Posted on 2023-11-232023-11-23

Shelbourne Football Club regrets to announce the retirement of our club captain, Luke Byrne, from professional football.

The Howth native has been forced to bring an early end to his career at the age of 30 due to ongoing knee issues.

An accomplished defender, Byrne has been an instrumental figure in the Reds resurgence over the past few years and consistently displayed dedication, leadership, and an incredible work ethic. Byrne put his body on the line time after time and gave everything to the club.

Luke Byrne joined Shelbourne in 2019 from Shamrock Rovers and made an extraordinary impact on and off the pitch.

The Dubliner played 20 times for the Reds this season in the League of Ireland Premier Division, including 16 starts, as the Reds recorded their highest finish since 2006, ending the season in fourth place and qualifying for Europe.

The defender was a key member of the squad in 2022, featuring in 34 games in the SSE Airtricity League, all of which came as a starter. Byrne played in 4 games in the FAI Cup in 2022, bringing his tally to 38 appearances for the 2022 season. 

Byrne captained the Reds to promotion and the SSE Airtricity League First Division title in 2021 and was a key member of the 2019 First Division winning side. 

Luke Byrne said: “This is the day I’ve dreaded for a long time. After much thought, consideration and talking to those closest to me, I’ve made the decision to retire from playing football.

It’s been the hardest decision of my life, but at this moment in time it’s the right decision for me. I’ve given everything to football but it’s come at a cost. Years of fighting back from injury and battling through chronic pain has taken its toll. It’s time for me to give up the game I love. 

I have played for incredible clubs and met many amazing people. Luckily some I will call friends for life. I want to say thank you to every coach, team mate, supporter and person who played a part in my career. A special thanks goes out to my family, who gave up so much to allow me to live my dream. Without you none of this would have been possible. My dad was my first coach and to this day, my biggest fan. 

Throughout my career there were many highs and lows, but I have no regrets. I loved every moment. Football, thank you. You owe me nothing and I owe you everything.

Damien Duff, Head Coach, Shelbourne FC said: “This is the day I’ve dreaded for a long time also. You are a class act, the best of the best. Luke, thank you. You owe me nothing and I owe you everything.”

Shelbourne FC extends its deepest gratitude to Luke Byrne for his invaluable contributions and wishes him the very best in his future endeavours.

He leaves a legacy as one of the finest to ever wear the iconic Red shirt and will always be warmly welcomed at Tolka Park.

Posted on 2023-11-222023-11-22

Shelbourne Football Club are delighted to announce Matty Smith has agreed a new deal with the club.

Becoming the fourth signing of the day for Damien Duff’s side, which also earlier saw Paddy Barrett put pen to paper on a new contract and Sean Gannon and Keith Ward join the Reds for next season.

The 26-year-old Scottish attacker endured an injury-interrupted season in 2023 that saw him make 19 appearances in the League of Ireland.

Despite the ankle injury that curtailed the second half of the season the attacker scored four vital goals for Damien Duff’s side last season, playing his part as the Reds secured a fourth place finish in the League of Ireland, their highest since 2006.

Smith also won the League of Ireland Goal of the Season, with his strike in the 2-2 draw with Shamrock Rovers emerging as the winner of a public vote.

Smith joined the Reds on loan from Derry City in the summer of 2022 and made a massive impact before making the move from the Brandywell on a permanent basis at the start of 2023 season.

A native of Dundee, Smith made 13 starts and scored twice for the Reds in 2022, his first goal coming against old club St Pats in a 4-4 draw at Tolka Park, while the attacker also netted in the 6-0 demolition of Drogheda United at the end of the 2022 season.

In 2023, Smith was on the scoresheet in the victories over Cork City and Sligo Rovers, as well as draws with Shamrock Rovers and Sligo Rovers.

Damien Duff, Shelbourne FC Head Coach said: “Matty will be like a new signing for us in 2024, a big new signing. He will be disappointed by how last year went, but knowing Matty’s character, I am in no doubt he will come back stronger and better than ever.  When fit he is a match winner in this league. Having an amazing work ethic and brilliant attacking qualities is why it was so important in getting him to sign back. I can’t wait to see him fit and firing again in a Shels shirt.”

Matty Smith said: “Signing back with Shels feels like a fresh start for me. I’m thrilled to be here, it’s a fantastic club and I’m eager to get back on the pitch. Last season’s injury was a setback, but I’m determined to work hard and show what I’m about. I’m excited about the journey ahead in the league and Europe and know I can make a positive impact.”

Posted on 2023-11-222023-11-22

Shelbourne Football Club is delighted to announce that Paddy Barrett has signed a new contract with the club.

The 30-year old has put pen to paper on a deal that will keep him at Tolka Park until November 2024.

Since arriving to the club last winter the Waterford native has become a key player for Damien Duff’s side.

Barrett made 26 appearances in the League of Ireland Premier Division last season, scoring two goals, both of which turned out to be vital on the road to a fourth placed finish.

The defender scored the winner in the 2-1 victory over St Pats at Tolka Park while also netting in the 4-2 win over Drogheda United on the final night.

Damien Duff, Shelbourne FC Head Coach said: “I am very proud that Paddy has put his faith in us for another year. He has been brilliant for the club and he is so popular on and off the pitch. He is a man mountain, someone that loves to defend but has so much class on the ball also. He played a massive part in the team’s success last year and I expect more from him next season.”

Paddy Barrett said: “I am delighted to finally get it sorted. I really enjoyed last season and what I contributed to the team in my first season. I’m looking forward to next season we’ve a good group of players and staff so hopefully we can build on last season, improve and be better again.”

Posted on 2023-11-222023-11-22

Shelbourne FC are pleased to announce the arrival of Keith Ward to Tolka Park.

The midfielder will add considerable experience to Damien Duff’s squad in 2024 as he enters his 17th season in the League of Ireland.

The 33-year-old made his debut in 2008 with UCD, before going on to play for Dundalk, Bohemian FC, Sligo Rovers, and Derry City.

A hard working and agile midfielder, Ward won the League of Ireland Premier Division with Dundalk in 2014.

Since making his senior debut in 2008, coming off the bench for UCD’s final two games of that campaign, Ward has played 410 games at senior level, scoring 37 goals.

Ward moves to Tolka Park from Dundalk where he spent the last two seasons, the Dubliner made 20 appearances for Stephen O’Donnell’s side in 2023.

Damien Duff, Shelbourne FC Head Coach said: “I have always been very impressed by Keith when we have played against him over the past two years. He has incredible technical ability, an infectious enthusiasm and a brilliant winning mentality that will be priceless for our dressing room. We are all very excited to get on the training pitch with him and see his class.”

Keith Ward said: “I’m absolutely thrilled to join Shels. The club’s going in the right direction and I was delighted when Damien called and told me he wanted me to be here next season. I’m eager to contribute and have a lot to give, it’s a massive club and I’m really excited to get going now.”

Posted on 2023-11-222023-11-22

Shelbourne FC are delighted to announce the signing of Sean Gannon.

The Ringsend native becomes Damien Duff’s first new signing for 2024. He joins the Reds having been part of the Shamrock Rovers side who won four League of Ireland titles in a row.

An accomplished defender Gannon is one of the most decorated players in League of Ireland history, a serial winner he has been part of ten League of Ireland winning sides, and has three FAI Cup winners medals, as well as three EA Sports Cups, and three FAI President’s Cups.

The 32-year-old was in high demand following his departure from Tallaght at the end of the 2023 season and his arrival at Tolka is a significant boost for Damien Duff and his side as they approach next season with high hopes.

Gannon has made over 300 senior appearances in the League of Ireland and FAI Cup since making his debut with Shamrock Rovers in 2011. The Dubliner counts the Hoops, St Patrick’s Athletic and Dundalk FC among his former clubs.

Damien Duff, Shelbourne FC Head Coach said: “We are all delighted to get Sean over the line. The foundation of our team over the past two seasons has been our defence and Sean is another great addition. He has an incredible CV but most importantly he has top quality that he will bring to the team. I am very excited to see him play for this great club.”

Sean Gannon said: “I couldn’t be happier to join Shelbourne FC. It’s an honour to be part of such a special club, I’m from Ringsend, I know what this club means to people. It’s a place I’ve always wanted to come to in my career.  I’m excited to bring my experience to the team. Damien’s vision for the next few years is really exciting and I’m delighted to be part of it. Shels is an ambitious club and I’m very happy to be calling Tolka Park home from today.”

Posted on 2023-11-202023-11-20

by Pat Cordelle

Chris Bennion: Born in Edinburgh, the goalkeeper had two spells with Shelbourne in 2002 and 2012 with whom he made 22 League, 5 FAI Cup and 2 League Cup appearances. The former schoolboys international joined the youth set-up at Hearts of Midlothian. In 1997 he joined Middlesbrough but made just one appearance and was loaned out to Scunthorpe United. In 2002 he was signed by the Reds as a second choice keeper to Steve Williams. On the 06 July 2012, Bennion re-joined the Reds from Monaghan United following their withdrawal from the League of Ireland.

Ally Gilchrist:  Born in Edinburgh, the rugged and aggressive centre-back previously played for St. Johnstone, Elgin City, Peterhead, Derry City and Shamrock Rovers. He joined the Reds ahead of the 2021 season. He made 26 appearances and helped the club win promotion back to the Premier Division. He had a good season at Tolka Park but was allowed to leave to join Cork City in Nov 21.

Martin Gritton: Although born in Glasgow, he moved to the South- West of England at an early age. The journeyman pro travelled the length and breadth of England plying his trade in the basement divisions of the EFL. The striker was signed on loan from Plymouth Argyle in 2001, he made 2 starts, 4 sub league appearances for the Reds plus a goal scoring appearance in an FAI Cup tie away to Finn Harps. The university educated Gritton now works as a PR guru and as a co-commentator for BBC Radio Devon and Radio Humberside. 

Jimmy Johnstone & John Deans: The two Celtic legends were signed in the bleak, bleak winter of 1977/78 at a time when the Reds very existence was threatened. Their arrival in Dublin was a huge boost not just for Shels followers but also for League of Ireland football. Deans played a hand full of games before returning to Scotland without scoring a goal. Johnstone remained in Irish football for about three months, making twelve appearances in the League and League Cup. No words of mine could ever describe the genius that was “the wee man” Jimmy Johnstone. In 2002 he was voted as the greatest ever Celtic player. After leaving the Reds he returned home for a final fling in the Scottish Highlands with Elgin City.

Dougie Wood: Born in Musselburgh, Scotland, Wood played for eleven seasons with Derry City in the Irish League, from 1961- 1972 where he enjoyed legendary status. The defensive midfielder played in the same team as former Red, Joey Wilson, that won the Irish Cup in 1963/64 and the Irish League the following season. He had brief spells with several clubs before finishing his career playing with Shelbourne where he played alongside former Celtic greats Jimmy Johnstone and Dixie Deans for a short time. Three Jocks in the Shelbourne team for the first time.

John McCole: Shelbourne signed the Glasgow born centre forward ahead of the start of the 1964/65 season. McCole had an impressive goal scoring record with his previous clubs, Bradford City, Leeds United and Rotherham United before linking up with the Reds. He was allowed to leave Tolka Park after just four competitive games. Interestingly, his first three games for the Reds were played in three competitions- Presidents Cup, Shield and City Cup. 

Alex Hair & Jimmy Hewieson: One for the historians, the records show that, Hair born in Glasgow scored an astonishing 29 goals in 22 appearances helping Shels win the League Title 1931.Hewieson was  born in Rutherglen, within sight of the river Clyde, was part of the same team as Alex Hair, was capped once for Scotland against Northern Ireland.

Marc McCulloch & Stuart Malcom:  Both were born in Edinburgh and the pair arrived at Tolka Park in the transfer window of 2007 to play in the Discover Ireland Division1 League. Both were around the block of the Scottish lower divisions before linking up with the Reds. McCulloch, a real fans favourite amongst the Shels faithful, made 19 appearances, Malcom made 17 appearances scoring once in a 5-2 away win over Kilkenny City. The 2007 season, the one after the crash in 2006, was one to forget. The Scottish duo were once again on their travels at the end of the season.

Robert Raeside: The 28 year old South African born central defender, parents brought him to Scotland when just three months old, played for Raith Rovers, Dundee and Arbroath. He was signed on a month’s contract as cover for the injured Pat Scully. Raeside played just 45 minutes football for the Reds in a Champions League tie away to FK Sloga. He was booked in the first half and was hooked at half-time.

Mark Hutchison: Born in Edinburgh, the stylish Scottish left full back was signed from Finn Harps, having previously played with Sligo Rovers whom he joined from Stenhousemuir. He made his Reds debut in the historic first away win in European competition, away to Sloga. Mark made four appearances in Europe, home and away against FK Sloga and Rosenberg. The defender made a total of 44 appearances in all competitions for Shelbourne. He joined Shels on January 1, 2000 and left on 1 July, 2001 for Sligo Rovers.

Mark Roberts: Born in Irvine, the midfielder was signed on a one year contract by Shels in the summer of 2002 when his last club Airdrieonians folded. Previously he played 8 seasons with Kilmarnock in the SPL and one season with Falkirk. He scored six goals in twenty seven appearances with the Reds, which included two games in the Champions League. The highlight of his Shelbourne career-scoring the only goal in a 1-0 victory over Shamrock Rovers in December 2002- the lowlight the aggregate defeat in CL to Maltese minnows, Hibernians. Roberts, a skilful operator left at the end of his contract to join St. Mirren.

 Matty Smith: Born in Dundee, started his career with Dundee United and subsequently had loan spells with Montrose and Cove Rangers before moving to Ireland with Waterford, St. Patrick’s Athletic and Derry City. The winger/striker was signed by Shels from Derry City, initially on loan before a permanent deal was agreed in December 2022. Smith made an impressive debut coming on as sub in a 3-0 FAI Cup win at the Carlyle Grounds, Bray. He made 11 appearances for the Reds in 2022 and 19 in 2023 before injury curtailed his involvement with the first team in the second half of the season. A good player with a great work ethic. 

Posted on 2023-11-172023-11-17

Shop @ Tolka Park | Saturday November 18th from 11am-3pm

Shelbourne FC is thrilled to introduce its eagerly anticipated 2024 home jersey, crafted in collaboration with O’Neills.

This new shirt blends tradition with cutting-edge design.

The jersey was unveiled by Shels players Pearl Slattery and Mark Coyle in Dublin port today, a fitting surround as the shirt pays tribute to the club’s roots in the heart of Dublin’s Docklands.

With the Reds, founded in 1895 quickly establishing itself as a Dockers Team at that time.

The new jersey is on sale now online from shelbournefc.ie/shop, the club shop will open this Saturday November 18th from 11am-3pm with the new hone jersey in stock and available to purchase in all sizes.

Posted on 2023-11-122024-01-04

If you are a new Season Ticket Holder please purchase here.

If you are renewing your Season Ticket please purchase here.

Shelbourne Football Club have today launched our season tickets for next season.

Having secured a fourth place finish in the League of Ireland Premier Division and made it to the final of the Women’s FAI Cup, 2024 promises to be another memorable chapter in the Reds storied history.

The club plans to mark the Tolka Park centenary with a special programme celebrating the Dublin sporting institution.

Season tickets offer the best value to supporters who attend most home games at Tolka Park.

For 2024, prices have been frozen at the same rate as last year for adults for both new and for renewals.

Season Tickets will give access to both SSE Airtricity League of Ireland Premier Division and Shelbourne FC home matches and the Women’s League of Ireland.

Season Ticket Benefits 2024:

• Full access to all Men’s Premier Division and Women’s Premier Division home matches
• First option to purchase tickets for away games or entry to ballots for high demand away fixtures.
• 10% discount inside the Shels Club Shop

Pricing for 2024 Season Ticket below:

Category	2024 Standard	2024 Loyalty
Adult	€275	€250
Under 12	€80	€70
Student	€200	€180
Sr Citizen	€180	€160
Family (2+2)	€650	€610
Family (1+2)	€420	€380
Family (1+1)	€340	€310

If you are a new Season Ticket Holder please purchase here.

If you are renewing your Season Ticket please purchase here.

Please note when purchasing a concession ticket, you will need to collect the ticket from Tolka Park with relevant ID or email your ID to Niall@Shelbournefc.ie.

Match pricing for our women’s League of Ireland games at Tolka Park will be announced in due course.

Fixtures for our home games in the League of Ireland Premier Division will be categorised from 2024.

For category A games against Shamrock Rovers, Bohemian FC, and St Patrick’s Athletic, tickets will cost €21 for adults, €16 for students, €13 for teens and €9 for children.

For category B games against Derry City, Dundalk FC, Sligo Rovers, Drogheda United, Galway United, and Waterford FC, tickets will cost €19 for adults, €16 for students, €14 for senior citizens, €11 for teens and €8 for children under 12.

We have decided to follow the lead of our competitors and charge an additional handling fee for matchday tickets. Rather than separate the costs we will advertise the full price i.e. include the handling fee. We will use the additional revenues to help us make improvements around the ground and to upgrade the matchday experience. 

Match Tickets 2024	2023	2024 price before handler fee (Category B)	Handler Fee	2024 price total (Category B)	2024 price before handler fee (Category A)	Handler Fee	2024 price total (Category A)	Cost of 18 games	Cost of Season Ticket (Non-Renewal/Renewal)	Saving with Season Ticket (Non-Renewal/Renewal)	% saving with Season Ticket (Non-Renewal/Renewal)
Adult	€17	€17	€2	€19	€19	€2	€21	€354	€275/€250	€79/€104	22%/29%
Student	€12	€12	€2	€14	€14	€2	€16	€264	€200/€180	€64/€84	24%/32%
Senior	€12	€12	€2	€14	€14	€2	€16	€264	€180/€160	€84/€104	32%/40%
Teen	N/A	€9	€2	€11	€11	€2	€13	€210	€150/€140	€60/€70	29%/33%
Child u12	€6	€6	€2	€8	€7	€2	€9	€150	€80/€70	€70/€80	47%/53%

Season Tickets are now even better value. Get yours now:

If you are a new Season Ticket Holder please purchase here.

If you are renewing your Season Ticket please purchase here.

Posted on 2023-11-112023-11-11

Dublin, November 11th, 2023:  — Shelbourne FC is delighted to announce that Damien Duff has put pen to paper on a new contract extension with the club.

Duff took over at Tolka Park in 2021. He’s made an enormously positive contribution and his influence in the growth and development of the club on and off the field has been immeasurable.

This contract extension reaffirms the club’s commitment in Duff’s ambitious vision for the future. The club is confident that under his guidance, Shelbourne will continue to grow and once again become a competitive force in domestic competition.

In his first year at Tolka Park, Duff guided the newly promoted Reds to a 7th place finish and a first FAI Cup final appearance in over a decade.

During his second season, the Reds continued to grow and improve and secured their highest League of Ireland finish since 2006, ending the season in 4th spot, with a chance of playing in Europe depending on the result of tomorrow’s FAI Cup final.

Shelbourne FC is delighted that Duff’s backroom staff of Joey O’Brien, David McAllister, Paul Skinner, Mauro Martins and Mark Cornish have also also put pen to paper on new contracts with the club.

Damien Duff, Head Coach Shelbourne FC said: “Shelbourne FC, born in 1895 is a Dublin Institution. It is built on hard work, respect, humility and honesty. This can never be lost. See you in Tolka soon, UTFR”

Before Season Tickets officially launch early next week, we’re inviting existing Season Ticket Holders to get yours now. 

If you are renewing your Season Ticket please purchase here.

—

Darren Cleary 

Shelbourne FC 

Head of Media and Communications

Darren.Cleary@shelbournefc.ie 

Posted on 2023-11-112023-11-11

Dublin, November 11th, 2023:  — Shelbourne FC is delighted to announce the restructuring of its shareholding, to align with the ambitious growth plans of the club.

The club are pleased that long term supporter and shareholder Mickey O’Rourke has acquired, through TDL Media, the shareholding of Acun Media. Under the terms of the agreement, Acun Media do not require repayment of their investment made in the club. Mickey O’Rourke will continue to work alongside other Irish and US shareholders.

The new shareholder structure will support the achievement of Shelbourne’s strategic vision and the implementation of our five-year plan, including the ambitions of our men’s 1st team manager Damien Duff, who has signed a new contract, as well as our soon-to-be appointed women’s 1st team manager. The shareholders wish to note their commitment to securing and renovating Tolka Park, the status of which is currently at final stages with Dublin City Council.

Mickey O’Rourke of Shelbourne FC, said: “This is a very exciting day for Shelbourne FC, which brings a re-alignment of the ambitious plans we have set out for the Club. It is up to us now, as a group of shareholders, staff members, volunteers and most importantly our fans, to continue our trajectory and bring this club back to where it belongs, the top of Irish football.

Barry Mocke, Shelbourne FC CEO said: “As we have stated before, our goal is to have a positive impact on Irish football as a whole, in both sporting and social terms. We are making enormous progress as a club, but we have lots of work to do. We have an incredibly dedicated group of staff, volunteers and the most passionate and loyal fan base in the country. I am looking forward to working with all stakeholders as we collectively drive the club forward”.

ENDS

—

Darren Cleary 

Shelbourne FC 

Head of Media and Communications

Darren.Cleary@shelbournefc.ie