do better and restart. That’s the only thing we can do as coaches,” he said.

‘Lost for Words’ After Tactical Collapse

Reflecting on the loss, Hallgrimsson described it as Ireland’s worst performance since his appointment. He highlighted failings in both defence and attack, criticising his side’s openness, indecision, and inability to win individual battles.

“It was so unlike us in so many ways. Too many players had an off day and against a motivated side like Armenia, they deservedly won. We were absolutely second best.”

He also dismissed the idea of offering excuses. While travel and recovery might have played a part, Hallgrimsson made it clear that Ireland must look inward and take responsibility. “There are probably a lot of reasons, but not excuses,” he insisted.

Credit to Armenia

The manager praised Armenia’s approach, noting their spirit and sharpness following a 5-0 defeat to Portugal just days earlier. He contrasted that with Ireland’s lack of fight, despite having drawn 2-2 with Hungary in Dublin before travelling.

“We thought our preparation was good and we wanted to play the same way as before. But give credit to Armenia. They fought hard, they were sharp, and individually they outperformed us.”

 

Steelers: Three Defensive Players Injured in Opener vs Jets

NFL — Pittsburgh Steelers

Steelers: Three Defensive Players Injured in Opener vs Jets

Update

Coach Mike Tomlin on injuries:
Derrick Harmon – knee – out
DeShon Elliott – knee – out
Malik Harrison – knee – out

Joey Porter Jr. – optimistic about availability
Nick Herbig – optimistic about availability

Pittsburgh edged New York 34–32 on a Chris Boswell 60-yard FG with 1:03 left, but Joey Porter Jr. (hamstring), DeShon Elliott (knee) and Malik Harrison (knee) exited injured. Evaluations ongoing, per Mike Tomlin.

Week 1
Final: Steelers 34–32 Jets

Game Recap

The Steelers opened the season with a dramatic victory over the New York Jets, sealed by a clutch 60-yard field goal from Chris Boswell. Head Coach Mike Tomlin praised the resilience but admitted there’s “room for improvement,” citing the defense’s struggles to contain Justin Fields in his Jets debut.

Player Line
Justin Fields (Jets) 16/22, 218 yds, 1 TD; 48 rush yds, 2 TD
Aaron Rodgers (Steelers) 22/30, 244 yds, 4 TD
Chris Boswell (Steelers) GW FG from 60 yards (1:03 left)

What Tomlin Said

“Our slip was showing in some areas… We didn’t put enough pressure on Justin. There were instances we weren’t good enough.”

Rodgers’ Statement Debut

Aaron Rodgers made a point against the organisation that moved on from him last season, tossing four touchdown passes. “There were probably people in the organisation that didn’t think I could play anymore… nice to remind them I still can,” he said.

Key Takeaways

  • Clutch factor: Boswell remains elite from distance; special teams deliver the winner.
  • QB bounce: Rodgers’ command and red-zone precision lift a new-look Steelers offense.
  • Defensive concern: Edge/contain issues vs QB run; explosive plays allowed.
  • Health watch: Secondary depth tested if Porter Jr./Elliott miss time.
Pittsburgh Steelers celebrate late game-winning field goal vs New York Jets
Pittsburgh celebrates after Chris Boswell’s 60-yard game-winner.

Wicklow SFC: Heavy Bans After Rathnew vs Carnew Emmets Brawl

Disciplinary News

Wicklow SFC: Heavy Bans After Rathnew vs Carnew Emmets Brawl

Five Rathnew players sanctioned with bans of up to five years after off-field brawl in Aughrim. Both clubs fined; appeals remain possible.

Major Sanctions Following Quarter-Final Brawl

Wicklow GAA has issued heavy punishments after shocking scenes at the Senior Football Championship quarter-final between Rathnew and Carnew Emmets in Echelon Park, Aughrim, on 30 August. The match ended in controversy after a serious fight broke out on the terrace in the closing minutes.

Footage of the incident, which has circulated widely on social media, shows a mass brawl involving spectators and individuals entering from the pitch. The violent outbreak lasted for roughly one minute and overshadowed the on-field action.

Bans and Fines

  • Five Rathnew players reprimanded for offences arising from the quarter-final.
  • Bans range from three years to five years, with at least one player sidelined for the maximum term.
  • Both Rathnew and Carnew Emmets handed significant financial penalties.

All parties have the right to appeal the punishments. The sanctions were confirmed by the Wicklow GAA CCC, though details of exact offences remain undisclosed.

Wicklow Senior Championship brawl between Rathnew and Carnew Emmets at Aughrim
Controversial scenes marred the Wicklow SFC quarter-final in Aughrim.

Official Responses

Neither Rathnew Chairperson Harry Murphy nor Carnew Emmets Chairperson Brian Doran commented when approached. Michael O’Neill of the Wicklow GAA CCC also declined to comment, while the Wicklow GAA executive has remained tight-lipped.

“The deliberations will be sent to clubs by the CCC disciplinary,” Wicklow GAA Chairperson Damien Byrne said. “It is only right to let the clubs digest and deal with these matters internally, and no one in the GAA condones this behaviour.”

What’s Next?

The controversy comes just as the Wicklow Senior Football Championship semi-finals approach this weekend, alongside the semi-finals in the Intermediate and Junior grades. Despite the fallout, attention will quickly turn back to on-field matters as the county prepares for a big weekend of knockout football.

Supporters are urged to respect players, officials and fellow fans to ensure a safe and enjoyable championship.


Leinster Rugby Academy: Josh Neill to join in early 2026

Academy News

Josh Neill to join Leinster Rugby Academy in early 2026

Irish-qualified back-row added to the Year One intake; arrival scheduled after he completes his school year in South Africa.

Academy 2025/26
Back-row Forward
Irish-qualified

Announcement

Leinster Rugby Academy Manager, Simon Broughton, has confirmed that Josh Neill has been added to the Year One Academy intake and will link up with Leinster Rugby in the early months of 2026. Neill, an Irish-qualified back-row, currently attends Rondebosch Boys’ High School in Cape Town and was recently named in the South Africa U-18 squad for their summer series against France, England and Ireland.

Neill plays his club rugby with Western Province. His older brother, Jordan, is already based in Ireland and currently plays cricket with the Northern Knights. Jordan has represented Ireland U-19s and made his senior Ireland debut in a One Day International against the West Indies earlier this summer.

Irish-qualified back-row Josh Neill, Leinster Rugby Academy
Back-row prospect Josh Neill will arrive in early 2026 to join Leinster’s Academy group.

Leinster Rugby Academy 2025/26

Year One

Player AIL Club
Tadhg Brophy Naas RFC
Jack Deegan Blackrock College RFC
Connor Fahy Clontarf FC
Páidí Farrell Old Wesley RFC
Lee Fitzpatrick Blackrock College RGC
Todd Lawlor Lansdowne FC
Ciarán Mangan Blackrock College RFC
Alex Mullan Blackrock College RFC
Josh Neill TBC
Mahon Ronan Old Wesley RFC

Year Two

Player AIL Club
Oliver Coffey Blackrock College RFC
Billy Corrigan Old Wesley RFC
Caspar Gabriel Terenure College RFC
Hugo McLaughlin Lansdowne FC
Ruben Moloney UCD RFC
Alan Spicer Clontarf FC
Andrew Sparrow St Mary’s College RFC
Stephen Smyth Old Wesley RFC

Year Three

Player AIL Club
Henry McErlean Terenure College RFC
Liam Molony Lansdowne FC
Conor O’Tighearnaigh UCD RFC

All clubs listed are Energia All-Ireland League (AIL) affiliates where applicable.


John McKee to Captain Leinster as Larmour, Henshaw & Byrne Return for Cardiff Clash

Team News

John McKee to Captain Leinster as Larmour, Henshaw & Byrne Return for Cardiff Clash

Leinster Rugby face Cardiff Rugby in a Bank of Ireland Pre-Season Friendly at Tallaght Stadium (KO 3pm). Tickets remain available.

Venue: Tallaght Stadium
Competition: Pre-Season Friendly
Kick-off: 3:00pm
Buy Tickets
Fixtures & Results

Match Preview & Key Storylines

  • Captaincy: Hooker John McKee leads the side at Tallaght.
  • Big Returns: Jordan Larmour and Robbie Henshaw are back after injury lay-offs.
  • Playmaker Watch: Harry Byrne pulls on the blue jersey after a loan spell with Bristol Bears.
  • Fan Engagement: Returning British & Irish Lions will attend and join a post-match signing session.
  • South Africa Tour Looms: This is the squad’s only pre-season hit-out before the BKT URC opener away to the DHL Stormers.

Confirmed Leinster Rugby XV

# Player Position
15 Hugo McLaughlin Full-back
14 Jordan Larmour Right Wing
13 Hugh Cooney Outside Centre
12 Charlie Tector Inside Centre
11 Andrew Osborne Left Wing
10 Harry Byrne Out-half
9 Fintan Gunne Scrum-half
1 Paddy McCarthy Loosehead Prop
2 John McKee (C) Hooker
3 Andrew Sparrow Tighthead Prop
4 Brian Deeny Lock
5 Diarmuid Mangan Lock
6 Alex Soroka Blindside Flanker
7 Will Connors Openside Flanker
8 James Culhane No. 8

Replacements (from)

Match-day bench to be confirmed from the following wider squad:

  • Alex Usanov, Jerry Cahir, Stephen Smyth, Niall Smyth, Rabah Slimani
  • Billy Corrigan, Mahon Ronan, Conor O’Tighearnaigh, Liam Molony
  • Scott Penny, Cormac Foley, Caspar Gabriel, Ciarán Mangan
  • Ciarán Frawley, Robbie Henshaw, Joshua Kenny, Ruben Moloney, Henry McErlean
Leinster Rugby warm-up at Tallaght Stadium in blue and white kit
Leinster warm up at Tallaght Stadium ahead of the Cardiff Rugby clash.

FAQs

Will there be a signing session? Yes — the returning British & Irish Lions will take part in a post-match signing session for supporters.

Is this the only pre-season game? Yes, this is Leinster’s sole pre-season fixture before departing for South Africa and the BKT United Rugby Championship opener.

Who is captain? John McKee will captain the team from hooker.


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