Tough draws for Limerick sides in FAI Junior Cup

All six Limerick teams left in the New Balance FAI Junior Cup were given tough assignments in the last 64 of the competition. Five of the six representatives were given away games. 

Arguably, Limerick’s best hopes and last year’s beaten finalists Pike Rovers were given the toughest draw as they must overcome St. Kevin’s Boys of Dublin if they are to make it to the sixth round. St. Kevin’s Boys have been a well known footballing nursery over the years and have produced several Irish international’s including Burnley duo Jeff Hendrick and Robbie Brady. 

Regional United were drawn away to Killarney Celtic who reached the semi final stage in 2016 having beaten Janesboro in the quarter final stage. Ballynanty Rovers will face either Drogheda Town or Muirhevna Mor of Dundalk who will have to play the fourth round fixture first. Either way, a trip to County Louth awaits Donal Magee’s side who reached the final in 2014. Ballynanty will be hoping that the presence of at least four players from that side will help aid their progress. 

Aisling Annacotty were handed an away trip to Cork to face Blarney United while Geraldines have the furthest to travel as they face Donegal based outfit Glengad United.

The only Limerick District League side to be handed a home draw were Newport as they will host Carbury FC. Division 1B side Newport will be looking to draw inspiration from both Coonagh and Shelbourne who made it to the last 32 of the competition last season from the same level.