Collingwood Cup Final

UCD 3-2 University of Limerick

University of Limerick’s quest to claim a maiden Collingwood Cup title came to an agonizing end as Ronan Cowhey scored a 92nd minute winner for UCD in a dramatic five-goal final at Inver Park, Larne, on Wednesday afternoon.

The first half was a very tight affair as UL took the game to their much fancied opponents. In fact, the Limerick men created the best of the chances in the opening 45 minutes with Eoin Redmond’s surging runs from midfield creating plenty of problems for the Dubliners to deal with. 

 His midfield partner Conor Butler delivered a couple of really dangerous crosses throughout the half, but unfortunately they failed to meet their intended targets.

The toll of three games in three days was clear to see as UL were forced to make an early substitution with the influential David McCarthy forced off with a muscular injury.

Leon Daly came on for his fellow Clareman and his pace helped to stretch the UCD back four. The Dublin side looked dangerous when they counterattacked but were reduced to taking speculative efforts from long range. 

 UL goalkeeper Josh Coady was forced to make a good save just after half an hour, but he had a relatively quiet half other than that. 

 Limerick came inches away from taking the lead from a 41st minute corner. Adam Foley played the ball to Joey Rushe, the Regional United man delivered a perfect cross to the area where Tom Carney thundered a header just wide. 

 That was the last action of note in the opening half with Limerick heading into the dressing room the happier of the two sides. 

 UCD the second half with real intent and looked to put UL on the back foot. Limerick held off the initial onslaught, but they was nothing they could do to stop the opening goal. 

 A loose pass in midfield was picked up and played to Ciaran Behan outside the UL area. Behan then pulled the trigger and rocketed the ball into the top corner of the UL net. 

 Time and time again this UL side has shown admirable character and determination and that was evidenced by their response to falling behind. 

From a 65th minute corner Tom Carney rose the highest and headed Limerick right back into the game, 1-1.  

However, the game wouldn’t be level for long as Behan once again produced a stunning finish to curl UCD back into the ascendency with 67 minutes on the clock, 2-1.

UL looked to change things up and the introduction of fresh legs paid dividends. Theo Joyce’s pace on the left wing combined with Daly’s on the right gave the Limerick side plenty of options going forward.

A Limerick substitute would have a huge impact on the game with his first action in the game. Cillian Duffy was brought on in the 75th minute and he delivered one of his trademark long throw-ins. Eoin Redmond flicked the ball towards the back post where Adam Foley reacted quickly to slide in an equaliser for UL and make it 2-2.

Tiredness was becoming a factor now as the match wore on with both sides creating half chances in their bid to take a decisive lead. UCD saw a good effort denied, thanks to a superb save from Coady.

Just when it seemed like extra-time would be required, UCD drove a dagger into the heart of UL. A ball was lofted into the UL penalty area and Cowhey headed home the match winner in the 92nd minute.

Time was against the Shannonsiders who threw bodies forward for a final corner. The ball made its way to Duffy who managed to get a shot off on goal, but it was saved by the UCD keeper in the final act of the game.

The wait for an historic first ever Collingwood Cup continues for UL but they can hold their heads high after a valiant effort in Belfast this week.

Collingwood Cup Semi-final

Maynooth University 0-1 University of Limerick

Adam Foley was the hero for the University of Limerick as they booked their place in the Collingwood Cup Final thanks to a 1-0 win over Maynooth.

The quick turnaround from yesterday’s quarter-final action meant this game was always going to be a war of attrition. 

The first clear cut chance of the game fell to UL after eight minutes. Newmarket Celtic man David McCarthy played the ball over the top to Conor Butler who accelerated towards the area with his shot going just over the bar. 

Just moments later UL saw strong appeals for a handball in the Maynooth area waved away by the referee. 

Maynooth were matching UL physically in the midfield battle while also looking to exploit their pace on the wings. Limerick’s centre back duo of Tom Carney and Conor Whittle were called into action on a few occasions to clear danger as Maynooth looked to cut the ball back into the box.

With sixteen minutes played Conor Butler once again found himself bearing down on the Maynooth goal his venomous strike stung the hands of the Maynooth shot stopper winning a corner. 

Maynooth responded with a real chance of their own just two minutes later, a dangerous cross from the right fell to their captain on the edge of the area. He seemed caught between two minds as to put his laces through it or to try and side foot it goalwards. The resulting shot sailed harmlessly over the bar but was a timely reminder for UL that they had a real game on their hands. 

The physical nature of the game meant counter attacks were going to offer the best chances for either side. The end to end nature of the game was clear to see in the thirty eight minute. 

From a UL corner Maynooth launched a long ball forward, Regional United’s Joey Rushe did well to get back and win possession before launching a counter attack. Rushe found Butler who kept the ball moving forward with a pass to Adam Foley, Foley linked up with McCarthy who spotted the run of Rushe. He cut the ball back to McCarthy who tried his luck from range but his effort failed to hit the target. 

The sides were deadlocked at nil all come the short whistle. ULd the second half the stronger of the two sides. David McCarthy sent a low strike towards goal within the opening minute. 

Darren Butler was the next Limerick man to try his luck he sent a volley goalward from the edge of the area after a 52nd minute corner with the ball fizzing past the upright. 

David McCarthy used his body well to win a free-kick in a dangerous position in the 54th minute. From the free he curled the ball towards the top left hand corner of the Maynooth goal only to be denied by a fine finger tip save.

Maynooth were under the cosh and UL sensed a goal was coming and it duly arrived in the sixty eighth minute. 

From a free kick deep in their own half UL ‘keeper Joshua Coady launched the ball forward where it was flicked on by Eoin Redmond. His header was in turn headed into the area by McCarthy. 

Adam Foley had anticipated this and slipped in behind his marker as the Maynooth goalkeeper rushed out. The Aisling Annacotty striker produced a deft chip to take the ball over the head of his opponent before it nestled into the back of the net sparking celebrations in the UL technical area. 

The Shannonsiders then faced an onslaught as Maynooth went in search of an equaliser. Tom Carney produced several bone crunching tackles to cut out any danger while Conor Whittle once again demonstrated his aerial prowess to snuff out Maynooth’s forays into the UL area.

Both sides were forced to make changes as the minutes ticked by due to the physical nature of the game and the toll yesterday’s action had taken on their legs. Ewan O’Brien of Regional United deputised well for Conor Butler never shying out of tackles.

As Maynooth pushed bodies forward chances were opening up for UL, Bridge United’s Leon Daly was creating plenty of headaches for the Kildare side as he looked to find a second on the counter. On more than one occasion he found himself in a foot race with the Maynooth ‘keeper who averted the danger. 

Avenue United’s Cullen McCabe did well to head off some dangerous advances down the left wing while Tom Kidd must have covered nearly every blade of grass as he once again played an integral role in both defence and attack. 

The Treaty men had to endure a lengthy period of stoppage time due to several substitutions and head injuries. Maynooth piled the pressure on but substitutes Ciaran Jennings and Dean Hegarty did their part to alleviate the pressure. 

The commitment and determination of this Limerick side was exemplified by Eoin Redmond who ran his socks off all day and was only forced off after suffering a nasal injury that left his nose bleeding in the final minutes. 

Emotions boiled over at the final whistle but both sides shook hands in the end after a game that typified college football.

UL will face UCD in the Collingwood Cup final tomorrow at Inver Park, Larne. The game will kick off at 16:00 and will be available to stream for free on YouTube. 

Collingwood Cup Quarter-final

University of Limerick 2-1 DCU 

University of Limerick secured a Collingwood Cup semi-final berth thanks to a 2-1 win over 10 man DCU at the University of Ulster Jordanstown Sports Campus this morning.

Goals in either half from Adam Foley and David McCarthy proved to be enough however the men from the Treaty County did endure a nervous end to the game after Owen Benson pulled one back for the Dubliners. 

UL got off to a strong start and came close to taking the lead inside the opening two minutes when DCU failed to deal with a Joey Rushe free kick however Tom Carney saw his effort cleared off the goal line. 

Fast linkup play in the midfield was creating a world of problems for DCU and when David McCarthy slipped a smart pass out to the left wing to Conor Butler a goal looked likely. Unfortunately for UL’s top scorer this season his well struck effort beat both the keeper and the crossbar with seven minutes played.

DCU were struggling to get a foothold in the game and Limerick deservedly took the lead after fourteen minutes. From a throw-in Rushe found Foley who held up play before slipping the ball to Rushe who had made a run up the wing. The Regional United man evaded several markers as he reached the area where he delivered the ball to Foley.

The Aisling Annacotty man unleashed a first time strike that was blocked by a DCU defender. The ball came straight back to him, reacting quickly he dummied a shot with his right and switched the ball to his left delivering a pinpoint accurate shot into the bottom corner of the DCU net.

Following that the match became scrappy as the Dubliners pushed for an equaliser. UL looked dangerous from set pieces but failed to hit the target on any occasion. 

A gilt edged chance would arrive after thirty-eight minutes. UL goalkeeper Joshua Coady showed quick thinking to spring a UL counter attack; his kick bypassed the DCU midfield to find Eoin Redmond on the right wing. The Corkman showed his athleticism to race clear of his marker and as he looked up he saw both Foley and McCarthy arriving on the edge of the area in support. He delivered a perfect cross but Foley’s shot squirmed just wide. 

Just a minute later Redmond found himself one on one with the keeper after Conor Butler’s intelligent flick caught the DCU defence off guard. The shot-stopper spread himself well to keep the deficit to just one at the short whistle. 

DCUd the second half with real impetus as they looked to restore parity, the UL centre back pairing of Carney and Conor Whittle saw off their early advances with relative ease aided and abetted by defensive midfielder Darren Butler. 

As they pushed for a leveller, gaps were appearing on the break for Limerick. Redmond’s lung busting runs were creating headaches and one such run would have a huge impact on the outcome of the game.

As he raced on to a ball over the top the DCU goalkeeper charged forward when Redmond shot he spread himself handling the ball outside the area denying a clear goal scoring opportunity. The referee was left with no option but to show him a straight red card.  

DCU were forced to take off a midfielder in order to bring on their second choice keeper, opening the door for UL to further increase their advantage in the engine room. Tom Kidd played an integral role in both defence and attack. The Galway man helped to stop DCU forays into the Limerick half while his smart flicks and short passes kept UL attacks flowing. 

Despite their numerical advantage UL sensed a one goal lead would not be enough as to their credit DCU continued to hunt for an equaliser with determination. 

The introduction of Bridge United’s Leon Daly paid dividends. The mercurial winger raced up the right wing leaving his marker in his wake. He cut inside, firing a low cross to the back post where McCarthy slid in UL’s second goal with seventy six minutes on the clock. The goal was the perfect gift for the Newmarket Celtic man who celebrates his birthday today. 

UL’s celebrations were short lived as just three minutes later DCU found the back of the net. A strong run up the right flank and a cross to the back post unlocked the Limerick defence. 

It was all hands to the pump for Limerick now as DCU desperately looked to take the game to penalties. Cullen McCabe cut out several advances launched on the left wing while Carney was immense, producing several crucial tackles.

It was route one football from DCU and the aerial prowess of Whittle proved invaluable for Limerick. Darren Butler marshaled the troops while also setting substitutes Ciaran Jennings and Ewan O’Brien away to ease the pressure. 

In the end UL were able to deal with the chances DCU managed to muster in the final minutes of the game and celebrated a deserved win at the final whistle. 

The Shannonsiders will now face Maynooth University in the Collingwood Cup semi-finals tomorrow afternoon at 14:30. The Kildare side ran out 3-1 winners over Queen's University Belfast this morning.

The University of Limerick Men's Soccer team depart Limerick on Sunday ahead of the 2023 Collingwood Cup hosted by Ulster University.

The squad will face DCU in the quarter-finals on Monday morning at 11:00 hoping to book a semi-final spot against either Queens University Belfast or Maynooth University.

Today members of the Collingwood Cup squad and management staff along with Neasa Fahy O'Donnell of UL Sport were presented with new quarter-zip tops kindly sponsored by the Castletroy Park Hotel. 

UL’s participation in the Harding Cup ended at the semi-final stage as they fell to a 0-2 defeat at the hands of UCC this morning.

The men from the Treaty County earned a place in the Harding Cup semi-finals thanks to a 6-0 win over Ulster University on Monday. The goals came from Leon Daly, Raid Mouras, Fionn O’Leary, Alex Sidorov, Eoghan Burke and Dylan Moriarty.

Injuries played their part in the loss but this group can be very proud of their first showing at an intervarsity tournament.The future of soccer in UL is in safe hands.

Some of the Harding Cup squad will be involved in the Collingwood Cup which takes place from February 13th to 15th.

Collingwood Cup Preliminary round

Trinity College Dublin 1-2 University of Limerick

UL can begin preparations for the 2023 Collingwood Cup after seeing off Trinity College in a hard fought preliminary round clash in College Park this afternoon.

The Dubliners had come out on top when the sides met at this stage last year and in the CUFL Premier Division South last November. UL were eager to make amends andd the game on the front foot. Eoin Redmond and David McCarthy both saw shots go just wide within the opening five minutes.

It looked as if the deadlock would be broken after nine minutes when a long ball forward saw Adam Foley race through on goal, the Trinity shot stopper Lee Steacy was forced to rush out but his clearance was far from perfect allowing UL to win a corner that was dealt with by the home side.

It felt very much a case of when not if UL would take the lead and they did so in some style. Goalkeeper Josh Coady found his target in midfield, a quick ball into space on the right wing saw Cullen McCabe produce a lung busting run to the end line. The Clareman delivered a perfect cross to the edge of the area where Conor Butler composed himself before hitting a first time volley low into the bottom corner of the Trinity net, leaving Steacy rooted to the spot with 20 minutes played.

Just five minutes later Steacy was called into action, a freekick from Conor Whittle found Redmond in the area, he played the ball back into the danger zone allowing McCarthy to pull the trigger however his effort was smothered by the keeper.

The home side were struggling to get a foothold in the game and were reduced to speculative efforts from range. The men from the Treaty county continued to push forward and would increase their advantage in the 37th minute.

Adam Foley produced a fine run on the left wing taking on his marker before reaching the by-line, the Limerickman looked up and slipped the ball to McCarthy who made no mistake to tap home from close range.

The second half saw the home side switch things and personnel up as they looked to match UL’s intensity. It was a much closer affair but the Shannonsiders were up for the challenge, the battleground of midfield saw no punches pulled as Darren Butler, Redmond, Conor Butler and Tom Kidd did well to disrupt Trinity attacks while continuing to supply balls to their teammates going forward.

Set pieces were crucial for both sides with Trinity looking to exploit their height advantage, on two occasions they came close to reducing the deficit however McCabe and Conor Butler produced goal line clearances to keep UL ahead. UL captain Tom Carney came closest to scoring in the second half, from a freekick he sent a header goalward only to see the ball crash off the crossbar.

Trinity would not go down without a fight and to their credit they fought until the end finding the back of the net from a long throw-in in the 92nd minute. It was however too little too late.

UL will face DCU in the quarter-finals of the Collingwood Cup on Monday February 13th in Belfast in what will be the first traditional Collingwood since 2020. 

Sign up for UL Soccer 4-6pm Monday Jan 30th at Student Life marquee. All new members welcome. All level of player accepted. 

UL Mens Soccer Club activities for semester one have now concluded and we will restart in Semester Two. Best of luck to all our members, and indeed to all UL students, in their upcoming exams.

CUFL Premier Division South

University of Limerick 1-2 Trinity College Dublin

UL suffered their first defeat of the season as a 91st minute goal saw Trinity College take a vital three points with them back up the M7.

This game was always going to be a close encounter as first played host to second with a win for either side crucial for their hopes of reaching the league semi-finals. The first chance of the game fell to UL after just two minutes. An attack down the right wing culminated with Cullen McCabe whipping a dangerous ball into the area. Dean Hegarty rose the highest at the back post forcing Trinity goalkeeper Lee Steacy into action.

That chance would prove to be the only moment of note for some time as both teams battled to establish a foothold in the game. Trinity had the next chance of note when they picked up a loose ball in the 27th minute and raced towards goal. UL keeper Josh Coady spread himself well pushing the forward wide with his shot petering wide. The rest of the half remained an even affair with Trinity slightly edging it on chance creation but the stalemate could not be broken in the opening half.

The wait for a goal wouldn’t go on much longer as UL were celebrating a goal just 34 seconds into the second moiety. Leon Ryan raced forward from kick-off playing the ball to David McCarthy who managed to poke it out to the left wing to Adam Foley.

Foley burned his marker and reached the area unleashing a venomous shot on goal, Steacy was able to stop his effort but couldn’t hold on to the ball it spilled loose and Conor Butler made no mistake to put UL into the ascendency.

The Shannonsiders wouldn’t hold the lead for long as Trinity drew level in the 52nd minute. UL lost possession from a throw-in deep in their opponents half, a long ball down field wasn’t dealt with allowing a Trinity forward in on goal. Coady made a fine save to deny the visitors but much like his counterpart he was unable to hang on to the ball and Trinity capitalised.

It became apparent that neither side would be content to settle for a draw, it was end to end action for the remainder of the clash. UL created the next goalscoring opportunity in the 59th minute, Butler whipped the ball in from a corner with Conor Whittle popping up at the back post, he sent a half-volley goalward but Steacy was alert to the threat.

Trinity created opportunities of their own as the match wore on but UL managed to keep things level through some last ditch tackles and fine goalkeeping.

Football can be beautiful but it can also be very cruel and UL experienced the harsh side of sport today. Defending a corner in the 90th minute UL looked to break forward however the referee adjudged there to have been a foul as they played out on the far right of their box.

Trinity sent forward their big men, the free was delivered to the back post, the first header was saved but it fell loose where it was bundled over the line. There was no time left for the home side to launch a fightback as they tasted defeat for the first time this season.

UL now have a week off before the final game of the league season away to UCC. Only a win will do under the lights at the Mardyke if they are to remain in contention to reach the league semi-finals.

CUFL Premier Division South

University of Limerick 1-1 TUS Midlands

UL battled back from a goal down to earn a hard fought draw against TUS Midlands in miserable conditions this afternoon on Maguires pitches.

The hosts enjoyed the best of the early chances with a strong shot from Alex Sidorov testing the TUS goalkeeper inside the opening two minutes. Conor Butler was the next to try from range with his strike rising just over the bar with five minutes played.

UL could very well have taken the lead after nine minutes when a long ball over the top caught the TUS defence off-guard, Oleg Vysochan raced on to the ball and poked the ball past the onrushing goalkeeper only to see a defender get back to clear the danger.

The men from Athlone created the next chance, from a corner they powered a header goalward but Gavin Dillion was on hand to head away their effort. Another long ball from UL created the next goal scoring opportunity, Josh Coady launched the ball to the right wing where Nikodem Kozlowski controlled it with a deft touch, racing forward he was confronted by the TUS keeper who had advanced to try and clear the danger. The winger chipped the ball over his opponent and the shot went narrowly wide from an acute angle.

UL were once again rueing their misfortune in the 31st minute when a quick freekick saw Vysocgan whip the ball into the box where Ciaran Jennings and Tom Carney rose to meet it unfortunately their combined effort saw the ball fizz  past the upright. Both sides continued to press but the game was locked at 0-0 when the referee blew the whistle for half-time.

The second half got off to the worst possible start for UL as they were reduced to ten men for an off the ball incident. This pivotal moment gave TUS a huge boost in confidence and they set about making the most of their numerical advantage. With 54 minutes on the clock the visitors were celebrating a goal however their celebrations were short lived as the flag was up for offside. UL were still rocked by the sending off and with 56 minutes on the clock TUS took the lead from an attack down the right that was tapped home at the back post.

To their credit UL did not let this setback derail them and they immediately pushed for an equaliser. A 67th minute free-kick saw Tom Carney win a corner from the set-piece TUS cleared the first effort but the danger was not fully averted with Conor Butler popping up at the back post to head home the equaliser.

Despite being a man down UL were not content to sit back and settle for a draw and they set about finding a winner. Substitute Leon Daly found himself in possession on the right wing, he jinked past his first marker and surged toward the area in between two TUS players as he did he was brought down just inside the box leaving the referee no option but to point to the spot with 76 minutes played.

Unfortunately for UL their string of bad luck continued as their penalty effort crept just over the crossbar. Both sides continued to search for a winner but ultimately the deadlock could not be broken with the points shared.

After three weeks of consecutive action UL now enjoy a week off before welcoming Trinity College to Maguires pitches in two weeks’ time.

CUFL Premier Division South

SETU Carlow 0-2 University of Limerick

UL recorded an historic first ever victory on Carlow soil seeing off their opponents 2-0 thanks to a goal in either half.

Both sides took time to settle into the game as they got to grips with a strong wind, the first chance of note did fall to UL, Eoin Redmond flicked the ball towards the back post from a free kick with Adam Foley forcing a save from the keeper with ten minutes played.

Foley again forced the keeper into action with 18 minutes gone, a through ball released Nikodem Kozlowski on the right wing, the Carlow shot stopper blocked his effort with the ball lopping back in to the mixer where Foley contorted his body to fire an overhead kick towards goal, a fingertip save ensured Carlow only conceded a corner.

Just two minutes later UL had another fine chance to take the lead, Ciaran Jennings intercepted the ball in midfield and surged through a gap in the Carlow defence, as he raced towards goal the keeper rushed out, Jennings opted for an audacious chip lifting the ball over his onrushing opponent but just went over over the crossbar.

The hosts knew they were riding their luck and moved up a gear capitalising on a sloppy touch on the right wing to fire a dangerous ball across the UL goal. From the resulting throw-in Carlow powered a header towards goal, it looked destined for the back of the net but UL captain Tom Carney was alive to the danger producing a stunning goal-line clearance to keep the sides level with 26 minutes on the clock.

Two minutes later a speculative effort from a Carlow midfielder stung the gloves of UL keeper Eoghan Tinkler. After this purple patch for the hosts UL regained their foothold and created another glorious chance.  

UL broke from a defensive corner with Kozlowski winning possession, the winger showed superb instinct to flick the ball behind him straight into the path of the onrushing Redmond. The Carlow defenders had no chance of catching the Corkman but once again the Carlow goalkeeper produced a fine save to keep the sides locked at nil all.

Redmond was at the centre of a fine team move that gave UL the lead right on the stroke of half-time. Winning possession in midfield he looked up and played Foley through on goal, as the Limerickman raced toward goal he looked up and slipped the ball out to the right to Kozlowski. The winger would have been forgiven for taking on a shot as he made his way towards the edge of the six yard box but he squared the ball to the back post where Conor Butler arrived to break the deadlock.

Carlow the second half with the bit between their teeth eager to find an early equaliser but they failed to create any clear cut chances. In fact as they pushed to level proceedings they created opportunities for UL. Just six minutes into the second half Foley won a corner which saw a header go just over. With 53 minutes played Oleg Vysochan controlled a ball that was sent forward, the winger turned quickly made space for a shot and forced the keeper to make yet another fine stop.

A second goal for UL looked more likely than an equaliser for Carlow and it arrived in the 59th minute. Eoin Redmond was again instrumental, he slid the ball behind the Carlow defence allowing Ciaran Jennings to bear down on goal. The Sligoman was unselfish and spotted Redmond who had continued his run, Redmond pulled the trigger hitting the keeper, the rebound fell straight to him and his next effort was directed into the net by a hapless Carlow defender.

Substitute Alex Sidorov almost made an instant impact in the 61st minute, he played a fine ball in to Foley who teed up Jennings producing another good save from the Carlow shot stopper.

Carlow continued to push for a route back into the game delivering some dangerous balls into the UL area but time and time again the back four and goalkeeper were able to clear their lines. The Shannonsiders were still creating opportunities with Mark Murphy the next player to show some individual skill. Winning possession the Limerick man dropped his shoulder to create space for a shot sending the goalkeeper scrambling as the ball fizzed just past the post in the 81st minute.

The home side grew more and more frustrated as the final whistle drew near pushing bodies forward in search of a late flurry of goals. Even with five minutes of injury time they could not find a consolation goal with UL debutant Leon Daly producing the last real chance of the game. A rapid counter attack saw the right winger played in on goal, he took a touch before getting off a powerful strike but for one last time the Carlow keeper kept the deficit to just two.

UL now have two wins from two games setting a strong foundation for the league campaign going forward. They welcome TUS Midlands to Maguries Pitches next Tuesday for the third game of the season. The Athlone side suffered a 3-1 loss the Carlow last week and take on UCC in Cork tomorrow afternoon.

CUFL Premier Division South

University of Limerick 3-1 SETU Waterford

UL got their league campaign off to a flying start with a hard fought 3-1 over SETU Waterford on Maguires Pitches this afternoon.

The early chances of this encounter were created by the home side, a 5th minute corner reached the back post where Mark Murphy was on hand to send the ball back into the mixer resulting in Tom Carney forcing a save from the Waterford goalkeeper. The shot stopper was called into action again after 12 minutes when Cillian Duffy unleashed a venomous strike from the edge of the area, the keeper did well to deny this fine effort tipping it onto the crossbar.

Against the run of play the visitors took the lead after 16 minutes. A speculative cross from the left was not dealt with by the UL defence allowing a Waterford attacker to head them into the ascendency.

The Shannonsiders immediately set about finding a leveller and came close with 24 minutes on the clock. Joey Rushe was released on the right wing beating his marker before finding Murphy with a smart cutback, however once again the Waterford keeper was able to thwart the Limerickman’s effort. UL continued to push for an equaliser in the opening half but Waterford were content to sit back and absorb the pressure exerted on their defence keeping their lead intact until the half-time whistle.

UL began the second half reinvigorated and came close to drawing level just two minutes after the restart. Theo Joyce evaded his marker, made space for a shot and whipped the ball towards the far corner of the net. The keeper was beaten but the shot curled just wide. Joyce was once again involved on 51 minutes, a Cillian Duffy throw-in supplied the Connemara man with the ball he drew pressure before laying the ball into the path of Eoin Redmond who lashed an effort just over the bar. Redmond forced a good save from the Waterford keeper again in the 54th minute as UL edged closer to drawing level.

A set-piece routine in the 64th minute saw UL come agonisingly close to finding the net but once again their efforts were thwarted by Waterford. However their wait for an equaliser would not go on much longer. A rapid attack down the right wing saw the ball delivered at speed to the box where Adam Foley used all his experience of College football to bring UL level with a tidy finish with 66 minutes played.

With parity restored the hosts could smell blood in the water and instantly took the lead. From kick-off Waterford looked to hold on to possession however an errant pass from their centre-back was intercepted by substitute Alex Sidorov who played the ball out wide, once again Foley was the man to finish the move sticking a leg out to guide the ball home with 67 minutes played.

To their credit Waterford recovered from this hammer blow and created work for the UL defence with goalkeeper Eoghan Tinkler alert to several crosses whipped into this area from by the men from the Déise.

As they pushed to find a way back into the game they left gaps at the back that saw UL create some half chances with substitutes Ciaran Jennings and Dean Hegarty putting in fine shifts to keep the Waterford defence on their toes.

The third goal arrived in the 91st minute, as a Waterford attack broke down Eoin Redmond found himself in possession on the edge of his own area. Despite playing the full 90 the Corkman took off on a solo run taking the ball past all who could keep up with him, as he closed in on the Waterford goal he sought to send the ball low into the bottom corner of the net. A superb save denied Redmond a memorable goal but the keeper couldn’t hold on to his effort with the ball spilling allowing Sidorov to score the easiest of goals putting the result beyond doubt.

UL showed great determination to fight their way back into this game to claim three important points. Their league campaign continues next week with a trip to SETU Carlow who were 3-1 victors over TUS Midlands this afternoon.

UL senior mens soccer finished their CUFL preparations with a hard fought 2-0 win over Ireland Defence Forces on Wednesday Oct 5th. Scholar Eoin Redmond and debutant Alex Sidorov provided the goals before UL start their league campaign at home to TUS Midlands next week. 

Casual soccer is now Tuesdays 8pm at MaGuires astro pitches. You must be a member of UL Soccer Club to play. UL Soccer are looking for people to organise it, bibs and balls will be provided. If you are interested, message us directly. €5 will be collected from each player.

2022/23 UL Men's Soccer Trials will take place on Monday, September 26th at 4pm on MaGuires All Weather Pitches behind UL Sports Arena Gym 

https://www.ulsport.ie/uloutdoor/facilities/maguires-all-weather-pitches/

Bring your own water and your own training kit including boots and shinguards if possible. For insurance purposes you must be a member of UL Soccer Club in order to take part and your membership fee must be paid.

We have two men's soccer teams in UL, both compete in the national colleges league and in intervarsity competitions. We also have a Harding Cup team for first years only.

For anybody who is not selected for these two teams, we will have casual soccer every Monday, time TBC.

Contact the UL Wolves Soccer Club page with any questions.  

Premier Division Final

TU Dublin 3-2 University of Limerick

Despite a heroic effort UL fell just short in the CUFL Premier Division Final yesterday afternoon in Athlone recording a 3-2 loss to TU Dublin.

UL had a chance inside the opening 40 seconds a cross from Ewan O’Brien was flicked goalward by captain Edmond O’Dwyer but he could only find the side netting. TU Dublin created the early chances in this encounter but Seán McCormack in the UL goal produced a number of fine stops to keep the sides level.

When UL did have possession they looked dangerous going forward and were asking questions of the TU defence however just when it appeared the Shannonsiders had overcome the initial onslaught from their opponents they fell behind.

A ball over the top forced an attempted clearance from the UL defence however the ball went straight up and landed in the UL box, a TU Dublin player raced onto it and cut the ball back for an easy tap in with 17 minutes played.

UL had shown their mental resolve on several occasions during this league campaign and once again they dug deep and forced their way back into the game. With half an hour played a long throw in from Shane McCallion was cleared as far as Eoin Redmond on the edge of the area, the Corkman hit a fine half volley that looked goal bound but a TU Dublin defender got a vital deflection to force the ball out.

The Limerickmen could sense they were back in the game and in the 33rd minute they found themselves with a freekick on the right of the TU area. David McCarthy delivered the ball into the mixer and the Dubliners failed to clear their lines, Ciaran Jennings sprung into life and was taken out as he went for the ball leaving the referee with no option but to point to the spot.

O’Dwyer was the man to take the kick and he empathically dispatched the ball low to the keeper’s left to bring UL level with 34 minutes on the clock.

Both sides were giving their all now with parity restored, TU created some half chances while Limerick remained a constant threat on the counter attack. Another UL error created an opportunity for TU to retake the lead with 42 minutes played. Coming under pressure in midfield Oleg Vysochan had no option but to play the ball back to Killian Maloney, the ball only made it as far as no man’s land between the two Limerick players allowing a TU player to steal possession and surge into the box, a cut back to the edge of the area and a low driven shot left McCormack with no chance.

UL looked to respond instantly but it was TU who would find the back of the net again a minute before half-time. An attack down the left wing saw the ball go across the face of goal to an awaiting TU player who made no mistake to leave UL with a mountain to climb in the second half.

The Limerickmen responded well andd the second half with intent pressing the TU players who were content to sit back and hold possession thanks to their two goal cushion. Substitutes had played a key role throughout the season for UL and once again the depth of the squad reaped rewards for the men in maroon and blue. Theo Joyce was causing problems down the left flank and was always willing to race on to balls over the top. It was a combination between two substitutes that really brought UL back into the game.

A UL goal kick was flicked on by Redmond allowing Adam Foley to pick up possession and dart forward attracting the attention of four TU players, Foley held possession until just the right moment slipping the ball through a narrow gap to Cillian Duffy who pulled the ball across the face of goal. As he did McCarthy moved towards the ball but was taken down in the process. The referee pointed to the spot again and dismissed the TU defender for denying a clear goalscoring opportunity.

The responsibility again fell to O’Dwyer and once again he was unerring from 12 yards sending the keeper the wrong way as he powered the ball into the left hand side of the goal in the 65th minute.

Through hard work and sheer determination UL were very much back in the game and took control of proceedings limiting TU to a handful of advances into the UL half for the remainder of the second half.

UL opted to make the most of their aerial prowess and went close with 80 minutes played, a corner routine saw the ball chested down but TU scrambled the ball clear before a Limerick leg could send the ball towards goal.

The best chance to draw level came five minutes from time, Maloney drove up the left wing setting the ball out to Joyce who whipped the ball towards the far side of the TU area, Foley sent the ball back towards goal to the waiting Conor Whittle who fired the ball towards goal. The TU goalkeeper knew little about the save he produced such was the pace at which the move had developed, an inch either side and UL would have been level but it proved to be a match winning save.

Five minutes of additional time were played and UL battled until the end never dropping their heads but ultimately their league campaign fell just short.

UL can be immensely proud of their league campaign scoring 19 goals conceding just 7 on route to a national final. The players have been absolutely fantastic this season braving the elements for training sessions and fixtures and fully committing to the cause.

A special word of mention must go to our fourth year students: Andy Quaid, Adam Foley, Edmond O’Dwyer, Ian Collins, Shane McCallion, Killian Maloney and Seán McCormack who have all had exceptional college careers and several of whom won the Harding Cup back in 2019. Thank you for everything lads and best wishes for the future.

Thanks too must go to the management team of Ian Sullivan, Michael McCarthy and Leon Casey Ryan who guided the squad to some memorable victories this season. A word of thanks also to our physiotherapist Craig Reddan who worked wonders on more than one occasion to help get our lads back from injury.

CUFL Premier Division Semi-final

University of Limerick 3-2 NUI Maynooth

A UL side inspired by Ed O’Dwyer staged a memorable comeback this afternoon coming from a goal down at the break to defeat Maynooth 3-2 to secure a place in the CUFL Premier Division Final.

UL’s strong league campaign before Christmas saw them win four games from four to top the Southern Division earning them a semi-final draw against Maynooth who finished second in the Northern Division.

There was little to note in the opening twenty minutes for either team as both sides tried to impose themselves on the game, UL’s first moment to speak of came after 26 minutes when Oleg Vysochan curled an effort from the edge of the area but the Maynooth keeper dealt with his strike with relative comfort.

Just three minutes later the visitors took the lead, some fine play allowed Maynooth’s striker to get a shot on goal but Seán McCormack produced a fine save to deny his first effort, McCormack was unable to hold onto the ball however and Maynooth found the back of the net at the second time of asking.

Despite taking the lead it was the Shannonsiders who were invigorated by the goal andd to have more luck going forward with striker Ciaran Jennings and winger Theo Joyce causing headaches for the Maynooth defence.

The visitors reached half time with their slender lead intact. UL had found themselves in a similar position just six days earlier away to Trinity in the opening round of the Collingwood Cup and like last week their second half showing was a vast improvement on that of the first.

Within forty seconds of UL getting the second half underway captain Ed O’Dwyer had the ball in the Maynooth net and the home team back on level terms. A long ball was knocked down by Jenning finding Joyce who delivered an inch perfect cross with O’Dwyer on hand to finish the move.

There were close calls for the defences of both sides soon after, in the 49th minute Joyce was played through one on one with the keeper but was adjudged to be offside much to the puzzlement of those in attendance. Hearts were in UL mouth’s after 54 minutes when McCormack was forced into action again with a Maynooth effort being cleared off the goal line.

Just a minute later UL hit the front thanks again to O’Dwyer. A UL free kick was cleared as far as the halfway line, Dara Hough found Vysochan on the left wing, cutting inside he spotted O’Dwyer waiting on the edge of the area and supplied him with possession. The Bansha man only had one thing in mind and his low driven effort nestled into the bottom corner of the Maynooth net.

Maynooth had a chance to draw level on 63 minutes when an audacious chipped effort landed just wide of McCormack’s far post. The next goal would arrive in the 69th minute seeing O’Dwyer complete his hat-trick.

On a counter attack substitute David McCarthy produced a sublime lofted pass that landed perfectly for O’Dwyer. Unphased by the onrushing Maynooth goalkeeper O’Dwyer showed the composure that has been a staple of his game for the past four years to calmly slot the ball low to the keeper’s left sparking wild celebrations from the Limerick players and substitutes.

Maynooth were not dead and buried despite the two goal deficit and McCormack produced another fine stop in the 71st minute to keep that margin intact. Maynooth were however handed a lifeline with 77 minutes on the clock. UL centre back Colm Barrett was adjudged to have fouled a Maynooth attacker on the edge of the area with the referee pointing to the spot. The visitors made no mistake from twelve yards teeing up a tense finish.

Cullen McCabe kept the visitors at bay when they made inroads down the left flank and centre back Shane McCallion’s towering headers and no nonsense clearances alleviated any pressure UL came under. O’Dwyer’s midfield partners Ewan O’Brien and Eoin Redmond were tireless all game both going forward and when defending, winning dirty balls but also picking the right pass to allow the UL forwards to keep the ball in the Maynooth half.

The home side would not give up their lead and celebrated a well-deserved victory when the full time whistle blew. The headlines of course will go to captain fantastic and hat-trick hero O’Dwyer but make no mistake this was an immense team effort from the entire UL squad.

From the first minute to the last the Shannonsiders played with the intensity and conviction of a team that wanted to prove a point. When called upon each player delivered and contributed to a famous comeback victory.

The squad can now look forward to a CUFL Premier Division Final against TU Dublin the week commencing February 28th.

Harding Cup South-West Group:

UL 2-2 UCC

Goals from Dean Hegarty and Joey Rush

NUIG 5-1 UCC

UL 1-1 NUIG

Goal scored by Nathan Williams

Plenty of tired legs this week after a busy day of action for our Freshers squad on Tuesday. Two hard fought draws saw our lads fall just short with NUI Galway progressing to the final against Maynooth. The future is bright for UL Soccer with this bunch of up and coming freshers who gave their all this week and did the club and college proud.

CUFL Premier Division South

University of Limerick 4-0 University College Cork

UL finished their Premier Division South League campaign in style this evening as they comfortably saw off UCC 4-0 on Maguires Pitches.

Conditions this evening were horrendous, torrential showers and a strong wind were present right from the off but the weather didn’t seem to hamper the sides too much as both teams created early chances.

David McCarthy had two chances inside the opening fifteen minutes, on one occasion it looked certain that the net would ripple for him and it did unfortunately however it was the side netting.

The disappointment of that miss didn’t last long for McCarthy as he broke the deadlock after seventeen minutes. A stray pass from the UCC goalkeeper was intercepted by Theo Joyce who raced forward, the Connemara man’s shot was spilled by the UCC shot stoper allowing McCarthy to easily put UL ahead.

The visitors almost had an instant response just two minutes later as a header from a corner was cleared off the UL goalmouth by Conor Whittle.

This close call reinforced the need for the Shannonsiders to increase their lead and they came mightily close before half time.

The first chance fell to Edmond O’Dwyer with twenty one minutes played, the midfielder saw a curled effort from the edge of the area go narrowly wide of the far post. Ten minutes later his midfield partner Ewan O’Brien was denied only by the crossbar. An attack up the right wing resulted in the ball being laid off to O’Brien who put his laces through the ball, it flew through the air and there was an audible gasp as it rattled the woodwork. That was the last moment of note in the opening half.

The men from the Treaty County began the second half on the front foot with Joyce testing the UCC goalkeeper inside the opening minute.

The second goal would come once again from the boot of McCarthy. Finding himself with space outside the left hand side of the UCC area he looked up and whipped the ball into the far corner, the wind certainly didn’t hinder its flight into the net with fifty-four minutes played.

Conditions were unrelenting as the match wore on and once again the UL substitutes proved to be worth their weight in gold.

The third goal arrived after seventy minutes and saw Adam Foley tee up Joyce who dispatched a fine volley into the UCC net.

The Leesiders were resigned to their fate at this stage but they continued to look for a consolation goal, in doing so their left themselves open at the back and they were punished by UL with seventy-nine minutes gone.

Adam Foley broke forward and was spoiled for choice with O’Dwyer on his left and Ciaran Jennings on his right. The Limerickman opted for the right and played through Jennings who composed himself before slotting the ball through the legs of the UCC keeper.

The UL players could well have sung in the rain come the full time whistle as they completed a clean sweep of four wins from four games in their league campaign. They top the Premier Division South with 12 points and can look forward to a semi-final against the second placed team in the Premier Division North in the new year.

CUFL Premier Division South

TUS Midlands 1-4 University of Limerick

UL fought back from a goal down to record a 1-4 win away to TUS Midlands in Athlone yesterday afternoon. The Shannonsiders came into the game with a perfect record of two wins from two games but were acutely aware their opponents today would be no push over.

The first half was a cagey affair with clear cut chances for both sides coming at a premium. The first chance of the game came after five minutes for UL when Oleg Vysochan played in David McCarthy who saw a lobbed effort go just over the crossbar. McCarthy also saw an effort from the edge of the area saved after eleven minutes. The first flowing move of the game arrived on sixteen minutes when Adam Foley collected the ball on the right wing, he found McCarthy who laid the ball into the path of the onrushing Cullen McCabe who produced a save from the TUS goalkeeper.

There was little to note from either side for the remainder of the opening half, TUS Midlands struggled to test the UL defence and any advances forward were dealt with by the men in maroon and blue.

Both sides were feeling the cold on a bright, chilly afternoon but UL seemed to thaw out during the half-time break. Theyd the second half with real impetus with an Ian Collins cross bringing the TUS shot-stopper into action a minute after the restart. Vysochan was next to try his luck, denied only by the upright after shooting from the edge of the area. UL saw their next chance come from a corner kick as a header went narrowly wide. The visitors were rueing that miss just a minute later. A quick counterattack from TUS culminated in a cross from the right wing finding a striker arriving in the area who made no mistake to break the deadlock after fifty-one minutes.

The hosts’ lead would not last long however as UL reacted instantly to falling behind for the first time this season. Vysochan brilliantly won possession of the ball on the left wing and drove forward, he found Foley on the edge of the area and opted against shooting to tee up McCarthy on the right side of the area. McCarthy still had work to do but he drew on his experience to produce a fine finish powering the ball across the keeper’s body and into the back of the net with fifty-seven minutes played.

Ten minutes later UL were ahead this time McCarthy was the one providing the assist. After winning a free just inside the TUS half UL sent bodies forward, a superb delivery saw the ball whipped towards the far post where the rising Conor Whittle was on hand to head home UL’s second goal.

UL sensed a one goal lead would not be enough against a side who needed a victory to keep their semi-final hopes alive. McCabe made another surging run forward linking up with Collins, the pair exchanged possession with Collins forcing the keeper to push the ball out for a corner. Few could have predicted what would come from the resulting set piece. The corner was met by the fists of the TUS keeper but his clearance only made it to the left hand side of his area. As the ball dropped substitute Theo Joyce readied himself and produced a simply stunning volley that rocketed into the top right hand corner of the net. An unstoppable strike that left the opponent’s jaws on the floor with seventy-five minutes on the clock.

The Connemara man was not content with one stunning goal as two minutes later he took off from inside his own half on the left wing. As he surged forward the TUS players were unable to stop his quick footwork, once he reached the area the outcome was inevitable and UL celebrated their fourth goal of the game.

It was as if Joyce had been possessed by the spirit of Diego Maradona, his second bore all the hallmarks of the Argentine’s goal of the century against England in the 1986 World Cup. Just one day away from Maradona’s first anniversary there could be no greater tribute than the display Joyce produced from the bench.

The wind was well and truly taken out of the home side’s sails, the Limerick bench has had a huge impact in this league campaign and once again the players when called upon helped deliver a crucial victory.

The result ensures UL will top the Premier Division South table regardless of the result of their game next week. UCC’s 2-0 loss at home to IT Carlow combined with UL’s perfect record to date means the men from the Treaty County can look forward to a semi-final in the new year.

The normal league season is not yet over however as UL will look to make it four wins from four when they welcome UCC to Maguires Pitches next Tuesday.

CUFL Premier Division South:

University of Limerick 1-0 IT Carlow

Premier Division football made its long awaited return to Maguires pitches this afternoon as UL carried the momentum from their opening game win to see off IT Carlow in what was a thrilling encounter.

Carlow arrived in the Treaty County buoyed by their campaign opening 4-0 win against TUS Midlands, while the visitors did get proceedings underway it was UL who saw the first chance at goal go a begging. With just three minutes played Shane McCallion delivered a long throw into the box, Ed O’Dwyer rose well to flick the ball into the mixer, centre back Conor Whittle connected but saw the ball go just wide of the upright.

The next moment of note arrived for the visitors with eleven minutes played when Carlow bundled the ball into the UL net but the goal would not stand after UL keeper Seán McCormack was taken out in the air. From the resulting free kick the hosts launched a counter attack, Oleg Vysochan collected the ball and raced forward from the left wing, he would have been forgiven for having a shot on goal but he selflessly played the ball to the onrushing Ciaran Jennings on the right who saw his shot hit the side-netting much to the relief of the Carlow keeper.

Carlow were content to retain possession and look to pick a pass through the UL defence but they were having little success in the opening half and the next chance arrived for Limerick from a set-piece with fifteen minutes played. A free kick was delivered into the box and a string of three headers from Limerick players resulted in Vysochan seeing a shot narrowly go over the bar. Just three minutes later the Carlow defence were at panic stations as UL surged forward again, Adam Foley laid the ball off to Ed O’Dwyer on the edge of the area, the Tipp man’s shot was destined for the goal but a last ditch sliding tackle saw the danger cleared.

Both sides looked to create chances as the opening half wore on but at the break the sides were level.

UL were revitalised after the half time break and another long throw created problems in the Carlow defence. Whittle delivered the ball from the side-line this time and as a flick on fell to a Carlow defender the Limerick players surrounded him, forcing him to pass back to his keeper who collected the ball. The referee was left with no choice but to award an indirect free-kick from ten yards inside the penalty area. With the entire Carlow team on the goal-line it was going to take something special, the free was laid off but the resulting shot was blocked by the wall of green shirts, appeals for a handball fell on deaf ears.

With ten minutes played in the second half Carlow looked to seize control as an exchange of quick passes resulted in their number ten stinging the hands of McCormack. The visitors looked to impose themselves on the game utilising their physicality where necessary but were met by resolute defence from the Shannonsiders.

The Carlow defence had twice been troubled by long throw-ins and it was a case of third time lucky for UL as the deadlock was finally broken with sixty three minutes on the clock. Whittle launched another missile into the Carlow box, O’Dwyer once again rose well to flick it towards the danger zone, Vysochan managed to get a shot off towards goal but it was blocked by Carlow the resulting clearance was hammered into the face of UL’s Eoin Redmond and fell to Adam Foley. The Limerickman latched onto the ball and made no mistake from close range to fire UL into a deserved lead.

The visitors were enraged after falling behind and looked to hit back instantly but once again the Limerick defence held firm. As Carlow committed bodies forward UL looked increasingly dangerous on the counter attack. Vysochan was a constant threat going forward never giving the Carlow defence a minutes’ peace, the winger was aided and abetted in his surges forward by Jennings and Foley but a second goal was not forthcoming.

UL’s no-nonsense approach was frustrating the Carlow players at this stage. As the match entered the final ten the threatening rain finally arrived and Carlow looked to switch things up slightly opting to take a shot from range with eighty three minutes played. The shot was hit well producing a fine save from McCormack who was in inspired form today.

Rain drops kept falling on the UL players’ heads but unlike the guy whose feet are too big for his bed everything seemed to fit for UL, the back four of Cullen McCabe, Ciaran Barry (on for the injured McCallion) Conor Whittle and Killian Maloney rebuffed attack after attack from the men in green. The impact of the Limerick bench cannot be underestimated Dave McCarthy was industrious in midfield when introduced while Theo Joyce caused plenty of headaches for Carlow on the left wing as the clock ticked down.

Carlow’s last chance of the game came in the ninetieth minute as they pushed everyone forward but the ball delivered by their goalkeeper was cut out by Limerick, the home side pushed on and pinned Carlow in their own half, retaining possession until the referee brought proceedings to a close.

The result sees UL move to six points and places them at the top of the table. The Shannonsiders are on the road next week as they head to Athlone to face TUS Midlands hoping to make it three wins from three.

To play the internal 11-a-side UL Wolves League, you can join this Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/groups/283889713420602 and complete this Google Form: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSeeHL1QeKmkCzaGZwUfE1a5OXTFVit1Npbw4tLi_MeaiFadHQ/viewform?usp=sf_link

If you'd like to be added to the WhatsApp group for Casual Soccer, please send your mobile number to ULMensSoccerClub@gmail.com 

If interested in playing for one of UL's competitive teams (CUFL, Collingwood Cup, Crowley Cup, Harding Cup), please join a UL Wolves League team and managers will select best players to play for representative squads. 

Join the Club Facebook to keep up to date: https://www.facebook.com/groups/117028844544

- - - Check SPAM folders for correspondence from menssoccer@ulwolves.ie - - - 

Open trials take place on 27th September 2021 at 20:00 on Maguires pitches. Please ensure your UL Soccer membership has been paid and approved before attending trials (non-club members are not allowed participate in club activities for insurance reasons). Please join the Facebook page to keep up to date on trainings, matches, trials, events etc: https://www.facebook.com/groups/ULSoccerClubOfficialPage

Players from all years, post-grads, Erasmus students etc may attend these trials. The only requirement is that you are a fully paid and active member of the UL Mens Soccer Club. 

Hi all! Welcome to all new and returning member of UL Soccer! Trials and trainings will begin on week beginning 27 Sep 2021. To keep up to date, check back on ULWolves.ie and join the Facebook page here: https://www.facebook.com/groups/117028844544