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The best League of Ireland Premier Division XI of the season

Our picks for the best players of the 2020 season

The League of Ireland Premier Division season came to a conclusion yesterday after each team played just 18 games. Despite it’s brevity, the 2020 season was not without it’s drama, incidents and of course, standout performers.

With that said, here are our picks for the best XI of the 2020 League of Ireland Premier Division season:

GOALKEEPER

Edward McGinty – Sligo Rovers

At just 20 years of age, Ed McGinty made quite an impression this season as his side finished 4th in the league table.

McGinty was voted Sligo’s Young Player of the Year in 2019 and has only improved since. He was one of the few players to play every league game of the season as he firmly established himself as the Bit O’ Red’s number one. He made several stunning saves during a stellar season. McGinty also played a key part in Sligo’s win over Dundalk yesterday as he managed to keep a clean sheet.

He recently earned a call up to Jim Crawford’s Ireland u21 squad ahead of the upcoming games against Iceland and Luxembourg. A credit to his domestic form.

RIGHT BACK

Andy Lyons – Bohemians

Normally this position is reserved for Sean Gannon of Dundalk but his lack of playing time in recent weeks and Dundalk’s less than impressive season means he misses out. Instead, Andy Lyons comes in at right back.

The 20-year-old made the right back position his own this season after featuring on a rotation/sporadic basis in season’s past. Impressive going forward but also accomplished defensively, Lyons helped his club to a 2nd place finish this season. Lyons will only improve in years to come, meaning overseas interest may not be far off for the young right back.

CENTRE BACKS

Joey O’Brien – Shamrock Rovers

The veteran full back turned central defender had a very impressive season as Shamrock Rovers went unbeaten on their way to winning the league title.

Despite having Premier League and international experience, O’Brien is arguably one of the most underrated players in the league. His ball retention as a defender and football IQ is second to none when compared to other defenders in the league.

His experience is vital to this Shamrock Rover’s team. His inclusion in this XI is warranted given his commanding performances this season.

Roberto Lopes – Shamrock Rovers

Joey O’Brien’s defensive partner for Rovers makes up the 2nd central defensive spot in this XI. The Cape Verdean international produced some immense displays this season on the way to the title. His performance against AC Milan in the Europa League qualifiers showed how capable he is of performing as a high level.

In truth, Shamrock Rover’s other starting central defender, Lee Grace, was unlucky to miss out on the XI. His performances were equally as impressive as the aforementioned centre backs.

LEFT BACK

Tyreke Wilson – Waterford

Wilson had an impressive first season in the League of Ireland. The young left back arrived from Manchester City in January and has made quite the impression since.

Like Andy Lyons, Wilson is a modern day full back in that he can attack and defend with equal efficiency. He scored an incredible free kick earlier in the season as Waterford defeated Bohemians. Waterford will do well to keep hold of him after a fine debut season.

CENTRE MIDFIELDERS

Aaron McEneff – Shamrock Rovers

The former Spurs trainee has impressed since joining Dundalk from Derry in 2019. He was pivotal in Shamrock Rover’s title challenge as he started the majority of their games.

McEneff is a technical midfielder with a ferocious shot. He displayed his finishing ability on occasion as he ended the campaign with 3 goals to his name.

Keith Buckley – Bohemians

Keith Buckley featured in all but one of Bohemian’s games all season as they achieved their highest top flight finish in a decade.

The Bohs’ captain produced several impressive performers this season with his combative displays in the centre of the park. Bohemians needed a leader with the retirement of Derek Pender and Buckley more than stepped up to the plate as he lead his young side to an excellent finish.

Gary O’Neill – Shamrock Rovers

It’s an all Rovers/Bohs midfield three as Gary O’Neill takes the final spot.

Like McEneff, O’Neill joined Rovers in 2019 and hasn’t looked back since. The former UCD man scored the winning penalty in last season’s FAI cup final and has only improved since. His performances in the Rovers midfield this season have firmly established him as an important member of the first team squad for years to come.

RIGHT WINGER

Jack Byrne – Shamrock Rovers

Byrne is the first name that springs to mind when you think of a League of Ireland footballer and it’s easy to see why. He joined Shamrock Rovers for the 2019 season and has earned several plaudits since.

The winger/midfielder won Player of the Year for the 2019 season and it looks likely he’ll reclaim his title for 2020. He put in some spectacular performances this season which seen him rack up 9 goals and 4 assists.

Although it would be nice to witness Byrne in the league for another season it doesn’t look likely. Reported interest from Bournemouth, Stoke City and Colorado Rapids could provide a challenge for Rovers to keep him at the club.

LEFT WINGER

Danny Grant – Bohemians

Grant is one of the most improved players in the league this season. He had a good 2019 season but stepped up a level this term.

The inverted winger was key to Bohemian’s finishing as high as they did. His 7 goals from the wing were vital in securing a top 2 finish.

Grant is undoubtedly one of the most exciting players in the League of Ireland currently. His breath-taking performances this season have earned him an inclusion in Jim Crawford’s u21 squad. Bohemians could mount a serious title challenge next season if they can hold onto Grant and secure some first team additions.

STRIKER

Pat Hoban – Dundalk

Despite Dundalk’s unimpressive league form, Pat Hoban can hold his head up high with his return this season.

The striker has scored goals with regularity since re-joining the Lilywhites. This season, he kept up his goalscoring form as he chipped in with 10 league goals, making him the league’s top goalscorer.

Clare vs Wexford: Hurling Preview & Starting Teams

Unlike the football Championship, there is a second chance for teams in the Hurling Championship through qualifiers. Having both lost their opening games, Clare and Wexford find themselves in round 2 of these qualifiers but a win here will see them in a quarter-final.

Firstly, Clare lost in Munster to a strong Limerick side. Then, they saw of a competitive Laois in their first qualifier.

On the other hand, Wexford had their first outing against Galway on Halloween night. That was a horror show for Davy Fitzgerald’s side who were well beaten by a rejuvenated Galway team. Now, last year’s Leinster Champions are in a fight to stay in the competition.

Tony Kelly was on fire for Clare last weekend. He hit 0-13 as the Banner county progressed past Laois. Clare were very much on top in the first half. Despite losing David McInerney to a red card before half-time, they had a 7 point lead at the interval.

Being a man short didn’t hinder Clare in the third quarter. By the 55th minute, they still had their 7 point lead. However, that’s when Laois got on top. The Leinster team outscored Clare 1-6 to 0-3 in the final minutes. But, Clare held on to advance. If they are to reach the quarter-final, Brian Lohan’s side need to perform for the full 70 minutes on Saturday.

On the other hand, Wexford were disappointing in their only Championship outing so far. Galway were the opposition for last year’s All-Ireland semi-finalists. But, Davy Fitzgerald’s side looked out of practice on a wide-open Croke Park. Their usual slick hand-passing game and direct running was strictly managed by the Connacht side.

As a result, Wexford fell to a 13 point loss. Fitzgerald will be glad for having last weekend off to work on his game plan. A rude awakening could prove to be exactly what his team needed. It is no secret that Wexford can match anyone on their day. But, there is no more room for error. So, if Wexford are to challenge for an All-Ireland they need to quickly find their rhythm.

Wexford are favourites for this despite their previous loss. Paddy Power price them at 8/13. Meanwhile, Clare are 13/8 and a draw is 8/1.

The game is live on GAAGo.

Team news

Prediction: Wexford. Davy Fitzgerald knows how to get the best out of his team and with their backs against the wall now is the time to do so. On the other hand, Clare just got over the line against Laois despite playing well.

Hurling Championship Round 2 Qualifier: Clare vs Wexford, Saturday, 14th November, 14:00 (Portlaoise).

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Connolly & Robinson ruled out of Ireland team to play England

Republic of Ireland striker Aaron Connolly has been ruled out of the possible starting team against England.

The Brighton and Hove Albion forward will miss the three matches through an injury sustained in training yesterday and Preston North End striker Sean Maguire has been called up as a replacement.

Striker Callum Robinson has now been confirmed as the COVID-19 positive case in the Ireland camp and will also miss the three matches.

Swansea City’s Ryan Manning has been called up and will link up with the squad ahead of the Wales match on Sunday.

Connacht Rugby announce renewal of Partnership with Red Bull

Connacht Rugby announced Red Bull will continue as the club’s Official Energy Drink Partner for the 2020/21 season.

This partnership will support Connacht Rugby in reaching their peak performance, providing players and coaching staff with Red Bull products and equipment during training and major tournaments, as well as access to world class tools and facilities including sharing of knowledge and expertise from Red Bull’s global network of experts and it’s state of the art Athlete Performance centre in Austria.

Commenting on the announcement Gavin Duffy Partnership Manager at Connacht Rugby said:

‘’We are delighted to be continuing our partnership with such a strong global brand like Red Bull. Members of our senior professional squad have become more familiar with their products and the benefits of incorporating them into their preparation for training and games. Red Bull also has extensive expertise and experience in creating and delivering great experiences for fans so even in these challenging times we can look forward to an exciting season ahead for all both on and off the pitch’’

Established in 1987 as a functional Energy Drink, Red Bull gives wings to people and ideas. Red Bull athletes in Ireland are 400M Olympic Hurdler Thomas Barr, Enduro Mountain Bike Rider Greg Callaghan, DMEC Drift Racer Conor Shanahan and Big Wave Surfer Conor Maguire.

A Breakdown Of The Most Successful NFL Football Teams

As an NFL fan, you spend every waking minute keeping up with your favorite teams. There is no doubt the NFL is the most popular sports organization in the United States.

However, not all of the league’s teams have reached success. In fact, a small portion of the league has never won a Super Bowl championship. If you are like most fans, a Super Bowl win is not part of the determining factor as to which team is favored the most. Learn more about the most successful NFL teams by reading the article below.

Dallas Cowboys

While the Baltimore Ravens are currently at the top, it is difficult to forget about the Dallas Cowboys. The team has won a total of 520 games since its debut in the 60s. With 388 losses, many of which have taken place in the past decade. With that said, the Cowboys are one of the most successful NFL teams. And, the cheerleaders are not that bad either. When you are not tuned in to a game, you can play slot online and win big.

Green Bay Packers

Since 1921, the Green Bay Packers have racked up 756 wins and 574 losses. With a GP of 1368, the Packers are notorious for putting their competitors to the test. If you are a fan of the Packers, you know the players by heart. Over 101 years of playtime, the Packers continue to impress their fans but have not won a Super Bowl since 2010. 

New England Patriots

The New England Patriots have 512 wins and 395 losses. The team debuted in the 60s, along with the Dallas Cowboys. While the Cowboys are stilled as the all-time successful NFL team, the Patriots have a lot to brag about. If you are a Patriots fan, you know the team lost one of its best quarterbacks of all time. After 20 seasons with the Patriots, Tom Brady signed up to play for the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. 

The Patriots have six Super Bowl, 11 AFC championship, and 22 division championship wins. With the departure of the all-time best NFL quarterback, fans are questioning where the Patriots will go next.

Chicago Bears

Speaking of an all-time successful NFL team, the Chicago Bears come to mind. The team debuted in the 20s in Illinois. Since then, it has earned a reputation of having the highest number of retired jerseys and recorded victories. With this said, the Bears have a single Super Bowl championship win in 1985.

Miami Dolphins

You do not hear much about the Miami Dolphins these days. But, the team has earned a reputation for putting on some great games. Whether you are a Dolphins fan or not, you know the team by its charismatic mascot T.D. Rumors have it that Dolphins’ former coach, Jimmy Johnson signed T.D. in April 1977 following the “Name the Mascot” game. Fans across the country participated in the game, racking up more than 13,000 contestant entries. 

The Dolphins have 457 wins and 371 losses with two Super Bowl championship wins. 

 

Leinster Hurling Final Preview: Kilkenny vs Galway

In 2020, Kilkenny lost the Leinster Final to Wexford after topping the group. Now, after just one game they are back to compete in the final again. On the other hand, Galway suffered a disappointing season last year when they failed to progress from Leinster. The 2017 All-Ireland Champions lost out on points difference in a very competitive Leinster group. Recently, Galway showed they are out to right that wrong by defeating Wexford in Croke Park to advance to the final. Shane O’Neill’s team demonstrated their ambition with a strong performance after a long absence.

CLICK HERE FOR LIVE SCORE COMMENTARY

In their opening Championship game Kilkenny came up against Dublin. The Dubs had come past Laois strongly and were at the advantage of having a competitive game under their belts. However, Kilkenny didn’t need any time to ease themselves into action.

Brian Cody’s team showed no signs of rust. In fact, by half-time they had established a remarkable 15 point lead and looked destined to waltz into the final. However, Dublin were not ready to go down without a fight. They came roaring back in the second half and Kilkenny just couldn’t find a way to extend their lead. By the 71st minute, Dublin had completed a remarkable comeback.

Surprisingly, it was the corner-back Huw Lawlor who emerged as the matchwinner for the Cats. His long-range free in the 74th minute ensured there wasn’t another Championship upset on the cards. It finished 3-20 to 2-22. Billy Ryan, TJ Reid and captain Colin Fennelly were the goalscorers for Cody’s team. Reid ended up with a personal tally of 1-10 and was influential in the first half. All three Kilkenny goals came in the first half. Hence, Brian Cody will be frustrated at his side’s inability to kick-on after the break.

Cody made 5 changes to the team that lost the All-Ireland final last year for this game. So, it will be interesting to see if he keeps faith in this side for the game on Saturday evening.

In contrast, Galway won’t have many complaints about their victory over last year’s Leinster Champions Wexford.

By the full-time whistle there was 17 points between the teams and the performance reflected the comfort of the scoreline.

Shane O’Neill’s men won the battle in the middle third which never allowed Wexford to get to grips with the game. Their domination was capitalised on with efficiency in front of goal.

What was most impressive for Galway was the balance that the team seems to have found between 2017 veterans and newer faces such as Brian Concannon, Fintan Burke, Sean Loftus, and Eanna Murphy. The Galwegians grew in confidence as the game went on. By the end, they had slashed their odds for winning the Championship.

O’Neill’s team seem very much determined to make up for the poor Championship they had last season. A win over last year’s runners-up to progress to a semi-final would be a big statement.

The winner of this tie will earn themselves a two-week break before the All-Ireland semi-final. Whereas, the loser of this one is out again the following week to play one of the winning qualifiers.

RTÉ are showing the GAA game live from Croke Park.

Galway’s performance against Wexford has them 8/11 favourites for this one versus Kilkenny’s 11/8. A draw is 9/1.

Team News

Kilkenny (Leinster SHC v Galway): Eoin Murphy; Conor Delaney, Huw Lawlor, Tommy Walsh; Cillian Buckley, Padraig Walsh, Conor Fogarty; Richie Leahy, Conor Browne; John Donnelly, Martin Keoghan, Walter Walsh; TJ Reid, Eoin Cody, Colin Fennelly.

Subs: Darren Brennan, Paul Murphy, Joey Holden, Ciaran Wallace, Darren Mullen, Alan Murphy, Richie Reid, Richie Hogan, Ger Aylward, Liam Blanchfield, Niall Brassil.

Prediction: Galway. If they can replicate the performance they put in a fortnight ago the Connacht team will be considered real All-Ireland contenders again. Meanwhile, the near-miss against Dublin might have just sewn some doubt into Cody’s team.

Leinster Hurling Final: Kilkenny vs Galway, Saturday, 14th November, 18:15 (Croke Park). 

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Republic of Ireland squad announced for Germany game

Republic of Ireland Women’s National Team Manager Vera Pauw has confirmed a 31-player squad for their final game in Group I, at home to Germany on Tuesday, December 1st in Tallaght Stadium.

With seven games already played, Ireland are still in the hunt for a Qualifying Play-Off for the 2022 UEFA Women’s European Championships.

Cork City’s Saoirse Noonan earns a first senior call-up following her impressive recent form that saw her score twice in the FAI Women’s Senior Cup Semi-Final victory over Treaty United.

Noonan’s inclusion means that all three of this season’s Barretstown / Women’s National League Player of the Month recipients have been recognised as Wexford Youths’ Ellen Molloy and Shelbourne’s Jessica Ziu are also named.

The players will report into camp on Sunday, November 22nd when the squad will be cut back ahead of the first training session at the FAI National Training Centre.

Germany have already been confirmed as Group I winners, which means that the runner-up spot and a Qualifying Play-Off is now between second-placed Ireland (13 points) and third-placed Ukraine (12 points).

On December 1st, Ireland will host Germany while Ukraine play Montenegro. Pauw’s team currently hold a better goal difference so they need to equal or better Ukraine’s result in order to seal second spot.
Republic of Ireland WNT Squad
Goalkeepers: Marie Hourihan (SC Braga), Courtney Brosnan (West Ham United), Grace Moloney (Reading), Niamh Reid-Burke (Peamount United)
Defenders: Harriet Scott (Reading), Keeva Keenan (Celtic), Claire Walsh (Peamount United), Louise Quinn (Fiorentina), Diane Caldwell (SC Sand), Claire O’Riordan (MSV Duisburg), Eabha O’Mahony (Cork City), Isibeal Atkinson (Shelbourne), Aine O’Gorman (Peamount United)
Midfielders: Niamh Fahey (Liverpool), Jamie Finn (Shelbourne), Denise O’Sullivan (Brighton & Hove Albion – on loan from NC Courage), Alli Murphy (London City Lionesses), Niamh Farrelly (Peamount United), Megan Connolly (Brighton & Hove Albion), Hayley Nolan (London City Lionesses), Ruesha Littlejohn (Leicester City), Ellen Molloy (Wexford Youths), Jessica Ziu (Shelbourne), Emily Whelan (Shelbourne)
Forwards: Katie McCabe (Arsenal), Heather Payne (Florida State University), Leanne Kiernan (West Ham United), Amber Barrett (FC Koln), Rianna Jarrett (Brighton & Hove Albion), Kyra Carusa (HB Hoge), Saoirse Noonan (Cork City)

Republic of Ireland v Germany
UEFA 2022 Women’s European Championship Qualifying – Group I
Tuesday, December 1
Tallaght Stadium
KO 17:00
LIVE on RTE2
#IRLGER

Greenwatch: Enda Stevens ruled out of November International Fixtures

Premier League

Enda Stevens will miss the Republic of Ireland’s fixtures against England, Wales and Bulgaria. The full-back was assessed by the Ireland medical team and deemed unfit to play. Stevens featured for the full 90 minutes as Sheffield United lost 4-1 to Chelsea on Saturday evening. Recently retired David McGoldrick scored Sheffield United’s only goal with a clever finish.

Elsewhere in the league, Robbie Brady, Jeff Hendrick, Seamus Coleman, Dara O’Shea and Callum Robinson all started for their respective clubs. A timely increase in playing time for several key players as we head into this week’s fixtures.

Likewise, Matt Doherty started as Spurs grabbed a late winner against West Brom at The Hawthorns. His perfectly-weighted cross was met by the head of Harry Kane, clinching the victory for Spurs and taking them up to second in the league. With Stevens out injured, it is possible that both Coleman and Doherty will start against England on Thursday.

Championship

In the Championship, Nottingham Forrest’s Cyrus Christie set up Lyle Taylor for his first as they beat Daryl Horgan’s Wycombe Wanderers. Christie will replace Enda Stevens in the Ireland squad.

Blackburn Rovers’ captain Darragh Lenihan also grabbed an assist in their win over Queens Park Rangers. The centre-back will be aiming to fight his way back into Stephen Kenny’s plans having missed out on the squad this time round.

Another player who will be looking to regain their spot in the Ireland camp is striker Scott Hogan. After an impressive start to 2020, Hogan finally scored his first of the new season as Birmingham City defeated Bournemouth 3-1.

FA Cup

Lincoln City striker Anthony Scully was called up by Jim Crawford for the U-21 squad’s upcoming EURO 2021 qualifying fixtures. He scored a brace in Lincoln’s 6-2 thrashing of Forest Green Rovers.

Jack Taylor made it three in three, scoring yet again as Peterborough United knocked out Oxford United. This follows a superb long-range effort against Bristol Rovers in the league. The U-21 midfielder returns for international duty as Crawford’s side face two crucial games against Iceland and Luxembourg.

Ronan Curtis opened the scoring for Portsmouth with a free kick finish against Ipswich Town. The winger retains his place in the Ireland squad after making an appearance in last month’s game against Finland.

Ireland Women’s Rugby 2020 season brought to a halt due to COVID-19 restrictions

2020 Women’s Six Nations cancelled

The remaining 2020 fixtures for the Irish Women’s Rugby team have been cut short due to current COVID-19 restrictions. The announcement means Ireland will not face France in their final Six Nations clash. The competition will finish as it stands now, with England crowned as Grand Slam Winners.

Ireland were originally scheduled to play France on October 31st. The game was moved to Donneybrook to facilitate Ireland’s amateur players who would’ve had to quarantine for 14 days had they travelled to France. However, the game was soon called off due to a COVID-19 outbreak in the French camp.

CEO of Six Nations Rugby, Ben Morel expressed his disappointment as the “cancellations come at a time when there is such positive momentum around the women’s game and for the Women’s Six Nations in particular”. Nevertheless, Morel admits that a decision was made after “every possible option” was first explored.

2021 World Cup Qualifiers postponed

In addition to the Six Nations match against France, Ireland were also set to kickstart their 2021 World Cup qualifying campaign in December. These games have now been postponed until the new year. In spite of the bad news, IRFU Director of Women’s Rugby, Anthony Eddy, remains positive. He will now seek opportunities for the squad to continue to train and prepare for the RWC qualifiers.

The draw for the Women’s 2021 RWC in New Zealand is set to take place on the 20th of November.

Drama filled Irish Premier Division final day recap

All 10 teams competed in an action-packed last outing

The 2020 Irish Premier Division came to a conclusion last night. Each team played just 18 league games in a season plagued by Covid-19. The season itself was not it’s drama, though. Last night in particular featured several twists and turns as each club aimed to finish their season on a high note. Some clubs rejoiced while others suffered the consequences of defeat. Here’s how it played out.

Finn Harps vs. Waterford

In one of the most decisive fixtures on the day, Finn Harps took on Waterford. Prior to the game, Finn Harps found themselves in the relegation/promotion play-off spot. Waterford also found themselves with a lot on the line. A win for Waterford would have ensured a European spot for the club. Additionally, only a win would suffice – along with other results – if Harps were to move out of that position.

They did just that as they narrowly defeated Waterford by 1-0. A goal from Adam Foley in the 27th minute proved to be the deciding goal. Harps were very nearly back where they started in the final minute of extra time, though. Waterford found themselves in the opposition box in the dying seconds with a clear sight of goal. They shot at goal, but Dave Webster was there to stop a certain goal as he cleared off the line.

In truth, Harps deserved to avoid a relegation battle, having won 3 of their last 4 games. After the Harps win, it was down to Derry City and Shelbourne to win or draw their games in order to ease their survival hopes.

Waterford can count themselves unlucky not to have made Europe after their season, but the better team won on the night.

Derry City vs. Cork City

As mentioned previously, Derry City had to at least draw their game to avoid slipping into the play-off spot. Cork City, on the other hand, had nothing to play for other than pride. The Rebels had been condemned to automatic relegation earlier in the season.

Despite the disparity of fortunes on the line for both clubs, Derry City very nearly succumbed to defeat. Cork took the lead through Beineón O’Brien-Whitmarsh’s goal in the 59th minute to put pressure on the Northern club. A Finn Harps win and a Shelbourne draw would have meant relegation for Derry if the scoreline remained as it was.

James Akintunde was the hero in the end, though. His strike for Derry in the 76th minute meant Derry almost certainly avoided the play-off. Derry had the best goal difference by far of the 3 clubs fighting for survival so even if Finn Harps won, Derry would likely retain their position in the Irish Premier Division.

The match finished 1-1 as Derry narrowly avoided a relegation battle.

Shelbourne vs. Shamrock Rovers

Similar to the Derry vs. Cork fixture, both teams in this fixture were playing for entirely different outcomes. Shamrock Rovers had already been crowned champions, meaning they effectively had nothing to play for – other than their unbeaten run. Shelbourne, on the other hand, had it all to play for. If results in their own game and other fixtures didn’t go their way, they would be dragged into a relegation play-off.

Shamrock Rovers’ showed no sympathy for the relegation battling Shelbourne as they fielded a strong side. Their quality showed in the end as they ran out 2-0 winners. Their win last night meant they finished the league season unbeaten. This is just the 3rd time this has happened in League of Ireland history, with Rovers also going unbeaten in the other 2.

A wonderful Jack Byrne goal kicked it off in the 22nd minute as he went on a marauding run up the pitch before smashing into the corner of the net. Jack Byrne has inarguably been the best player in the League of Ireland, despite what the naysayers may claim. His stock has only risen in the past few months and this may be the last time League of Ireland fans get to witness his ability in a Shamrock Rovers shirt in the foreseeable future amid reported overseas interest. The midfielder will also join up with the Republic of Ireland squad ahead of the Wales fixture.

Aaron Greene put the finishing touches on the game as his 57th minute goal effectively sealed Shelbourne’s relegation play-off spot. Results in the Finn Harps and Derry City games meant Shelbourne were condemned to the play-off spot.

Shelbourne will now face Longford Town on Saturday as they look to stay in the Premier Division for at least another season. It should make for a fascinating contest.

Dundalk vs. Sligo Rovers

After a disappointing domestic season by their standards, Dundalk needed a win to ensure a European spot. Similarly, a Sligo Rovers win would mean a *potential* European spot for the Bit O’ Red.

In a surprise result, Sligo Rovers ran out 2-0 winners. A bizarre goal from Jesse Devers in the 10th minute opened the scoring as his attempted cross went straight over Gary Roger’s head into the net. Sligo Rovers ensured their victory through a Ronan Coughlan goal in the 95th minute.

After Waterford’s defeat, Sligo move up to 4th place. Although currently in a European position (1st-4th place), that could change given the winners of the FAI Cup. In order for Sligo to qualify, they must either win the FAI Cup or a team from 1st to 3rd must win. Currently, all top 4 teams are still in the cup out of the 6 remaining teams, so it looks good for Sligo as it stands. There is no guarantee of a European spot as for now, though.

Despite Dundalk’s abysmal result, they still finish in 3rd place after Waterford’s loss to Harps. They will compete in Europa League qualifying next season, but it’s clear that much work is to be done if they intend to claim the league title.

Bohemians vs. St Patrick’s Athletic

St Pat’s could have potentially claimed a play-off spot with a win against Bohemians, but even if they did, they would have to rely on other results. Bohs’ on the other hand had nothing to play for as their 2nd place position was secured earlier in the season.

Bohemian’s have had an incredible season; particularly given the youthfulness of the squads they’ve chosen over the season. They were the youngest team in the Irish Premier Division and 21st youngest team in Europe’s top flight divisions as they finished the season. They continued to trust in youth last night as they played yet another young team. Brighton bound 16-year-old Evan Ferguson was the focus of attention as he started his first league match of the season.

The teenager nearly made an impression early into the game as a Danny Grant cross found him before he bundled the ball into the net. In a controversial decision, though, the goal was ruled out for handball.

St Pat’s were the first to score an official goal as Jordan Gibson broke the deadlock in the 37th minute. That didn’t last for long, though. Danny Grant scored the equaliser just before half time for Bohemians. The left winger has been in terrific form this season which has warranted his inclusion in the latest Ireland u21s squad.

Andre Wright, another in form man, secured the win for Bohemians with his penalty in the 63rd minute. The match finished 2-1 to Bohemians.

Here’s how the final league table looks:

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