Ireland Airtricity Premier League 2014 Preview?

[RIOT88]

Guys, can someone release a preview for Ireland Premier League or wite where can I find season preview, info about transfers, ambitions of the teams and others. Thanks.

[Jase82]

Re: Ireland Airtricity Premier League 2014 Preview?

Guys' date=' can someone release a preview for Ireland Premier League or wite where can I find season preview, info about transfers, ambitions of the teams and others. Thanks.[/quote'] If you go here ... http://www.transfermarkt.co.uk/en/league-of-ireland/startseite/wettbewerb_IR1.html ... They'll list all the transfers for each club in Ireland....

[MPLouis]

Re: Ireland Airtricity Premier League 2014 Preview? The season begin on 7th March ... http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/2014_League_of_Ireland I can't find any season previews online at the moment. This site is useful and will probably have one in due course ... http://extratime.ie/

[Batig0l]

Re: Ireland Airtricity Premier League 2014 Preview? I'm in the middle of preparing a preview on each team. Should have it ready by the end of February, and therefore ready a week before the season begins.

[DublinIreland]

Re: Ireland Airtricity Premier League 2014 Preview? There will also probably be a preview available on http://www.bohemans.ie

[Batig0l]

Re: Ireland Airtricity Premier League 2014 Preview?

Dundalk

Dundalk had a really surprising performance last season, which saw them mount a late title bid and finish a very credible second place in the table. This was a stark contrast to the previous season, where Dundalk finished bottom of the table, and were only reprieved from relegation because Monaghan United went out of business during the season. The financial takeover of the club by a fan’s consortium and the arrival of Stephen Kenny as manager brought and gave Dundalk stability and foundations for a good season. The signings of Stephen O’Donnell, Patrick Hoban and most especially Richie Towell were instrumental in giving Dundalk individual players of quality whom drove the club towards an unthinkable league title. Now the expectations are a lot higher at Oriel Park, as fans flocked back in their droves to follow the Lilywhites last season. The atmosphere and confidence surrounding the club means everybody has hopes that Dundalk can repeat last season’s fortunes and even push on. With a European adventure on the horizon, there will certainly be a lot to look forward towards, but there are probably also plenty of challenges ahead for Stephen Kenny and his squad. Dundalk will likely have another very good season, but with the added expectation they will be under pressure to do so this season. The luxury of no expectation or pressure existing last season may prove to be the reason why 2013 was such a successful one. Or maybe it won’t. Stephen Kenny will certainly have his troops ready for a title challenge this season, and they’ll be title contenders for certain. Players in: Gabriel Sava (Goalkeeper, Drogheda United), Sean Gannon (Defender, St. Pat’s), Ruaidhri Higgins (Midfielder, Derry), Daryl Horgan (Winger, Cork City), David McMillan (Striker, Sligo Rovers), Marc Griffin (Striker, Derry) Players out: Conor Winn (Goalkeeper, Finn Harps), Aaron Shanahan (Goalkeeper, Ballymena United), Stephen McDonnell (Midfielder, Shelbourne), John Sullivan (Midfielder, Shelbourne), John Dillon (Midfielder, Southport), Jordan Keegan (Midfielder, Shelbourne), Vinny Faherty (Striker, Galway), Tiarnan Mulvenna (Striker, Glenavon) Advantages

• Stephen Kenny begins his second season in charge, and having built a young and talented squad last season, he’ll have a chance to further mould and strengthen them this season.
• Richie Towell and Patrick Hoban remain at the club. Both players, especially the former were linked with moves to Britain during the off-season, but are firmly contracted for the new season
• The signing of Daryl Horgan is a very exciting one. The winger was one of the best players in the league last season, and he’ll certainly add a lot of quality to the Dundalk side.
• The signings of Gabriel Sava, Ruaidhri Higgins, David McMillan and Marc Griffin provide Dundalk with greater quality in depth for a title challenge this season.

Disadvantages

• Liverpudlian, John Dillon has returned to England, and with him leaving Dundalk have lost one of their better attacking talents.
• Dundalk perhaps remain slightly vulnerable in defence. They don’t have too many options at centre half, and will be relying upon Andy Boyle and Brian Gartland staying fit.
• With the added expectation of being among the title challengers this season, Dundalk will be under pressure to perform which may hamper their fluidity.

Key to a successful 2014 season Patrick Hoban must continue to score goals and Richie Towell must continue to dominate games. If Daryl Horgan settles quickly, Dundalk could begin scoring goals for fun this season, and a title challenge will follow. Predicted finishing place 1^st position – Although Dundalk have had a slow start to the pre-season, I believe they can compete again this season for the title. They’ve kept their key players from last season, added quality in depth to their squad and with Stephen Kenny at the helm, have a really strong chance for the title.

[Batig0l]

Re: Ireland Airtricity Premier League 2014 Preview?

St. Patrick’s Athletic

• Liam Buckley remains as manager, and it is his management style and tactical application which has made St. Pat’s into winners.
• Keith Fahey – the Irish international has returned to the domestic league, and in doing so he gives St. Pat’s a huge midfield and attacking advantage
• Martin Russell has left his job as manager of UCD, where he did an excellent job, and returns to his footballing home in Richmond Park as Buckley’s assistant manager. He will surely strengthen St. Pat’s.
• Have retained their most important midfield players, St. Pat’s will surely remain the team most capable of controlling a possession game in the league.

Disadvantages

• Club captain Conor Kenna has left the club and jumped ship to Shamrock Rovers. The loss of his leadership and experience in defence may hurt St. Pat’s
• Anthony Flood has left the club, and without him St. Pat’s may struggle for a focal point in attack, as he was excellent for most of last season, working hard when linking up with the midfield.
• Various under-performing Shamrock Rovers players from last season have moved to St. Pat’s. Will they be able to improve their work ethic and attitude, or will they affect the attitude of the dressing room.

Key to a successful 2014 season St. Pat’s midfield must remain industrious and work as a unit if Pat’s are to continue to control and dictate games this season. With the extra added quality of Keith Fahey in the team, they’ll certainly have the tools to do so. Predicted finishing place 2^nd position – As defending champions, St. Pat’s have a ready arsenal to go about attempting to retain the league title and doing what very few teams have done in the past. They will certainly be hard to beat, but I don’t believe they have it in them to win the league again. They’re going to be weaker in defence, and without an obvious focal point up front they could struggle to win games. Furthermore, I’m not certain they’re going to have the necessary determination or hunger to win the league. Yes the addition of Keith Fahey is a huge advantage, but it must be remembered he’s only contracted for half the season – he may easily end up back in England before the end of the season!

Last season St. Pat’s played the best style of football in the league, and were rewarded for doing so by becoming league champions. They were well-deserved winners of the league. In defence they were extremely organised and didn’t concede many goals, while in midfield they were by far the most superior and capable team of passing the ball around. Liam Buckley’s brand of flowing football provided St. Pat’s with the advantage they needed, and confidence kept building throughout the run-in, as St. Pat’s didn’t falter. The challenge this season is to do it all again, and to have the same hunger and determination to win the league. In preparation, Liam Buckley has kept the core of his squad, and strengthened in both defence and midfield especially for the new season. The arrival of club legend and fan Keith Fahey has got everybody talking about St. Pat’s being all but unstoppable this season. Indeed they will be a formidable opposition for all the other teams in the league, and they are firm favourites to win the league again. But retaining a title is a difficult task and it’ll be a real test for St. Pat’s as to whether they can win a second consecutive title. Players in: Ken Oman (Defender, Shamrock Rovers), Derek Foran (Defender, Shamrock Rovers), Conor McCormack (Midfielder, Shamrock Rovers), James Chambers (Midfielder, Shamrock Rovers), Lee Lynch (Midfielder, Sligo Rovers), Keith Fahey (Midfielder, Birmingham City), Mark Quigley (Striker, Shamrock Rovers) Players out: Conor Kenna (Defender, Shamrock Rovers), Aidan Price (Defender, Bohemians), Sean Gannon (Defender, Dundalk), John Russell (Midfielder, Sligo Rovers), Shane McFaul (Midfielder, Released), Stephen Maher (Midfielder, Released), Jake Kelly (Winger, Bray), Anthony Flood (Striker, Released) Advantages

[Batig0l]

Re: Ireland Airtricity Premier League 2014 Preview?

Sligo Rovers

• Ian Baraclough remains in charge, and therefore there is a good element of continuity for the club and squad going forward into 2014.
• The squad will be hungrier to try and reclaim the league title they lost to St. Pat’s last season.
• Sligo have strengthened especially well in midfield, bringing back John Russell to the club, who was an important part of St. Pat’s title winning midfield last season, as well as bringing in the exciting midfield talent of Paul O’Connor.
• The defence looks as strong as last season, if not stronger. This is especially important, considering Sligo’s defence last season was excellent, and will give them a good foundation for a title challenge in the 2014 season.

Disadvantages

• The loss of top goalscorer Anthony Elding, as well as the talented David McMillan in attack means Sligo are considerably weaker and shorter on attacking options.
• Captain and centre half Gavin Peers will most likely be out for the first half of the season, as he recovers from a cruciate ligament knee injury.
• Former Captain Danny Ventre leaves the club, and in doing so Sligo have lost a lot of leadership and experience in midfield.
• With a reported smaller budget than last season, and a leaner playing and backroom staff, there will be more pressure and scrutiny on results this season.

Key to a successful 2014 season Danny North and Kieran Djilali must be sharp and match fit if Sligo are going to have a good season. Predicted finishing place 3^rd position – Sligo may have strengthened in both defence and more especially midfield, but if anything they’re weaker in attack. Their biggest problem last season was scoring goals in key games, and without a reliable attack, it’s very likely this problem will present itself again in 2014.

A frustrating season saw Sligo’s title defence fall short, while their European adventure was short lived. This was especially the case since they began the league campaign with 8 out of 8 wins. However, the season did end on a very positive note, when Ian Baraclough’s men dramatically defeated Drogheda United 3-2 in the FAI Cup final. That victory, and the capture of the trophy will have been some compensation for the 2013 season, and will have given the squad renewed confidence and faith going forward into the 2014 season. Sligo will definitely be challenging again in the 2014 season. Ian Baraclough has remained at the helm of the club, and they’ve retained almost all their important players from last season’s squad. They’ve strengthened well in midfield, and added depth in defence. They do however lack a lethal threat in attack, and may find themselves relying even more heavily upon Danny North, who must prove his fitness, if Sligo are to have a chance at winning the league. Players in: Richard Brush (Goalkeeper, Shamrock Rovers), Kalen Spillane (Defender, Cork City), Danny Ledwith (Defender, Shamrock Rovers), Paul O’Connor (Midfielder, Drogheda United), John Russell (Midfielder, St. Patrick’s Athletic), Eric Odhiambo (Winger/Striker, Hereford United) Players out: Ciaran Kelly (Goalkeeper, retired), Marty Owens (Defender, Galway FC), Danny Ventre (Defender, Derry City), Ryan Connolly (Midfielder, Galway FC), Lee Lynch (Midfielder, St. Patrick’s Athletic), Pascal Millien (Winger, Sheikh Russell KC), Liam Martin (Striker, Ballinamanard), David McMillan (Striker, Dundalk), Anthony Elding (Striker, Cork City) Advantages

[Batig0l]

Re: Ireland Airtricity Premier League 2014 Preview?

Shamrock Rovers

• Trevor Croly remain, and therefore stability exists. It seems the board aren’t willing to make the same mistakes as in the 2012 season, when Stephen Kenny was sacked midway through.
• Key performers from last season Barry Murphy, Ronan Finn and Gary McCabe remain at the club, and will likely be the most reliable players.
• A lot of young and ambitious players have joined the club, and will surely be willing to rise to the occasion of playing for a big club like Shamrock Rovers
• The signing of Stephen McPhail is quite an illustrious capture for both the club and the league. His experience and technical ability will be vital

Disadvantages

• The supporters will only be too ready and quick to jump on Trevor Croly’s back if results don’t go Rovers’ way early in the season.
• A lot of leadership and experience has been lost in the squad, from all the players who have left.
• Rovers’ squad is currently one of the smallest in the league, and therefore they will need to avoid an injury crisis.
• The shared resources put toward fielding an experimental Reserve team in the First Division may hamper Rovers’ efforts to challenge for a title, as they may be stretching their resources too thin.

Key to a successful 2014 season Scoring more goals. Rovers drew way too many games last season. Will Croly put faith in Ciaran Kilduff after his successful loan stint at Cork in the second half of last season? Predicted finishing place 4^th position –The continuing transitional work being done by Croly is positive sign that Rovers are going in the right direction, but they probably are not ready to mount a serious title challenge this season, and with pressure to perform coming from the stands, it could be another difficult season for Rovers.

Shamrock Rovers became cup specialists last season, as they won 3 out of 4 of the domestic trophies. Their early season victory against Drogheda United in the Setanta Cup Final, was followed by another victory over Drogheda United in the League Cup final, as well as Rovers lifting the Leinster Senior Cup against and in the backyard of league champions St. Patrick’s Athletic. However, in the league Rovers were very disappointing, and a fifth place finish meant they missed out on European qualification. Furthermore, the club’s supporters made clear their dissatisfaction towards manager Trevor Croly from the stands. The board have backed Trevor Croly to continue as manager however, and he has continued the Shamrock Rovers transition during the off-season. Only 9 players have been kept on from last year’s squad, while many of the players from the league winning teams of 2010 and 2011 have moved on, including Pat Sullivan, Stephen Rice, Billy Dennehy and Ken Oman. Croly has thus continued to inject new blood into the club, and he’ll be hopeful that with added freshness and youth into his team, they can pose a genuine title challenge this season; and indeed with the big name capture of ex-Irish international Stephen McPhail, perhaps confidence is building. Players in: Simon Madden (Defender, Derry City), Luke Byrne (Defender, Bohemians), Robert Cornwall (Defender, Shelbourne), Conor Kenna (Defender, St. Pat’s), David O’Connor (Defender, UCD), Ryan Brennan (Midfielder, Drogheda United), Stephen McPhail (Midfielder, Sheffield Wednesday), Robert Bayly (Midfielder, Shelbourne), Kieran Marty Waters (Winger, Bray), Dean Kelly (Striker, Shelbourne) Players out: Richard Brush (Goalkeeper, Sligo), Danny Ledwith (Defender, Sligo), Ken Oman (Defender, St. Pat’s), Derek Foran (Defender, St. Pat’s), David Elebert (Defender, Derry City), Pat Sullivan (Defender, Longford), Conor Powell (Defender, Released), Richie Ryan (Midfielder, Ottawa Fury), Conor McCormack (Midfielder, St. Pat’s), James Chambers (Midfielder, St. Pat’s), Stephen Rice (Midfielder, Longford) Billy Dennehy (Winger, Cork City), Mark Quigley (Striker, St. Pat’s), Tommy Stewart (Striker, Released) Advantages

[Batig0l]

Re: Ireland Airtricity Premier League 2014 Preview?

Derry City

The 2013 season was a real rollercoaster for the Northern Ireland club. The initial season expectations would not have been too ambitious. However as the season hit the midway point, Derry found themselves firmly in with a shot of the title, and briefly were top of the league. Expectations among Derry fans began climbing. Alas they fell back down to earth, after a lengthy spell of poor form and disappointing results saw Derry fall out of contention for the title. It eventually emerged that behind the scenes and in the dressing room, relations between manager and players had deteriorated, and with no signs of improvement showing, Declan Devine was removed from his position as manager at the end of the season. Derry were quick to appoint a successor, and they picked one of the most colourful characters in Irish football; Roddy Collins. A larger than life character, Roddy Collins successfully guided Athlone Town to promotion as they won the First Division last season. He quickly jumped ship to Derry, and now that he is once again at the helm of a big club, confidence is flowing at the Brandywell. Whether they have a good enough squad to sustain a title challenge over the course of a season remains questionable, and so Roddy Collins will have to work his magic if Derry are to improve upon last season. Players in: Roddy Collins Jnr. (Defender, Athlone Town), Enda Curran (Striker, Athlone Town), Danny Ventre (Midfielder, Sligo Rovers), Ciarán Gallagher (Goalkeeper, Finn Harps), Mark Stewart (Striker, Kilmarnock), Cliff Byrne (Defender, Oldham Athletic), David Elebert (Defender, Shamrock Rovers) Players out: Simon Madden (Defender, Shamrock Rovers), David McDaid (Striker, Coleraine), Stuart Greacen (Defender, Stenhousemuir), Michael Rafter (Striker, Cork City), Paddy Kavanagh (Midfielder, Bohemians), Ruaidhri Higgins (Midfielder, Dundalk), Eugene Ferry (Goalkeeper, Coleraine), Marc Griffin (Striker, Dundalk) Advantages

• Roddy Collins. The man is a real special character. He will have his players extremely motivated, and he’ll be kicking balls from the sideline. His presence will surely push Derry on and give them an edge over other teams.
• Ex-club captain and legend Peter Hutton returns to the club as right-hand man to Roddy Collins. He earned his managerial stripes at Finn Harps last season, and he’ll be an able assistant for the club.
• Rory Patterson remains at the club. The Northern Irish capped international is arguably the best goalscorer in the league, and if he keeps fit and remains motivated, he’ll win Derry games.
• The spine of the team has been kept on for the new season, and therefore there is a good amount of continuity in the squad.
• Young and exciting talent Barry McNamee remains. With Derry having produced many young Irish talents in recent years, and with McNamee having been capped at U21 level last season, there are hopes he’ll kick on this season.

Disadvantages

• Derry have lost arguably the best right full back in the league, in Simon Madden. He started every single league game for Derry last season, and his consistent performances will be sorely missed.
• Derry have lost a lot of firepower up front. Michael Rafter (12 goals), David McDaid (5 goals) and Marc Griffin (3 goals) all gave Derry options in attack. They’ll be lighter in attack without them.
• The drop in form last season, as well as the questionable dressing room attitude amongst the players may still exist. This issue could present itself again this season.

Key to a successful 2014 season Making the Brandywell a fortress. Derry lost too many games at home last season. Also, Rory Patterson remaining on form. Predicted finishing place 5th position – It’ll be very difficult for Derry to finish in the top four this season. Although they have strengthened in key areas, they’ve also lost some good players. The arrival of Roddy Collins as manager certainly will have them confident of pursuing an unlikely title challenge. However, I’m not convinced they will have enough steam to sustain a realistic title challenge this season.

[Batig0l]

Re: Ireland Airtricity Premier League 2014 Preview?

Cork City

It was a mixed season for Cork in 2013, but one which ended on a relative high. Tommy Dunne’s tenure came to an end after a run of poor results and disappointing league progress as well as seemingly dressing room problems turned things toxic at the club. The appointment of Stuart Ashton as interim manager saw Cork’s form improve and a strong finish to the end of the season meant Cork finished sixth and in the top half of the table. A small exodus of good players has been negated by the appointment of club legend John Caulfield as manager. As Cork’s all-time record appearances holder and goalscorer, he is a fan’s favourite and therefore will be given plenty of support and time to shape this Cork team in 2014. The loss of Shane Duggan and Daryl Horgan has especially been hard however on the Cork team, and the loss of their quality will be difficult to replace. Still, Caulfield has brought in some old Cork favourites in Liam Kearney, Darren Murphy and Billy Dennehy, while Sligo’s top goalscorer from last season Anthony Elding certainly strengthens Cork in attack. With added confidence, Cork should be able to make Turner’s Cross a fortress once again and push on this season. Players in: Matt Gledhill (Goalkeeper, Sligo), Kevin O’Brin (Goalkeeper, Free Transfer), Kevin Mulcahy (Defender, Avondale), Darren Murphy (Midfielder, Woking), Liam Kearney (Winger, Dandenong Thunder SC), Billy Dennehy (Winger, Shamrock Rovers), Anthony Elding (Striker, Sligo), Michael Rafter (Striker, Derry), Mark O’Sullivan (Striker, Avondale) Players out: Kevin Burns (Goalkeeper, Waterford), Kalen Spillane (Defender, Sligo), Kevin Murray (Defender, Released), Shane Duggan (Midfielder, Limerick), Alan Browne (Midfielder Preston), Daryl Horgan (Winger, Dundalk), Stephen Kenny (Winger, Released), Danny Furlong (Striker, Wexford), Sean Brosnan (Striker, Released) Advantages

• The appointment of club legend John Caulfield as manager has made everybody associated with the club happy. His strong position as club manager will no doubt rub off on the players.
• Players with good league experience have joined the club in the form of Darren Murphy, Liam Kearney and Billy Dennehy. Indeed Liam Kearney was part of the Cork team that won the league in 2005.
• Anthony Elding will be an able target man and goalscoring source for Cork, and in partnership with Danny Morrissey, Cork should be a good threat in attack.
• Michael Rafter and Mark O’Sullivan also provide Cork with good attacking depth and are exciting options to call upon.

Disadvantages

• Cork lost their two best players from last season, in Daryl Horgan and Shane Duggan. Their youth and talent will be a huge loss to Cork both in midfield and attack.
• Ciaran Kilduff returned to Shamrock Rovers during the pre-season, after an extremely successful loan spell in the second half of last season. Cork will certainly miss his goals.
• Cork have an aging defence, and with Darren Dennehy remaining unreliable in fitness terms, they may struggle for pace at the back this season.
• This is John Caulfield’s first spell as manager in the League of Ireland, and therefore it’ll be a new experience for him and therefore may take him a while to bed in to the challenge.

Key to a successful 2014 season Teamwork – if Caulfield can organise the Cork team and encourage a good team spirit, then the sum of its parts can make Cork a strong outfit and a team hard to beat. Predicted finishing place 6th position – With a fresh managerial start, and one whom is one of their own, the Cork camp is full of confidence about the new season. They may have lost their two of their best players, yet the spirit surrounding Caulfield’s appointment seems to have allowed Cork to forget this fact. With added experience in the team, Cork could very likely push on again from their strong finish last season, and may even come close to a higher league finish than the two previous seasons.

[Batig0l]

Re: Ireland Airtricity Premier League 2014 Preview?

Limerick

Limerick had a successful return to the top flight of Irish football last season, as they consolidated a safe 7th place finish in the league. Their new and temporary home at Thomond Park was an interesting experiment, since Limerick were barely able to fill it to even 5% of its capacity. Stuart Taylor’s tenure as manager saw him introduce many players from British football into the Limerick squad. He also gave an opportunity to many of Limerick’s youth players last season, and there’s no doubt such experience will have helped those players develop. Given that Limerick have a lot of ambition and that plans were put into motion to complete their new stadium during the 2013 season, the future looks bright. Limerick’s ambition for the 2014 season should see them remaining realistic about their league opportunities. A lot of their promotion winning team have now moved on, with Brian O’Callaghan, Pat Purcell, Stephen Bradley, Joe Gamble, David O’Leary and Jeffrey Judge leaving the club during the pre-season period. As a result Limerick have lost a lot of experience in their squad. However, Stuart Taylor has made two good signings in Mick Leahy and Shane Duggan for the new and so Limerick have strengthened in defence and midfield. With a good pre-season under their belt, including a week’s tour of the Basque Country, Stuart Taylor will be confident of another solid season in the Premier Division, building upon the work from last season. Players in: Mick Leahy (Defender, UCD), Shane Duggan (Midfielder, Cork) Players out: Brian O’Callaghan (Defender, Released), Pat Purcell (Midfielder, Retired), Joe Gamble (Midfielder, Brunei DPMM FC), Stephen Bradley (Midfielder, Released), Jeffrey Judge (Midfielder, Released), Carel Tiofack (Midfielder, Finn Harps), David O’Leary (Midfielder, Released), Axel Bossekota (Midfielder, Released) Advantages

• Stuart Taylor remains in charge and has been given a license to continue building the Limerick team under his own vision in for the 2014 season. Stability will strengthen the club.
• The addition of Limerick-born Shane Duggan is a great signing for the club. Shane Duggan was arguably Cork’s best player last season, and he’s already been made captain for Limerick this season.
• Shane Tracy has returned from injury, and has scored lots of goals in pre-season. After he got injured midway through last season, Limerick were a lot weaker in midfield. His return adds a lot of quality to their midfield.
• Most of Limerick’s core squad from last season remains, and there is therefore plenty of continuity in the squad.

Disadvantages

• Limerick have lost a lot of experience in midfield. Their three regular central midfielders from last season (Bradley, O’Leary and Gamble) have all left.
• Limerick may have to rely a lot upon their youth players this season, as they have only signed two new senior players, while they’ve lost 8 senior players.
• Regular goalkeeper Barry Ryan may be out of action for a good portion of the start of the season. His assuredness in goal and defence will be missed.
• With an average squad age of 22, Limerick have the youngest squad in the league (except for UCD), and therefore may be rather inconsistent again this season.

Key to a successful 2014 season Shane Duggan and Shane Tracy especially need to perform well this season. Likewise, Limerick will need to avoid as many injuries as possible to their senior players. Predicted finishing place 7th position – It’s likely that Limerick will once again finish in 7th position. They have enough strength and depth in their squad to stay clear of a relegation battle, but don’t have enough quality to push on further up the table. It’s likely to be another season of strengthening and consolidation, but as long as the ambitions remain realistic at the club, the atmosphere should remain positive and healthy.

[Batig0l]

Re: Ireland Airtricity Premier League 2014 Preview?

Bohemians

After dangerously spiralling towards relegation at one point last season, Bohemians fought their way out of a relegation battle, to finish 10th under the tutelage of fledgling manager Owen Heary. Manager Aaron Callaghan was axed as Bohs fell down the table, and a risk was taken by the financially strained club to appoint Owen Heary as player-manager, even though he didn’t have the necessary coaching badges. It proved a wise decision, as the League of Ireland legend galvanised Bohs’ young squad and helped the club retain its status as the only clubs to have never been relegated from the top flight in Irish football. The pre-season has seen more positive signs for Bohs future. A big sponsorship deal has given the club more financial flexibility, and this has allowed Owen Heary, who has now hung up his playing boots, to invest in some experienced and better quality players. Thus Bohs will be less reliant upon youth and will also be a much more potent force in attack this season. Therefore the north Dublin club should be capable of pushing up the table in the 2014 season, and perhaps begin to recapture their form of old. For it was only 4 years ago when they were narrowly beaten to the title by Shamrock Rovers. That said, there’s still a lot of work to be done, and the main aim will no doubt still to be league consolidation this season. Now that Owen Heary has all the necessary coaching badges, he can fully concentrate on his managerial job, and as a proven winner in his playing career, there are many people excited and interested to see how he turns out as a manager. It could work to Bohs’ advantage in the near future. Players in: Lee Murphy (Goalkeeper, Shelbourne), Aidan Price (Defender, St. Pat’s), Jack Memery (Defender, Shelbourne), Philip McCabe (Defender, Shelbourne), Craig Walsh (Midfielder, UCD), Paddy Kavanagh (Winger, Derry), Jason Byrne (Striker, Bray), Steven Beattie (Striker, Tindastoll) Players out: Greg Murray (Goalkeeper, Shelbourne), Luke Byrne (Defender, Shamrock Rovers), Michael Barker (Defender, UCD), Conor O’Brien (Midfielder, Longford), Shane Murray (Midfielder, Waterford), Dave Scully (Midfielder, Bray), Ciaran Nangle (Midfielder, Released), Conor Murphy (Striker, Shelbourne), Chris Lyons (Striker, Shamrock Rovers B) Advantages

• Owen Heary has had a pre-season to begin shaping his team the way he wants it. Having been so successful as a winner in the Irish domestic league, his influence will be telling.
• The capture of club favourite Jason Byrne, although in his twilight years, means Bohs have a player of real quality up front. He is hoping to break the domestic all-time goalscoring record this season.
• The signings of Aidan Price and Paddy Kavanagh provide Boh’s with good league experience and greater quality in defence and midfield. Aidan Price will especially provide much needed leadership in defence.
• Steven Beattie is a very exciting attacking capture for the club. He has been quite prolific in pre-season and this bodes well for the new season.

Disadvantages

• The overall squad remains very young and inexperienced. There are still plenty of question marks surrounding the genuine quality of the players who have come through the youth ranks at the club.
• In defence they will definitely miss Owen Heary’s leadership and organisational abilities. Elsewhere, they are still rather short in good defensive options.
• As much as they can rely upon the quality of Jason Byrne, his fitness and pace really began affecting him last season at Bray. He may already be past his best.
• The financial constraints at the club remain, and therefore Bohs are limited in their ambitions.

Key to a successful 2014 season Ryan McEvoy. The most talented player in the Bohs’ squad is key to the club pushing on this season. If he continues to progress, then the addition of players like Price, Kavanagh, Byrne and Beattie will no doubt rub off on his abilities with his left foot. Predicted finishing place 8th position – Bohs are too good to finish 10th or below this season. Owen Heary will steer the club clear of a relegation battle, and with the added experience and quality in the squad, they will likely begin to pose a bigger threat to the top half teams. Still, they’re not strong enough to finish any higher than mid-table and so league consolidation must be their ultimate ambition this season.

[Batig0l]

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Athlone Town

Athlone Town were surprise winners of the First Division last season, but with the colourful Roddy Collins in charge, nothing can be considered a surprise. Having been rooted to the First Division since 1996, Athlone have finished in the bottom half of the league table every single season since 2001. And with Longford Town and Waterford United the more obvious promotion favourites last season, Athlone really did go against the odds to win the league. Roddy Collins built a solid team and with his charisma and massive self-belief driving the players forward, the team went from strength to strength as they overcame all hurdles and obstacles that they came up against. So after an almost 20 year hiatus, Athlone have returned to the Premier Division. However, Roddy Collins quickly moved on after the season end, and joined the vacant position at Derry City. Athlone also moved quickly to name a replacement, and chose to name the midlands maestro Mick Cooke as new manager of the club. Having been extremely successful at Drogheda United, the appointment represents a strong declaration by Athlone, and with Cooke as manager, they should be well organised and able to consolidate their league position in 2014. He has already recruited many of his ex-players from Drogheda, and with such quality and experience in the squad of players already fresh and confident about their chances in the top flight, Athlone should have a good mix of players to contend with the new season. Players in: Alan Byrne (Defender, Drogheda), Derek Prendergast (Defender, Drogheda), Sean Brennan (Midfielder, Shelbourne), Jason Marks (Midfielder, Drogheda), Kealen Dillon (Midfielder, St. Mirren), John Mulroy (Winger, Bray), Graham Rusk (Striker, Drogheda) Players out: Roddy Collins Jnr. (Defender, Derry), Robbie Clarke (Defender, Released), Jonathan Kelty (Midfielder, Released), Niall Lanigan (Midfielder, Released), Garvan Broughall (Midfielder, Released), Enda Curran (Striker, Derry), Sodiq Oguntola (Sacred Heart FC), Roy King (Striker, Released) Advantages

• The appointment of Mick Cooke gives Athlone a very experienced and successful manager, who will undoubtedly make the team hard to beat.
• The signings of Alan Byrne and Derek Prendergast provide more grit and strength in defence, and both players should combine well with captain Aidan Collins in the back four.
• The signings of Jason Marks, Sean Brennan and Kealen Dillon mean Athlone will be equipped with a lot more quality footballers in the middle of the park.
• Graham Rusk and John Mulroy provide more attacking strength, and they will help compliment Philip Gorman, who was top goalscorer last season, and will once again be Athlone’s main goal threat.

Disadvantages

• The loss of Roddy Collins as manager will certainly affect the momentum of the team, and with a new manager, the existing squad of players will have to adjust to the new style of play.
• Exciting young striker Enda Curran, who scored 12 league goals last season, has joined Roddy Collins at Derry City. As a result, Athlone have a hole to fill in attack.
• The overall quality of Athlone’s individual players and squad is limited and therefore they will not be able to finish any higher than mid-table.

Key to a successful 2014 season If Mick Cooke can effectively organise the Athlone team into a solid outfit, then they will have no problems keeping themselves in the league. Predicted finishing place 9th position – Athlone should be able to ride on the optimism and confidence generated by promotion last season, and if Mick Cooke can work his magic quickly and strengthen the team, then Athlone should be able to have a relatively successful season in the league. Avoiding relegation is the main objective, and Athlone should be strong enough to do exactly that.

[Batig0l]

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Drogheda United

The 2013 season was one of heartache for Drogheda. To make matters worse, the club’s board controversially decided not to renew the contract of successful manager Mick Cooke. The man who managed Drogheda to 2nd place in the league and a League Cup trophy in 2012, has moved onwards to Athlone. Even though he had no future with Drogheda, he still managed his team to the FAI Cup final, where they dramatically lost 3-2 to Sligo deep in stoppage time. This was third time unlucky for Drogheda, as they also lost in the Setanta Cup final and League Cup final in the 2013 season. Their league form told its own story about the club’s behind the scenes events, as the club faded to an 8th place finish. Robbie Horgan has replaced Mick Cooke, and from the get go there are question marks over his ability to manage at this level. He has no previous managerial experience, and so clearly this is a gamble by Drogheda’s board. Furthermore, quite a few senior members of the Drogheda squad have followed Mick Cooke to Athlone, while others have left. Horgan has been steadily rebuilding a squad for the 2014 season, but the signs so far are that they will be looking to survive. It could be a very difficult season for Drogheda, and it’s unlikely they’ll have any cup adventures to look forward to either. Players in: Dave Ryan (Goalkeeper, Cork City), Paul Andrews (Defender, Shelbourne), Ciaran McGuigan (Defender, Warrenpoint), Austin McCann (Midfielder, Glebe North), Paul Crowley (Midfielder, Shelbourne), Daire Doyle (Midfielder, Bray), Carl Walshe (Striker, Shelbourne), Philip Hughes (Striker, Shelbourne) Players out: Gabriel Sava (Goalkeeper, Dundalk), Derek Prendergast (Defender, Athlone), Alan Byrne (Defender, Athlone), Philip Hand (Defender, Shelbourne), Ryan Brennan (Midfielder, Shamrock Rovers), Jason Marks (Midfielder, Athlone), Paul O’Connor (Midfielder, Sligo), David Cassidy (Midfielder, Bray), Graham Rusk (Striker, Athlone), Peter Hynes (Striker, Longford) Advantages

• A lot of the core squad have remained, especially in midfield which should mean Drogheda remain strong and organised.
• Top goalscorer and charismatic striker Declan Fabio O’Brien will be the key man up front this season once again for the club.
• The signings of experienced League of Ireland players such as Paul Crowley, Daire Doyle and Philly Hughes should provide Drogheda with greather depth and stability.
• Local men Austin McCann and Ciaran McGuigan join the club, and should be hungry to perform.

Disadvantages

• The inexperience of new manager Robbie Horgan, as well as the loss of Mick Cooke will surely mean Drogheda aren’t as strong a unit as the last few seasons.
• Losing important players like Derek Prendergast, Alan Byrne, Paul O’Connor and Ryan Brennan could be a hole very difficult for Drogheda to fill.
• Declan Fabio O’Brien is a year older, Philly Hughes proved very unfit last season, while Gary O’Neill is recovering from cancer – Drogheda may struggle with reliable attacking options.
• Defensively the Drogheda team is going to be almost completely changed, and therefore they’re going to be quite unsettled at the back.
• At present there are only 18 senior players contracted to the club. Injuries will have to be avoided as much as possible.

Key to a successful 2014 season Declan Fabio O’Brien needs to score at least 10 league goals. Alan McNally, Eric Foley and Gavin Brennan will all need to perform and remain fit. With a difficult early fixture list, good early results could be key too. Predicted finishing place 10th position – This could prove to be a very difficult season for Drogheda. They should have enough about them to stay away from the relegation battle, but they will likely flirt dangerously close to the bottom of the table. Robbie Horgan has a big task ahead of him, especially since some Drogheda fans believe they can even challenge for a top four place.

[Batig0l]

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UCD

The 2013 season was yet another season of struggle for UCD, but a season where young players were given the opportunity to show and express their talents on the pitch by manager Martin Russell. With a very limited budget, UCD are not able to raise their ambitions beyond survival, and last season UCD very almost found themselves losing that battle last season. Always flirting with relegation, UCD did end up avoiding a playoff match on the last day of the season, and in doing so secured their Premier Division status for yet another year. However, in the pre-season period it was reported that Martin Russell was moving on from his managerial role at UCD, and in doing so the club have lost a very talented manager, who had been at the club for 5 seasons. To replace him, UCD have called upon the rather inexperienced Aaron Callaghan, who was sacked midway through last season by Bohemians. Furthermore, UCD have lost a lot of their talented players, most especially their two best centre halves in David O’Connor and Mick Leahy, to Shamrock Rovers and Limerick respectively. The 2014 season is going to be a real challenge for UCD, and they may face a real fight to remain in the league. Players in: Michael Barker (Defender, Bohemians), Dwayne Wilson (Midfielder, Bray) Players out: David O’Connor (Defender, Shamrock Rovers), Mick Leahy (Defender, Limerick), Liam Traynor (Defender, Shamrock Rovers B), Michael Kelly (Defender, Shamrock Rovers B), Adam Whelan (Midfielder, Shamrock Rovers B), Craig Walsh (Midfielder, Bohemians) Advantages

• Aaron Callaghan is a good coach, and has already worked with a young squad at Bohemians. He should be therefore prepared to work with UCD’s young squad.
• The majority of last season’s squad remains and so UCD will have a stable, good and talented young squad to fight and avoid relegation again this season.
• Talented attacking players Robbie Benson and Dean Clarke remain at the club. Their goals will be very important for UCD this season.
• Robbie Creevy returned to the club last season after a hiatus in Australia, and he remains at the club again for the 2014 season. His passing ability from midfield and his league experience will be vital.

Disadvantages

• Aaron Callaghan has not proven himself as a manager in the League of Ireland yet, and with a touchline to deal with for the first 5 league games, it could be a difficult start to his tenure.
• The loss of such important defensive players as Mick Leahy and David O’Connor, last year’s captain and vice-captain respectively, means UCD are both weakened in defence and leadership.
• Once again UCD will have the youngest average squad age in the league. They’ll continue to suffer inconsistent performances as a result.
• The loss of Martin Russell as manager is monumental. His style of football really suited UCD’s young squad. It’ll be interesting to see how the players adapt to the new manager.

Key to a successful 2014 season Robbie Benson and Dean Clarke especially must progress further this season, and continue to score goals. UCD will desperately need their goals, because they’ll surely be leaking a lot of goals. Predicted finishing place 11th position – UCD will really struggle to stay in the league this season. I believe that without Martin Russell as manager, this UCD team is considerably weaker. Martin Russell has a wonderful gift of motivating young players and allowing them to express themselves on the pitch, by encouraging them to play good football. Aaron Callaghan is a good coach, but there are big question marks over his ability to manage at this level. If Callaghan doesn’t get things right early on, UCD could be in for a really challenging season.

[Batig0l]

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Bray Wanderers

Bray teetered on the brink of relegation last season, as they had to overcome a relegation play-off match with Longford Town, who finished 2nd in the First Division. Bray won the tie over two legs, and as a result retained their Premier Division status for another season, but it was a really poor season from the Wicklow club. Matters were made worse for the club, as it was announced during the pre-season period that Pat Devlin had been sacked. It had been known for some time that Bray were struggling financially during the last year, and it all came to a head during the pre-season months when the decision was made to cut costs and also make a complete change of personnel behind the scenes too. Therefore, Bray are going forward into the 2014 season with a new manager, Alan Matthews. He has been given responsibility of guiding Bray towards safety and survival this season. He has had the task of also rebuilding the squad, as next to no players had been re-signed for the new season until his appointment in mid-January. He has done so, and brought back 6 regular senior players, and otherwise has been forced to bring in a whole new squad. He faces a real battle this season, and with his reputation as a manager under scrutiny, after a dismal performance as Shelbourne manager last season, before being sacked, it may be too big a battle to steady the Bray ship. Given that there is very little continuity at the club in terms of playing staff, or coaching staff, it’ll be quite an achievement if Bray avoid relegation this season. Players in: Robert Maloney (Defender, Wexford Youths), Adam Hanlon (Midfielder, Shelbourne), Graham Kelly (Midfielder, Athlone), Jamie McGlynn (Midfielder, Shelbourne), David Cassidy (Midfielder, Drogheda), Garry Curran (Midfielder, Mervue), Shane Byrne (Midfielder, Bury), Eric McGill (Midfielder, Free Transfer), Jake Kelly (Winger, St. Pat’s) David Scully (Striker, Bohemians), Ciaran Byrne (Striker, Australia) Players out: Darren Quigley (Goalkeeper, Retired), Sean Holmes (Goalkeeper, Cherry Orchard), Peter Thomas (Defender, Cherry Orchard), Kevin Knight (Defender, Shamrock Rovers B), Stephen Quigley (Defender, Released), Kevin Maher (Midfielder, Whitehawk), Kevin O’Connor (Midfielder, Longford), Daire Doyle (Midfielder, Drogheda), Ryan Coombes (Midfielder, Shamrock Rovers B), Paul Moffat (Midfielder, Released), Gary Dempsey (Midfielder, Released), Kevin O’Leary (Midfielder, Released), Dwayne Wilson (Midfielder, UCD), Conor Early (Midfielder, Released), Kieran Marty Waters (Winger, Shamrock Rovers), John Mulroy (Winger, Athlone), Jason Byrne (Striker, Bohemians) Advantages

• Alan Matthews has a decent League of Ireland managerial pedigree, and so he has the ability to organise and shape this Bray team towards survival.
• Brothers Danny and Shane O’Connor return, as do Dave Wesbter, Dean Zambra and Adam Mitchell. All these players give Bray a decent defensive foundation and plenty of experience.
• Ismahil Akinade began showing his real attacking talents last season, as he scored 6 league goals. His athletic frame will be vital up front for Bray this season.
• The signings of David Cassidy, Shane Byrne and Jake Kelly are especially promising signings for a midfield that is being completely rebuilt.

Disadvantages

• Pat Devlin lived and breathed Bray. The decision to sack him was a real shock to the club. He worked wonders to help Bray survive and avoid relegation the previous two seasons.
• The loss of the young and talented attacking player Kieran Marty Waters, as well as the old, experienced and proven quality attacker Jason Byrne will really hurt Bray in attack.
• There has been a wholesale change in midfield. The likes of Gary Dempsey, John Mulroy, Kevin Knight and Kevin O’Connor have all chosen to move on. Bray will desperately miss their experience.
• Darren Quigley has decided to retire from football, and his experience and ability in goal will be a huge loss to Bray’s defence.

Key to a successful 2014 season This new team needs to click and gel as quickly as possible. All the individual players will need to perform at their best, and as a team they will need to work hard together. Predicted finishing place 12th position – I find it very hard to see Bray avoiding relegation this season. It’ll be close between themselves and UCD in the battle to avoid last place, and unfortunately for Bray, there has been too much turmoil behind the scenes and too much change in their squad, and for that reason I believe they will finish bottom of the table. Alan Matthews has a good track record as manager, but his last job as manager saw him manage a really poor Shelbourne team, who underperformed and deservedly sat at the bottom of the table before he was sacked. I predict he may face the same fate with this Bray team in 2014.

[MPLouis]

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