Posted on 2023-10-282023-10-28

Shelbourne FC wish to announce that manager Noel King will leave the club at the end of the current season.

King spent three years in charge of Shels having been appointed in the winter of 2020. He ended a five year wait for top domestic honours, guiding the Reds to the Women’s National League title in his first season in 2021.

The following season the Reds recorded a domestic double as Shels won the league and the FAI Cup.

In a statement, Noel King expressed his gratitude and reflecting on his time with the club said:

“It has been a tremendous honour to manage Shelbourne FC. The dedication and passion of the girls, staff, and supporters have been unwavering. I am immensely proud of what we have accomplished together.”

Shelbourne FC CEO, Barry Mocke, praised Noel King’s contribution: “Noel King’s legacy at Shelbourne FC is a positive one. His knowledge and experience of the game, at the very highest level, provided us with a platform to push our Women’s National League team to the top of the game.
We are grateful for his contribution.”

The club will now begin the search for a successor. The excellent work in our academy is the foundation of future Shels’ successes and whoever assumes the role will be expected to build on this work to enhance and further develop the player pathway from the academy to the first team.

The club are confident it will be an exciting and attractive challenge to numerous potential candidates.

Posted on 2023-10-272023-10-27

by Kev Doyle

LOI Side Review:

Welcome one and all to this evening’s final senior men’s home game of 2023 against UCD AFC a side who we will not be facing again next season owing to their unfortunate relegation from the Premier division who they will be replaced in for 2024 by Galway Fc an always popular away trip for red’s men and women through the years. Tonight is the 33rd out of 34 senior games to take place in our famous old ground this year with our league of Ireland women’s premier division side rounding out the year in tolka park for the Reds next Saturday afternoon with a north Dublin derby as they continue their preparations for the season ending FAI women’s cup final on November 19th in tallaght stadium not the only cup final for the club as we’ll get to later on. 

With two games to go for the men’s side this year our European destiny slipped from our own hands following last weekend’s draw in the Ryan McBride brandywell stadium against Derry City with two win’s required from here on out to stand a chance of a 4th place league finish and then further having to rely on St. Pat’s winning the cup final in the Aviva Stadium. Qualification for Europe or not this second season has seen further improvement under the guidance of Damien Duff and his coaching staff some of the numbers below:

• 0.74 goals conceded per game in 2023 compared to 1.29 goals conceded per game in 2022.
• Only 8 defeats in 2023 (All Comps) compared to 16 in 2022.
• Only 3 home defeats this year in all competitions compared to 7 in 2022.
• Only conceded 13 home league goals in 2023 compared to 25 in 2022. 
• A 15% increase in attendances in tolka park this season compared to 2022 has been witnessed.

The only real downside’s this year have been the unfortunate exit at the hands of our close rivals Bohemian Fc from both cup competitions and the sheer number of draws that the men’s team has recorded this season, with 15 of the 34 league games so far ending in stalemate this is already a new club record amount of draws for a single season since the formation of the club in 1895. 

On the player stat’s front a few noteworthy one’s:

• Evan Caffrey with 38/38 appearances is the only player to have played in every game so far this year. Hopefully he can finish out the season well.
• On 13 clean sheets so far Conor Kearns will be looking to close out his season with 2 more to make it the most clean sheets in well over a decade since Dean Delany kept 18 in 2010. 
• 5 further Reds have graduated from the Reds Academy this season as the gaffer continues to put his trust in young players. 
• Jack Moylan will be playing his last game in tolka park tonight his 69th & hopefully 70th games in red next week before his departure to Lincoln City in November, Jackie has scored 21 goals so far in that time.

Milestones this year:

Kameron Ledwidge, Jack Moylan, Shane Griffin, Gavin Molloy and Mark Coyle all reached the 50 game mark for the club this year. The Skipper Luke Byrne and JR Wilson became Reds Centurions this year 2 of just 95 men and women to reach such a landmark. Meanwhile Finglas’s own Shane Farrell clocked up Reds game number 150 this year as well.

LOIW Side Review:

The women’s team also have two league games to go but unfortunately no league title will be returning to the banks of the Tolka for a 3rd straight year as Peamount successfully wrestled back the league trophy in Ferrycarrig park (Wexford are making a habit of losing matches that decide the destination of the league trophy three years running now) last time out and on balance deservedly so the most consistent team all year despite much like ourselves having been raided by Shamrock Rovers in the off-season. We do have the defence of our FAI Women’s cup to look forward to on the 19th of November in tallaght stadium with links to tickets widely available on the club’s social media accounts or via Ticketmaster directly get yourselves a long and roar the girls on, hopefully another piece of silverware for this group of players.

Here’s a few of the pivotal numbers from 2023:

• The Reds’ meagre defence in 2022 only conceded 0.53 goals per game; this has risen to 0.81 in 2023.
• At the other end of the pitch the goal scoring has remained relentless as they’ve been going along at a greater than 2 goals per game rate much like last season.
• A 3rd ever European victory was won by the squad in Lithuania against Cardiff City and a breathtaking stat of one Hannah Healy becoming the youngest ever player to take the field in the competition. 

On the player stat’s front a few noteworthy one’s:

• Both Megan Smyth-Lynch & Maggie Pierce are a perfect 26 games from 26 so far this year with 3 to go.
• 4 further players have graduated from the academy to appear in the senior team with many more in the pipeline with both academy sides into their respective cup finals in the coming weeks.
• Noelle Murray is just 2 goals shy of scoring 10 more goals in a season for the 7th time since the dawn of the women’s national league in 2011.

Milestones this year:

Megan Smyth-Lynch & Leah Doyle clocked up Reds game number 50 this year meanwhile Megan also played her 150th senior game of football. Noelle Murray and Alex Kavanagh became the 3rd & 4th members of the LOIW setup to reach 150 games in Red as well this season.

Academy Sides:

Under 19’s:

The men’s side were defeated in the semi-finals of the cup and look likely to finish their league campaign in 3rd/4th position of the elite tier 1 this year with some star performers being Gavin Hodgins with 18 goals in 18 games, Gbemi Arubi with 13 goals in 22 games and Harvey Nugent who has played in 24 out of the 25 games.

The women’s side have a Cup final to look forward to having beaten Dundalk in the semi finals and will now face Wexford the league runners up in Athlone on November 9th a side they finished a distant 3rd behind in the league. Star performers include Katie McCarn with 21 goals in 20 games and the defensive duo of Keva Deegan and Leah Riley who both played 22 out of the 24 games so far in 2023. 

Under 17’s:

The men’s side have a cup final tomorrow afternoon in Tallaght stadium against Shamrock Rovers having dealt with UCD in the previous round. In the league they are locked on 27 points with Dundalk heading into the final round of fixtures where they face a trip to Treaty on Saturday the 4th of November while dundalk are also on the road to Rovers should the sides finish level dundalk would win the league on head to head record. Star performers for the side this year have been Irish underage international Dan Ring with 20 goals in 25 games and Jamie Gamble with 8 clean sheets to his name.

The women’s side also have a cup final this weekend in Athlone on Sunday evening against the host’s having overcome north Dublin rivals bohemian fc in the semi-finals after extra-time. In the league they have a 3 point lead over the same opposition with 3 games to go. Among the many star performers in this outfit that has remarkably seen 11 players capped at either under 17 or under 16 level internationally this season are the 2 twenty goals for the season girls in Aoibhe Brennan and Hannah O’Brien.

Form Guide:

• The men’s team tonight face UCD AFC against whom in the last five league meetings our record is 3 wins, 2 draws and 0 defeats.
• The Reds recent form is one of 2 wins, 2 draws and 1 defeat yielding a 40% win rate in that time period.
• Meanwhile our visitors’ recent away form is 1 draw and 4 defeats in the last 5 games away from belfield.
• The #LOIW side meanwhile face Bohemians in Tolka next Saturday with this week being an international week with the sides only league meeting this year ending in a 2-0 reds win earlier in the season.
• The Reds recent form is one of 4 wins and 1 defeat in the last 5 games meaning an 80% win rate across these games.
• Meanwhile our visitors’ recent home form is a run  of 0 wins in their last 5 games.

That’s your lot for this the final edition of #RedsStats for the 2023 season, I’ll return in 2024 after my hibernation until next time folks UP THE REDS!!!. And get yourselves along to Tallaght on the 19th to cheer on the girls in the cup final.

TAFFY

by Pat Cordelle

The shortest distance between Wales and Dublin, is as the crow flies, approximately 30 miles. However, my research shows, rather surprisingly, only 6 players from the Principality of Wales have made the short journey to Tolka Park, in the long history of the League of Ireland. Four of the six stayed scarcely no length of time, playing just 15 games between them. The other two did stay for longer and played an important part in the Reds successes in the domestic and European competitions.

Daniel Hawkins: Born in Cardiff, the young Wales forward impressed during his time with Finn Harps in 2021 and as a result signed for the newly promoted Shelbourne, ahead of the new 2022 season, having caught the eye of manager, Damien Duff.  Made his debut for the Reds in the televised first game of the new season, which ended in a 3-0 loss at home to St.Patrick’s Athletic. He scored in his second game in a 2-0 win away to Drogheda. Made three more league appearances before a loss of form and injuries interrupted his time at Tolka Park. The club confirmed his departure on 17 November 2022. 

Lewis Webb: On the 15 January 2022 Shelbourne announced the loan signing of goalkeeper Lewis Webb from Swansea FC who he joined from Merthyr Town. He made his Shels debut in a 3-0 defeat to St.Patrick’s Athletic (along with his compatriot, Daniel Hawkins) and made seven league appearances. He made a series of costly mistakes which cost him his place in the starting eleven. Webb failed to fulfil his potential with the Reds and was replaced in the team by the veteran Brendan Clarke. On 09 June 2022 Shelbourne confirmed that Swansea City had recalled that the goalkeeper from his loan spell at Tolka Park.

Scott van der Sluis: On 16 June 2022, goalkeeper Van-der- Sluis signed for Shelbourne from Bangor City of the Welsh League On 26 August 2022, he made his debut for the Reds, keeping a clean sheet in a 4-0 F.A.I. Cup win over non- league Bonagee United (Donegal).Only the chosen ones, lucky enough to get a ticket will have seen him play in Letterkenny. On 30 November 2022, he renewed his contract with Shelbourne for the upcoming season 2023.In June 2023, it was announced that he had left the club without making a league appearance, in order to participate on Love Island; Reds manager Damien Duff said Van-der-Sluis would not be returning to the club.

Mark Williams: The Holyhead man had a spell with Football League club Shrewsbury Town before switching to Shelbourne whom he represented in the 1999 Inter-Toto Cup against Neuchatel Xamas of Switzerland. Williams carved out a reputation as a consistent goal-getter in the Welsh Premier League. He played 64 minutes in the home leg before being replaced by Johnny Powell. In the away game in Switzerland the roles were reversed, Williams coming on Powell in the 74^th minute. Williams, Shelbourne career lasted 80 minutes over two games.

Steve Williams: Born in Aberystwyth, on the 16 October 1974, the Wales U21 international began his career with Cardiff City with whom he made 33 League appearances. He joined Shelbourne in the summer of 1999 after a two year stint with Dundalk. He played in the most successful Shels team ever, winning 5 League Titles + 1 FAI Cup. Fortunate to have such a great back four in front of him.  Possibly his finest hour came when he kept a clean sheet as Shels beat Hadjuk Split 2-0 in a Champions League qualifier in 2004. His Reds career ended with the financial collapse in 2006. Although he was prone to mistakes he made some outstanding saves including an unbelievable save against Bohemians in the FAI Cup Final. He stayed on in Ireland for further spells with Bray, Sporting Fingal and Drogheda.

Jamie Harris: Born in Cardiff, on 28 June 1979. In 1999 he moved to Bohs, where he spent one season. He left Bohs for St.Pats before linking up with the Reds in 2003 with whom he won three League Titles in 2003, 2004 and 2006. The central defender was a big commanding player, comfortable on the ball who could also play a centre forward when the need arose. He was signed by Scottish club, Dunfermline Athletic, managed by Stephen Kenny, on 28 January 2007 on a free transfer. He made 90 League and Cup + 12 European appearances for the Reds.

His late grandfather, Rory Keane was a Republic of Ireland international player.

Between the Sticks

by Pat Cordelle

This article is a snap-shot in time of 17 custodians who have operated between the sticks for Shelbourne, over the last 70 odd years, highlighting some points of interest along the way.

Kevin Blount: Made his debut in January 1953 in a match with Drumcondra and won a league medal that season. He left the club at the end of the 1953/54 season. He answered a call from the Reds after the departure of Paddy Roche to Manchester United in October ‘73 and fittingly closed his League of Ireland career with Shels, playing his last LoI game in April ’74, at Tolka Park, aged 44, over 21 years after he had made his League debut with the club. The flamboyant and colourful, Blount was one of the best goal-keepers in the LoI at the time.

Jim Farmer: Took over the goal-keeping duties when Blount left to join Botanic, Leinster League. He represented the Republic of Ireland at amateur international level, in a 2-0 defeat to Scotland in Glasgow. Was a regular fixture in goal for the Reds until he lost his place to new singing, Pat Egglestone.

Pat Egglestone: Born on the 17 March 1927, the English man signed for Shels in August 1956, previously played for Wrexham, Shrewsbury Town, Halifax Town and Bradford City. He was signed by Eddie Gannon together with two other players from the North West of England, William Parker and Harry Hitchens. Very similar in the way that the three lads signed from Hull City this season.

Cecil Cahill: In the season 1958/59 he played 22 league + 1 FAI Cup games for Shels. His brother, Harry Cahill, a hockey international, represented Great Britain at the 1960, 1964 and 1968 Summer Olympics. Cecil also a useful hockey player.

Finbar Flood: Winning the FAI Cup in 1960, was the highlight of his football career. Along with his team mate Paddy Turner, he was transferred in August 1961, to Scottish second division club, Greenock Morton. He earned the reputation as a safe pair of hands on and off the field. He was appointed chairman of Shelbourne FC after they ran into financial difficulties in the early 2000’s.

John Heavey: A big man, with an imposing and a massive presence between the posts. Signed on a free from St.Pats, John was an important part of the Reds success story of the first half of the sixties. In January 1965, he became the second goalkeeper in the League of Ireland to score when his long punt from his own penalty area sailed over the head of his opposite number at Kilcohan Park, Waterford.

Leo Byrne: Instantly recognisable by his big mop of unruly hair, he had to wait for his chance due to Heavey’s excellent form. On 16 September 1964, with Heavey out injured, he played in the Inter Cities Fair Cup, a 1-1draw away to Belenenses, Lisbon. He left at the end of 1969/70. Had a second spell with the Reds in 1979/80. Leo Byrne was a stylish goal-keeper with a liking for the spectacular.

Paddy Roche: Started his career with the Reds with whom he won the first of his eight full international caps. He was on the losing side in the 1973 FAI Cup Final. During his time with Shels he made 100 League appearances and scored one League goal, the second Shels goalie to score from his own area. He was transferred to Manchester United in October 1973, for a fee £150,000.

Willie Byrne:  Came through the Shels minor (or Youths as it is now called) ranks. He had two spells with Shelbourne, 1969/70 and 1974-1976. He was on the losing side in the 1975 FAI Cup Final in the shock loss to amateur club, Home Farm. He made 49 League and 8 FAI Cup appearances with the Reds.

Tony Delahunt:  He made 10 appearances in the season 1979/80. On the 27 January 1980 the unfortunate Delahunt was in goal for Shelbourne when they suffered a record 9-0 loss to defending champions, Dundalk, at Oriel Park. Only a couple of brave late saves by the hapless Delahunt deprived Dundalk of double figures. Shelbourne’s largely young, raw, inexperienced side were completely overwhelmed.

Fred Davis: Signed on a free from Bohs ahead of the 1980/81 season. Had three spells with the Reds making close on 200 league and cup appearances. He became a member of the backroom staff playing on and off as emergency cover well into the 1990’s. He spent 27 years with the club, where he experienced the good and the very bad times, in various different roles.

Jody Byrne: League winner in 92, Cup winner in 93. Sent off after 27 seconds in an important league game against title rivals Derry City. Sent off after 4 minutes in a high profile money spinning friendly against Celtic.  Became the third Shels keeper to score when his long wind-assisted kick found the net at the other end in a league game at Gortakeegan, Co Monaghan.

Alan Gough: He was born in Watford and joined the Reds from Galway. A twice cup winner (96 and 97), played in four successive FAI Cup finals (95-98). Sent off in the drawn final with St. Pats in 96 for a handling offence outside of his penalty area. Redeemed himself with a penalty save in the replay near the end of the game with the scores level at 1-1. Imagine the abuse he suffered from Rangers fans behind the goal at Prenton Park.

Steve Williams: Born in Aberystwyth, Wales, he joined Shels from Dundalk in 1999. Was a major player in our double success that season, keeping 17 clean-sheets. Won five 5 league titles and 1FAI Cup medal with the club. He will be remembered by the Reds fans for his outstanding save to deny Bohemians a winner in the 2000 FAI Cup Final. He made 20 appearances in European competitions. He returned to Tolka for a second spell in 2010, making 3 League and Cup appearances.

Dean Delany:  Had three spells with the Reds. Made his debut in a 4-2 victory over Waterford on 24 June 2005 and he left Shels after winning the First Division title in 2019. He was named on the PFAI First Division Team of the Year for 2009 and 2018. Deano was in goal when the Reds suffered unimaginable heart break in the last game of the 2008 season when Limerick 37 scored in the dying seconds to deny Shels promotion to the Premier Division. On the 21 September 2019 he received a standing ovation from all sides of the ground as he left the field of play-Tolka Park- for the last time, after a 7-0 thumping of Limerick.

Brendan Clarke: Took over the goal-keeping duties from Colin McCabe/Jack Brady. A first division winner in 2021 and saw off the challenge of Swansea loanee, Lewis Webb in 2022 to make the number one shirt his own. I will be forever grateful for the get well video message he sent me following my heart surgery last year. A top man is Brendan Clarke.

Conor Kearns: Joined from Galway, Brendan Clarke going in the opposite direction. His has been in outstanding form this season. Should be a cert for selection on PFAI team of year.

Posted on 2023-10-262023-10-26

Shels are gearing up for their final home game of the season this Friday in the SSE Airtricity League of Ireland Premier Division.

UCD are the visitors to Tolka Park for the penultimate game of the 2023 campaign, with the Reds still right in the hunt for a top four finish.

After training Shels boss Damien Duff delivered an injury update: “A lot of players are playing through the pain at the moment, we do have more available and we’re looking stronger than in recent weeks.

“Will Jarvis will have late fitness tomorrow before the game. We’re hopeful on that front but let’s see what happens. JR Wilson and Jad Hakiki are back in contention. They’re both managing pain. Andy Quinn is back, great to see, he’s been managing a recent injury.”

The Reds drew 0-0 last week in Derry, having seen the home side reduced to 10 men early in the game. Duff feels that is the perfect primer to facing a UCD side that will also be defensively well organised: 

“We’re worked on it in training this week, we looked at the Derry footage and took plenty from that game, it’s probably the perfect game last week, in terms of preparing you for what you’ll face now tomorrow.

“After the sending off in Derry we were dominating the ball, hoping for similar tomorrow, whoever we’re playing we want to dominate the ball. It’s a difficult game up there, we created enough chances, probably not clear cut on those chances and then we had the disallowed goal. Hopefully we get the rub of the green and all three points tomorrow night.”

With the season drawing to a close and players around the league making plans for next season, Duff says the full focus of the Shels staff and players is on the task at hand:

“It’s a difficult climate where guys are on one year contracts. We’ve been good at parking that. Around the league a lot of people are in the same boat. A lot of staff and players are in a similar situation here and that has brought us closer together, our only goal is on winning our remaining games. Everything else is on the back burner. Getting Shelbourne FC into Europe is the the goal that we have and have worked towards all season and that goal is bigger than any one individual and always will be.”

UCD will be eager to sign off their campaign in style by taking points off the Reds and Duff knows this makes the Students a threatening prospect:

“They are a very dangerous team, this is as dangerous as any game in the league. A lot of teams the problem they have is they disrespect it, that’s a mistake we won’t be making. The night that’s in it, with what’s at stake, we can’t disrespect the game or UCD. Tomorrow is a night where we need everyone on it. Players, staff, and the fans. When we have that energy and enthusiasm, that proper life in the stadium. We can be an unstoppable force. My message for players, staff, and fans too, you need to be on it, we can’t afford for anyone to be flat tomorrow.”

A big attendance is expected for the final home game of the season, Duff has urged fans to arrive to Tolka Park early and be part of the display planned by Briogáid Dearg

“There’s an old Jock Stein quote I walked by on the wall by every day at Celtic, football without fans is nothing, across the board any club, any country, any league, This is so true. Here at Shels over the last two years, Shels is nothing without fans, it’s nothing without BD, what they do, amazing, we’d be lost without them. I’d encourage everyone to be there early.

“A couple of people have mentioned to me this week, they want everyone in the Riverside by 7.25pm, twenty minutes before kick off, to ensure they all create an atmosphere that has Tolka on wheels. They’re our 12th man, 13th, 14th man tomorrow, I genuinely mean this and I don’t say it lightly, they’ve put points on the board this season. They’ve played a huge part, and I know they will play a big part for the next two games as well.”

Tickets

Tickets for the Reds upcoming clash are available here: bit.ly/sfc1895

TV

Watch all the action on LOITV, coverage begins from 7:30pm with kick off at 7:45pm.

Posted on 2023-10-252023-10-25

The Shelbourne FC Academy are gearing up for three elite League of Ireland national finals.  The U17 Men’s, U17 Women’s, and U19 Women’s, have secured their spot in the finals of their respective competitions, further evidence of the brilliant work being done at underage levels at the club.

A Dublin Derby awaits the U17 Men’s team who go head-to-head against Shamrock Rovers in the final. The Reds began the campaign with a first-round bye, before overcoming Kildare on their home turf in a thrilling encounter, emerged 3-2 winners courtesy of goals from Mark Isong, Leo Healy, and Tyriek Sammy at the AUL.

The quarter-final bout against Sligo was nothing short of a masterclass in dominance. The Reds emphatically swept their opponents aside with a commanding 7-0 win. Mark Isong shone brightly, securing a hat-trick, while early goals from Aaron Maloney and Leo Healy further compounded the Bit O’Red’s misery.

The semi-final clash against UCD was a tight and tense affair. Despite a 1-1 draw in normal time, the Reds held their nerve and clinched their place in the decider in a nervy penalty shootout. 

Goalkeeper Jamie Gamble was the hero as he made two crucial saves, which were pivotal in this remarkable victory.

Mark Isong and Leo Healy also consistently delivered standout performances throughout the journey to the final.

Manager Keith Roche, reflecting on the team’s journey, and looking ahead to the final said: “When we put this group together, we knew there was massive potential within the squad. They have really kicked on as a group in the second half of the season with some outstanding performances and have started to fulfil the talent we knew was there.”

Shelbourne -v- Shamrock Rovers

Saturday October 28th 15:00

Tallaght stadium

The U17 Women’s team’s journey to the final is a testament to their heart, team spirit and individual skill. They will now face off against Athlone Town in what has the potentual to be a thrilling final showdown. 

The group stage saw Shels finish on top with maximum points, hitting 10 goals while conceding just one.

The quarter-final clash against Shamrock Rovers was an edge-of-the-seat affair, with the Reds emerging winners in a thrilling 3-2 match.

The semi-final, a Dublin derby against Bohemian FC, tested their mettle. It required extra time to settle the score, but Shelbourne emerged as 3-0 victors, securing their place in the final.

Key contributors for the U17 Women’s team include Ruby McCarthy, Aoibhe Brennan, Jenna Willoughby, and Katie McFetridge. First team regular Rebecca Devereux also played a crucial role on the way to the final.

Shelbourne -v- Athlone Town

Sunday  October 29th 15:00

Athlone Town stadium.

The U19 Women’s team will face formidable opponents in Wexford Youths as they gear up for their tilt at silverware

The group stage saw them record an emphatic 4-1 victory against reigning champions Shamrock Rovers.

The quarter-final bout against Athlone Town saw the Reds record a commanding 3-0 victory. Key contributors for the U19 Women’s team include Katie McCarn, Hannah Healy, Keva Deegan, and Leah Riley.

Shelbourne -v- Wexford

Sunday November 5th, 14:00. 

Athlone Town stadium.

The finals are set to be held at Tallaght Stadium for the U17 Men, Athlone Town Stadium for the U17 Women, and that is the venue too for the U19 Women. 

Rory Kirk of the women’s academy said: ‘It has been a pleasure to see the development across the season in both our U17 and U19 WNL sides. Our WU17s have had to deal with the pressure that comes with being league and cup champions for 2022 and to be in a cup final and top of the league with three games to go is a testament to both the character and ability of all players within the group. They have been led brilliantly by Eoin Wearen & Craig Plunkett.”

Colm Barron, Head of Academy reflecting on this remarkable achievement, highlighted the high standards set by coaches and met by players: “To have three teams make the finals out of a possible six shows the progress that has been made across the Academy in the last two years. Our u14s and 19s men’s teams narrowly missed out on the finals losing to Shamrock Rovers in both respective semi finals. High standards have been set by the coaches and met by the players. For the players and coaches it is about enjoying the occasion and showcasing their abilities. Our Academy teams have experienced playing against some of the biggest clubs in Europe over the last two years. Those experiences will enable them to enjoy occasions like finals and approach them full of confidence.”

As the Academy teams prepare to fly the Reds flag in the finals, Shels fans, staff, and volunteers are fully behind the group of players and coaches that will form the future of the football club. If you can get down to support our rising Reds stars, please do! Your support would mean the world!

Up the Reds.

Posted on 2023-10-192023-10-19

A big travelling contingent will be with the Reds on the road to Derry tomorrow night for the crucial SSE Airtricity League of Ireland Premier Division clash (7:45pm KO)

The away allocation will be sold out when Damien Duff’s side arrive at the Ryan McBride Brandywell Stadium.

Ahead of tomorrow’s trip Duff delivered an injury update to ShelbourneFC.ie:

“Andy Quinn is back, which is a big plus. JR Wilson was also on the pitch this week, which is positive. Sean Boyd is also back on the grass and hoping to be involved in the run in. Matty Smith and Daithi Folan are out of action. 

“Brian McManus is also added to the long term list, he’s had another operation after a bad tackle against Dundalk, my heart breaks for Brian. He’s going to miss the rest of the season, particularly hard on him because he was coming back and playing well.” 

After training on Thursday, ShelbourneFC.ie caught up with club captain Luke Byrne to preview the game with Derry. Meetings with Ruaidhri Higgins side have been close run affairs this year, with two draws home and away, and a 1-0 win going the way of the Candystripes at Tolka Park. Byrne believes the Reds have grown in confidence across the campaign:

“You take belief that you can compete and take points off a team that’s tipped to win the title, that’s a mentality that we have built within ourselves. Constantly turning up and approaching games with confidence, fully believing we can beat anyone, and that’s shown, there’s not been much in any game with Derry this season

“Now it’s about maturing again as a group and we have to come out and win those close games, and we’re seeing that now. We came from behind to get the win against Pats, deservedly beat Dundalk, in general we’re on a good run of form.

“We have huge respect for Derry, a quality team, a lot of talent in every position but we have no fear tomorrow night.”

Before the international break the Reds beat Dundalk 1-0, Byrne believes while the recent run of fixtures has made it difficult to gain meaningful momentum, that win will stand to them:

“It’s an unusual time of the year. We were building momentum, and then there’s a break in September. You play a few games then, you’ve got another break, we have come off another break, the recent win was massive. It put some distance between us and Dundalk, keeping us in the hunt along with Bohs, Derry, and St Pats.

“We had a tough week training, we didn’t do any kind of down week. We worked hard, and the staff started planning for this week’s game. If anything it was good to get bodies right this break, it gave a chance to rest the guys who have been carrying us in recent games, playing a lot of minutes.

“Also, we’ll be playing on an astro pitch up there. We’ve trained on one all week in preparation for it. The week has gone really well.”

The away end will be at capacity when the Reds take to the pitch at the Ryan McBride Brandywell, the Shels defender says the fans have had an incredible impact this year:

“The manager says it every week, it’s so true, fans has been amazing for this group, both at home and away. During the UCD game in the middle of summer, we filled the entire stand, then for Bohs at Dalymount Park, it was a scramble for tickets. They couldn’t be got anywhere. Even newcomers like Harry Wood have commented on the incredible support we get. He’s never seen anything like that in his career in England, the passion, energy and chanting.

“We never take it for granted. We’re not allowed to be honest, the manager emphasises this point at least once a week. He’s made us all aware of the fact people sacrifice their time and spend their hard-earned money to be here. We have a responsibility to them to show up and give our all on the pitch. It’s a non-negotiable commitment this group lives by.”

With three games remaining the Reds are in the mix for a finish in the European places, an extraordinary place to be having only being promoted ahead of the start of the 2022 season, Byrne one of the Reds longest serving players feels the manager Damien Duff’s role in the transformation of the club has been massive:

“I’ve been with the club for five years, and it’s a different place, unrecognisable really, what the manager has done here is really special, he’s only getting started, he has been the driving force behind almost everything positive that’s happened here over the last two seasons. He’s elevated the standards both on and off the pitch.

“The manager’s influence has transformed the mentality of the players, staff, academy and really for me I think the entire club. How he is in the day day-to-day interactions with the players, the demands and standards set around our commitment or our performance, he’s been the catalyst for setting the club on a positive path where we can compete for Europe again.

“I think players are inspired by what they see and hear. I’ve been in the league for 12 years and I’ve never come across anyone like him. Players look up to him, they believe in him, I think the fans as well love him and what he does for this club, we follow him into battle on a Friday, the whole club is behind Damien, players love him, we would die for him on the pitch on a Friday night, because we know he’d do the same for us. In years to come, I think lads in our dressing room will look back at this time of their career and know just how fortunate they were to be at Shels.”

A chronic knee issue has curtailed Luke Byrne’s progress this season but the defender knows that while playing a different role, his place within the group and how he carries himself is vitally importance:

“This is my first time being out of the team, but I have faith in the manager’s choices, whether I’m in the lineup or not. The lads who’ve been on the pitch have performed exceptionally well, that’s reflected in our defensive record.

“My role is to stay professional, maintain my fitness, and be ready whenever I’m called upon. As the captain, I understand that my responsibilities extend beyond what happens on a Friday. I take great pride in leading by example.

“The manager consistently emphasises that it’s a squad game throughout the year, and I’m no different from anyone else in that regard.”

Posted on 2023-10-182023-10-18

The Reds return to action after the international break with a trip to the Ryab McBride Brandywell Stadium to face Derry City this Friday 20th of October. (7:45pm KO)

Our initial away allocation in Block A is now full sold out. Derry City will made additional seats available in Bock B with approx. another 100 seats.

We’d urge all supporters who intend to travel to buy their tickets as soon as possible at the link below.

Away Support Ticketing

Derry City are advising that all Away supporters should be kept in their seats for approx. 30 mins after the final whistle to allow for the car park to be cleared – this is on the advice of the PSNI and Pulse Security.

Thank you for your brilliant support, we’re looking forward to seeing you on Friday night.

Posted on 2023-10-182023-10-18

Shelbourne FC seeks to appoint a Volunteer Club Historian to assist in its plans to commemorate the 100th anniversary of Tolka Park in 2024 and the 130th anniversary of the club in 2025.

The Club Historian will work closely with the staff and volunteers at Shelbourne FC to bring the storied history of the club to life. 

Among the key aims for this role are:

1. Preserving Legacy: Shelbourne FC boasts a rich history having been founded in Slattery’s Public House in 1895, and with milestone anniversaries approaching, it’s essential to preserve and celebrate the club’s legacy.

2. Documenting Milestones: The historian will play a pivotal role in researching, compiling, and documenting key milestones, stories, and historical events related to the club.

3. Engaging the Community: Utilising historical content to engage supporters, foster a sense of pride in Shels’ history, and strengthen the club’s bond with the community. This is particularly important at a time where we hope to soon announce Tolka Park as our long term home into the future.

Responsibilities of the Club Historian:

• Research: Conduct thorough research into Shelbourne FC’s history, including its foundation, notable matches, players, managers, and significant moments. Gather oral history and interview former players to document their story.

• Compilation: Assist in the creation of a comprehensive historical archive that includes written records, photographs, videos, and memorabilia.

• Storytelling: Craft compelling narratives that bring Shelbourne FC’s history to life, making it accessible and engaging for fans of all ages in person at events and seminars, online and digital with engaging social content, and in ground with murals, plaques and other endeavours to mark and honour our history.

• Events: Collaborate with the club and DCC to arrange and host events, exhibitions, or digital campaigns to showcase the club’s rich history and heritage.
  

The Shelbourne FC club historian will assist with:

1. Anniversary Celebrations: Assist in the creation of a strategic programme to mark the 100th anniversary of Tolka Park and the 130th anniversary of the club, ensuring this milestones are celebrated in a meaningful and historically accurate way.

2. Legacy Preservation: Create a lasting legacy for future generations of Shelbourne FC supporters, preserving the club’s rich heritage by interviewing former players, managers, volunteers and people who’ve played a pivotal but at times overlooked or forgotten role in Shelbourne FC history.

3. Community Engagement: Engage fans and the local community with compelling historical content and events while creating deeper roots in our community and attracting non football fans to the club – those with an interest in local history, preservation of historical landmarks, etc.

4. Marketing: Help to curate and craft historical content to enhance the club’s marketing efforts, attracting new fans and sponsors.

The Volunteer Club Historian for Shelbourne FC will help to celebrate and commemorate the club’s rich history, engaging the community, and ensuring that the milestone anniversaries of Tolka Park and the club itself are marked appropriately.

The successful candidate will contribute to the club’s long-lasting legacy and strengthen its connection with fans, both old and new.

To apply for the role please, submit a CV and cover letter to Darren.Cleary@shelbournefc.ie

Posted on 2023-10-052023-10-26

Shelbourne FC welcome Dundalk to Tolka Park as the race for Europe enters the final stretch in the SSE Airtricity League of Ireland Premier Division (7:45pm KO)

Damien Duff’s side return home aiming to bounce back after a loss in their last outing, a narrow 1-0 defeat at the hands of Shamrock Rovers.

Ahead of the visit of the Louth side Duff delivered an injury update to ShelbourneFC.ie:

“We’re light on bodies, Sean Boyd, Matty Smith and JR Wilson remain unavailable, we won’t fill the bench, Andy Quinn and David Toure have knocks, slight issues but won’t play. 

“We’ll do what we always do, we go with what we have, we won’t complain and get on with it. Is it a worry with all the players missing? No, because lads have done really well and have always been able to handle what comes their way, our supporters as well have been honestly amazing. They are the 12th, 13th, 14th man, and might even be the 19th and 20th tomorrow night. It’s a big game, the lads can’t wait and are ready for it.

Dundalk will come into this game with renewed confidence, they snapped a four game losing streak by hammering Cork City 5-0 and then winning the Louth derby against Drogheda United last Friday.

Duff has full respect for the opposition and knows they are a quality outfit: “We know they’re a really good team regardless of run of form or where they have been recently, they have real winners in the team, a great young manager. Certainly not an easy game but one all our guys are looking forward to, and all this week there was a real excitement in the air.”

“We had a setback on Friday, we’ve said many times this season our lads are good at brushing off results, we went through the video on Monday of the Rovers game, our first half went well, second half it wasn’t us, we didn’t look after the ball as well as we could, looking back and taking stuff from the Rovers game, it was us looking at ourselves.

“What we learned from that is we need to bring 100 minutes tomorrow, we need to bring 400 minutes between now and the end of the season, we can’t let energy, concentration and emotional energy drop. It can cost you in this league. It’s a time to be on it, it’s a time to stand up, I am certain we will do it.” 

“If we don’t have our edge, we’re not us, we’re not Shelbourne FC, we have to bring the fire, we have to be calm, clear and have ice in the veins, but that is nothing without fire and edge. I want lads to know it’s big and be up for it and we need to match what Dundalk bring, and to win it we need to bring more.”

It’s a massive game in the race for Europe and Duff is confident his young squad will be able to cope with the pressure of the occasion:

“I think they’ve got better with coping with occasions, there’s no hiding, you can say it’s just another game, play the game in front of you, all the cliches but at the end of the day, it’s as big as they come.

“Four games left, win it and we go fourth, and there’s a real mentality shift with everyone, Dundalk, Bohs, us, it shifts the thinking for everyone. Three points tomorrow night would be massive.”