International soccer will be gracing Limerick next month, as Dave O’Connell’s Republic of Ireland team look to qualify for the European Championships that were cancelled due to COVID previously.
With a couple of Limerick representatives on the team, it’s set to be a great occasion for Limerick and its soccer spheres. The first game is taking place on October 20th, Ireland will face off in a group with England, Switzerland and Northern Ireland.
On that date, Wednesday October 20th at 19:00, neighbours England will be the opponents for Ireland at Markets Field. A small change from the action that the crowds have been enjoying thanks to the return of Treaty United.
Slightly before that at 14:00 Switzerland will face Northern Ireland at the same venue.
After the England game, all eyes will be on Ireland’s game against Switzerland on Saturday October 23rd at 19:00.
There’s group action earlier that day from Jackman Park as England and Northern Ireland will lock horns.
The Under-19 Women’s side will look to bolster their qualification chances finally when they take on Northern Ireland in the last game of the camp on Tuesday October 26th at 13:00 at Jackman Park.
Manager Dave O’Connell has connections in Limerick from his time with Limerick FC, playing and managing in the late-nineties.
He has done an excellent job since taking up the role in 2011, the U19 team had showed great heart to reach the European semi-finals in 2014 and the team is looking to emulate something like that this time out.
The Limerick connections don’t stop there, with Jenna Slattery and Nicole McNamara (now with Galway) who have both played for Treaty starring in recent squads.
Kilbehenny’s Aoibheann Clancy who now plays for Wexford will also be a part of the U19 squad, however she was called up to Vera Pauw’s senior side as of late too. Exciting times for Ireland U19’s and their Limerick contingent.