Cronin craves a ‘huge’ night at Thomond Park

IRELAND hooker Sean Cronin says Friday night’s clash with the Barbarians at Thomond Park will be a ‘huge’ occasion for him if, as is widely expected, he receives game-time in the glamour MasterCard Trophy clash.
Limerick man Cronin, who has won two full international caps to date, has enjoyed a highly-successful season with Amlin Challenge Cup semi-finalists Connacht.
With Rory Best ruled out of Ireland’s four game end-of-season fixture programme which includes a tour to New Zealand and Australia, hooker Sean Cronin is likely to add to his haul of international appearances in the coming weeks.
The dynamic 24-year-old returns to Thomond Park this Friday night (7.45pm), a venue he is very familiar with from his playing days with Shannon and for a shorter period in the Munster Academy.
Speaking at Ireland’s team base at UL Sean Cronin said: “It (Friday) is going to be a huge night, the chance to play in front of a packed house at Thomond Park. I played a lot of my rugby there at under-age and with Shannon.
“If I am selected it will be a big night for me, for my family and everything that goes with it.
“If selected I have to try and put that to one side and prepare myself as best I can for the game.
“The training have been going extremely well. All of the guys have been pulling together really well. I think everyone involved in the squad is looking forward to these three or four games. It is all ahead of us now.
“It is going to be a tough three and a half weeks. There are a lot of guys going down here with a point to prove in terms of selection for the future. I don’t think they are going to be feeling any tiredness at the end of year.
“In terms of selection, I have to put my best foot forward and hopefully give them some headaches.”
Ireland’s starting XV to face the Barbarians this Friday night is due to be revealed at lunch-time today.
Former Ardscoil Ris star Cronin said he was happy with his move to Connacht 18 months ago where he has been able to get more regular first team action. But he is not ruling out the possibility of a return to his native Munster should the opportunity arise.
“It reached a stage where I had to sit down and weigh up my options, to be honest. Deccie (Kidney) was coaching Munster at the time and I had a good chat with him,” Sean Cronin said.
“We looked at what the best option for me would be. There was a lot of competition in Munster at the time. They were going extremely well, winning Heineken Cups and stuff.
“I had to be honest with myself.
“I am happy that I made the decision to go to Connacht. It has worked out reasonably well.
“Munster is close to my heart. I was in the academy here and I got a few caps with the senior squad.
“The fellows I was in the Munster Academy with here are pushing on into the senior squad, the likes of Tommy O’Donnell, Dave Ryan, Duncan Williams and Billy Holland.
“Obviously from seeing them play on TV down here and at Thomond Park, it is both good to watch and hard to watch. I would never say never about coming back here anyway.”
Two Munster players have been included in the Barbarians side to face the Ireland XV in Friday night’s game.
Paul Warwick will line out at full-back while flanker Alan Quinlan will team up with Wallaby legend George Smith and Cardiff Blues number eight Xavier Rush in a powerful looking back-row. Kiwi Xavier Rush will also captain the side.
Paul warwick (Munster); Cedric Heymans (Toulouse), Casey Laulala (Cardiff Blues), Seru Rabeni (Leeds Carnegie), David Smith (Hurricanes); Brock James (Clermont Auvergne), Pierre Mignoni (Toulon); David Barnes (Bath Rugby), Schalk Brits (Saracens); Census Johnston (Toulouse); Jerome Thion (Biarritz), Malcolm O’Kelly (Leinster); Alan Quinlan (Munster), George Smith (Brumbies), Xavier Rush (Cardiff Blues) (Capt).
Replacements: Julian White (Leicester), Benoit August (Biarritz), Rodney So’oialo (Hurricanes), Martyn Williams (Cardiff Blues), Byron Kelleher (Toulouse), Jean-Baptiste Ellisalde (Toulouse), Paul Sackey (Wasps), Fabrice Estebanez (Brive).

COLM KINSELLA

Limerick FC cancel Barca clash

SADLY, Limerick FC have confirmed that the proposed friendly with FC Barcelona on Saturday, July 31 at Thomond Park has now been canceled.
Last week Limerick FC were mere hours away from signing an agreement with the Spanish giants, but the Football of Association of Ireland refused to sanction the game. On Thursday Limerick FC released a statement criticising the FAI for refusing to do so while the club estimated that the event could be worth €10 million-plus to the local economy.


Following several days of controversial press coverage FC Barcelona, on Monday evening, contacted Limerick FC requesting a final clarification on whether the proposed friendly was likely to go ahead. Considering the FAI stance Limerick FC officials had no option but to resign themselves to the fact that, practically, the friendly could not go ahead.
On Tuesday night the club publicly admitted that the game was off - Limerick FC explained that FC Barcelona needed to finalise their pre-season plans, especially since the club planned to begin their Asian tour in the first week of August.
The statement also indicated that its wording had been agreed by Barcelona officials and that “the only reason that this match is not going ahead is the decision of the Airtricity League Director (Fran Gavin) and the FAI not to sanction the proposed match”.
Limerick FC also claim in their latest statement that FC Barcelona emailed FAI officials on Monday, May 17 confirming their desire to play at Thomond Park and stated their disagreement with the decision not to sanction the game.
Limerick are also eager “to thank FC Barcelona for the professional nature in which all negotiations were carried out and their support for Limerick FC’s attempts to get the necessary sanction from the FAI. Limerick FC would also like to thank its fans, its fellow league clubs and all the public who supported their call for sanctioning of the game.
“It is extremely disappointing,” the statement reads, “that Limerick FC and FC Barcelona will now not meet in Thomond Park as a result of the decision by the Airtricity League Director and the FAI not to sanction the game. The loss to the region both economically and in terms of improving the profile of soccer in the region is enormous.
“Limerick will continue to appeal the decision of the Airtricity League Director as a matter of principle as there is a need to fully clarify the position all Airtricity League clubs now find themselves in with regards to the receiving of a sanction for friendly games of this nature.
“Limerick FC,” the statement concludes, “still hope that at some stage in the future they will be in a position to welcome FC Barcelona to the mid-west region and allow all sports lovers the opportunity to see some of the world’s greatest stars in person”.

Fixtures clash
Originally the FAI cited a clash with Airtricity League fixtures as their reason for refusing to sanction the game, but the national association has since explained that they are precluded from doing so because of an agreement signed with a third party charged with bringing friendlies, which would attract crowds in excess of 15,000, to Ireland.
The FAI have scheduled an Airtricity League XI to play Manchester United at the Aviva Stadium on August 4. The Man United match could clash with European ties for Irish clubs with Bohemians potentially playing in the second leg of the Champions League and several other Airtricity League clubs embroiled in Europa League action.
In conversation with Marian Finucane on RTÉ Radio One Football Association of Ireland CEO John Delaney elaborated on the FAI’s decision not to sanction Limerick FC’s proposed friendly with Spanish giants FC Barcelona while he also labeled Limerick FC officials as “naive”.
“I think Limerick have acted very naively in the whole situation,” FAI CEO John Delaney explained.
John Delaney also said that the FAI were contractually bound to a third party in terms of arranging friendly games involving Irish clubs.
“We would have a relationship in terms of the organisation of friendlies coming into Ireland and there are certain games that we can grant and certain games that we cannot grant in terms of attendance figures,” John Delaney said.
Limerick Fine Gael TD Kieran O’Donnell, who was also party to the discussion on RTÉ Radio One, challenged John Delaney on his ability of the FAI to sanction the game.
“It’s not within out ability,” John Delaney replied.

Hardened stance
On Monday evening the FAI released a statement as its stance hardened on the Limerick FC issue.
In that detailed statement the national association emphasised its sole objective to foster the game in Ireland and that any profit the FAI makes is “delivered straight back into the development of the game”.
Even though Limerick FC furnished Leader Sport with a copy of the heads of agreement contract between Limerick FC and FC Barcelona for the friendly in question, the FAI questioned the bona fides of that contract. In the statement the FAI also outlined that the national association is precluded legally from granting friendly games in stadiums with a capacity in excess of 15,000 and that the FAI is obliged to retain ownership of Saturday, July 31 because of Airtricity League fixtures.
Late on Monday night Limerick FC publicly replied to that FAI statement in an effort to clarify their stance on the issue. The Super Blues refuted the FAI claim that they were aware of the third party commercial agreement in question.
Once more they reiterated the fact that the reason they were given for the FAI refusal to sanction the proposed friendly was because of a clash with Airtricity League fixtures. The club were also annoyed by the FAI accusation that they had not finalised the deal to bring FC Barcelona to Limerick. In fact Limerick had reached an agreement with the Spanish giants, but could not sign the contract as the FAI were required to sanction the deal beforehand.

Ramifications
The issue could have wide-ranging ramifications on the Airtricity League since the FAI’s third-party agreement essentially precludes all clubs from arranging similarly attractive friendlies against top class opposition.
Such an arrangement could prove disastrous for Limerick FC. The club’s five-year plan features a determination to arrange such friendlies, in conjunction with Thomond Park, as a major part of its fund-raising initiatives. Now, it appears that Limerick FC will not be in a position to raise much-needed funds in that way.
Limerick FC have lodged an official objection with the FAI Disciplinary Control Unit regarding the Airtricity League Director’s refusal to sanction the friendly against FC Barcelona. A letter regarding same from Limerick FC was scheduled to arrive at the FAI HQ in Abbotstown on Tuesday.

FAI Ford Cup
The draw for the third round of the FAI Ford Cup took place on Monday night - Limerick FC will face either Tolka Rovers or Tralee Dynamos at Jackman Park on the weekend of June 6.

Brian McDonnell

FAI harden friendly stance

DESPITE all 19 of Limerick FC’s Airtricity League club colleagues moving a motion on Monday night to support the Super Blues in their on-going battle with the Football Association of Ireland the FAI have hardened their stance and as a result Limerick FC officials are now resigned to the fact that FC Barcelona will not be playing at Thomond Park on Saturday, July 31.


The controversy erupted on Thursday last when Limerick FC released a statement criticising the FAI for refusing to sanction a friendly against the Spanish giants.
Originally the FAI cited a clash with Airtricity League fixtures as their reason for doing so, but the national association has since explained that they are precluded from sanctioning the game because of an agreement signed with a third party charged with bringing friendlies which would attract crowds in excess of 15,000 to Ireland.
On Monday night, just hours before the FAI Ford Cup third round draw, a meeting of the Airtricity League clubs saw all members vote to support the Limerick FC stance while it is understood that the league members will now seek the exact details of the FAI agreement which precludes all clubs from arranging high-profile friendlies.
On Monday evening the FAI released a statement as its stance hardened on the Limerick FC issue.
In that detailed statement the national association emphasised its sole objective to foster the game in Ireland and that any profit the FAI makes is “delivered straight back into the development of the game”. The FAI have suggested that the agreement they have signed with regard to friendlies is “to benefit the game as a whole”.
Even though Limerick FC have furnished Chronicle Sport with a copy of the heads of agreement contract between Limerick FC and FC Barcelona for the friendly in question, the FAI have once again questioned the bona fides of that contract. In the statement the FAI also outlined that the national association is precluded legally from granting friendly games in stadiums with a capacity in excess of 15,000 and that the FAI is obliged to retain ownership of Saturday, July 31 because of Airtricity League fixtures.
The FAI have also pointed to the fact that all Airtricity League clubs, including Limerick FC, have signed a participation agreement which entitles the FAI to enter into any agreement which its sees as beneficial to the game and that no club can arrange a friendly without the national association’s prior consent.
Late on Monday night Limerick FC publicly replied to that FAI statement in an effort to clarify their stance on the issue. The Super Blues have refuted the FAI claim that they were aware of the third party commercial agreement in question and that it referred to stadiums with a capacity in excess of 15,000. Once more they have reiterated the fact that the reason they were given for the FAI refusal to sanction the proposed friendly was because of a clash with Airtricity League fixtures.
The club were also annoyed by the FAI accusation that they had not finalised the deal to bring FC Barcelona to Limerick.
In fact Limerick had reached an agreement with the Spanish giants, but could not sign the contract as the FAI were required to sanction the deal beforehand.
Sadly, Limerick FC have now learned that FC Barcelona are now assessing other potential pre-season friendlies before the Spanish champions embark on their Asian tour in August.
Therefore there is little if no chance that the friendly will go ahead at Thomond Park on Saturday, July 31 and the mid-west region has missed out on an estimated €10 million in revenue associated with the potentially ground-breaking event.
It is also thought that the issue could have wide-ranging ramifications on the Airtricity League since the FAI’s third-party agreement essentially precludes all clubs from arranging similarly attractive friendlies against top class opposition.
Such an arrangement could prove disastrous for Limerick FC. The club’s five-year plan features a determination to arrange such friendlies in conjunction with Thomond Park as a major part of its fund-raising initiatives. Now, it appears that Limerick FC will not be in a position to raise much-needed funds in that way.
On Monday, speaking exclusively to the Limerick Leader, club chairman Pat O’Sullivan explained that he was not going to take the FAI decision “lying down”, but he, like all Super Blues supporters, must be very concerned by the position the club now finds itself in.
Limerick face Waterford United on Tuesday night at 7.45pm at Jackman Park in the semi-final of the Munster Senior Cup while the third-placed Super Blues are back in Airtricity League First Division action this Friday night when they travel to take on league leaders Derry City at the Brandywell.
Although over-shadowed by the FC Barcelona controversy the draw for the third round of the FAI Ford Cup took place on Monday night - Limerick FC will face the winner of the second round clash between Tolka Rovers and Tralee Dynamos at Jackman Park on the weekend of June 6.
In other news Chronicle sport has learned that Pike Rovers, who were thrown out of the FAI Junior Cup following an arbitration hearing last week, have been reinstated to the Munster Junior Cup. The Hoops were scheduled to take on Carrick United in the semi-finals last April, but the Munster Football Association decided to postpone that semi-final until the result of the protracted dispute over the eligibility of certain Pike Rovers players following an FAI Junior Cup quarter-final against St. Michael’s (Tipperary) was known.
Pike Rovers expected the Munster Football Association to follow the example of the arbitrator in last week’s decision to remove the Limerick club from the FAI Junior Cup, but, extraordinarily, the Hoops have been reinstated in the Munster Junior Cup and will host Carrick United at Jackman Park on Saturday, May 29 at 7.30pm.

Brian McDonnell

FAI respond to Limerick FC statement

THE Football Association of Ireland have responded to a Limerick FC statement which criticised the national body's refusal to sanction a high-profile friendly between the Super Blues and FC Barcelona on Saturday, July 31 next.


Limerick FC, led by chairman Pat O'Sullivan, arrived at an agreement this week with the Spanish giants which would see the Airtricity League club take on FC Barcelona, featuring marquee names such as Lionel Messi, at Thomond Park.
The FAI however refused to sanction the game which could have benefited the local economy to the tune of €10 million.
The FAI released a statement on Thursday evening (May 13) stating: “As the FAI has already told Limerick FC, their request for authorisation to confirm to FC Barcelona that they would be able to play in Ireland on July 31, was refused because of third party commercial agreements which prevent the Association from doing so.
“In addition, the FAI has also told Limerick FC that it is in active and ongoing negotiations with FC Barcelona in relation to a visit to the Aviva Stadium.
“Thirdly, the association told Limerick FC that it was obliged to retain ownership of the July 31 date because of Airtricity League fixtures.
“Although the timing of Limerick FC’s proposal means this request cannot be granted, the FAI has already given permission to Limerick FC for a match it applied for involving Sunderland in Thomond Park on July 13”.

Brian McDonnell

FAI refuse to sanction friendly with FC Barcelona

LIMERICK FC were left reeling this Thursday afternoon with the news that the Football Association of Ireland has refused to sanction a high-profile friendly against Spanish giants FC Barcelona at Thomond Park.


As previously reported by Leader Sport Limerick FC have confirmed that they were engaged in on-going negotiations with FC Barcelona with a view to hosting a friendly against the 2009 European champions at Thomond Park this coming July.
The Airtricity League club, led by CEO Pat O'Sullivan, were thrilled when they reached an agreement with FC Barcelona to schedule the match for Saturday, July 31 - that contractual agreement guaranteed that the FC Barcelona team to play the Super Blues would include marquee stars such as Lionel Messi, Zlatan Ibrahimovic, Xavi and all new marquee signings.
The proposed fixture was subject to sanctioning by the Football Association of Ireland. Unfortunately, Limerick FC have now been informed by the FAI that the Airtricity League Director has refused to sanction the game. Sadly, the failure of the FAI and the Airtricity League Director to sanction this game ensures that fans throughout the mid-west region and beyond will not have the opportunity to see the world’s greatest stars in action.
“This is a massive setback for Limerick FC, Limerick city and the mid-west region,” Pat O’Sullivan, the Limerick FC chairman, said reacting to this devastating news.
“We along with Thomond Park and local tourism bodies have worked tirelessly to bring a team of the stature of FC Barcelona to the sports-mad mid-west region. The potential benefit to the local economy of up to €10 million and to the profile of soccer in the region is enormous. This makes it imperative that the Airtricity League Director reverse his decision, sanction this match and allow fans all over the region see the likes of Lionel Messi grace Thomond Park in July.”
As previously reported by Leader Sport a UK-based sports agent visited Limerick last week with the stated intention of bringing FC Barcelona to the mid-west. The agent in question attended Limerick FC's Airtricity League First Division game against Shelbourne while he also inspected the facilities at the Gaelic Grounds. The continued existence of the GAA's Rule 42, which prohibits sports other than Gaelic Games being played at the Ennis Road venue, essentially pointed to Thomond Park as being the only Limerick venue capable of hosting such a unique event.
Leader Sport is currently awaiting a response to the story from the Football Association of Ireland.

Brian McDonnell

Premier League soccer comes to Thomond Park

ON Tuesday afternoon Sunderland chairman Niall Quinn announced the details of an exciting charity match between his English Premier League side and a Munster XI which will form the centre-piece of ‘A Day For Shane’ in honour of Shane Geoghegan.
The game, in association with the Shane Geoghegan Trust, will take place on Tuesday, July 13 at Thomond Park and although the game itself will kick-off at 7.45pm ‘A Day For Shane’ will also include a schools long puck competition, a celebrity penalty shoot-out, mini-rugby and hurling, celebrity Sumo wrestling and a parade of sport while Munster stars will also compete in a novel 100-metre dash.
The Sunderland chairman Niall Quinn was joined at the launch by Munster Rugby president Declan Madden, Limerick FC CEO Pat O’Sullivan and Tony Geoghegan of the Shane Geoghegan Trust.


“We are now bringing the team over to support the on-going work that the Shane Geoghegan Trust so valuably carries out. All funds from the night will go to this marvellous initiative and we hope to continue supporting it for a long time,” an enthusiastic Niall Quinn explained.
‘A Day For Shane’ has been billed as a family event and the ticket prices have been structured accordingly - €5 for children and €20 for adults.
Niall Quinn also insisted that Sunderland will be treating the game as part of their pre-season preparations and that Steve Bruce will bring his A squad to Thomond Park.
“Absolutely, Steve Bruce is really looking forward to coming,” Niall Quinn said.
“We have a pre-season plan worked out for our team and this is a very important part of it, it is the first game we play. The players will have done a fortnight’s training and will get themselves in shape for the game.”
Niall Quinn also called on the “powers that be” to back-up the work of the Shane Geoghegan Trust.
“Officially it’s a game of football for Sunderland, but there’s a lot more than that happening. A great family day, a sports and cultural day that will be so fitting to such a marvelous trust and to such a marvelous memory to keep alive like Shane Geoghegan’s. He was a brilliant and brave sportsman who did all he could as the captain of his club,” Quinn said.
“I want to get one very strong message out there, that the people that have the power back something like this. That they have the belief in the Shane Geoghegan Trust and back it all the way.
“I hope the people who have the purse strings will release those purse strings and grow and nurture the Shane Geoghegan Trust.
“The expertise to do it is there and I am 100 per cent certain that this will be such a successful thing over the years to come. This could be a fitting tribute to Shane, but it will only be a fitting tribute if people get behind it.”
The Munster XI selection, managed by Limerick FC’s Pat Scully, will be drawn from Airtricity League clubs around the province while the event organisers also hope to attract a number of established international footballers with links to Munster to be part of the team.
Pat O’Sullivan, CEO of Limerick FC, said he was delighted to have the Super Blues associated with such a momentous event: “Limerick FC are delighted to be able to assist the Shane Geoghegan Trust as the goals of both organisations are very similar in relation to their commitment to the local community.
“People on the ground in Limerick need to look within themselves and say what can we do to help,” Pat O’Sullivan insisted.
“I would like to think this trust could be a catalyst to help bring all the different mindsets and groups together.
“We should look at the problems we have in our city and recognise that sport is the simplest tool to help solve those problems.
“That’s the sole reason I got involved in Limerick soccer.
“We need to keep the club alive just like we need to keep the Shane Geoghegan Trust strong.
“But it’s not about money all the time, it’s about leadership.”
Munster Branch president Declan Madden said they were delighted to make Thomond Park available for this unique event: “Munster Rugby are delighted to be associated with such a worthy project and to be able to make Thomond Park available to host the Sunderland game.
“It is appropriate that Munster Rugby supports the Shane Geoghegan Trust as Shane was a true rugby person who played and loved the game, was a great clubman with Garryowen FC and embodied all the qualities of heart and spirit which makes Munster Rugby what it is.
“It’s terribly unfortunate what happened to Shane, that he was the unfortunate victim of a mindless crime.
“But if something good comes of this, having known Shane, he would be very happy.”
Tony Geoghegan, chairman of the Shane Geoghegan Trust and Shane’s uncle, said the event would be “a day for Shane, a day for Munster and a day for fun and I would urge the people of Munster to come out and support their team”.
The Shane Geoghegan Trust was set up in the aftermath of Shane’s murder to provide children with an alternative to anti-social behaviour by making a range of sporting and cultural activities available to them.
A ‘Day For Shane’ will take place on July 13 in Thomond Park.
Tickets for the event will range from €5 for children and €20 for adults. For more see: www.sgt3.com

FC Barcelona
A Thomond Park source has refuted a claim made in the Limerick media this week that a delegation was flying out to Spain this Wednesday (May 12) to finalise a deal which would see the 2009 European champions Barcelona play a friendly at the Limerick venue this July.
Leader Sport has confirmed that a UK-based sports agent did visit Limerick last week.
The agent in question attended Limerick FC’s Airtricity League First Division game against Shelbourne while he also inspected the facilities at the Gaelic Grounds.
The continued existence of the GAA’s Rule 42, which prohibits sports other than Gaelic Games being played at the Ennis Road venue, essentially points to Thomond Park as being the only Limerick venue capable of hosting such a unique event.
Limerick FC have confirmed that the club officials from the Airtricity League club met with the sports agent in question, but that suggestions of FC Barcelona playing a high-profile friendly at Thomond Park were premature.
A soccer friendly could not take place at Thomond Park without the express permission of the Football Association of Ireland.
Limerick FC have indicated that the club has fielded a number of applications proposing to bring high-profile soccer clubs to the region, but that no agreement is in place with regard to Pep Guardiola’s Barcelona side.
Limerick FC have also confirmed that it remains a stated ambition of the club to host high-profile friendlies in the city in their efforts to raise the profile of the game in Limerick and to raise much-needed funds for the Airtricity League club.

Brian McDonnell

A fitting tribute to Shane

ON Tuesday afternoon Sunderland chairman Niall Quinn announced the details of an exciting charity match between his English Premier League side and a Munster XI which will form the centre-piece of ‘A Day For Shane’ in honour of Limerick man Shane Geoghegan.


The game, in association with the Shane Geoghegan Trust, will take place on Tuesday, July 13 at Thomond Park and although the game itself will kick-off at 7.45pm ‘A Day For Shane’ will also include a schools long puck competition, a celebrity penalty shoot-out, mini-rugby and hurling, celebrity Sumo wrestling and a parade of sport while Munster stars will also compete in a novel 100-metre dash.
The Sunderland chairman Niall Quinn was joined at the launch by Munster Rugby president Declan Madden, Limerick FC CEO Pat O’Sullivan and Tony Geoghegan of the Shane Geoghegan Trust.
“We are now bringing the team over to support the on-going work that the Shane Geoghegan Trust so valuably carries out. All funds from the night will go to this marvellous initiative and we hope to continue supporting it for a long time,” an enthusiastic Niall Quinn explained.
‘A Day For Shane’ has been billed as a family event and the ticket prices have been structured accordingly - €5 for children and €20 for adults.
Niall Quinn also insisted that Sunderland will be treating the game as part of their pre-season preparations and that Steve Bruce will bring his A squad to Thomond Park.
“Absolutely, Steve Bruce is really looking forward to coming,” Niall Quinn said.
“We have a pre-season plan worked out for our team and this is a very important part of it, it is the first game we play. The players will have done a fortnight’s training and will get themselves in shape for the game.”
Niall Quinn also called on the “powers that be” to back-up the work of the Shane Geoghegan Trust.
“Officially it’s a game of football for Sunderland, but there’s a lot more than that happening. A great family day, a sports and cultural day that will be so fitting to such a marvelous trust and to such a marvelous memory to keep alive like Shane Geoghegan’s. He was a brilliant and brave sportsman who did all he could as the captain of his club,” Quinn said.
“I want to get one very strong message out there, that the people that have the power back something like this. That they have the belief in the Shane Geoghegan Trust and back it all the way. I hope the people who have the purse strings will release those purse strings and grow and nurture the Shane Geoghegan Trust. The expertise to do it is there and I am 100 per cent certain that this will be such a successful thing over the years to come. This could be a fitting tribute to Shane, but it will only be a fitting tribute if people get behind it.”
The Munster XI selection, managed by Limerick FC’s Pat Scully, will be drawn from Airtricity League clubs around the province while the event organisers also hope to attract a number of established international footballers with links to Munster to be part of the team.
Pat O’Sullivan, CEO of Limerick FC, said he was delighted to have the Super Blues associated with such a momentous event: “Limerick FC are delighted to be able to assist the Shane Geoghegan Trust as the goals of both organisations are very similar in relation to their commitment to the local community.
“People on the ground in Limerick need to look within themselves and say what can we do to help,” Pat O’Sullivan insisted.
“I would like to think this trust could be a catalyst to help bring all the different mindsets and groups together. We should look at the problems we have in our city and recognise that sport is the simplest tool to help solve those problems. That’s the sole reason I got involved in Limerick soccer.
“We need to keep the club alive just like we need to keep the Shane Geoghegan Trust strong. But it’s not about money all the time, it’s about leadership.”
Munster Branch president Declan Madden said they were delighted to make Thomond Park available for this unique event: “Munster Rugby are delighted to be associated with such a worthy project and to be able to make Thomond Park available to host the Sunderland game. It is appropriate that Munster Rugby supports the Shane Geoghegan Trust as Shane was a true rugby person who played and loved the game, was a great clubman with Garryowen FC and embodied all the qualities of heart and spirit which makes Munster Rugby what it is.
“It’s terribly unfortunate what happened to Shane, that he was the unfortunate victim of a mindless crime.
“But if something good comes of this, having known Shane, he would be very happy.”
Tony Geoghegan, chairman of the Shane Geoghegan Trust and Shane’s uncle, said the event would be “a day for Shane, a day for Munster and a day for fun and I would urge the people of Munster to come out and support their team”.
The Shane Geoghegan Trust was set up in the aftermath of Shane’s murder to provide children with an alternative to anti-social behaviour by making a range of sporting and cultural activities available to them.
A ‘Day For Shane’ will take place on July 13 in Thomond Park.
Tickets for the event will range from €5 for children and €20 for adults. For more see: www.sgt3.com

Brian mcdonnell

All set for a Heineken Cup cracker at Thomond Park

FOR the fifth time in eight seasons Thomond Park hosts an Anglo-Irish pool decider in the Heineken Cup as in-from Munster lock horns with Guinness Premiership high-flyers the Northampton Saints this Friday night (8pm).


Munster will secure a home quarter-final in the Heineken Cup in April with victory over second-placed Northampton in their high stakes round six pool match.
Two-time Heineken Cup winners Munster would remain strong favourites to make the quarter-finals for the 12th successive season as group runners-up, even with a defeat on Friday night.
However, any quarter-final berth secured in those circumstances would be away from home.
Northampton Saints, winners over Munster in the 2000 Heineken Cup final and again when the sides met in the pool stages of this season’s competition in October, are currently within two points of Munster.
Tony McGahan’s Munster men maintained their grip on top spot in the pool with a thoroughly convincing 44-7 victory over Benetton Treviso at the Stadio Comunale di Monigo on Saturday. Munster ran in six tries against the hapless Italians with centre Keith Earls helping himself to a brace. Northampton remained in touch after recording a last gasp, 34-0, bonus-point win of their own over USAP Perpignan at Franklin’s Gardens yesterday.
Munster received a timely boost ahead of Friday night’s showdown at Thomond Park when Marcus Horan played his first game in 11 weeks when lining out for Shannon in their AIL Division 1A tie against Dolphin at Coonagh on Saturday.
Horan, who played the full 80 minutes for the AIL holders, said he felt fine afterwards and was pleased to be back playing after undergoing a routine medical procedure in October.
Prop Horan may well be included in the Munster squad for the big clash against the Saints.
While pleased with their win against Treviso, Munster skipper Paul O’Connell warned that Northampton would provide a different level of opposition at Thomond Park next Friday night.
“There was some good rugby there. Sometimes that happens, you can get over the gain line and things start happening.
“I have no doubt the game against Northampton, the English League leaders, will be very much different. I would not read a lot into the match with Treviso,” O’Connell warned.
“I was a bit worried about our match fitness beforehand. A few of us perform best when we have a couple of games under our belts. At the same time we are very fresh. I think while we were worried about the break, it can be a good thing for us as well. Friday’s game in Thomond Park should be a cracker.”
Following his side’s 34-0 bonus point win over USAP Perpignan yesterday, Northampton’s rugby director, Jim Mallinder said they were unhappy with just a five-day turnaround between their round five and round six games.
“We were disappointed at only having five days between our last two games, especially as Munster got six,” Mallinder said.
“It was because of the short turn around time that we made some of the substitutions in the second half.
“We wrote to ERC to explain why we were unhappy at the decision and Premier Rugby backed us up. But now we have to get on with it and we will go to Munster on the back of 10 wins in a row. The team have shown over the last few games that they have massive belief in themselves and we are on a good run.
“We will be going to Thomond Park looking for a victory and we have the belief we can win there. We have a pack who are competitive and we showed that when we beat Munster in the first round. You can’t afford to be intimidated going to a place like Thomond Park and you have to stand toe-to-toe with a side like Munster.”

COLM KINSELLA

Munster - contingency plan in place

MUNSTER rugby chiefs remain confident that Sunday’s crucial Magners League clash with the Llanelli Scarlets will go ahead as scheduled in Musgrave Park despite the current cold snap.
A Munster spokesman said that the playing surface at Musgrave Park was covered and they were optimistic it would be playable for this Sunday’s game which has a 5pm kick-off time.


The spokesman revealed this Wednesday that a contingency plan had been put in place to transfer the fixture to Limerick’s Thomond Park should Musgrave Park be deemed unplayable due to the freezing temperatures.
Should the venue for the round 11 tie need to be changed, then such a decision will be made on Saturday.
The pitch at Musgrave Park is due to be inspected at lunchtime this Friday in the presence of a referee and again on Saturday evening.
Munster officials are keeping Llanelli officials updated on the situation.
The safety of supporters standing on terraces inside Musgrave Park as well as on the approach roads to the ground will be key factors in determining whether this weekend’s game goes ahead. Munster Rugby chiefs have plans to use a grit mix of salt and sand to ensure surfaces are safe for fans attending the game should the freezing temperatures continue.
Munster will bid to record their ninth straight win against the Llanelli Scarlets when they sides meet in a crucial Magners League tie at Musgrave Park this Sunday (5pm).
Holders Munster are clinging to the fourth and final pay-off spot in the Magners League table as a result of their 15-10 defeat at the hands of Ulster in Ravenhill last weekend.
With the three sides directly below Munster in the table all within three points of Tony McGahan’s men, each of the Magners League holders’ eight remaining fixtures in the regular season is crucial.
On the back of Munster’s loss to Ulster in Ravenhill at the weekend, the Magners League holders will be anxious to record a sixth victory of the campaign in order to keep in touch with the league pace-setters.
Following Sunday’s game Munster will take a break from Magners League action for six weeks until Friday, February 19 when Edinburgh visit Musgrave Park.
However, Munster will be involved in their final two Heineken Cup pool matches later this month.
Tony McGahan’s men visit the Stadio di Monigo to face Benetton Treviso on Saturday, January 16 before hosting the Northampton Saints in their final pool fixture at Thomond Park on Friday, January 22.
Munster manager, Shaun Payne believes it will be the final rounds of the Magners League in April before the outcome of the fiercely fought battle for top four play-off places is finally known.
Shaun Payne said: “The Magners League has been fiercely competitive. There is something like seven or eight points separating the top seven sides in the competition at the moment.
“It will be April before we get a clear idea as to which sides will make it through to the play-offs.”
The Magners League semi-finals will take place in mid-May with the Grand Final set for Saturday, May 29 with a provisional kick-off time of 6.30pm.
Munster are set to welcome back their Irish internationals, including the likes of Paul O’Connell, Donncha O’Callaghan, David Wallace and Keith Earls into their squad for Sunday’s game in Cork.
The Irish stars have been on two weeks of ‘active rest’ following their demanding playing schedule in the autumn internationals, Heineken Cup and Magners League in recent months.
Prop Marcus Horan, who has been sidelined since coming off in Munster’s Heineken Cup Pool match with Benetton Treviso at Thomond Park in October remains in line to make his return to competitive rugby action this weekend.
Marcus Horan had been due to feature for Shannon in their ODM Munster Senior Cup semi-final clash with UCC at Clifford Park on Saturday last. However, the game fell victim to the current cold snap.
A decision was due this Wednesday on whether Horan would be included in Munster’s squad for Sunday’s Magners League tie with the Scarlets or whether he would feature in Shannon’s squad for their scheduled All-ireland League Division 1A clash with St Mary’s College at templeville Road the previous day.
Munster’s starting line-up to face the Scarlets will be confirmed this Friday.
Munster will be hoping to extend their excellent home record of which has seen the province win each of their last 13 fixtures at Thomond Park and Musgrave Park in all competitions.
Munster’s 22-20 victory over the Scarlets at Parc y Scarlets in the Magners League in September made it eight successive wins for the Irish province over the Welsh side.
The Scarlets last victory over Munster was their 24-15 heineken Cup quarter-final victory in March 2007.
The Scarlets’ international fly half Stephen Jones will be an absentee when the Welsh side face Munster this weekend after injuring a shoulder against the Dragons on New Year’s Eve.
The Scarlets’ 14-9 victory over the Dragons ended a four game losing streak in all competitions.

Colm Kinsella

Munster in line for top award

MUNSTER Rugby are in line to win a major international sports event management award for their staging of the Munster and All Blacks clash at Thomond Park in November of last year - Munster Rugby has been shortlisted in the Event Marketing category of the SportBusiness Sports Event Management Awards which will be presented at Lord’s Cricket Ground in London on November 10.
The shortlist also includes the organisers of the Aviva London Grand Prix and the ICC World Twenty20 Cricket.
As only three events have been shortlisted in this category Munster Rugby await confirmation of whether they have won the gold, silver or bronze award. Celebrating best practice and achievement, the SportsBusiness Sports Event Management awards recognise excellence in the global sports event management industry.
Last year’s awards were dominated by the Beijing Olympic and Paralympic Games with other nominees this year including the Indian Premier League, the WTA Tour Championships, ICC World Twenty20, The Wimbledon Championships and the FIFA Confederations Cup.
Munster Rugby CEO, Garrett Fitzgerald said the award was a huge acknowledgement of the efforts and hard work of everyone involved: “To be recognised with an international sports event management award is a testimony of how Munster Rugby strives for excellence off the field as well as on.
“It was a wonderful occasion with thanks due to all our sponsors. It was a real honour for us to host the All Blacks in Thomond Park who are such an iconic brand in world rugby.”
Paul Dalton, Commercial Manager of the New Zealand Rugby Union said that the match against Munster had been ‘an incredible experience for the All Blacks’.
“The 30th anniversary of a very important piece of rugby history with many of those original players present, the new stadium opening, the huge build-up over the week, the then Heineken Cup champions against the number one team in the world, the intense pressure on both teams and the amazing crowd,” Paul Dalton said.
“It was a once in a lifetime experience and the rugby lived up to it!”
Meanwhile Tony McGahan’s stuttering Munster side will be hoping to avoid a Halloween horror when they host Ulster in a crunch Magners League tie at Thomond Park this Saturday (5pm). Munster will be hoping to bounce back from their hugely disappointing defeat at the hands of Edinburgh on Friday last when they face table toppers Ulster this weekend.
Sixth-placed Munster currently trail in-form Ulster by five points in the Magners League after six series of games. In the corresponding fixture last season Ulster recorded a runaway 37-11 victory at Thomond Park.
And earlier last season it was Ulster who ended Munster’s five-game winning start in the Magners League.
Following Saturday’s game, the Magners League will take a five-week break as the autumn internationals take centre stage. Munster’s will resume their League programme away to the Ospreys on Saturday, December 5.

Colm Kinsella

FAI release Italian tickets

The Football Association of Ireland has announced that it will pre-release a limited number of seats for the forthcoming World Cup qualifier against Italy at tonight’s international friendly against South Africa in Thomond Park (kick-off 7.30pm) - the tickets will be available for one night only for supporters at Thomond Park before going on general sale from mid-September.


Meanwhile tickets are still available for tonight’s game against South Africa from Gleeson Sports Scene (Mahon House, 25 Upper William Street, Limerick) and the Thomond Park ticket office. Tickets are priced - schoolboy €7, North and South Terrace €20, East and West Terrace €30, East and West Stand €40, Child Stand ticket €20.
Slightly more than 19,400 soccer fans turned up to see the Republic of Ireland lose three-nil to Australia mere weeks ago at Thomond Park.
After goals from Robbie Keane and Kevin Doyle in Nicosia on Saturday propelled Ireland to a priceless three points in their 2-1 win over Cyprus Giovanni Trapattoni allowed Irish stars Shay Given, Richard Dunne, Robbie Keane and Kevin Kilbane to return to their clubs.
In addition Stephen Hunt has returned home for personal reasons, Glasgow Celtic’s Darren O’Dea has joined the squad while Aiden McGeady and John O’Shea also departed the squad last evening.
Wolves’ striker Kevin Doyle will captain the side tonight which features eight changes from the team which started against Cyprus in Nicosia on Saturday in the crucial World Cup qualifier.
The Ireland starting team to face South Africa is: Keiren Westwood (Coventry City); Stephen Kelly (Fulham), Sean St. Ledger (Preston North End), Paul McShane (Hull City), Eddie Nolan (Preston North End); Liam Lawrence (Stoke City), Darron Gibson (Manchester United), Keith Andrews (Blackburn Rovers), Andy Keogh (Wolves); Kevin Doyle (Wolves - captain), Caleb Folan (Hull City).

Brian McDonnell

FAI hope Cyprus win will boost attendance

THE FAI will be hoping that the feel-good factor associated with the Republic of Ireland’s 2-1 win over Cyprus will help to boost the attendance at tomorrow night’s international friendly against South Africa at Thomond Park ( 7.30pm).


Goals from Robbie Keane and Kevin Doyle in Nicosia on Saturday propelled Ireland to a priceless three points and although Italy beat Georgia 2-0 Giovanni Trapattoni’s men now find themselves facing a huge game against the Italians in Croke Park on October 10.
The Republic of Ireland take their first step toward that game against Italy next month on Tuesday night when Giovanni Trapattoni’s improving side host next summer’s World Cup hosts at Thomond Park - South Africa played Germany in an international friendly on Saturday and lost 2-0.
The Irish manager has long stated that the friendly against South Africa will be used to give some fringe members of his squad game time at Thomond Park - in keeping with that suggestion Trapattoni has allowed Shay Given, Richard Dunne, Robbie Keane and Kevin Kilbane to return to their clubs. In addition Stephen Hunt has returned home for personal reasons while Celtic’s Darren O’Dea has joined the squad.
The Republic of Ireland will train at Cooke Park (St. Michael’s FC, Tipperary) today while the South African players will become acquainted with Thomond park this afternoon.
Tickets are still available for the attractive encounter from fai.ie, Gleeson Sports Scene (Mahon House, 25 Upper William Street, Limerick) and the Thomond Park ticket office. Tickets are priced - schoolboy €7, North and South Terrace €20, East and West Terrace €30, East and West Stand €40, Child Stand ticket €20.
Slightly more than 19,400 soccer fans turned up to see the Republic of Ireland lose three-nil to Australia mere weeks ago at Thomond Park.

Republic of Ireland squad: Kieren Westwood, Joe Murphy, John O’Shea, Stephen Kelly, Eddie Nolan, Sean St. Ledger, Paul McShane, Darren O’Dea, Aiden McGeady, Damien Duff, Darron Gibson, Glenn Whelan, Keith Andrews, Liam Miller, Andy Keogh, Liam Lawrence, Kevin Doyle, Caleb Folan, Shane Long & Leon Best.

BRIAN MCDONNELL

Ireland return to Thomond Park next Tuesday

GIOVANNI’S Trapattoni’s Republic of Ireland return to Thomond Park on Tuesday, September 8 next when they face South Africa at the Limerick venue (kick-off 7.30pm).
Despite suffering a heavy three-nil defeat at the hands of Australia Giovanni Trapattoni has named an identical squad ahead of the Republic of Ireland’s crucial World Cup qualifier against Cyprus - the 24-man squad will also stand for the national side’s friendly against South Africa at Thomond Park next Tuesday.


The Republic of Ireland face Cyprus in Nicosia on Saturday, September 5 knowing a positive result would edge them closer to qualification - the Republic of Ireland currently lie second in group eight and remain unbeaten during their campaign.
A win in Nicosia would see the Irish end the Cypriots’ hopes of reaching the play-offs - the hosts are currently eight points behind Ireland, but with a game in hand.
The Republic of Ireland won the reverse fixture at Croke Park in October when Robbie Keane’s goal in the fifth minute proved the difference between the sides.
The friendly against South Africa will pit Giovanni Trapattoni’s men against the hosts of next summer’s tournament with the Irish manager keen to give some fringe members of his squad game time at Thomond Park.
As expected the Football Association of Ireland have revised their ticket-pricing structure for the up-coming international friendly at Thomond Park.
For the game against South Africa tickets, including a family-friendly children’s ticket, went on sale on August 24 - tickets will are available from the following outlets: www.fai.ie, Gleeson Sports Scene, Mahon House, 25 Upper William Street, Limerick and the Thomond Park ticket office. Tickets will be priced - schoolboy €7, North and South Terrace €20, East and West Terrace €30, East and West Stand €40, Child Stand ticket (under-16) €20. South Africa will include a number of well-known players in their squad, such as Benni McCarthy of Blackburn, Steven Pienaar of Everton and Aaron Mokoena of Portsmouth.
The Bafana Bafana will play Ireland three days after taking on Germany in Munich on September 5, the same day as Ireland’s World Cup qualifier in Cyprus.
Slightly more than 19,400 soccer fans turned up to see the Republic of Ireland lose three-nil to Australia mere weeks ago at Thomond Park.
Ireland were completely out-classed on the night when Pim Verbeek’s side stroked the ball effortlessly across a pristine Thomond Park and threatened Shay Given’s goal at will - two first half strikes from Tim Cahill and a late David Carney effort from 30 yards gave Australia their deserved win.

Squad: Shay Given, Kieren Westwood, Joe Murphy, John O’Shea, Kevin Foley, Richard Dunne, Stephen Kelly, Kevin Kilbane, Eddie Nolan, Sean St Ledger, Aiden McGeady, Damien Duff, Darron Gibson, Glenn Whelan, Keith Andrews, Liam Miller, Stephen Hunt, Andy Keogh, Liam Lawrence, Caleb Folan, Kevin Doyle, Robbie Keane, Shane Long & Leon Best.

Brian McDonnell

FAI revise ticket prices for friendly with South Africa

AS expected the Football Association of Ireland have revised their ticket pricing structure for the up-coming international friendly at Thomond Park.
Last week FAI CEO John Delaney admitted that ticket prices for the Republic of Ireland’s clash with Australia at Thomond Park were too high while he also indicated that the pricing structure would be revised for the friendly against South Africa on Tuesday, September 8.


“Well, we got 19,400 in and I know when Ireland played a rugby game there against Canada they got 19,000 in,” John Delaney said.
“But I think we have to be more flexible on the pricing for the South Africa game.
“I think we have to look at a more family-orientated price as well. I think we probably got a little learning off that, to be honest. But still, 19,400 was a good turnout and, in terms of the overall running of the organisation, the difference between playing at home and playing an away friendly, along with the TV monies we get from Sky, it’s a significant profit for the organisation.
“In the wider context of the week, too, about 7,000 people saw the training in St Michael’s and, with all the openings that we did, there is a long-term legacy out of what we have done down here this week.”
Of the official 19,428 attendance on Wednesday, August 12 2,000 complimentary tickets were circulated while another 2,000 were sold to schoolboys priced at just €7. The terrace tickets, priced at €25 and €35, sold out, leaving at least 6,000 of the €55 stand tickets unsold.
For the same against South Africa tickets, including a family friendly children’s ticket, will go on sale from next Monday, August 24 - tickets will be made available from the following outlets: www.fai.ie, Gleeson Sports Scene, Mahon House, 25 Upper William Street, Limerick and the Thomond Park ticket office. Tickets will be priced - schoolboy €7, North and South Terrace €20, East and West Terrace €30, East and West Stand €40, Child Stand ticket (under-16) €20.
South Africa will host next summer’s World Cup and will include a number of well-known players in their squad, such as Benni McCarthy of Blackburn, Steven Pienaar of Everton and Aaron Mokoena of Portsmouth.
The Bafana Bafana will play Ireland three days after taking on Germany in Munich on September 5, the same day as Ireland’s World Cup qualifier in Cyprus. The friendly against South Africa will provide a good opportunity for Giovanni Trapattoni’s players to get another game under their belts in preparation for the decisive Group 8 clash with current world champions Italy, in Croke Park.
Giovanni Trapattoni will name his squad to play Cyprus and South Africa this Friday, August 21.
Meanwhile the Limerick District League returns to action this evening.
Pike Rovers, who have won the Premier League title for the past two years, take on Kilmallock at the Pike Club - kick-off is 6.30pm. While that is the only District League fixture taking place today several games are down for decision tomorrow night while a full programme of action is scheduled for this weekend.
Sean Hehir Bookmakers have installed Pike Rovers as hot favourites to win their third consecutive league title.
The Hoops, who saw off the challenge of second-placed Fairview Rangers with five points to spare last season, are priced at 3/1 while their nearest rivals, Fairview Rangers, are 9/2.
The next likely league contenders Janesboro (7/1) and Regional United (9/1) do look strong this season, but many expect the battle between Pike Rovers and Fairview Rangers to reach epic proportions.
The first really big game of the season takes place this Sunday when Fairview Rangers host Regional United at the Fairgreen (10.30am).
Although Regional United finished fourth last season they have made some significant signings and could yet exact a big influence on the final destination of the 2009-10 Kilmurry Lodge Premier League title.

BRIAN MCDONNELL

Irish squad prepare for tantalising Thomond clash

IRISH soccer manager Giovanni Trapattoni put his players through their paces at St. Michael’s FC in Tipperary Town this morning as the countdown to Wednesday’s friendly against Australia at Thomond Park begins in earnest.
Trapattoni had just 14 players at his disposal for yesterday’s first squad session which was watched by 1,500 enthusiastic fans, but the size of the squad was bolstered by the overnight arrival of several players who had been in club action cross-channel.
Among those who were set to join up with the squad for today’s training session at Cooke Park were Manchester United star John O’Shea, the Manchester City duo of Shay Given and Richard Dunne as well as Glasgow Celtic’s Aiden McGeady and Spurs striker Robbie Keane.
Damien Duff, Kevin Doyle and Stephen Hunt were among some of the bigger names who trained with an unusually lean Irish squad in Tipperary Town yesterday. Doyle, who was introduced as a substitute, but missed a penalty for Wolves in a friendly against Real Valladolid on Saturday, has only recently recovered from a hernia operation.
Wolves manager Mick McCarthy has said that he hopes the striker gets 45 minutes for Ireland on Wednesday and Irish boss Trapattoni is set to start Doyle in attack.
The friendly clash with Australia has a 7.30pm kick-off time and will be televised live on Sky Sports.
An attendance of 20,000 is expected for the fixture.
Tickets are still available for the friendly from Gleeson Sport Scene, Upper William Street in Limerick city, from Thomond Park and from Ticketmaster.
Wednesday night’s game in Limerick is the first time the Republic of Ireland have played a full international outside of Dublin since 1985.
A number of special events have been organized locally to co-incide with the big game.
Geraldines AFC will celebrate the opening of their new dressing room facilities tomorrow at 4pm.
On Wednesday an FAI Football Fun for All Day will be hosted at Shelbourne Park between 4pm and 7pm.
The fact that the Irish squad is based in Tipperary this week, and playing a game at nearby Thomond Park, makes it a very special occasion for squad member Shane Long.
Tipperary man Long admits he would love to become a regular starter in Trappatoni’s Irish side.
“The match against Australia is still an opportunity to make an impact, a chance for the so-called substitute players to shine,’’ Shane Long said.
“And with the possibility of qualifying for the World Cup finals there, every player in the squad wants to take that chance.”
The Irish squad will complete their preparations for the clash with the Socceroos by having a light work-out at Thomond Park at tea-time tomorrow.
The Republic of Ireland’s opponents Australia held a squad session in Gannon Park, Malahide today. They will get their chance to have a run out at Thomond Park tomorrow afternoon.
Meanwhile the FAI is to hold a workshop in Limerick on Wednesday entitled ‘Developing Football Developing Communities’. The FAI is using the senior international friendly against Australia to hold the event in the Kilmurry Lodge, Limerick.
The half-day national workshop will bring together county and city councils, RAPID area representatives, Local Sports Partnerships and Garda community liaison representatives to discuss the many community based social programmes being implemented in partnership with the FAI.

COLM KINSELLA

Payne: ‘A lot of competition for places’

MUNSTER rugby manager Shaun Payne has stressed the importance of the three upcoming friendlies against English Premiership opposition to the Magners League champions’ pre-season preparations.
As the Munster squad and management team jetted out to Vilamoura, Portugal for a week-long training camp today Payne said the Musgrave Park fixtures with the Sale Sharks on Friday, August 14 and London Irish on Friday, August 21 and the Welford Road clash against the Leicester Tigers seven days later would prove key elements in helping them finalise their starting line-up for the opening competitive match away to the Glasgow Warriors on September 4.
Munster are set to be without their British & Irish Lions contingent of Paul O’Connell, Ronan O’Gara, Donncha O’Callaghan, Keith Earls and David Wallace until the fourth week of the Magners League campaign. But their absence will allow several less experienced players to gain valuable match time for the province in the opening games of the new Magners League season.
Munster manager Payne also issued positive medical bulletins about hooker Jerry Flannery, who was sidelined with an elbow injury, and scrum-half Tomas O’Leary, who sustained a broken ankle in April.
Both players are recovering well from the injuries which forced them to miss the Lions tour to South Africa.
“Our Lions players, who were in South Africa, are in Portugal until Sunday so that we can give them a full week’s training next week,” Shaun Payne pointed out.
“This is their first week back in training. They have had their four weeks’ holidays and we want them to have as little disruption as possible.
“There is a need for us all to be together, but a need for the Lions to have a decent pre-season as well.
“I think a lot of the guys have come back very fit. That has been impressive. I don’t think some of the younger lads had much of a holiday at all from some of the scores that they are posting in the gym.
“There is a lot of competition for places at the moment.
“Ciaran O’Boyle had an operation last week on his hamstring. That could take a while, a couple of months. It could be the end of the year before he is available to us.
“Everyone else is doing well and on track.
“Tomas O’Leary and Jerry Flannery are exactly where we would like them to be, if not ahead of that, in terms of their recuperation.


“They have been doing really well. In the case of Tomas, you don’t want to be getting ahead of yourself.
“You need to keep things going nice and easy. You don’t want to be pushing an injury like that in any way. He is on track.
“At the minute we will not be playing Jerry Flannery. We will see what happens with the pre-season games.
“Jerry’s work ethic is massive. He has obviously gone away and gotten himself in top shape. We are hoping he will be ready for the start of the new season.”
Payne said that two of the latest overseas players to join the squad, Kiwi scrum-half Toby Morland and French prop Julien Brugnaut, had also been impressing.
“Toby Morland is an excellent player, very fit and technically very good as you would expect from a New Zealand scrum-half.
“He is as tough as nails.
“You can only tell so much in training obviously, but we have been very impressed with what we have seen in training so far.
“With Julien Brugnaut we have gone through and studied a lot of his games. We have seen what he is capable of. He is very strong and a very capable fellow, especially in the scrums.
“I am sure he will fit in very well. He can play at tight-head and loosehead and seems very keen.
“He sees playing with Munster as a big honour and that is something we are delighted with.”

Colm Kinsella

Limerick’s feast of football

THE Republic of Ireland’s friendly with Australia on Wednesday forms the centrepiece of four days of soccer activity in Limerick next week.
The Republic of Ireland play their first full international outside of Dublin since 1985 when Giovanni Trapattoni’s team face the Socceroos at Thomond Park on August 12 (kick-off is at 7.30pm).


A feast of football is planned for Limerick beginning on Sunday next when the FAI Under-12 Inter-League Futsal Tournament will be staged at the University of Limerick, beginning at 3pm.
On Monday evening, at the Irish squad’s team base in Tipperary Town, a civic reception will be held to honour Irish manager, Giovanni Trapattoni. On Tuesday, the focus switches back to Limerick when Geraldines AFC will celebrate the opening of their new dressing room facilities at 4pm.
On big-match day, Wednesday, August 12, an FAI Football Fun for All Day will be hosted at Shelbourne Park between 4pm and 7pm. This event will include face painting, soccer skills, crossbar challenge, obstacle course, penalty shootout target and the speed gun challenge.
The Republic of Ireland team will train at St. Michael’s FC’s Cooke Park, Tipperary Town on both Sunday and Monday. Tickets to the training session have already been distributed to members of the public. Meanwhile Irish team manager, Trapattoni has urged his team to produce a performance befitting the fabulous Thomond Park arena.
Not since 1985 when Flower Lodge in Cork hosted the friendly against Spain has a home International being staged outside of Dublin. Trapattoni said: “It will be important to win and produce a great performance in this famous stadium. Hopefully, the stadium will be full of fans.
“This will not be an easy game against Australia, but I am confident. It is important that can get the players together so we see their condition ahead of the World Cup qualifier against Cyprus game in September.
“I hope we can get a good result. It helps for the future and it helps the players believe that qualification for the World Cup is possible.”
The Irish squad will have a run-out at Thomond Park at teatime on Tuesday evening next.
Australia head coach, Pim Verbeek has selected a 22-player squad for the upcoming international, including several players who will be well known to fans of the Premier League - Fulham goalkeeper Mark Schwarzer and Everton playmaker Tim Cahill make the squad along with Lucas Neill, Harry Kewell and Scott McDonald.

Australia: Mark Schwarzer, Ante Covic; Patrick Kisnorbo, Lucas Neill, Rhys Williams, Jade North, Matthew Spiranovic, Adrian Madaschi, Luke Wilkshire; Mark Bresciano, James Holland, Dario Vidosic, Tim Cahill, Nick Carle, Aaron Mooy, Harry Kewell, Oliver Bozanic, David Carney, Mile Jedinak; Scott McDonald, Brett Holman, Nikita Rukavytsya.

Colm Kinsella

Munster make a massive impact

MUNSTER’S magnificent 34-point win over the Ospreys (43-9) in the Heineken Cup quarter-final on April 12 benefited Limerick city and county to the tune of €10.5 million while the persistent success of Tony McGahan’s men is working to improve the perception of the city as a friendly and sociable place among visiting supporters.


At a breakfast briefing hosted by Thomond Park this morning the findings of a recent economic impact study commissioned by Munster Rugby and undertaken by BDO Simpson Xavier revealed that the Heineken Cup quarter-final clash with the Ospreys in April generated €10.5 million for Limerick while the study also revealed that the financial contribution to the city and region has grown by over €6 million since the stadium was re-developed and the respective capacity increased.
Commenting on the impact of the Heineken Cup games on Limerick city and county Munster Rugby CEO Garrett Fitzgerald said: “We are delighted that the investment made in the new stadium is having such a positive economic impact for Limerick and the wider business community.
“We were always aware of the level of business activity in the city on the strength of Heineken Cup matches however these study findings confirm the economic potential of stadium events for Limerick city and the mid-west region.”
Mark O’Connell, Consulting Director with BDO Simpson Xavier, echoed Mr. Fitzgerald’s comments.
“The study reveals a number of major profile benefits for the city in addition to the obvious financial boost these games generate,” BDO Simpson Xavier’s Mark O’Connell explained.
“The previous economic impact study conducted for the Munster versus Wasps game in January 2008 highlighted an almost identical spend per visiting supporter of €530 over the weekend of the games. The major difference for the city is now the ability of Thomond Park to accommodate more Munster and visiting supporters and create a much higher level of economic activity across the city.
“The value of the media coverage for the city and region is also very significant. Games such as the Ospreys game can create a latent tourism spend effect of €12 million for the city based on the international match coverage across all media formats,” added Mr. O’Connell.
“Indeed, it was estimated that the value of global media coverage for the city for the past season was €58 million including the All Blacks game last November.”
Commenting on the overall impact of Munster games at Thomond Park Sales and Marketing Manager for Munster Rugby, Glyn Billinghurst explained that “it is important that we now build on the findings and information gained from these two studies and provide the supporters visiting Thomond Park with activity and events around the match to enhance their visit to Limerick.
“The study also identified a clear need to publicise the activities, offers and events that are organised in Limerick city in advance of any match weekend. This will help grow the major economic impact of any Munster rugby match or event in Thomond Park”.

Brian McDonnell

Time is fast running out for a financially stricken Limerick

TIME is running out for Limerick FC - the club requires a financial injection to the tune of €70,000 from the general public by next Saturday or the 72-year-old Super Blues will cease to exist.
At a public meeting in the Strand Hotel on Sunday evening the League of Ireland club’s management committee outlined the fact that Limerick FC can no longer rely on the financial support of chairman Jack McCarthy and that the process to wind up the club will begin today, June 22.


There is hope however.
Jack McCarthy has allowed the management committee a “stay of execution” until next Saturday, June 27, but a substantial financial commitment is required before then to save the club.
Last night’s meeting, which was opened by PRO Joe Sweeney and attended by 69 members of the public, began with general manager Kieran Judge explaining the financial position of the stricken club.
Kieran Judge explained that the management committee received a letter from Jack McCarthy, dated June 11, which informed the club that Mr. McCarthy was resigning as chairman and that the process involved in winding up the League of Ireland club would begin on Monday, June 22.
To compete in the League of Ireland a club requires an income of at least €200,000 per annum while the Limerick FC budget this season ranges between €240,000 and €250,000 - the Super Blues currently attempt to survive on a gate income of €70,000.
That income is based on an average home gate of 400 paying customers while the club estimates that it requires a constant influx of 1,100 supporters at home games to guarantee the long-term future of the club.
In Jack McCarthy’s 18 months as chairman of Limerick FC the US-based businessman has poured €300,000 into the Super Blues, but McCarthy is now not in a position to support the club from a financial point of view.
“We have lost our main benefactor,” explained Kieran Judge.
“Since we received Jack’s letter we have exhausted every other avenue possible so now we’re turning to the public in an appeal for funds.
“Jack came in intending to stabilise the club and he did that. Now it’s up to the people of Limerick to support it.”
Former CEO of the club Andrew Mawhinney further illustrated the financial woes of the club by pointing out that Limerick FC have exceeded their overdraft limit and that €70,000 was required to keep the club afloat for the rest of the season.
“To be fair to Jack McCarthy, he saved and re-invented the club,” added Andrew Mawhinney, “but like any businessman he has taken a big hit this year and he simply cannot afford to put more money into Limerick FC. Jack is no longer in a position to support the club. And, if a rescue package is not forthcoming the company will be wound up, our League of Ireland licence will be revoked and we will have no team.”
In an emotional address to those in attendance club promotions officer Paul O’Riordan highlighted how far the club has come during the past 18 months while he especially highlighted how the development of the Knockalisheen centre into an income-generating facility could guarantee the long-term future of Limerick FC.
“Our plan has always been to become self-sufficient and with the amount of soccer being played in Limerick and the support for soccer here we should be able to maintain a senior soccer club in Limerick,” Paul O’Riordan said.
“We are confident that self-sufficiency is achievable. We plan to bring the club to that stage, but our problem now is short-term. We want to get to a stage where we no longer have crises like this one and that the club will be able to run itself. We want to develop the best soccer facility in the mid-west, but we are still two or three years away from seeing Knockalisheen developed into an income-generating facility. We are looking to be a club, not just a team.
“Over the last 18 months the management committee has voluntarily devoted over 6,000 hours to the club. We believe in the potential of this club and we believe that there are people out there who can help us drive the club forward. We’re looking to get to a stage where we don’t need anyone to help us out. We don’t want any more bail outs. We want to get to a stage where we can look after ourselves.”
Club secretary Michael O’Sullivan further echoed those sentiments: “we want to give young players a platform to represent Limerick city and county in the League of Ireland. That has been the focus of this club down through the years through all its various guises. Are we going to tell these young players that if you want to play League of Ireland football you are going to have to go to Cork or Galway to do so? I hope not!”
The FAI could find itself facing a significant PR fall out from the meeting in the Strand Hotel on Sunday evening.
When Joe Sweeney opened the meeting to the floor the very first question referred to rumours circulating for the past number of weeks that the FAI had some hand to play in frustrating the Super Blues’ attempts to host a high-profile friendly at Thomond Park.
As previously reported by Leader Sport Limerick FC had lined up Roy Keane’s Ipswich Town for a friendly which Thomond Park was expected to host on July 17 next. That friendly, which could have generated an estimated €100,000 for the club, was cancelled recently with Waterford United now planning to host Roy Keane’s Ipswich Town at the RSC in Waterford on that exact date.
While FAI CEO John Delaney was in Limerick last week, along with International Performance Director Wim Koevermans, for the Kennedy Cup which was hosted by the University of Limerick it is not known at this point whether Mr. Delaney has had any input into how the Super Blues can extricate themselves from their current financial difficulties.
A member of the public who attended last night’s meeting described the rumour that the “FAI had interfered with the staging of a friendly at Thomond Park” as a “scandal” while another speaker on the night said: “the onus is on the FAI to keep the game alive in this city - all this for the sake of €70,000. Their function is to keep clubs like this one alive. They’re the people who should be trying to save this club, but it sounds like they’re actually tripping ye up. In my opinion it’s two fingers up to the FAI if we can manage to keep this club alive.”
Club PRO Joe Sweeney said that “we are in on-going negotiations with the FAI. We’re not at liberty, at the request of the FAI, to discuss the details of those negotiations.”
Former CEO of the club Andrew Mawhinney described the loss of the high-profile friendly to the club as the “saddest day of my life”.
Andrew Mawhinney resigned, due to personal reasons, as CEO of the club last February, but Mr. Mawhinney remained on as a member of the board while he also agreed to take responsibility for two projects on behalf of the club.
A disheartened Andrew Mawhinney said that he was personally disappointed that both projects had failed. Promoting Limerick FC’s return to the Market’s Field was one of those projects.
Although the FAI will present a vision document for the development of a municipal stadium at the Market’s Field to the stakeholders during the coming weeks Mr. Mawhinney did not look confident that a return to the spiritual home of Limerick soccer was in the offing.
Andrew Mawhinney’s other major project involved Limerick FC hosting a high-profile friendly at Thomond Park which the former CEO now admits is “not going to happen”.
Mr. Mawhinney, who looked obviously perturbed by the experience, said that “we were confident of holding a high-profile friendly at Thomond Park, but due to circumstances beyond our control that friendly is not going to happen”.
Limerick FC are hoping that one of two rescue options can save the 72-year-old club from extinction. ‘Rescue Option One’ involves ten additional directors joining the club at a cost of €7,000 per director.
But the most practicable option, and obviously the preferred choice of the club, is ‘Rescue Option Two’.
‘Rescue Option Two’ involves three separate parts - firstly the club hopes that 400 members of the public will join Leo’s Lottery at a cost of €21 per month or €5.25 per week. Four hundred additional subscriptions to the monthly club lotto would generate an income of €31,500 for Limerick FC.
The club also hopes that 37 businesses will contribute €500 (generating €18,500 for Limerick FC) while the management committee also hope that 100 individuals will be prepared to donate €250 to the Super Blues (€25,000 in all).
If you are prepared to make a contribution to the club or if you can help the club surmount their financial obstacles in any way please contact Limerick FC on 061 324 563 or club PRO Joe Sweeney on 086 234 4833 as soon as possible.

BRIAN MCDONNELL

FAI announce details of tickets for Thomond clash

ON Friday afternoon last (June 19) the FAI announced that tickets for the Republic of Ireland’s friendly against Australia in Thomond Park on August 12 will go on sale from Wednesday, June 24 - tickets will be made available to the general public on ticketmaster.ie and will be sold in 18 outlets throughout Munster and Connacht while tickets in Limerick city are available from Gleeson Sports Scene on Upper William Street. Tickets for the game will also be available to buy in Record Rack in Ennis and at Roxy Records in Shannon.
Tickets for this the eagerly-awaited clash will be available for €25 (South terrace), €35 (East and West terrace) and €55 (East and West stands) - 2,000 €7 tickets will also be distributed through schoolboy and schoolgirl clubs throughout the country in July.
Mere weeks ago Republic of Ireland manager Giovanni Trapattoni visited Gleeson Sports Scene, along with FAI CEO John Delaney, to launch 1,000 pre-release tickets for the match against the Socceroos on Wednesday, August 12 (kick-off 7.30pm).
“I am looking forward to returning to Limerick in August to play Australia,” Trapattoni told Leader Sport.
“The game will be a good opportunity to prepare for the important World Cup qualifier against Cyprus on September 5. I hope it will give everyone in the mid-west an opportunity to get behind the team against a highly-rated Australian side. Limerick is a very nice place.
“It’s important to us to play well, to show people what our football is about and to get more kids in the region playing football. We believe that the facilities are there, the stadium is really good and we believe that the fans will come to the stadium for this occasion. This will give the fans an opportunity to watch us. Until now they have only been able to see us on television and we wanted to change that. We hope people will come and join us in Thomond Park.”
Trapattoni made an appearance in Limerick following the Republic of Ireland’s one-all draw in Sofia on Saturday night - a result which should at the very least secure a World Cup play-off spot for Ireland while it also ended Bulgaria’s qualification hopes.
The Republic now trail group leaders Italy by a point while the Italians hold a game in hand over Ireland. Ireland’s next competitive fixture is against away to Cyprus on Sept. 5 and Giovanni Trapattoni will use the game against Australia at Thomond Park as a warm-up for that critical encounter.
The Republic will play a second international friendly against South Africa on Tuesday,
September 8 in Thomond Park before they complete their qualifying campaign against Italy and Montenegro.
Pim Verbeek’s Australian side became the second team, mere hours after Japan, to qualify for the World Cup on Saturday following their nil-all draw away to Qatar - the Australians remain unbeaten in their 2010 campaign and should feature players like Scott McDonald (Celtic), Harry Kewell (Galatasaray) and Tim Cahill (Everton) for their visit to Limerick. The game against Australia respresents the first time the Irish senior team has ever played in Limerick and will be the first meeting of the sides since 2003 when the Irish beat the Socceroos 2-1 at Lansdowne Road.

BRIAN MCDONNELL