Roll of Honour: Confirmed Ireland Women's National Team Players
Notes: 1) I haven't added many notes for current or recent players, as they usually have Wikipedia pages. 2) GAA is used as a shorthand for Gaelic Games although I found out half way through doing the list that technically the GAA is men-only and women have separate sub-organisations. 3) Anne O'Brien, Veronica Guerin and Ann McLoughlin have passed away, I apologise in advance if there are any others listed who I'm not yet aware are deceased.
INDEX: A B C D E F G H I J K L M Mc N O P Q R S T U V W X Y Z
A
Isibeal Carolan "Izzy" Atkinson - 17.7.01 - Winger from Dublin. Called into senior squad for WCQ in Slovakia, 24.10.17. Given senior debut as a 16yo 90th-minute sub for L Kiernan in 3-1 friendly win over Portugal in the Azores, 21.1.18. Competitive debut as a 89th-min sub for A O'Gorman in 1-0 defeat in Stavanger, Norway, 12.6.18 (and also managed to pick up a booking). First start v Belgium 20.1.19 in a 1-0 friendly defeat at Pinatar Arena, Spain. Signed for Shelbourne in July 2017 after three successful years playing at youth level with Enniskerry FC, Wicklow. Went straight into Shels' WNL team. Was adapted into a buccaneering left-back for the truncated 2020 season, and thrived in the new role. On the last day of the January 2021 transfer window Glasgow Celtic announced they had signed Atkinson to a professional contract.B
Eve Martha Badana - 9.7.93 - GK - 2017 Universiade in Taiwan. 2013 Universiade in Kazan, 172cm tall.Amber Barrett - 16.1.96 - A second cousin of Aoife Colville.
Grainne Barrett - CM capped in a friendly win in Klaksvik, Faroe Isles, 12.10.04. Started the 2-1 win, subbed off for V Mulcahy at HT. Was listed as a Galway Hibs player. Part of the Galway X1 who won the 2007 FAI Women's Cup and played in the Uefa Women's Cup in 2008. Club sides were Mervue United then Galway Bohemians. 3 u19 caps to add to 1 at senior level. Castlebar Celtic in WNL 11/12. Then Galway WFC 2013-2017. GAA star with Galway and the Annaghdown club.
Noreen Barrett - Nora Barrett in FAI records - Cork Celtic team-mate of S Kelly, "Panel newcomer" in Eamonn Darcy's first squad for training at St Pat's College, Drumcondra April 1984. Cork Celtic player named in Tony Kelly's "very young squad" for opening Euro 84 qualifier in Dunfermline 19.9.82. 'N Barrett' listed in Ireland's Saturday Night report of 2-1 Euro qualifier win over NI in Ards, 2.10.82. Preview of the Cork Celtic's 5-0 1982 LFAI Cup final defeat by Dublin Castle: "Noeleen Barrett, who starred for the Republic side against N. Ireland last weekend..." A member of the Cork Celtic side which toured the east coast of the USA in September 1983. A full-back who was Cork Celtic's POTY in 1982.
Emma Beckett - 29.5.87 -
Dearbhaile Beirne - 5.8.98, Mohill - Senior debut as a 90th-min sub for S Perry in the 0-4 friendly defeat by Poland in Ostroda, 9.10.18. DL. Grew up on a farm in Mohill, Leitrim. Won the RTE reality TV show 'Ireland's Fittest Family' in summer 2017 w dad Michael and brothers Jonathan and Keith. Mum Mai not in the programme but also sporty. Studied biomedical sciences at UCD and played WNL football for the Waves. A product of Shelbourne's youth system and played for the new Shels WNL team in 15/16 before joining DLR Waves for the 2016 transitional season. Switched to Peamount United Aug 18, half way through the season. Won the League w Peas in 2019 but lost FAI Cup finals to Wexford Youths in 2018 and 2019. Leitrim GAA.
Gillian Bennett - 25.12.78 - full name Christina Gillian Bennett - Eureka Kells player in 1996 squad. Kells defender in u16 triangular tournament in Drogheda, April 1995. Meath GAA player. Kells player in u18s squad for the Gothia Cup win in July 1995. Started at left back in the first Euro 97 qual 24.9.95, 2-0 win in Toftir over Faroes, but was subbed on 30 mins after accidental clash of heads. Eureka Kells player called up for WWC qual v Poland at Tolka Park, 2 Nov 97, left wing back in the 1-0 defeat. Eureka Kells player named in squad for decisive Euro 97 qual in Brussels 4.5.96. Unused sub in the 5-1 defeat (L Towler preferred at LB). Rathfarnham player listed in prog for Euro qual v Wales, Steboneath Park, Llanelli, 8.10.95. Kells player in squad for WC qual in Bangor, Wales 7.12.97. Office assistant (2006). 5'7''. GAA ace centre back or full forward w Meath, Leinster and the Drumbaragh, Seneschaltown and Moynalty clubs. Won a minor all-Ireland as a sub in 1994. LGFA POTM in April 2006. Took a US soccer scholarship in 1998 but didn't like the setup at Mercyhurst College and moved to Woodlawn in the Bronx, NY. Played for The New York Cavan GAA club. New York Ladies GAA POTY in 1999: "Bennett stood head and shoulders above the opposition [...] she simply lit up Gaelic Park every time she graced the hardened sod." - Pierce O'Reilly in the Irish Echo. Returned from US in 2001 and took a job with Midland Waste, Navan. She was another player to roll off the production line at Leonard Noone's Eureka Kells talent factory. Described as a "Multyfarnham woman" after playing in the 6-0 win over NI, 7.9.97.
Jetta Berrill - 31.1.94 - UCD Waves MF first called up for Montenegro and Spain ECQs in April 2016. Not used but made a senior debut in a group dead rubber against Portugal 20 Sept 2016. Promising display as an attacking RB but conceded 78th min pen which led to a 1-0 home defeat. Played against Euskadi 26.11.16. Got another brief run out at the 2017 Cyprus Cup v North Korea, injury-time sub for A O'Gorman in a 2-0 3rd place play-off defeat. Went to Hungary in 2017 to train as a vet. Rejoined DLR during her summer hols in 2019 and after she finished her course in summer 2021.
Pauline Boland - St. Brendan's player in squad for friendly v NI 31.8.80 and v Belgium 27.10.80. One of 2 Leinster Ladies League players in Tony Kelly's 1st squad v NI in Newry 14.6.80. P Boland started at Dalyer in 5-0 friendly defeat by England 3.5.81. Listed as a St Brendan's player in the Leinster Ladies League squad for a "Bracken" Trophy fixture at Galway, 5.7.81.
Sharon Boyle - 15.11.73 - Left FAI u16 coach role after 5 years in May 2018 but retained her development officer role. Took Shelbourne u17 girls coach job in Nov 19. Uncapped member of squad v USA B 9.8.94 as Bohemians player in DWSL. Started the USA B game, 1-1 at Richmond Park. Played for Ireland at volleyball. Sturdy, reliable defender. Shamrock Rovers (nine years), Raheny United. Testimonial Ireland against Reading at AUL in Feb 2009 (was supposed to be at Tolka but moved due to inclement weather). Was in the Castle Rovers team for 3-0 FAI Women's Cup final win over O'Connells at Richmond Park, 25.8.96. Castle Rovers player named in squad for decisive Euro 97 qual in Brussels 4.5.96. Played in the 5-1 defeat. As at game v France at Turner's Cross 12.11.94 was 20yo student/Bohemians player w 2 caps (USA B and NI). Castle Rovers player listed in prog for Euro qual v Wales, Steboneath Park, Llanelli, 8.10.95. Played in Shamrock Rovers' 4-0 LFAI Cup final win over Shelbourne at the Iveagh Grounds, August 1997. Scored for Shamrock Rovers in the DWSL League Cup final 9.11.97 at Tolka Park, which they lost to Shelbourne on penalties after a 2-2 draw. Listed as a Shamrock Rovers player in match prog for WCQs v Switzerland and Scotland, 22.4.06 and 6.5.06 at Richmond Park. Raheny United player in squad for 2 friendlies in Wales, 24 and 26 April 2007 in Tredegar and Goytre. She joined Raheny United with team-mates O O'Toole and L Greene when Shams folded at the outset of the 2006 DWSL season. Brother Gerry Boyle played (as a full-back) for Drogheda United in the LOI 1998-2001.
Amy Boyle-Carr - 6.1.01 - Quit soccer in 2019 for GAA w Donegal and the Naomh Chonaill club. Attended St. Columba's school in Glenties and played for Donegal Town FC. Played for FAI schools team in 14/15 and 15/16 including at the Bob Docherty Cup. Signed for Sion Swifts (NI) ahead of their 2017 season and won the 2017 NI Cup. Sion Swifts are based in Co Tyrone but had a big Donegal contingent. Sometimes plays in a trendy bandana. Had bought tickets as a fan for the Netherlands WCQ 10.4.18 but was surprised to win her first senior cap, starting the 2-0 defeat at Tallaght Stadium. Had been an unused sub for the 2 friendlies w Portugal in the Azores, Jan 2018, her first senior call up.
Jackie Braddish - Castle Rovers player subbed in for S Furlong in 2nd half of the 2-0 friendly win over NI, 17.10.93, Sligo. Wife of Synan Braddish - who was manager of Castle Rovers LFC for a time, winning league in 95. Jacqueline Braddish was in the Castle Rovers squad for FAI Women's Cup final win over O'Connells at Richmond Park, 25.8.96. Jackie Braddish asst manager (to Pat Kavanagh) of an Ireland u16 team v Wales, at Spytty Park, Newport, 9.4.96.
Lynn Bradley - 22.1.89 - GK Moved from Raheny Utd to Lyndsey Wilton College Kentucky, and back again per Iceland Euro play-off prog 26.10.08. U19 caps - played for Irish Universities team in Aug 2007 Universiade Bangkok, finishing fourth. 83rd-minute sub for E Byrne in 4-1 friendly win over Poland at Baldonnell 2.2.08. Played out the inaugural 11/12 WNL with Raheny but went back to the US after the season. Became a schoolteacher and soccer coach in Louisiana.
Carol Breen - 21.1.86, Waterford - Benfica player in squad for u19 Euros 2nd qual round in Spain, April 2004. Senior debut as a 29yo at Istria Cup in 2015. Returned to soccer in 2014 w Benfica after 5 or 6 years in which she travelled in Oz and Canada and concentrated on gaelic games and aussie rules. Played for Wexford Youths in 14/15 WNL where great form won her a senior call-up. Emigrated to Oz again in Jan 2016. Benfica player named in Noel King's u17 side for "European Youth Olympics" in Paris, July 2003. A Carol Breen was with Lakeside, playing in u14 competition as early as 1994, still with Lakeside in 2000 (must be a different player as Lakeside is in Blessington, Wicklow). Listed with Benfica in 2001. Born in Waterford. Benfica U18 POTY 2002. Attended Butlerstown junior school then Ursuline secondary. Played for Benfica in the new Waterford U16 league in 2001, called up to the Munster panel for the FAIS U16 interprovincials.
Eileen Brennan - 30.11.1955 - St Joseph's DF/MF w 17 caps 4 goals in squad v Denmark 17.4.85. Catering chef from Dublin. Suffragettes player in squad for friendly v NI 31.8.80, v Belgium 27.10.80. Part of a Suffragettes team who played the Leinster Ladies League Cup final 17.10.82 v Glade Celtic at Harold's Cross, curtain raiser to a Shels v Shams LOI game. Described as an ex-Republic player. Named in Eamonn Darcy's first extended squad for training at St Pat's College, Drumcondra April 1984. Named in squad for Sept 84 friendly v Wales, one of 12 Dublin players in 16-woman squad. Scored in Casualty United's 3-0 Leinster Ladies Soccer League win over Clerys, 19.5.71 (a Wednesday night fixture). Listed at no8 in 3-3 draw with Wales at Limerick 26.5.74. E Brennan started in 1-0 win over Wales 29.5.77 at Tolka Park. Suffragettes player in the squad for friendly v France 23.9.78 at Tolka Park. Listed as no 4 in match prog v England at Exeter, 2.5.78. An Eileen Brennan was playing for O'Connells (the team that became St Patrick's Athletic) in Jan 97, DWSL - not sure if same person? An Eileen Brennan was playing for Brighton Celtic in 1993. E Brennan was in the O'Connells squad for FAI Women's Cup final defeat by Castle Rovers at Richmond Park, 25.8.96. 1999 FAI yearbook attributes goals v Scotland 4.7.76 at Grangemouth, v NI 1976 at Butlins Mosney, v Wales 1976 at Bridgend, v NI 1977 at Newry and v NI 1977 at Dublin to "Brennan" but not clear if Eileen or Paula? 18 caps 4 goals. All Stars > Suffragettes > St Josephs > Brighton Celtic. Dad Tom Brennan was a great supporter of her soccer career. "Became one of the most exciting and skilful players in the country". Listed at no 8 in the programme for the 4-1 win over NI 30.6.73 (as M. Brennan?), one of four All Stars players in the squad. Dad Tom was the trainer under manager Pat Noone. Played for Casualty United in the first LLL 1971, finishing third in the table. Sister Phylis was also on the team and dad Tommy was the coach. Casualty Utd (AKA Hospitals' Trust) merged with fellow LLL Div 1 side Vards and Div 2 winners Hotspurs to form All-Stars for the 1972 LLL season.
Paula Brennan - see Paula Gorham.
Courtney Brosnan - 10.11.95 - NJ-born GK debut v Montenegro, March 2020 while attached to West Ham. Was no "blow-in" as had been part of Dave Connell's U19 set up as far back as 2012.
Amanda Margaret Budden - 9.5.94 - Cork City GK debut 31.8.18 v NI in 4-0 WCQ win at Tallaght, preferred to G Moloney after M Hourihan (and A McQuillan) got injured. 2010 u17 Euros and WWC where she competed for a spot w G Moloney. Wilton United GK in 3-1 2011 WFAI Cup final defeat by St Catherine's at Turner's Cross. Joined Cork WFC for 2011/12 WNL. Won 2017 FAI Cup w Cork City. 2012 w Cape Breton "Capers" 5'11'' only played 2 games due to injury. Played at 2017 Universiade. Favoured by Colin Bell who evinced a preference for tall goalkeepers.
Catherine M. Byrne - 19.2.64 - in squad v Denmark 17.4.85 as 20yo Belvedere DF - had 7 senior 2 u18 caps, had been "on the panel" w Ireland since 1980. Liked basketball and cycling too. Was a Belvedere player in Aug 1987. Methodist University 1988-91 HOF inductee 2006. Division III All-American in 1990 and 91. Did a master's in sports medicine at Akron 1994. Was a high school PE teacher Hopewell High School in Aliquippa, Pa. in 1994. College soccer coach w Mount Union 95-98, then Akron 2000-2007, founding the program. Mount Union bio said was 5-year Ire WNT member. 11 siblings. Wee bro Thomas was with Chelsea as a yoof then KFC Boom in Belgium, then to Bohs and the gamut of LOI clubs. 22yo Belvedere player skipper v Eng 27.4.86, 13-times capped 'general operator'. Suffragettes player in first-ever u18 squad v NI 31.8.80, played in the 2-2 draw at Markets Field: "Grainne Cross from Limerick and Catherine Byrne from Dublin were outstanding at midfield". Named in Eamonn Darcy's first squad for training at St Pat's College, Drumcondra April 1984. Named in squad for Sept 84 friendly v Wales, one of 12 Dublin players in 16-woman squad. Glade Celtic player named in Tony Kelly's "very young squad" for opening Euro 84 qualifier in Dunfermline 19.9.82. Listed as a Glade Celtic player, she conceded a penalty in 13.3.83 ECQ v Scotland at Dalyer, with "wild tackle" on Mary O'Neill. Liz Creamer dispatched the pen but J Mooney equalised to secure a 1-1 draw. Dropped to bench for last Euro 84 qualifier v NI by Tony Kelly after 6-0 defeat in Reading, 11.9.83. After returning from US in 1992 was restored to the national team at sweeper and signed for "new super-club" Elm Rovers (Belvedere had folded). Elm Rovers player, part of a defence "in top form" (Irish Examiner) in 0-1 defeat by Sweden 7.6.92 at Frank Cooke Park, Ireland only beaten in injury time. Listed by the East Antrim Times on the Republic u18 panel beaten 1-0 by NI at Inver Park, Larne, 8.8.81. With newly-formed Belvedere in 1985 but missed most of the season injured. Crocked 2.6.85 just before HT in the 2-1 ECQ defeat by Scotland, Tinto Park, Glasgow and carried off. Had been playing well and had a hand in Ireland's goal scored by A Beirne. Unavailable for the penultimate ECQ v NI at Seaview, 30.8.86 as she joined Civil Service League Division 5 minnows Trojans on their coast-to-coast "trip of a lifetime" US tour 22.8.86.
Emma Byrne - 14.6.79 - St Patricks Athletic player in squad for WWC qual in Bangor, Wales 7.12.97. First cap at u16 level v Scotland, Easter 1994. A 1-1 draw at Love St, Paisley, reportedly Ireland's first ever u16 match. Kildare GAA senior football team. Leixlip Utd GK in the under 16 triangular tournament sponsored by Lifestyle Sports at Drogheda 15/16 April 1995 v Scotland and NI. Leixlip Utd (DWSL) goalie started 6-0 u20 win in NI, 29.10.94. In squad for u20 friendly v France at Turner's Cross 12.11.94. 15yo youngest member of squad. Leixlip Utd GK played for u18s at the Gothia Cup in July 1995. In goal for O'Connells (the team that became St Patrick's Athletic) in Jan 97, DWSL. O'Connells player in Mick Cooke's u18 squad for friendly v Australia at Belfield, 18.12.96. St Patrick's Athletic player called up for WWC qual v Poland at Tolka Park, 2 Nov 97, unused sub in the 1-0 defeat. Was in the O'Connells squad for FAI Women's Cup final defeat by Castle Rovers at Richmond Park, 25.8.96. Leixlip Utd player named in squad for decisive Euro 97 qual in Brussels 4.5.96. Unused sub in the 5-1 defeat. Leixlip Utd GK listed in prog for Euro qual v Wales, Steboneath Park, Llanelli, 8.10.95. Arsenal debut in 1999/00 League Cup semi final - was recommended to Arsenal boss Vic Akers by C Grant - Arsenal keeper crisis after young England GK Sarah Reed left for a Lynn University scholarship and veteran backup Leslie Higgs was crocked. Total of 35 youth caps per Iceland Euro play-off prog 26.10.08. Astonishing, world class display to thwart Marta's Umea in the 2007 UWCL final with Arsenal, big part of an invincible Quintuple 06/07. St Patrick's Athletic player in squad for 4.9.99 5-0 friendly defeat by USA at Foxboro Stadium, played full match. Named in a revamped senior squad for a November 1996 friendly in NI as an O'Connell's player. Arsenal Ladies POTY 2003 and 2005. Won the 1994 Intermediate Cup with Leixlip, who beat Portmarnock 4-2 on pens after a 0-0 draw. "Ice cool" Byrne scored the decisive kick in the shootout. Despite her long association w Arsenal she was a girlhood Man Utd fan. Thought to be the first (post-war) Kildare-born professional soccer player of either sex.
Susan Byrne - 4.4.86, Lucan - St Johns College player in 2007 Algarve Cup squad. Reportedly had the Dublin Schoolboys League rules changed so she could play for Bohemians schoolboys' team for an extra year. When kicked out at 13 she joined Lourdes Celtic, the team set up by Tony Sheridan (ex-Cov City player)'s dad, also Tony. Won everything at youth level. Moved to St James Gate under Eileen Gleeson. St James Gate player in squad for u19 Euros 2nd qual round in Spain, April 2004. St James Gate player named in Noel King's u17 side for "European Youth Olympics" in Paris, July 2003. St Johns University Red Storm (2004-2007) 5' 7''. She was flown back for international games by the FAI but detected some reluctance on their part. Uni blocked her playing at 2007 World Student Games, to the irritation of Noel King. Outspoken Sept 2019 interview with The42.ie lifted the lid on the shambolic conditions in the summer 2009 10-week USA training camp (no physio, beds in apartments "like something from Alcatraz", players came back overweight). She was out of favour after refusing to go on for the last 2 minutes of the third friendly defeat by the USA, 2-0 defeat at Bridgeview, IL, 20.9.08. A bit like when Scottie Pippen famously declined to play the last 1.8 seconds of a Chicago Bulls play-off game. Won 9 caps. Joined Peamount in May 2010. When mum Philomena died of breast cancer in April 13, Susan lost her appetite for soccer. Quit football when E Gleeson left Peamount before the 14/15 season, but did play a few games for Gleeson's DLR Waves in 2016. Won the 2017 WFAI Intermediate Shield playing for Hardwicke FC, alongside S Lawlor.
C
Diane Caldwell - 11.9.88 - Listed as a Raheny United player in match prog for WCQs v Switzerland and Scotland, 22.4.06 and 6.5.06 at Richmond Park.Ashling Callaghan - Sub for G Kierans in 4-1 friendly win over Scotland 12.8.01 at AUL Clonshaugh. Scored for Shamrock Rovers in 3-1 FAI Cup final win over St Catherine's 29.7.01, also at AUL. "Aisling O'Callaghan" scored in 29.8.99 FAI Cup final "killer second" in Shams' 2-0 win over Shels... at AUL. Aisling Callaghan was a FW from Roscommon on DCU's 1998 Intervarsity squad: "The little lass with the mega heart [...] She was on the Leinster team at this year's Interprovincial tournament".
Megan Campbell - A second cousin of West Ham stalwart Mark Noble (their grannies are sisters). A girlhood Man Utd fan. In Feb 2008 called into the U17 squad for two friendlies w Poland as a 14yo Our Lady's College Greenhills pupil then playing for the Moneymore club. Attended Ireland 1-0 Arsenal 7.2.08 at Dalyer as a starstruck wannabe, getting the players' autographs.
Kyra Taylor Carusa - 14.11.95, San Diego - 173cm FW - Attended Del Norte High School and played four seasons of youth soccer for San Diego Surf. Went to Stanford in 2014 to study human biology but blew her ACL out and sat out the first season. Played 2015-2017 scoring 25 goals in 69 appearances. On graduation still had a year of soccer eligibility left due to her injury 'redshirt', so played out 2018 with Georgetown Hoyas while doing a master's in marketing and communications. Hit 10 goals in 25 appearances. Georgetown's Irish coach Dave Nolan tipped off Vera Pauw that she was Irish-eligible under the "granny rule". Although the player claimed that the FAI had already been scouting her since she was 16. Played one match in the WPSL for LA Galaxy San Diego, scoring a hat-trick in a 6-2 mauling of San Diego Parceiro Ladies on 30 June 2018. Picked by Sky Blue FC 19th overall in the 2019 NWSL draft but snubbed them to sign instead for French second tier side Le Havre in April 2019. Not seen until September 2019 then scored twice on debut in a 3-0 win at Thonon Evian (and was trying to claim the other which was declared an OG) 15.9.19. Only played twice more adding another goal in her swansong 4-0 win at Amiens 3.11.19. It was then reported that she had signed for Utah Royals, who obtained her NWSL rights from something called 'the re-entry wire' when Sky Blue waived their claims on her. In pre-season she got itchy feet again and pitched up at ambitious Danish second tier club HB Koge in Feb 2020. It was described as an initial short-term contract on amateur terms, covering the upcoming promotion play-offs. She went directly to their plush Spanish training camp, then was in Denmark for six days which included two goals in a 4-1 friendly win over top flight FC Nordsjaelland. With her paperwork in place she then jetted off with Ireland for ECQs v Greece and Montenegro. Senior Ireland debut in 3-0 win over Montenegro 11.3.20 in Budva, 58th min sub for C Shine. Game was behind closed doors due to coronavirus. She remained with Koge to take part in the delayed promotion series in June. Remaining with Koge in the 2020/21 Elitedivisionen season she rattled in 9 goals in 12 games in the first phase, including two in a 5-0 thrashing of traditional powerhouse Brondby.
Louise Cavanagh - 21.10.68 - sometimes listed as Kavanagh - One of six Boyne Rovers players selected for a 1-0 home friendly win over NI at United Park, Drogheda 2.3.86. Scored in Rovers' LFAI U19 Cup final wins over St Columban's (2-1, 1984) and Cork Celtic (3-0, 1985). Was 16yo in Jan 85. From Ardee and a talented middle distance runner in her youth, who competed for Louth at the community games and for the Ardee De La Salle club. Voted Boyne Rovers YPOTY in 1984. Sister Carmel was also a good runner. Went to Dublin in 1987 and seems to have focussed on athletics thereafter, for the Dublin City Harriers club. UCD graduate picked for the World Cross Country champs in Feb 1991. By March 1994 she was running for UCC (Cork) and was a six-time intervarsity cross country champ "looking fitter than she has in years".
Rita Cheevers - per 1983 LFAI Cup final prog was CB and club secretary of Glade Celtic "has also represented her country at senior level". One of a few GC players who emigrated to Oz in early 1984, causing the club to withdraw from the Civil Service League and fold. R. Chivers listed by the Irish Examiner as starting the 2-1 defeat by NI in Larne, 8.8.81. The East Antrim Times report of the same match listed "Rita Ann Grogan" (?) Rita Cheevers was included in a Dublin select team which travelled to NI for the Omagh Festival 20.8.83 and beat a local Omagh selection 7-0 before "a fairly large crowd" at The Showgrounds.
Bernadette "Bernie" Cleary - Dublin All-Stars GK listed in prog for 3-3 draw with Wales at Limerick 26.5.74. A Bernie Cleary got an FAI special achievement award in 2015 ("John Sherlock Service to Football Award") for outstanding volunteer service to the Manorhamilton Rangers club in Leitrim. "Bridie Clery" GK carried off injured in 3-1 defeat by Scotland at Grangemouth 6.6.76. Injured ligaments in left knee trying to keep third goal out and was taken to Falkirk Royal Infirmary. Only 200 fans there. Sheila Begbie's own goal equalised for Ireland but McLaren and Hunter added to Creamer's opener. B Cleary started in goal in 1-0 win over Wales 29.5.77 at Tolka Park. Bernadette Clery listed as no1 in match prog v England at Exeter, 2.5.78, but debutante M Leahy seems to have played as the goalie. Husband Joe helps run the Manorhamilton club. Daughter Emma Cleary is an FAI referee in the WNL.
Aoife Colville - 26.12.00 - Aussie-born (Cairns) Glasgow City striker called up in April 2021. Had u19 caps for Australia but was eligible for Ireland due to a granny from Letterkenny in Donegal. A second cousin of Amber Barrett. Broke through at W-League Canberra United then switched to Glasgow City in 2020. Withdrew from the squad in April with an injury but debuted in the 3-2 friendly defeat in Iceland 11.6.21.
Violet Connaughton (née Elliott) - 3 caps v France (Reims?) Wales and NI in 1973 as a 16yo Dublin All-Stars fwd. Scored equaliser w 5 mins left in 3-3 draw with Wales at Limerick 26.5.74: "it was a slider," she beamed. Gym teacher had branded her soccer exploits "unladylike". She came to the notice of her husband by decking him with a slide tackle. As at 2017 The Makers Stories article was still a big WNT fan, reconnected w some old pals at Anne O'Brien's funeral. She had been part of the Drumcondra Cup-winning Vards team which merged with Hospitals Trust and Hotspurs into the All-Stars in 1972, alongside A O'Brien and J Williams.
Catriona (Katrina?) Connolly - 10.10.81 - GK, Sligo IT player called up to replace injured S Peters in first Euro 09 qual v Hungary 1.4.07. Later played for Sligo Ladies Football (GAA) Knock FC player in squad for 2 friendlies in Wales, 24 and 26 April 2007 in Tredegar and Goytre. "Katrina" Connolly came on as a sub for E Bryne in a 2-1 defeat by Iceland's u21s 8.7.01. Also started both games at the Celt Cup, September 2000 when E Byrne was away on holiday. IT Sligo student attached to Gurteen Celtic FC named in Myles Kelly's squad for the Universiade in Daegu, Korea, August 2003.
Megan Connolly - 7.3.97 -
Jemma Connor-Iommi - 23.5.85 - Listed as "Jemma O'Connor" for 2008 Iceland play off games (?)
Seana Cooke - 6.7.88 - RB who won 6 senior caps according to FAI, all in 2013. Listed as a Raheny player in match prog for WCQs v Switzerland and Scotland, 22.4.06 and 6.5.06 at Richmond Park. Per FAI debut v NI at 2013 Cyprus Cup - 5-1 win on 6.3.13 in Larnaca, 80th-min sub for M De Burca. St Francis - played in 2009 FAI Women's Cup final win over St Catherine's 25.7.09. Played for Raheny in WNL 2011-2013 then joined Durham WFC Nov 2013 but got ill (Meniere's disease) and came home. Ruled out of the 2014 Cyprus Cup. Later played for UCD Waves for a short time in 14/15 before retiring from football. 2013 Universiade in Kazan, 162cm tall. Made another comeback with Shels in 2017. Playing for Shelbourne in 2018 when she got invited onto the club board as a "marketing and business development executive". Ex-Arsenal youth 2006-2008? Listed as an Arsenal player when U19s beat Portugal 1-0 in France, 9.4.07. Was back w Raheny by Sept 2007. Captained Raheny United U16s to the national Cup in 02/03. Raheny player called into U19s for the first time by S Ronan in April 2005, for "group of death" 2nd qualification round versus Croatia, Spain and France. Kept her U19 place for the 2005/06 campaign and played at right-back in the famous 2-1 win over Norway 1.10.05. Played for Terenure Rangers in 2020.
Paula Corcoran - Boyne Rovers goalkeeper from Balbriggan, listed in the squad for a home friendly v NI at United Park, Drogheda 2.3.86. Played in goal for a predominantly locally-based team which won 1-0. Was 18yo in Jan 85, had joined Boyne Rovers the previous June and backstopped their u19 LFAI Cup success. Had been a sub on the Balbriggan girls' team which won the community games Dublin final, beating Grenhills in Santry, 17.7.78. 4.9.87 Drogheda Independent: Paula Corcoran the Rovers custodian is rated one of the best keepers in the game".
Jean Cowley - Greenpark player named in squad for Sept 84 friendly v Wales, one of 2 Limerick (w G Cross) players in 16-woman squad. 'Jane Cowhey' of the Bank of Ireland club in Limerick was named in squad v Belgium 27.10.80. Started the 1-0 win at Dalyer and said to have troubled the Belgians with her pace. Selected for the friendly in Scotland at Tynecastle, 27.5.84. Jane Cowley (club=Labour) was in a Dublin Civil Service League select team which played a "special challenge match" at Anne O'Brien's Reims 29.11.75. Jane Cowhey scored the 4th-minute opener in the 1982 LFAI Cup final, which Cork Celtic lost 5-0 to all-conquering Dublin Castle, 10.10.82 at the Waterford Glass Sports Centre. "Soccer international Jane Cowhey" scored a hat-trick in Catholic Institute's 4-0 win over U.C.C. in the first round of the Munster Hockey Cup, 26.1.85. "Jan Cowhey" figured in midfield for Bank of Ireland in their 4-2 Limerick Cup final defeat by Magcobar United at Shanagolden, 12.10.80, impressing the watching WNT boss Tony Kelly who called her to Dublin for trials the following weekend. "Jane Cowhey" seems to have played for Green Park (Limerick) in the 1985 President's Cup final against Dublin Castle. Player of the Tournament at the inaugural Mike Delaney Memorial Cup and scored in Greenpark's 4-1 final win over Cork Celtic, 13.9.87 at the Waterford Glass Sports Centre.
Tracy Cross - 26.7.71 - Sometimes Tracey with an 'e' or Theresa Cross on FAI records - scored 2nd goal in 4-0 win over NI at Belfield 7.10.90, her second cap. She was a 19yo student at Waterford RTC but hailed from Limerick. As a "diminutive [debutante] playing her first full international" she started 2-1 win over NI at Clandeboye Park, Bangor, 9.12.89, while attached to St. Bridget's. Set up first goal with a right wing cross, knocked in by B Reynolds when the debutante NI goalie Jacqui Hamilton dropped the ball. St Bridget's player called up to Fran Rooney's 22-player training squad, ahead of the 1991 Euro quals in November 1989. Made it into the final sixteen for the game in Holland, 18.11.89. Greenpark United player named in Fran Rooney's U18 squad for 'Millenium International' v NI at Tolka Park 26.11.88. Sister of Grainne. A.I.B. player called into Limerick's "Bracken" squad, June 1990. 4 October 1997 Limerick Leader article said Tracy was one of 5 Cross sisters to play for Ireland (with Rose, Grainne, Ann and Catherine), while another 2 sisters Alice and Deirdre were outstanding Limerick League players. Played (w Grainne) for an ex-International X1 v Limerick League at Jackman Park in October 1997: "Tracey Cross was electrifying on the wing" - Limerick Leader. C Scanlan's interview w 42.ie said T Cross went to Mercyhurst College, USA the year before Scanlan did. Mercyhurst College 1991-1995 (injured 'redshirted' in 93) added to HOF in 2015. N Herlihy was already there. Married ahead of the 2007 season and became known as Tracy Hoza. Husband Matt, daughter Cora. Sporty family of 7 sisters 3 brothers. Brother Gerard "Rusty" Cross a good rugby player who coached in America, another brother Pat played for Ireland's schoolboy soccer team and a well-regarded Young Munster rugby union team in the early 80s. Lock Haven University, Pennsylvania assistant coach (1999-2000) Toledo University, Ohio assistant coach (2001-2002) Northwest Missouri State University Bearcats head coach (2003-2017) Austin Peay State University (APSU) assistant coach 2018-present.
Sharon Cullen - 20.12.78 - Shelbourne player in squad for Euro qual in Bangor, Wales 7.12.97. Shelbourne player called up for WWC qual v Poland at Tolka Park, 2 Nov 97, came on after 61 mins for R Power in the 1-0 defeat. A Sharon Cullen scored the FAI Cup winning goal as St Francis beat St Catherines 1-0 25.7.09 at Richmond Park. Played up front w M Waldron. One of five Marks Celtic players in the under 16 triangular tournament sponsored by Lifestyle Sports at Drogheda 15/16 April 1995. Dubliner Cullen scored twice in each game as Ireland beat NI 6-0 and 5-1, but they lost 4-0 and 2-0 to Scotland when a young Julie Fleeting ran amok scoring all four in the 1st game and one in the second - Denise Brolly scored the other one. UCD studying arts from 96/97 and part of their intervarsity team: "talented midfielder who has proven this in the green of Eire ... would run all day". Part of coach Myles Kelly's combined colleges team which thrashed Scotland (11-1), Wales (7-0) and England (3-0) in Liverpool, April 1997.
Susan "Susie" Cunningham Capped in friendly win in Klaksvik, Faroe Isles, 12.10.04. Started the 2-1 win, subbed off for E Green after 15 mins (injured?). Note RSSSF's 2004 women's results page says after 15 minutes but FaroeSoccer says after 76 minutes which seems more likely. Played EPL stuff with Barry Town while attending uni in Wales. Galway born FW. Irish Universities player at the August 2003 Universiade, Daegu, South Korea - club listed as Bangor University/Ashe Rovers. Scored 6 goals in 4 games including hat trick v Canada. Continued playing for Ashe Rovers and also won the DWSL twice with Rathfarnham United. Captain of the Galway X1 who won the 2007 FAI Women's Cup and played in the Uefa Women's Cup in 2008. Joined Castlebar Celtic for 11/12 WNL then joined Galway WFC in 2013 after playing 12/13 w Colga FC. No further playing appearances after Jan 2015 but moved on to Don O'Riordan's coaching staff at the club. Was appointed Galway WFC's strength and conditioning coach in Jan 2017. Was employed by Galway Community College. Attended Inchicore College from 1996/97 (Leisure and Recreation Management) and was top scorer in her first three years in WSCAI competition. Played for Rathfarnham in the 1999 DWSL. Was courted by Clarke University, Boston, Ma. with an open offer of a soccer scholarship.
Elizabeth Mary "Lisa" Curran - 3.3.68 - Belvedere player in squad for friendly v NI 2.11.85. Belvedere player called up to Fran Rooney's 22-player training squad, ahead of the 1991 Euro quals in November 1989. Played 4-0 win over NI at Belfield 7.10.90. Started 2-1 win over NI in Bangor, 9.12.89, while attached to Belvedere. Started 0-1 defeat by Sweden 7.6.92 at Frank Cooke Park while a Firenze (Italy) player. FAI records attribute Sweden's injury time winner as a Curran own goal (actually they attribute it as her scoring for Ireland in a 1-0 win), but the Irish Examiner reported a "fierce right-footed drive" from Anneli Andelen broke Irish hearts. It was her eighth cap but she said it might be her last, unimpressed at having to pay her own way back from Italy: "As far as I'm concerned the FAI should offer us more. It's not fair that we work so hard and are given so little". Started Ireland's creditable 0-0 with Holland at Dalyer, 29.4.90, listed as a Welsox player. Belvedere player named as a "new cap" in Fran Rooney's senior squad for 'Millenium International' v NI at Tolka Park 26.11.88. Shelbourne player in squad for Euro qual in Bangor, Wales 7.12.97. Shelbourne player in 1995 and Jan 1997. Hit killer third goal for Verona in their 3-1 LFAI Cup QF win over Rathfarnham, Parish Fields, Blanchardstown, 15.8.93. Played for Verona in 4-0 1994 LFAI Cup final defeat by Welsox, 25.9.94 at Richmond Park. Played in Shelbourne's 4-0 LFAI Cup final defeat by Shamrock Rovers at the Iveagh Grounds, August 1997. Moved from Firenze in Italy, to Verona FC... in Blanchardstown. Recalled for Wales away in Dec 97 after "almost five years" away from the national team. Joined Belvedere at 17yo and moved to Italy aged 22, after a ten-day trial w Firenze in Oct 91. She reportedly loved Florence and stayed 3 years (could only have been 2?) but came home when a move to another Italian club didn't work out.
Marie Curtin - 7.8.85 - Listed as a Hofstra University player in match prog for WCQs v Switzerland and Scotland, 22.4.06 and 6.5.06 at Richmond Park. Lifford player in 2003 Algarve Cup squad. According to S Byrne, Hofstra cut Curtin's scholarship when she went to the 2007 Universiade without their permission, but let her back on the following year. Hofstra site says "2007:...did not play." According to SoccerScene.ie, Curtin's senior debut was in a 0-0 friendly draw in Greece, 10.1.03. 2001 FAI U18 POTY. Interview with Final Whistle podcast March 2021: she gave an impassioned speech about the development of women's soccer in Ireland. She had recently retired from playing and took a coaching role at Treaty United of Limerick, where she had been captain. At the 2007 Universiade in Bangkok she was ill and inadvertantly took medication which turned out to be on the banned list, so she didn't play and was sent to stay at another hotel down the street with coach Noel King's family.
Stefanie Leanne Curtis - Bristol Academy player in squad for 2 friendlies in Wales, 24 and 26 April 2007 in Tredegar and Goytre. Hit "six goals in six outings" per Iceland Euro play-off prog 26.10.08, including both in 2-0 Euro qual win in Romania, 25.8.07. In 2000/01 was 17yo Filton College student and FW in an exciting young Bristol Rovers team who reached the FA Cup semi-final and topped the third tier South West Combination. "She is a striker with a passion to score". She scored in every round prior to the 3-0 semi defeat by Arsenal. She played for the Gloucestershire FA team at u18 and senior level. Played as an emergency goalkeeper, notably against Arsenal in a 1-0 FAWPL defeat in December 2007.
D
Maureen D'Arcy - Angles player in first-ever u18 squad v NI 31.8.80. In Eamonn Darcy's first squad for training at St Pat's College, Drumcondra April 1984. (relation?) Listed in the Rathfarnham United squad which played a bizarre inter-sex challenge match against Temple Villa FC at the Dandywell, 14.6.81. Despite "the breath taking goalkeeping of international reserve 'keeper Maureen Darcy" it finished 4-4. She was not listed in the Rathfarnham squad for the April 1981 Lyons tournament. Listed as a Cremona player in the Leinster Ladies League squad for a "Bracken" Trophy fixture at Galway, 5.7.81. "Maureen Dalton" listed first by the East Antrim Times on the Republic senior panel beaten 2-1 by NI at Inver Park, Larne, 8.8.81. However the report in the Irish Examiner listed the goalkeeper as "M. Darcy". Part of a Dublin select team which travelled to NI for the Omagh Festival 20.8.83 and beat a local Omagh selection 7-0 before "a fairly large crowd" at The Showgrounds.Dolores Deasley - 19.9.81 - Flame-haired DF - Drumkeen United player named in u16 squad for April 98 triangular Tourney v Scotland and Wales in Conwy, Bangor and Porthmadog. Letterkenny Rovers DF in squad for 2nd UEFA u18 Euro mini tourney 23-27 Nov 98, v Eng, Hol and Faroes, hosted in Eng. Also played in previous year's inaugural edition. "D Deasy" called up to u17 squad for friendly in NI, November 1996 - no club mentioned. Donegal Schools player in Mick Cooke's u18 squad for friendly v Australia at Belfield, 18.12.96. Jones College Bobcats asst coach 2007, head coach 2008-present. Attended Hofstra Uni (2000-2003, 72 apps 9 goals 4 assists). Southern Miss Lady Eagles asst coach (2004-2006) to NI's Gail Macklin. Played W-League stuff for New York Magic (2005) and Long Island (2003, 2004). Played as an 18yo Letterkenny Rovers starlet v USA at Foxboro Stadium, 4.9.1999. Played the full match in Ireland's 5-0 defeat. St. Columbus player in u16 squad v Wales, at Spytty Park, Newport, 9.4.96. Listed as a Bristol Academy WFC player in match prog for WCQs v Switzerland and Scotland, 22.4.06 and 6.5.06 at Richmond Park (club team mate C Scanlan). Interview with the42.ie May 2020: Ninth of ten children in Drumkeen. No other girls playing for "miles around", encouraged by her coaches to trial in Dublin, she was selected for the U16s at 14yo and travelled to Scotland, Easter 1995? Was not expecting to debut in Foxboro: "Something must have happened or somebody pissed Mick [Cooke] off". Last cap v GER Aug '06 when she went off with a torn meniscus. Fit for the 2007 Algarve Cup, she was unimpressed to be bombed out by e-mail aged 25yo and close to 50 caps. Noel King said he wanted her in full time club soccer but after a short spell at Bristol Rovers she realised she had much better opportunities coaching in the US: "My heart was always in New York". Miffed at the time, as a coach herself she was later phlegmatic about being dropped via email. She made the right call as got her green card in 2019 and loves coaching in the USA. Hofstra and New York Magic player named in Myles Kelly's squad for the Universiade in Daegu, Korea, August 2003.
Meabh De Burca - 11.8.88 - won 50th cap v Spain, April 2016. Versatile DF/MF stepped up from u19s in 07/08. Guest host Final Whistle podcast April 2021 - 52 caps - didn't play in the 2021 season for Galway "the body was telling me I needed a break". One of four FAI scholarships for talented young women's players, created from a goverment handout in 2006-07. First senior call up for the 1-0 WCQ defeat by Germany in Cottbus, 10.5.06, unused sub. Scored on u17 debut in a 1-1 v Netherlands at Sportpark Riekerhaven, Amsterdam in March 2005, while a student at Dominican College, Taylor's Hill. 8th minute strike from her left wing berth. Dad Stiofan was a good distance runner.
Pauline Devlin - 17.4.68 - from Athlone - schoolteacher and uncapped member of squad v USA B 9.8.94 - had 1 b cap v Wales. 66th-minute sub for S Furlong in the USA B game, 1-1 at Richmond Park. Played hockey at provincial level, w College Corinthians (the team that started as University College Cork Graduates) in 1994. Castle Rovers in 1995 - scored in a 4-1 LFAI Cup QF win over Elm Rovers 9.7.95. DWSL POTM for June 98 w Shamrock Rovers. Was in the Castle Rovers squad for 3-0 FAI Women's Cup final win over O'Connells at Richmond Park, 25.8.96. Castle Rovers player named in squad for decisive Euro 97 qual in Brussels 4.5.96. Subbed in for C Grant after 75 mins in the 5-1 defeat. Despite scoring a "dream chip" Castle Rovers lost 2-1 to an Eithne Hennessy-inspired Benfica in the 1995 LFAI Presidents Cup final (played in May 1996 at Janesboro FC - it was held over due to Euro qualifying). As at game v France at Turner's Cross 12.11.94 was 26yo teacher/College Corinthians player w 2 caps (USA B & NI). Pauline Devine (sic) scored in Shamrock Rovers' 4-0 LFAI Cup final win over Shelbourne at the Iveagh Grounds, August 1997. Played for Shamrock Rovers in the DWSL League Cup final 9.11.97 at Tolka Park, which they lost to Shelbourne on penalties after a 2-2 draw. A Pauline Devlin was a prolific scorer with UC Galway 87/88 to 93/94 and with eight goals in five games Intervarsity player of the tournament 1993 (not sure if same player?) The 91 Intervarsity programme UCG pen pics gently ribbed her academic pursuits: "studying fairies". In Jan 1995 was a 26yo primary school teacher in Banagher and playing for College Corinthians, she was photographed in the Longford Leader with her dad Seamus who was from Longford but had lived in Athlone for 30 years. In May 1989 scored both goals (1 pen) as combined colleges beat the U18 WNT 2-1 at Belfield. They lost 3-0 to the senior Ireland team. Had been named to the inaugural combined colleges team the previous year. In April 1981 a Pauline Devlin scored "two fine goals" for Beechpark/Coosan as they won the community games County U15 girls soccer final at Mullingar, 3-2 AET over St. Mona's. Graduated from UCG with Masters in English Lit in 1995. Mum Patricia. Attended Our Lady's Bower, Athlone. Awarded the 'Matthew Murphy Trophy' for sports on leaving in 1986. Played hockey for Athlone. Married Dr Manus Mitchell in August 2000 at NUI Galway's chapel, honeymoon in Mexico. September 2000: "Hoops captain Pauline Devlin must be getting sick of lifting trophies at this stage..." after Shams beat Shelbourne/Templeogue 4-1 at Coldcut Road to seal the Premier Cup, a third successive treble and 17 trophies in four years.
Deirdre Doherty - 14.3.91 - 170cm tall. Castlebar Celtic and IT Sligo FW drafted into 2013 Cyprus Cup squad as a late replacement when F O'Sullivan pulled out injured. "Deirdre was called into the U19 squad a few years ago but had to withdraw because of injury but I have kept an eye on her and she has been very impressive for Sligo IT this season" - S Ronan. Debut as a 66th-min sub for S Lawlor in last group game v South Korea, 0-0 at Paralimni 11.3.13. Two days later made another sub appearance again for S Lawlor after 67 minutes of a 1-0 defeat by Finland in the 7th-place play-off. Capped again as an injury-time sub for R Littlejohn in 2-2 friendly draw w Austria at Tallaght Stadium, 18.6.13. 2013 Universiade in Kazan. Scored in 2013 FAI Women's Cup final at Lansdowne but Castlebar Celtic lost a classic, 3-2 to Raheny 3.11.13. Scored in Ballyglass (Mayo)'s 3-1 win over Raheny in the FAI Intermediate Cup final, 4.9.11 at Milebush Park, Castlebar. More famous as a Gaelic footballer for Mayo, Connacht and the Charlestown club.
Kay Douglas - Listed at no 16 for 3-3 draw with Wales at Limerick 26.5.74, a Waterford Benfica GK. Debut 10.10.73 and reported to have played well, despite Ireland's 4-0 defeat by France at the Parc des Princes. Was a 25yo confectioner at Green Bank, Bridge Street, Waterford and had been a consistent presence between the sticks for Benfica. Hailed by the Munster Express as "the first Waterford woman to play for Ireland" (although her Benfica team mate M O'Callaghan (Reid) appears to have played against Wales in May 73). In March 1969 she was a Greenbeats player named as a reserve in the Waterford League Select which faced Dundalk LFC in a challenge match at Kilcohan Park. She was listed as a Greenbeats player - apparently outfield - ahead of their Cup final against Waterford Glass in September 1968. In May 1980 she was in goal for Waterford who lost 3-2 at Cork Celtic on the opening day of the 1980 Ladies League of Ireland season.
Carol Doran - Listed at no 15 for 3-3 draw with Wales at Limerick 26.5.74, a Suffragettes (Dublin) player. Suffragettes captain and sister of Bohs right-back and sometime Suffragettes coach John Doran. Suffragettes player listed no 14 in 30.6.73 4-1 win over NI at Bluebell United FC on the Naas Road and came on as a 66th-minute sub for L Gorman. Listed in the Rathfarnham United squad which went to the Lyons tournament in April 1981.
Annette Doyle - Benfica player called up for the 5-1 win in Newry, 16.4.77. In November 1976 she and Betty O'Callaghan (Maher) were invited to a national team training camp in Dublin. Both were from the St John's Park estate and at the time Doyle worked for Boston Cleaners. Was belatedly awarded her cap by the FAI in March 2021, acknowledged as having played against NI in 1977.
Eileen Doyle - 14.12.62 - GK - Sweden 7.5.88 prog: 24yo relative newcomer w 2 caps, the second gained at Wembley v Eng (sub for Sue Kelly). Red-headed Greenpark United player in the Women's League of Ireland, worked for Bank of Ireland in Limerick. Debut in friendly v NI, Nov 87.
Sadhbh Doyle - 18.4.2000 - Pronounced "Sive", and sometimes misspelled "Sabdh". From Barna and won the under-15 All-Ireland schools Cup with Salerno Secondary in May 2014, scoring twice to beat Scoil Chriost Ri (Portlaoise) in the final at Lissywollen Stadium, Athlone. Was already attached to Salthill Devon and won the FAI U16 Cup with them in April 2015. Won the U16 Gaynor Cup with Galway in 2016. Joined Galway WFC for 2016 and was nominated for WNL Young POTY won by L Kiernan. Scored on her debut 7.8.2016 in a 6-0 opening day win at hapless Kilkenny United. Galway WFC player called into Sue Ronan's young and predominantly home-based squad for a training camp in Wales, August 2016. Senior debut in the second friendly v the hosts, a 2-1 win in Caerphilly, 21.8.16, 70th-minute sub for captain K Duggan. The game finished with an all-Galwegian back four: M De Burca with debutantes Shauna Fox, Chloe Moloney and Doyle. WNT from u15 schoolgirls, through u16, u17 and u19s. Usually a CB for Ireland but played in midfield for Galway WFC. Versatile - deployed on the left wing in 2017, she declared: "I don't mind I'll play wherever Billy [Clery] puts me". 2019 Universiade in Naples. FAI Under-19 POTY in 2019. Also nominated for the WNL Young POTY (won by E Whelan) and named in WNL Team of the Year 2019. NUI Galway 18/19 studying biomedical sciences, but decided to switch to dentistry at Trinity College, Dublin for 19/20 and signed for WNL champs Peamount United for 2020. An 85th-minute sub for D Beirne in Peas' gritty penalties defeat by Glasgow City, 4.11.2020.
Karen Duggan - 29.5.91 - 2013 Universiade in Kazan, 180cm tall. Took her game to another level in 2020, played conservatively as a defensive mid but was much more than a 'water carrier'. Powered Peamount to a League and Cup double and picked up her second WNL POTY award. Doesn't score too many goals but when she does they tend to make the jaw drop. She knocked back a plea from Eileen Gleeson to return to the WNT fold.
Lauren Dwyer - 25.9.96, Carlow - Defender from Carlow who models her game on Lucy Bronze. Senior appearances as a sub for sub N Fahey in the 'non-official' 2-0 defeat in Euskadi, 10.5.14, and for F O'Sullivan in a 3-1 'training game' defeat by Norway at La Manga, 15.1.15. Taken to the Istria Cup in March 2015 but was an unused sub in all four games. Recalled in June 2016 for Euro 2017 quals v Finland and Montenegro but not part of the 18-player matchday squad for either game. Part of the Irish U17s and the U19 side which reached the Euro finals for the first time in 2014, getting to the semi final. Played youth stuff in Carlow for St. Joseph's (boys) and St. Fiacc's before joining Wexford Youths for the 12/13 WNL. April 2013 WNL POTM in a very promising debut campaign. Spent 14/15 with Raheny United and remained with Shelbourne for 15/16 after the clubs' merger. Rejoined Wexford Youths in Feb 2016. Won the treble in 2018 and nominated for the WNL POTY won by teammate R Jarrett. The Wexford People 13.10.18 branded her continued WNT absence "Colin Bell's bizarre blind-spot". Unused sub in the 3-0 defeat by the US at the Pasadena Rose Bowl, 3.8.19 under caretaker boss Tom O'Connor. Played at the 2019 Universiade in Naples, as an IT Carlow student. Also a talented Gaelic footballer with her school St. Leo's College, as well as the Bennekerry-Tinryland GAA club and County Carlow. Dad John, mum Mary. Successfully nagged her junior school Bennekerry NS into starting a girl's soccer team, roping her parents in to assist. They went on to win the all-Ireland 5-a-sides in May 2009.
Aisling Dyer - 19.2.92, Dublin - 5' 11'' GK, senior debut as 17yo late sub in 4-0 friendly win over NI at AUL Complex, Oct 09. Shelbourne (8yo striker), Stella Maris (5yrs), Drogheda (2007-2009), Dundalk (2009-) U15 schoolgirl international while at Skerries C.C. Leinster. US Scholarship: 2011-12 Butler Grizzlies, 2012 Martin Methodist Jayhawks, 2013 Newman Jets. Was said to be pencilling in a career in law enforcement. Won the 2015 FAI Umbro Women's Intermediate Shield with Boyne Rovers in September 2015.
E
Violet Elliot(t?) - see Violet Connaughton.F
Niamh Fahey - 13.10.87 - Signed for Arsenal in July 08. Won 2005 all-Ireland GAA football title w Galway at Croke Park per Iceland Euro play-off prog 26.10.08. Salthill Devon player named in Noel King's u17 side for "European Youth Olympics" in Paris, July 2003. Played v USA in Arizona Dec 2012 then not seen again until Cyprus Cup 2014: missed 2013 Cyprus Cup through work commitments then did her ACL. One of four FAI scholarships for talented young women's players, created from a goverment handout in 2006-07.Ann Fahy - Cork Celtic player in squad for friendly v NI 31.8.80. Started in the 0-0 draw with NI in Limerick 31.8.80 and was subbed off in the second half for B Flood. A member of the Cork Celtic side which toured the east coast of the USA in September 1983. On 29.11.81 she opened the scoring for Cork Celtic "A" who beat Cork Celtic "B" 5-1 in the Cork Ladies Cup (AKA the Martin Russell Trophy) final at Mayfield.
Laura Ann Farrell - 18.9.68 - From Finglas. One of six Belvedere players in Squad for famous 1-0 win in Spain 8.12.91. Won first cap in that game, started and was subbed for R Keegan on 65 mins. Also started Ireland's 1-0 defeat by Spain at Dalyer 22.3.92. Played for L Gorman's Belvedere 'A' team in the 3-1 1991 LFAI Cup final defeat by Rathfarnham at Dalyer, 6.10.91. Playing for Elm Rovers in the DWSL, June 1995. Methodist Univerity, USA, 1995-98. Degree in business admin and marketing. Later worked in IT sales back in Ireland. Mentioned as playing (and scoring) for Templeogue United in a 3-3 draw at Benfica in July 2001.
Patricia Farrell One of six Boyne Rovers players selected for a 1-0 home friendly win over NI at United Park, Drogheda 2.3.86. Scored in Rovers' LFAI U19 Cup final win over Cork Celtic (3-0, 1985). 16yo in Jan 85: "It's a pleasure to watch her run down the right wing and score so many fine goals". Joined Boyne Rovers in 1984 as a complete beginner. From Drogheda. Hit all three goals in BR's 3-0 LFAI Cup QF win at Cork Celtic in Aug 87. 13.9.87 scores opener in 2-1 LFAI Cup semi-final replay win over Belvedere at Park View. Club top-scorer in 1987 with 38. Injured ahead of 1989: "Top striker, Patricia Farrell, is out through injury and is likely to miss a good part of the season..."
Niamh Farrelly - 15.4.99 - Esker Celtic, then Peamount United. Rated as an athletic, high-energy MF. Senior debut v Belgium 20.1.19 in a 1-0 friendly defeat at Pinatar Arena, Spain - 76th-minute sub for C O'Riordan. Sports Science student at DCU. Excelled as a centre back in Peas' gritty penalties defeat by Glasgow City, 4.11.2020.
Jamie Finn - 21.4.98 - Versatile Shelbourne player handed a senior debut by Vera Pauw in the 1-1 draw in Greece, Nov 2019. Dubliner played for Swords Manor Boys before joining Shels.
Linda Fitzwilliam - 17.8.66 - 60th-min sub for S Hayden in 6-0 defeat by England at Flower Lodge, Cork 22.9.85 listed as a Drumcondra player. Scored 10th for Blacklions in a 10-0 win over Bonnybrook at Tymon Park, August 1991, which secured the CSL Div 1 title. Evening Press 18.10.85: "the club [Drumcondra] has managed to turn out two good internationals in Linda Fitzwilliam and Fiona Larkin..." In the Leinster squad for the "Bracken" inter-league competition, August 1985.
Noreen Fleming Not listed in programme for 3-3 draw w Scotland at Dalyer, 18.4.76. But a 30.4.76 article in the Connacht Tribune said: "Noreen Fleming of Tuam came on as a reserve and also turned in a fine performance". Played indoor soccer in Tuam but joined Castle United when she moved to Dublin to work in the civil service. Also played camogie for the Celtic club and for Co. Dublin, including the 1976 and 1978 all-Ireland final defeats by Kilkenny and Cork, respectively. Later emigrated to New York.
Bridie Flood - 12.2.61 - had 2 caps v England 11.9.83 as 22yo Tolka Swifts FW. Worked in a fashion clothing manufacturers. 24yo Belvedere FW/machinist per Denmark 17.4.85 prog - had 6 caps 3 goals for Ireland regular "on the panel" since 1980. Belvedere player in squad for friendly v NI 2.11.85, scored the equaliser in a 1-1 draw at Allen Park, Antrim. Scored 38th min winner in 1-0 friendly win in Scotland, 27.5.84. Suffragettes player in squad for friendly v NI 31.8.80. Second half sub for A Fahy in the 0-0 draw at Markets Field, Limerick. Named in Eamonn Darcy's first extended squad for training at St Pat's College, Drumcondra April 1984. Named in squad for Sept 84 friendly v Wales, one of 12 Dublin players in 16-woman squad. Irish Examiner preview for final Euro84 qual v NI 23.10.83 said she was a "squad newcomer" from Tolka Swifts and started the match. One of six Belvedere players in Squad for famous 1-0 win in Spain 8.12.91. Sweden 7.5.88 prog: 25yo pacey attacker w 14 caps, Ireland's all-time leading scorer w 5 goals. With Belvedere LFC when they moved to Leinster League "this season". Recalled for 2-0 Euro qual defeat in Holland, 12.3.88: "...the return of Bridie Flood is a big boost to the squad. She will improve the attacking strength of the side." Was a Belvedere player in Aug 1987. Turned out as a sub for a combined Hamman Celtic / Home Farm X1 in a glamour friendly against Leeds United at Whitehall 2.5.97, alongside Ian Harte's little sister Kim. Leeds won 3-0, ex-Donny Belles star Karen Skillcorn scored twice. A Bridie Flood turned out for "Newly-promoted Ballymun United" as they were clamped 8-0 at Benfica in April 1999 on the opening day of the DWSL Premier season. Mentioned as an Avengers player in the squad for the Cabra outfit's LFAI Cup semi-final clash with Cork Celtic at Turner's Cross, 14.10.79. Joined Welsox from Tolka Swifts alongside B Cummins for the Puma Cup pre-season tourny in July 1984. Scored twice in the dead rubber 3-2 win over NI 23.10.83 at Dalyer: "The heroine proved to be 22-year-old Bridie Flood who scored two goals as well as forcing numerous saves from Northern 'keeper, Pam Trohear".
Jaqui Flynn - 28yo goalkeeper/defender in the District Line LFC squad for a WFA fifth round game at Wimbledon LFC on 2.2.92: "an excellent goalkeeper having played in this position for Ireland [...] played in Dublin before moving to England". Like her club team mate J Mooney was a civil servant. Was in her second season at District Line. Not in the District Line team lists 92/93. Is this Jackie Hogan?
Zara Foley - 11.4.02 - DF from Cork. Had been an unused sub for the 2 friendlies w Portugal in the Azores, Jan 2018, her first senior call up. Won first cap in the 0-4 friendly defeat by Poland in Ostroda, 9.10.18, 90th-min sub for R Littlejohn. Joined Cork City WFC in July 18 after training with their WNL team for several months. Played her youth team football with Lakewood AFC and with Scoil Barra primary and Balincollig CS secondary schools. Played well from full-back in the 2020 FAI Women's Cup final but a young Cork side wilted from 0-0 at HT to lose 6-0 to Peamount.
Sinead Forde - "Wilton UCD" (?) player in u16 squad v Wales, at Spytty Park, Newport, 9.4.96. Wilton player in Mick Cooke's u18 squad for friendly v Australia at Belfield, 18.12.96. Wilton United player called up to u17 squad for friendly in NI, November 1996. In squad for the Celt Cup, September 2000. Came on as a sub for C Thorpe in the 2-0 win over NI. Later a referee appointed to FIFA list in 2017. Wilton United captain in 3-1 2011 WFAI Cup final defeat by St Catherine's at Turner's Cross. UCD centre-back capped in 2-1 friendly win in Klaksvik, Faroe Isles, 12.10.04. UCC student and Wilton player named in Myles Kelly's squad for the Universiade in Daegu, Korea, August 2003. Two cruciate ligament injuries eroded her chances at senior international level. Played for UCD in 2005 UWCL in Croatia.
Shauna Fox - 19.8.96 (other sources say 20.8.96) - Galway WFC defender called into Sue Ronan's young and predominantly home-based squad for a training camp in Wales, August 2016. Senior debut in the second friendly v the hosts, starting a 2-1 win in Caerphilly, 21.8.16. The game finished with an all-Galwegian back four: M De Burca with debutantes Sabhdh Doyle, Chloe Moloney and Fox. A NUI Galway student in the Ireland squad for the 2017 and 2019 Universiades, degree in youth and family studies. Attended school at Dominican College, Taylor's Hill, Galway. Has 4% vision in her left eye. Had one WNL season with Castlebar Celtic in 12/13, then signed for newly-formed Galway WFC for 13/14. Made the WNL Team of the Season in 15/16. Signed for Shelbourne in July 2021. In great form as Shels pipped Peamount to the WNL title. Tall, blonde centre-half reminiscent of Faye White.
G
Marie Gallagher II - Another Marie Gallagher was a White Strand player named in u16 squad for April 98 triangular Tourney v Scotland and Wales in Conwy, Bangor and Porthmadog. Fanad United FW in squad for 2nd UEFA u18 Euro mini tourney 23-27 Nov 98, v Eng, Hol and Faroes, hosted in Eng. Scored v Faroes. In FAI 2005/06 team photo. This Marie Gallagher was in Shamrock Rovers UWCL squad in 2002, described as a Rathmullan native: "I'm well used to the travelling at this stage as I have been going to Dublin since I was 15 and first started playing for Ireland". Was attending a FAI/FAS college course in Sligo but dedicated enough to traipse across to Dublin several times a week. This entailed a 4-hour bus ride then cadging a lift from teammates from Dublin city centre out to Ballymun where Shams trained. "I started off playing locally for White Strand and then moved to Fanad, but I joined Shamrock Rovers this year (2002) because I wanted to play a higher standard of football". This Marie Gallagher played as a sub for C Kissane in a 2-1 defeat by Iceland u21s 8.7.01 and as a sub for C Scanlan in a 3-1 win in Greece, 24.3.02. Marie Gallagher ('hometown': Letterkenny) sophomore MF w Lindsey Wilson College "Blue Raiders" in 2004. Freshman with Cumberland Phoenix 2003 (linking up with Shams pal Kate Gerrard who went over the previous year), then Lindsey Wilson 2004, 05, 06.
Jessica "Jess" Gargan - 10.3.97, Dublin - Swords Rovers, then Peamount United in 2013. Quinnipiac University "Bobcats" (2015-2018) 5'9''. 2019- Shelbourne. D/M R. Debut started 3-0 defeat v USA at Rose Bowl, 3.8.2019. Also started the 2-0 ECQ win over Montenegro 3.9.19 at Tallaght.
Sylvia Gee - 30.11.77 - One of five Irish players w W-League 2 Springfield Sirens in 2000. With UCD in 2002/03 and recalled to the national team after an 18-month gap. Played for UCD in 2005 UWCL in Croatia. UCD player in squad for 2 friendlies in Wales, 24 and 26 April 2007 in Tredegar and Goytre. Benfica/UL player started 4.9.99 5-0 friendly defeat by USA at Foxboro Stadium, subbed for N Connolly at 58 mins. Scouted for Benfica by club sec Declan Hughes who spotted her in college soccer while he was serving as UCD sec. She played for Listowel Celtic of the Limerick League in 1998, after helping UL win that year's intervarsity tourney. The team reached the LFAI Cup final, beating Benfica 4-0 in the semi, but were drubbed 10-3 by Shamrock Rovers at Peamount United's Greenogue ground (then called "O'Haire Park") in Newcastle, Co. Dublin, 6.9.98. Scored for the combined colleges in a 6-2 win over the senior NI team, 19.4.98.
Aileen Gilroy - 1.3.93, Killala - 2013 Universiade in Kazan 170cm tall. Uncapped Castlebar Celtic player in 2014 Cyprus Cup squad. Given sub outings v NZ, South Korea and Canada. GAA for St Brigid's club and Mayo, 2017 All-star. Factory worker (2016) Went to play in the AFL with North Melbourne in 2020. Castlebar Celtic from 11/12 debut WNL season to 2014.
Jessica Gleeson - 23.10.93 - Tramore AFC, Villa AFC (Waterford). DC. Joined Wexford Youths in WNL and won 3 league titles before joined Shelbourne for 2018 season. u17 Euro finalist and WC QF in 2010. DC. Called up to 2013 Cyprus Cup. 2013 Universiade in Kazan, 162cm tall. Debut v USA in San Jose, May 2015 - subbed at HT after 'clash of heads' w burly Abby Wambach. Next cap in San Diego in Jan 2016. Wee bro Austin is a Waterford hurling star. Apparently not fancied as a player by C Bell.
Margaret Goddard - M. Goddard listed by the Irish Examiner as starting the 2-1 defeat by NI in Larne, 8.8.81. Listed last so in that days when that meant something might suggest she was no 11 and/or left wing? Absent from the East Antrim Times report of the same match. A Margaret Goddard was listed in the Rathfarnham United squad which went to the Lyons tournament in April 1981 and finished sixth of 16 teams. A Cathy Goddard (relative?) was also listed in Rathfarnham's for Lyons and a Kathy Goddard attended the 17.10.81 4-1 defeat by Belgium at the "Kleine Heizel" stadium in Brussels as an L.F.A.I. committee member. C. Goddard was L.F.A.I. press officer, May 1985. Evening Press preview for the Rathfarnham v Suffragettes LFAI Cup final 13.9.81 at Bird Avenue grounds, Clonskeagh, said: "such internationals as Barbara Kelly, Margaret Goddard and Philo Robinson, from whom so much will be expected". Featured for Rathfarnham United in a bizarre inter-sex challenge match against Temple Villa AFC at the Dandywell, 14.6.81, which finished 4-4. The Westmeath Independent report hailed: "the sheer determination of Margaret Goddard". Scored in Dublin's 6-2 win over Cork in a challenge match at Flower Lodge, 26.7.81.
Dora Gorman - 18.2.93 - Medical Dr and GAA star. 2013 Universiade in Kazan, 168cm tall.
Geraldine Grace - Inside fwd and Limerick player, capped v Wales 1973. A 15yo (b. 1957/58) Limerick L.F.C. centre forward listed in the programme for the historic 3-2 win in Wales, 13.5.73. Played in League of Ireland's 9-1 defeat by Scottish League at Ravenscraig Stadium, Greenock, 17.3.74. According to the match programme, she was a Limerick inside right who had been capped against Wales, NI and France in 1973. One of five Limerick players to feature in the 1-1 draw with NI in Lurgan, 23.10.73. Limerick player listed in prog for 3-3 draw w Scotland at Dalyer, 18.4.76. Played for an ex-International X1 v Limerick League at Jackman Park in October 1997: "Geraldine Grace who still plays in England laid on some precision passes" - Limerick Leader. Geraldine Grace was a Ballynanty midfielder in the Limerick team which beat Land Registrars (Dublin) 3-2 at Ringsend Park in the FAI Women's Cup semi, July 1975: "Geraldine Grace had a tremendous game at left-half". Played in the final at Markets Field, 7.9.75, when Limerick beat CSO (Dublin) 2-1. Mentioned in the Limerick Leader 30.6.71 as a player of distinct promise in Frank "Junior" Keane's Ballynanty Rovers side, "unbeaten in 63 over the past three years". Scored two goals in the League of Ireland final at the Waterford Glass grounds, 6.7.75, understrength Limerick shocked 4-3 by Avengers (Dublin), their first league defeat which cost them a third consecutive "Kevin Gaynor perpetual". Played for the Limerick X1 in the 3-1 defeat by tourists Reims, 21.8.73. Is this the same player as Geraldine Williams?
Ursula Grace - Centre forward - Listed at no 12 for 3-3 draw with Wales at Limerick 26.5.74, an Evergreen (Kilkenny) player. "This will be Ursula's first cap although she was picked to play against Wales last season but was unable to travel". "Ursula Grace gave an outstanding display [...] came on as a reserve and made the goal which gave Ireland a draw". Was a camogie star with Kilkenny and the St Paul's club. Hit winning goal in 1974 all Ireland camogie final replay v Cork. Her dad Paddy Grace was a famous hurler and secretary of the Kilkenny County GAA for many years (1947-his death in 1984). Later married Kilkenny minor and u21 hurler Joe Mulcahy and became Mrs Mulcahy - stepped down from the camogie team. In August 1971 she helped Fit Remoulds A ("White Angels") win the Kilkenny Peace in Christ Cup, scoring 4 "superb" goals in the final win over Fit Remoulds B ("Red Devils"). Named player of the tournament: "It brought the new star of ladies' soccer into the limelight". She was the chief goal-getter for Fit Remoulds who reached the Cup final and lost 1-0 to Suffragettes in Kilkenny, January 1972. She scored six goals en route to the final. In December 1971 she was 17yo (born 53 or 54) striker for Fit Remoulds, described as a former athlete. Her 19yo sister Mary Grace was also on the team. Listed as a 17yo (born 55 or 56) Evergreen Kilkenny centre forward in the programme for the historic 3-2 win in Wales, 13.5.73. One of 3 Kilkenny players - w K Ramsbottom and C Jordan - to guest on the Jeyes (Dublin) team which toured France in September 1972.
Rachel Graham - 18.7.89, Dublin - Raheny United MF won league and cup double in 12/13, first capped against South Korea at the Cyprus Cup. She joined Raheny as a 14yo and merged into Shelbourne in 2015. Did a sports management course at IT Carlow alongside Damian Duff, also got UEFA B license and started coaching Shels u16s.
Ciara Mary Grant I - 17.5.78 - Benfica player in squad for Euro qual in Bangor, Wales 7.12.97. Benfica player in u18s squad for the Gothia Cup win in July 1995. Captained u16 team against Scotland, Easter 1994, a 1-1 draw at Love St, Paisley, Ireland's 1st ever u16 match. 1 goal in u20 "development team's" 6-0 win over NI in Belfast, 29.10.94. Named in u20 squad v France at Turner's Cross 12.11.94, still a 16yo schoolgirl and playing for Benfica in the Munster League. Benfica player in Mick Cooke's u18 squad for friendly v Australia at Belfield, 18.12.96. Benfica player called up for WWC qual v Poland at Tolka Park, 2 Nov 97, started the 1-0 defeat. Scored twice as a 15yo in Benfica's 3-0 FAI Cup final replay win over College Corinthians at Kilcohan Park, 21.11.93. One in each half - nodded in T Leahy's pinpoint cross from close range on 39 mins, then raced onto C Phelan's pass to slip the ball under GK on 60 mins. Benfica player named in squad for decisive Euro 97 qual in Brussels 4.5.96. Subbed after 75mins of the 5-1 defeat for P Devlin. Benfica midfielder listed in prog for Euro qual v Wales, Steboneath Park, Llanelli, 8.10.95. Joined Arsenal in Aug 98 - "strong midfield player" ever present in 98/99. Club POTY in 99/00. Converted to centre half 06/07 when Faye White and Y Tracy had knee injuries. Scored "a terrific header" for Benfica in their 6-0 Munster Cup semi-final win over Mayfield (Cork) at Waterford Glass Centre, 29.11.92. Was a sub for Benfica on opening day of their 1992 League campaign, 3-0 win over Limerick United, April 1992 came on for Angela Flynn. "It was healthy to see the emergence of the under-age players" - Munster Express. Benfica manager Joey O'Callaghan gave youth its head. She played as a 14yo for Benfica in the 92 LFAI Cup final which (due to several appeals from second round losers Rathfarnham) was played 10.1.93 at Dalymount Park in "atrocious" conditions. Benfica lost 4-1 to Welsox on penalties after a 1-1 AET draw. 15 goals in 32 games for Arsenal 05/06. 2000 FAI POTY. Was appointed captain for the 2000 Celt Cup win by incoming boss Noel King. From Lismore Park, Waterford. She recalled making her debut v the Faroes in 1996, replacing fellow Waterford woman S Furlong who was injured. On winning her 100th cap v Scotland 5.4.2012 she paid tribute to Benfica stalwarts Joey O'Callaghan and Betty Maher: "I have a lot to thank them for. Those two people have dedicated their lives to the Benfica club". Debut was 28.10.95 3-1 v Faroes at Richer and FAI records suggest she came on for A McNally on 75 minutes. In Nov 2001 S Furlong said of Grant: "You could see from the beginning that Ciara Grant was an exceptional talent. She simply outclassed everyone else." Came back to play for Benfica in summer 1999.
Ciara Grant II - 11.6.93 - 2013 Universiade in Kazan, 167cm tall.
Lynn-Marie Grant - 25.2.89 - MF from Waterford, played for Lifford, attended soccer scholarship at Waterford IT. Called up by the U17s in April 2006 while attached to Benfica. Went to the 2009 Universiade in Belgrade while in the 2nd year of her business degree at WIT and attached to Tramore AFC. Played four games for Wexford Youths in the 12-13 WNL, as well as the 3-0 WFAI Cup semi-final defeat by Raheny 22.9.12. Was playing Wexford League stuff for North End United in 2019 and won League POTY. Won a treble with Forth Celtic in 2020, and was POTM in the 4-0 Wexford Cup final win over New Ross Town 6.9.20 at Ferrycarrig Park. Brother Stephen played for Waterford, Stockport County etc then became a pro golfer. Interview with Final Whistle podcast March 2021: She was diagnosed with type-1 diabetes at 18yo and found it hard to manage the condition alongside soccer. She drifted out of football and had children. Made a top level comeback signing for Wexford Youths ahead of the 2021 WNL and said she had her "grá" (love) of soccer back, wanted to prove herself and be a good example to her children.
Emma Greene - Capped as a 15th-min sub for S Cunningham in 2-1 friendly win in Klaksvik, Faroe Isles, 12.10.04. Was attached to Carrigaline FC from Cork.
Anne Griffith - GK from the Evergreen club in Kilkenny. Capped twice in 1973 v Wales and NI. An Evergreen Kilkenny goalkeeper listed in the programme for the historic 3-2 win in Wales, 13.5.73. The elder stateswoman in the squad at 22 (b. 1950/51). Kilkenny People 25.5.73: "The [Club Kilkenny] committee congratulates Anne Griffiths on her first international cap and according to reports from the Welsh game it looks like the first of many for Anne". Played Kilkenny 7-a-side league stuff with 'Country Areas' in 1973. Captain and goalkeeper on the Fit Remoulds team which lost the Cup final 1-0 to Suffragettes at St John's GAA ground, Kilkenny, 24.1.72. Women's soccer in Kilkenny had started in summer 1968 when local stalwart Brendan Lonergan took a team to Ballyfermot - including Griffith - who were stuffed 11-0. Evergreen Kilkenny player listed in the programme at no 1 for the 4-1 win over NI, 30.6.73 at Bluebell United FC on the Naas Road.
Veronica "Ronnie" Guerin - 5.7.58-26.6.96 - Dunseedy FW played as a sub in 0-5 friendly defeat by England at Dalyer, May 1981. Also played basketball for Ireland and for the Killester Kittens club. School St Mary's Holy Faith were all-Ireland girl's basketball champs in 1974. Played for the senior Irish schoolgirls basketball team against England at St Patrick's Youth Club in Mallow, 21.2.76. Went with Irish champs Killester Kittens in April 1978 to play Southgate Wasps in London in the first leg of the B.I.B.F. Cup final. Big Man Utd fan. Became a famous journalist murdered by underworld drug criminals, was made into a movie starring Cate Blanchett. Entry at the Dictionary of Irish Biography. "Ronnie Gurein" (sic) listed as a Dunseedy player in the Leinster Ladies League squad for a "Bracken" Trophy fixture at Galway, 5.7.81.
H
Susan "Sue" Halloran - 26.7.64 - unused sub in 4-0 win over NI at Belfield 7.10.90. Benfica (Leinster Ladies League) player named in Tony Kelly's provisional 23-player squad for opening Euro 84 qualifier in Dunfermline 19.9.82 - but didn't make the final 16 to travel. Waterford League had just returned to LFAI affiliation after a 3-year lapse. She played for Benfica in the 92 LFAI Cup final which (due to repeated appeals from second round losers Rathfarnham) was played 10.1.93 at Dalymount Park in "atrocious" conditions. Her kick hit the bar as Benfica lost 4-1 to Welsox on penalties after a 1-1 AET draw.Breda Hanlon - see Breda Cummins
Emma Hansberry - Castlebar Celtic 2011-2015, joined Wexford Youths in June 2015. Won inaugural WNL POTY in 11/12 scoring 7 goals. Strandhill native. Previously played for Strand Celtic and her school Ursuline College. Featured at Under 17 World Cup 2010. Sligo GAA player with the St Mary's club. 2013 Universiade in Kazan, 165cm tall. Unused sub in 3-0 defeat by USA, San Jose, 10.5.15 and the 1-0 win over Haiti in Laurderhill, FL, 14.5.15. Unused sub in Euro 2017 quals against Spain (home and away), Montenegro (home and away) and Finland (away). Under 19 FAI POTY 2012. Didn't play in 2019? Won 3 league titles w Wexford (15/16, 2017 and 2018) as well as the 2015 and 2018 FAI Cups. Non-playing squad member at the 2014 Cyprus Cup. Attended IT Carlow studying Sports Science while playing for Wexford Youths. Attended 2016 Cyprus Cup desperate for a senior cap and was given a run out against Hungary in 3rd group match, a 1-0 defeat 7.3.16 in Paralimni. Was an 79th-min sub for R Littlejohn. Wexford Youths and IT Carlow pal C O'Riordan debuted in same game. Got another cap on same ground 2 days later as Ireland beat Finland 2-0 in 7/8th play off to avoid wooden spoon. Came on for D Caldwell on 76 mins.
Susan Elaine Heapes - 6.1.81 - Dubliner - St Catherines player named in u16 squad for April 98 triangular Tourney v Scotland and Wales in Conwy, Bangor and Porthmadog. St Catherines MF in squad for 2nd UEFA u18 Euro mini tourney 23-27 Nov 98, v Eng, Hol and Faroes, hosted in Eng. Susan Heap (sic) - St Catherines player in u16 squad v Wales, at Spytty Park, Newport, 9.4.96. St Catherines player called up to u17 squad for friendly in NI, November 1996. Arsenal (2000) from St Catherine's. Joined at same time as C Thorpe and Y Tracy. Not in Arsenal team lists 01/02? Was back w St Catherine's in 3-1 FAI Cup final defeat by all-conquering Shamrock Rovers 29.7.01, at AUL. St Catherines in 2009 LFAI Cup final v St Francis. Played for Shamrock Rovers in 2002 UWCL in Nis, Serbia. St Catherine's player in squad for 4.9.99 5-0 friendly defeat by USA at Foxboro Stadium, came on at HT for A Walsh. Nominated for 2000 FAI U18 POTY: "She is currently the international team's left back". Played 1-11 for St Catherine's. Was a member of the Celt Cup squad. In September 1992 she was an 11yo goalie with St Catherine's from Bonham Street, in the Liberties area of Dublin. Clearly had a strong affinity with "The Cats" and their big-hearted supremo Br Bernard Twomey.
Tina Hegarty - Cork Celtic player and schools international sprinter from the Leevale Athletic club. From the Glen area in Cork. Named Cork Celtic's Most Improved Player after taking up soccer in the 1981 season and was called into the senior training squad by T Kelly in December 1981. Played well for the losing side in Glade Celtic's 2-0 Presidents Cup win over Killeady United at Crosbarry, 17.4.83. In August 1982 "Irish international Tina Hegarty" was "a surprising omission" from Cork's 16-woman Bracken Cup squad. "Her impressive displays earned her an international cap for the Republic of Ireland against Northern Ireland". Moved to New York in 1985 and married Fermanagh-born Adrian Gallagher there in December 1989. While in NY she played for the Shamrocks club. Dad Stephen had reputedly been a team mate of the great Jackie Morley at Glasheen. Listed by the East Antrim Times ("Tina Heggarty") on the Republic u18 panel beaten 1-0 by NI at Inver Park, Larne, 8.8.81. Impressed the watching Tony Kelly in Cork's 6-2 defeat by Dublin in a challenge match at Flower Lodge, 26.7.81: "Hegarty has in fact taken up competitive soccer in the last few weeks".
Louise Anne Henchy - 1.3.82 - Stated at the Clare Champion to have u19 and 3 senior caps. Knocked back a soccer scholarship to Alabama. From Ennis, is an accountant by trade. Played gaelic for The Banner club and Co Clare. Lifford FC since 1990. DC/Sweeper in soccer and MF in gaelic football. 2003 World Student Games. University of Limerick/Lifford player in 2003 Algarve Cup squad. Capped in friendly win in Klaksvik, Faroe Isles, 12.10.04. "An accomplished central defender" nominated for the FAI U18 POTY in Oct 2000. Had captained Lifford to the U18 LFAI Cup and the LFAI Intermediate Cup in 2000, as well as the Limerick League and Cup. Started University of Limerick in 2000. Played in Lifford's FAI Cup final defeat by UCD, 10.8.03 at Richmond Park.
Marie Hourihan - 10.6.87 - GK
Sonya Hughes - 9.9.81 - St Brendan's player named in u16 squad for April 98 triangular Tourney v Scotland and Wales in Conwy, Bangor and Porthmadog. St Brendans player in squad for 2nd UEFA u18 Euro mini tourney 23-27 Nov 98, v Eng, Hol and Faroes, hosted in Eng. Scored v Faroes. Franklin Pierce Ravens (2002-2005) alongside Laura Hislop. St Francis LFC. Ireland World Student Games squads in 2004 (hattrick v hosts Turkey) and 2007 (skipper). Appointed manager of Glebe North FC's new DWSL team in Jan 2018, based in her native Balbriggan. Predators (Belfast) player in 2003 Algarve Cup squad. Listed as a New Hampshire Phantoms/Franklin Pierce player in match prog for WCQs v Switzerland and Scotland, 22.4.06 and 6.5.06 at Richmond Park. Franklin Pierce player in squad for 2 friendlies in Wales, 24 and 26 April 2007 in Tredegar and Goytre. Played for Tolka Rovers before college in America per Iceland Euro play-off prog 26.10.08. 2-1 friendly defeat by Scotland at AUL Clonshaugh, 11.8.01 was first senior cap according to SoccerScene.ie.
Teresa Hurley - St Patrick's (Arklow) player in Eamonn D'Arcy's injury-hit squad for ECQ w NI at Glenmalure Park, 5.5.85. Came on as a sub in this match for B Flood on 67 minutes, ten minutes later her run up the right wing and cross set up B Cummins for the only goal. Also came on as a sub in the 2-1 defeat at Tinto Park, Glasgow, 2.6.85. Arklow player in squad for friendly v NI 2.11.85. Started 6-0 defeat by England at Flower Lodge, Cork 22.9.85 listed as a St Patrick's Dublin player. Teresa Hurley was a highly-decorated hockey player w 82 caps for Ireland (1988-96) - same person as confirmed by Muckross Hockey Club.
Cathleen "Cathy" (sometimes misspelled 'Kathleen/Kathy') Hynes - Scored a late penalty consolation in 6-1 defeat by England in Exeter, 2.5.78. Irish Press attributed Ireland's goal to "B. Hannon" (sic), Exeter Express said it was a late "Kathlees Hynes" penalty. Listed as no 8 in match prog. Scored winner in 1-0 win over Wales 29.5.77 at Tolka Park. Played up front w Breda Hanlon and struck 27th-min pen. past Diane Totty after being tripped by Lesley Judd. Irish Independent match report praised her "flair and style". Willesden, Friends of Fulham. "Offaly-born" FW scored twice for FOF in 4-2 Home Counties League Cup final win over Town and County 16.4.1989. Moved to London 14 years earlier as 21yo. Was a clerical worker at St John's Hospital. Had joined Chelsea in 1976. Tried to retire but FOF kept tempting her back: "I told the club that I'd only play if they were desperate and they've picked me ever since". Had 4 apps 2 goals for Ireland but was annoyed at never getting an actual cap. 71st-min sub for T Springett (daughter of Ron, ex-Willesden teammate) in 89 WFA Cup final at Old Trafford in FOF's 3-2 defeat before the C4 cameras, despite a brace from Hope Powell. Match prog: "A most versatile player. This season Cathy has played in goal, defence, midfield and [as] a goalscoring forward. A fine example to other players, the type of player needed by any successful team." Willesden player in the squad for friendly v France 23.9.78 at Tolka Park. Willesden ("Red Devils"-all red strip, based at Wormwood Scrubs, formed 1972, manager Bob Dolton) tied up with Old Actonians in 1980. Employed as a HCO in a hospital per FA Cup QF prog FOF v Arsenal 4.3.90. Joined Friends of Fulham 83/84. Noreen O'Flynn also left Willesden/Actonians for FOF. They represented Ireland alongside the cream of English talent Wiseman, Sempare, Spacey etc. Played for FOF in their 2-0 1985 WFA Cup final win over Doncaster Belles at Craven Cottage, scored killer second goal "a sumptuous chip". It was known as the Sempare final after the great Brenda Sempare gave Donny the runaround. Unused sub in the 1990 FA Cup final, as Doncaster Belles beat FOF 1-0 at the Baseball Ground, Derby. Not in the Wimbledon LFC player lists 91/92 (FOF became Wimbledon to join the 1st National League in 1991). Not in match day squad for 1987 FA Cup semi defeat by St Helens (injured?) but was in the team photo in the programme. Guested for Welsox at the Puma Cup tourny hosted by Dublin Castle in July 1985. "Prominent member" of Offaly GAA before moving to London. Cousin John Joe Hynes had been a handy soccer full-back for Munster Victoria and Clara Town - he won caps at Junior level v Scotland at Dalymount Park 10.4.39 (3-2 win) and in Grosvenor Park, Belfast 1.6.47 (0-4 defeat). May have played in a 6-2 'juvenile' win over England u18s (Ireland's first ever match at that level?) at Shelbourne Park 14.3.38, although one source lists W. Hynes of Munster Victoria in his position. Cathy's uncle Tommy Kelly also said to have played for Clara Town and for Ireland at the Junior grade. With When an official All-Ireland football championship was set up the following year Offaly lost the final to Tipp 2-2;2-3 in Durrow 13.10.74. Hynes scored a point from a free and was unfortunate to hit the crossbar with another effort. In the semi she was rampant, scoring "all the Offaly points" in the 3-6;2-6 win over Laois. A year earlier (29.7.73) she chipped in a point as Offaly crushed Kerry 7-10;1-1 before 2,000+ fans at O'Connor Park, Tullamore, in what was reported as the first ever women's inter-county match. In July 72 she was 19yo, working at the J & LF Goodbody Ltd jute mill and training w Clara ladies gaelic football team. Also played badminton. 19.1.72 scores 10 (ten!) goals for Marian Square United in their 12-2 rout of Ballycommon in the indoor football tournament at Clara Social Club, earning a nod as Sportstar of the Week from the local Offaly Independent newspaper. The paper gave her great coverage but insisted on dubbing her Catherine Hynes (confirmed same person because they talk about her moving to London, playing football there and playing for Ireland).
I
J
Rianna Lauren Jarrett - 5.7.94 - Player of colour, shrugged off a series of knee injuries. Signed by Brighton and Hove Albion after showing up well for Wexford Youths in the WNL.Rachel Jenkins, 30.12.83 RW, called up by Noel King as replacement for injured M O'Brien for home qual v Romania, 28.6.03. Played for UCD in 06 Cup final. Also played for St Catherine's and Peamount United. From Bray, joined Ardmore Rovers u10s and went on to Lourdes Celtic at u12s when not allowed to play boys' football. Nominated for FAI U18 POTY in Jan 2002 while w St Catherine's. With UCD when she played the 2003 World University Games in Daegu, South Korea (where she did her ACL) and also the 2007 and 2009 editions. Handed a senior cap 6.6.05 in a 2-1 friendly win over the Faroe Islands at AUL, started then subbed for E Malone. Played for The Peas in their big last-32 tie w PSG in Sept/Oct 2011. Signed for Shamrock Rovers from Peamount United ahead of the inaugural WNL. Hailed by Shams as a "fast tricky player with an eye for goal" with "a huge amount of experience and success". Named in 2011/12 Team of the Year. Started 12/13 w Shams but saw the season out with DLR Waves.
Tina Jones - Avengers player in the squad for friendly v France 23.9.78 at Tolka Park. 1999 FAI yearbook attributes one goal in 5-1 v NI 1977 at Newry and 3 goals in 6-0 v NI 1977 at Dublin to "Jones". Prog v Denmark 17.4.85 lists Tina Jones as an all-time top scorer. Mentioned as an international player with 5 caps and 4 goals ahead of Avengers' (Cabra) LFAI Cup semi-final clash with Cork Celtic at Turner's Cross, 14.10.79. Scored twice in the League of Ireland final at the Waterford Glass grounds, 6.7.75: an understrength Limerick were shocked 4-3 by Jones's Avengers (Dublin) team, Limerick's first LLoI defeat which cost them a third consecutive "Kevin Gaynor perpetual".
Mary Joyce - Analog player in squad for friendly v NI 31.8.80 and v Belgium 27.10.80. Limerick player listed in prog for 3-3 draw w Scotland at Dalyer, 18.4.76. She played in the game which was a curtain-raiser to the men's FAI Cup final (attendance: 10,000) but was sent-off for a punch-up with Scotland's Liz Creamer, who also walked. GAA President Donal Keenan was moved to remark at their congress: "I suggest that camogie is a much more suitable game for our young women". FAI boss Leo Cleary branded Keenan's comments stupid. She was described as a Limerick "shop girl". One of 6 Limerick League players in Tony Kelly's 1st squad v NI in Newry 14.6.80. "Mary Joyce, who was unavailable for the match in Newry, will be a big boost to the Republic team. Mary is a great competitor and is respected throughout the country for her whole-hearted commitment to the game". Limerick DF in League of Ireland's 9-1 defeat by Scottish League at Ravenscraig Stadium, Greenock, 17.3.74. The match programme said she was a right back who had one cap v NI. Played for an ex-International X1 v Limerick League at Jackman Park in October 1997: "...Mary Joyce, Ann Cross, Pauline Maher and Freda Noonan came on for the last 15 minutes..." - Limerick Leader. M Joyce started at Dalyer in 5-0 friendly defeat by England 3.5.81. 1999 FAI yearbook attributes a goal in 3-1 win v NI 1976 at Butlins Mosney to Joyce. One of five Limerick players to feature in the 1-1 draw with NI in Lurgan, 23.10.73. One of four Limerick players to be selected for the 2-1 inter-League defeat by NI at Oriel Park, Dundalk, 12.10.74. Mary Joyce was a Shannon Diamond defender in the Limerick team which beat Land Registrars (Dublin) 3-2 at Ringsend Park in the FAI Women's Cup semi, July 1975: "Mary Joyce, Ann Cross and Catherine Brown were sound in the backs". Played in the final at Markets Field, 7.9.75, when Limerick beat CSO (Dublin) 2-1. Played in the League of Ireland final at the Waterford Glass grounds, 6.7.75, understrength Limerick shocked 4-3 by Avengers (Dublin), their first league defeat which cost them a third consecutive "Kevin Gaynor perpetual". Mentioned in the Limerick Leader 30.6.71 as a player of distinct promise in Frank "Junior" Keane's Ballynanty Rovers side, "unbeaten in 63 over the past three years". Pictured in the Analog team photo ahead of the "All-Ireland soccer final" (President's Cup?) v Suffragettes at the Mary Immaculate College grounds, 13.12.81. Listed by the East Antrim Times on the Republic senior panel beaten 2-1 by NI at Inver Park, Larne, 8.8.81. The Irish Examiner report said she came on as a sub. Deployed in an unfamiliar centre-forward role v Belgium 27.10.80 at Dalyer. Flanked by D Lyons and J Cowley in an all-Limerick front three, she performed well in Ireland's 1-0 win: "Mary Joyce adapted well to her new position and was a little unlucky not to score on a few occasions." Played for the Limerick X1 in the 3-1 defeat by tourists Reims at Markets Field, 21.8.73.
K
Michelle Kane - 3.12.78 - Started a 3-2 win over Iceland's u21s 6.7.01. Also started both games at the Celt Cup, September 2000. Started ill-fated 5-0 WCQ defeat in Yugoslavia, 8.9.01, subbed by D Deasley. Went to the same school as O O'Toole, St Laurence O'Toole's Girls' NS in tough inner city Dublin. Aodhan O Riordain set up thriving GAA and soccer teams when he worked there before going into politics. Part of the Dana Cup-winning u19 team in July 1996. Called into a revamped senior squad for a November 1996 friendly in NI as a St Catherine's player, alongside several other members of the Dana Cup-winning youth team. Played for Shamrock Rovers in the DWSL League Cup final 9.11.97 at Tolka Park, which they lost to Shelbourne on penalties after a 2-2 draw. In September 1992 she was a 13yo sweeper with St Catherine's from Sheriff Street, Dublin.Siobhan Kane - 28.3.75 - Listed as an Arsenal reserve player in Chelsea LFC prog for Greater London Premier Div match 24.4.97: "Age 21 - student teacher - played for Eire u21s - first season at Arsenal" An RSLFC player named in the squad v Belgium 31.3.96, subbed in for A McNally on 88 minutes per FAI records. Playing for Castle Rovers in the DWSL, August 1996. Was in the Castle Rovers team for the 3-0 LFAI Cup final win over O'Connells at Richmond Park, 25.8.96. In September 1992 a Siobhan Kane was a 13yo defender with St Catherine's from Casino, in inner City Dublin.
Alexandra "Alex" Kavanagh - 11.12.99 - Shels prospect given a 5-minute sub outing against Euskadi 26.11.16 in a 2-1 friendly win at Tallaght. Ball-playing CM with an eye for goal. WNL POTM in April 19. Joined Shels at 11yo and also played youth stuff for Home Farm boys. Promoted from Shels youth team to WNL team ahead of the 2016 season at same time as L Kiernan. Played a friendly for IRL u15s v ENG at 12yo (at opening of St George's Park), making her reportedly the youngest player to represent Ireland. Brother Cian played for Shels on loan in 2016, from Shamrock Rovers.
Annette Kealy - Named in Eamonn Darcy's first WNT training session at Belfield 3.3.84. "Annette Keely" Green Angels player named in Tony Kelly's "very young squad" for opening Euro 84 qualifier in Dunfermline 19.9.82. "A Kealey" listed in Ireland's Saturday Night report of 2-1 Euro qualifier win over NI in Ards, 2.10.82. Green Angels player started in 1-0 ECQ defeat by England at Dalyer 7.11.82. [Annette Kealy from Raheny the runner/lawyer/mum of four? Same person? B. 30.11.67 would only have been 14yo? Unlikely - Irish Times preview for Sep 82 v SCO listed her age as 22yo]
Ruth Keegan - 29.7.69 - Was a Belvedere player in Aug 1987. Belvedere player called up to Fran Rooney's 22-player training squad, ahead of the 1991 Euro quals in November 1989. Unused sub in 4-0 win over NI at Belfield 7.10.90. First squad call up for 4-0 defeat in Mariestad, Sweden, 18.9.88, was playing for Belvedere. Made her debut in the no 2 shirt, only 13 players travelled. Started 2-1 win over NI in Bangor, 9.12.89, while attached to Belvedere. Unused sub in Ireland's creditable 0-0 with Holland at Dalyer, 29.4.90. 5'7'' PE major and sophomore midfielder w Methodist University 1993 alongside Alvy Styles and Collete Gilligan. 65th-min sub for L Farrell in famous 1-0 win in Lucena, Spain 8.12.91. Conceded second of 2 pens in 2-0 defeat in Holland, 18.11.89, 2 minutes from time. Was a quality controller in squad for Spain match 22.3.92. Methodist 92-95, South Atlantic Conference POTY 1995 playing as a sweeper. Hometown: Dublin. Later settled in Virginia Beach w daughter Molly. Followed coach Joe Pereia to Old Dominion University in 1996 as his assistant coach. Left 2006 and coached 2007 at Granby High School in Norfolk, Virginia. Head coach of Christopher Newport University women's soccer March 2008-June 2013. Went back into PE teaching. Man Utd fan from Donaghmede, won six caps: "Unfortunately, as I'm in the States I can't play for Ireland because the funds aren't there to fly me back". Brother Kevin Keegan (!) played for Grange Abbey FC.
Keeva Keenan - 16.8.97 - Glasgow Celtic defender handed a debut cap by new boss Vera Pauw in the 3-2 win over Ukraine.
Barbara Kelly - 19.1.61 - Rathfarnham team mate of P Robinson named in the 20-player squad for the 3.5.81 5-0 friendly defeat by England at Dalyer, played the full match. With D McGarry was one of Rathfarnham's two international players in the young squad which won the 1985 LFAI Cup, beating Belvedere 2-0 in a replay at Dalyer 9.10.85 following a 2-2 draw at Limerick. Ahead of 1988 LFAI Cup final at Glebe North FC Balbriggan: "The Dublin side will be hoping that Barbara Kelly will be back to her best form after a recent car accident". Scored as a second half sub for Ireland v Cork Select XI, in a 3-0 exhibition game win at the Mardyke, 19.8.84. Listed in the Rathfarnham United squad which went to the Lyons tournament in April 1981 and finished sixth of 16 teams. Mentioned as being from Clondalkin. Listed as a Rathfarnham player in the Leinster Ladies League squad for a "Bracken" Trophy fixture at Galway, 5.7.81. Scored twice for Rathfarnham United in a bizarre inter-sex challenge match against Temple Villa AFC at the Dandywell, 14.6.81, which finished 4-4. Daft Paudric Igoe was sent off by ref Breffni Rowan for bringing Kelly down early in the second half. The Westmeath Independent reported she was an opportunist centre-forward who had four Ireland caps: "a treat to watch, dare we say in every way". Sometimes called Bairbre Kelly, particularly by Brian Keogh of the Evening Press.
Louise Michelle Kelly - 2.5.78 - Rathfarnham player in squad for Euro qual in Bangor, Wales 7.12.97. Rathfarnham player called up for WWC qual v Poland at Tolka Park, 2 Nov 97, subbed on at HT for A McNally in the 1-0 defeat. 2 caps at the Celt Cup, September 2000. A Dublin GAA team mate of A McNally. Part of the Dana Cup-winning u19 team in July 1996. Called into a revamped senior squad for a November 1996 friendly in NI as a Marks Celtic player, alongside several other members of the Dana Cup-winning youth team. Playing for Rathfarnham in the DWSL, July 1997.
Jennifer Louise Kett - 4.5.80 - GK Shamrock Rovers, Christian Brothers University, Memphis Tigers. Dominican College player in the under 16 triangular tournament sponsored by Lifestyle Sports at Drogheda 15/16 April 1995 v Scotland and NI. At 14yo was playing two age groups above. Was with Hamman Celtic in June 1995, alongside M Saurin. Was playing for Shamrock Rovers in June 1999. A Jennifer Kett played (outfield) for Whitehall Rangers in their 1-0 2018 FAI Intermediate Shield final defeat by Wilton United, and their 5-0 win over Manulla FC in the 2019 final. A Shamrock Rovers/Christian Brothers University, Memphis player in the 2003 Algarve Cup squad. Played for CBU "Lady Bucs" 2002 and 2003. Was the goalkeeper coach in 2004 while she finished her MBA at CBU. Started 2-1 friendly defeat by Scotland at AUL Clonshaugh, 11.8.01. Came on as a sub for C Scanlan when E Byrne was sent off in a 2-2 draw with Romania, 28.6.03 at Tolka Park. Started the next 9-0 Euro qual win in Malta, 22.10.03, when E Byrne was suspended. Played in a 6-0 defeat by a Sweden u21 team containing Lindahl, Dahlkvist, Fischer and Schelin 13.3.04 at Frank Cooke Park, Dublin. With Shamrock Rovers since 1997 per FAI women's pen pics 2003, but was also playing for DCU. CBU student and Shamrock Rovers player named in Myles Kelly's squad for the Universiade in Daegu, Korea, August 2003.
Cherelle Khassal - 9.1.91 -
Leanne Kiernan - 27.4.99 - Shelbourne player called into Sue Ronan's young and predominantly home-based squad for a training camp in Wales, August 2016. Senior debut in starting the first of two friendlies v the hosts, 19.8.16, a 0-0 draw at Rodney Parade, Newport. Troubled Wales with her pace but was carried off injured on 25 minutes following a clash of heads with Kylie Davies. Two days later she sat out the 2-1 win in Caerphilly 21.8.16.
Emma Kilduff - 11.6.81 - Maynooth Town player in squad for 2nd UEFA u18 Euro mini tourney 23-27 Nov 98, v Eng, Hol and Faroes, hosted in Eng. Attended Hofstra Uni (2001-2004). Maynooth player in squad for 4.9.99 5-0 friendly defeat by USA at Foxboro Stadium, came on as a 69th-min sub for C Grant. Hofstra listed her 'hometown' as Kildare. Kildare gaelic football captain. Played for DWSL Premier club St Catherine's in 2001, including in their 3-1 LFAI Cup final defeat by Shamrock Rovers, 29.7.01.
Siobhan Killeen - 15.3.93 - 2013 Universiade in Kazan, 182cm tall. LW. In March 2018 became one of an alarming number of top players to quit soccer for GAA. Was a radiographer at the Mater Hospital when she contracted then fought off Covid-19 in March 2020.
Carmel Immaculate Kissane - 9.6.73 - Listowel Celtic DF. Played as Listowel beat Letterkenny Rovers 3-0 in LFAI intermediate cup final at St James' Gate FC in Aug 1997. Benfica player called up to senior national team in Oct 1999 for ECQ in Croatia. In 2002/03 was with UCD and was manager of the UCD sports centre. Played for UCD in 2005 UWCL in Croatia. Played in the 2003 UWCL in Kolbotn, scored a stoppage-time consolotion in a 6-1 defeat by Juvisy. In FAI 2005/06 WNT team photo. From Lisselton in Kerry, dad Ritchie, mum Marie. Played on Kerry's junior Gaelic football team. Basketball star for the Waterford Wildcats and Lee Strand (Tralee) clubs. Joined Killester (Dublin) when she moved to work at UCD in c.2001. Won basketball national Cup in (at least) 2002 and 2005 w Killester. Later with the University of Limerick Huskies (2007-08). 6' tall. Also played Basketball for Ireland including at the 2005 and 2007 FIBA EuroBasket tourneys. Scored both as skipper in UCD's 2-0 2003 FAI Cup final win over Lifford at Richmond Park 10.8.03. Scored 2 in 2-1 friendly win over Faroe Islands at AUL, 6.6.05. Broke her ankle playing against NI in 2004. Later married and became Carmel Keane. Scouted for Benfica by club sec Declan Hughes who spotted her in college soccer while he was serving as UCD sec. She studied recreation management at Waterford IT and played in her fifth Intervarsities tournament in 1998. Captained coach Myles Kelly's combined colleges team which thrashed Scotland (11-1), Wales (7-0) and England (3-0) in Liverpool, April 1997. Debut was against NI at Lansdowne Road, 1-1 in a 20-minute each-way exhibition game staged in May 1999. Played for Rathfarnham in 2001 DWSL. Scored twice for the combined colleges in a 6-2 win over the senior NI team, 19.4.98.
Emily Kraft - 18.2.02, Frankfurt - Senior debut v Belgium 20.1.19 in a 1-0 friendly defeat at Pinatar Arena, Spain. Picked up an ACL injury in an u17 game v Norway, 20.3.19, 1-1 draw at National Performance Centre in Edinburgh. Called into FFC Frankfurt's reserves in Jan 2020. Did her ACL again in July 20, shortly after the club became Eintracht Frankfurt. Fit again and breaking into the Eintracht II team in 21/22.
L
Abbie Larkin - 27.04.05 - At 7yo joined the 'Soccer Sisters' holiday camps in 2012 and became the face of the scheme. A promising 10-minute cameo in Shels' 2021 FAI Cup final defeat by Wexford Youths. Has a touch of divilment - accidental 'coming together' left something on Youths' goalie Keav Gray.Sara Lawlor - 11.11.87 - Peamount striker named in Noel King's u17 side which finished fourth in the "European Youth Olympics" in Paris, July 2003. 2013 Universiade in Kazan, 162cm tall. Won the 2017 WFAI Intermediate Shield playing for DWSL side Hardwicke FC, alongside S Byrne.
Therese Leahy - 16.8.66 - Benfica stalwart won full set of domestic honours. Debut v NI 26.11.1988, 2-0 win at Tolka Park. Billed as Theresa Leahy on FAI website. Hit second goal in 2-0 friendly win v NI 17.10.93, in Sligo, after being recalled from nearly 4 years in international wilderness: her first goal for Ireland in "a tremendous performance". Also set up other goal for L Towler w "telling cross". Sweden 7.5.88 prog: 21yo w 3 caps , top-scorer in Women's League of Ireland w Benfica. Hol prog 29.11.87 says debut v NI 2 weeks previously. Scored in a 6-0 friendly win over hapless NI at United Park, Drogheda, 3.9.95 from her position on RW. As a Rathfarnham player started in 3-1 home Euro qual win over Faroes 28.10.95. As at game v France at Turner's Cross 12.11.94 was 27yo Benfica player w "a number" of caps, but unlucky not to have won more, per match prog. Played well and hit post in 1986 LFAI Cup final but Benfica lost 1-0 to Dub Castle when A Styles scored a late free kick at Jonesboro, Limerick. In December 1986 she scored the third goal as Benfica saw off Rathfarnham 4-2 AET in the President's Cup final played in Bray. She played for Benfica in the 92 LFAI Cup final which (due to a series of appeals by disgruntled Rathfarnham) was played 10.1.93 at Dalymount Park in "atrocious" conditions. Benfica lost 4-1 to Welsox on penalties after a 1-1 AET draw. Had 3 caps when she progressed through 1991 trials to get "long awaited" recall under new boss L Gorman. Benfica teammates S Furlong and Y Lyons also in squad. Seen as a pacey/"nifty" winger who scored goals. Still playing for Benfica as late as April 2011, when her 2 goals helped to see off Seaview United 5-3 in the Wexford Cup. C Khassal scored a hat-trick. Dubbed "lethal Leahy" by the Irish Indepedent when she netted twice to add to Maria Power's opener and secure Benfica's first ever LFAI Cup, 3-2 over Boyne Rovers, 20.9.87 at Dalyer. When Benfica celebrated their half century in 2015, evergreen Leahy - affectionately known as "Tess" - was in her 30th season as a player with the club. Incredible dedication and loyalty to Benfica, she was adored by supporters and the club hierarchy alike. Top goalscorer for Benfica in the 1997 and 1998 DWSL campaigns. League POTM in August 1999. Left for a spell in America in May 2000. Had joined Benfica in 1985 aged 19: "New girl, Therese Leahy, made it 3-0 after 20 minutes with her first goal for the club". That was in a 3-0 win over Rathgorman, 11.6.85, which was actually abandoned at half time due to rain at the St. Otteran's venue but Rathgorman graciously conceded rather than force a replay. That was on the Tuesday night and then on Thursday 13th she scored again seven minutes into Benfica's 2-0 away win over rivals Seaview Celtic at Annestown.
Katie Liston - b.1972 in West Limerick but schooled in nearby Tarbert, Kerry. Debut v Wales 9.6.94. 76th-minute sub for T Leahy in the USA B game, 1-1 at Richmond Park. First start v NI in Belfast 29.10.94 on right of midfield, hailed as "a real athletic and competitive find". Also played GAA (For the Abbeydorney club and 3 x all-star w Kerry, often likened to namesake Eoin "Bomber" Liston but not related: "No, but I'm working on the beard" was her quip) and rugby union for Irish national 'A' team. Later Dr Liston an academic at Uni of Ulster - interested in sociology of sport and concussion - a big feminist but to her credit takes a nuanced approach i.e. doesn't try to blame all the women's game's ills on men. Played for UCD in Uefa Cup. Playing for Welsox (Dublin) in 1994. Played in Welsox's 4-0 1994 LFAI Cup final win over Verona, 25.9.94 at Richer. Had only taken up soccer - disparagingly known as 'ground ball' in GAA circles - two years earlier: "I took up soccer just to keep fit, not realising then how involved I would become in the sport". Shelbourne player in 1995 after the LOI club adopted Welsox as their women's team. As at game v France at Turner's Cross 12.11.94 was 22yo student w 3 caps. Won another cap as a 70th-min sub for T Leahy in a 6-0 friendly win over hapless NI at United Park, Drogheda, 3.9.95. Played for Welsox in the DWSL and intervarsity stuff for UCD. Played in Shelbourne's 4-0 LFAI Cup final defeat by Shamrock Rovers at the Iveagh Grounds, August 1997. Played for Shels in the DWSL League Cup final 9.11.97 at Tolka Park, in which they beat Shamrock Rovers on penalties after a 2-2 draw. Helped launch UCD's DWSL side in 2002 - they played in intervarsity comps before then. Long-serving UC Galway and Irish Combined Colleges gaffer Dom Coll gave her honourable mention (among "great goalscorers") while putting together his all-time WSCAI X1 in 1998. Versatile - the 98 Intervarsity tourney prog pen-pics called her: "definitely the toughest defender in the business". Was called up by Mick Cooke for the 5-a-side indoor tournament at Glasgow's Kelvin Hall, November 1993.
Ruesha Littlejohn - 3.7.90 -
Denise Lyons - 2.10.62 - had 11 caps v England 11.9.83 as 20yo Magcobar (Limerick) player. Had 1 u18 cap, in which she scored 2 against NI. "Macgovar" (sic) player in squad for friendly v NI 31.8.80. Scored twice in the first 15 minutes of the U18s' game v NI at Markets Field 31.8.80 but Ireland were pegged back to draw 2-2: "...away on a canter, she rode tackle after tackle and from 18 yards let fly with a rasper that went all the way to the top right-hand corner of the net". Also in squad v Belgium 27.10.80 at Dalymount. Listed as 'Denice' Lyons in 27.4.86 Eng prog, 14 caps, A.A.L. Limerick MF, computer operator. Preview in the Irish Press 18.4.86 listed her club as Aughinish Alumina, the name of a refinery. One of 6 Limerick League players in Tony Kelly's 1st squad v NI in Newry 14.6.80. Cremona player named in Tony Kelly's "very young squad" for opening Euro 84 qualifier in Dunfermline 19.9.82. The Limerick League was disaffiliated from the LFAI in 1982, so Lyons must have moved to the Dublin club to protect her WNT place? Other Limerick stalwarts like M Leahy and G Cross were not selected. Irish Examiner preview for final Euro84 qual v NI 23.10.83 said she was a Magcobar player and captained Ireland in the match. Named in Eamonn Darcy's first extended squad for training at St Pat's College, Drumcondra April 1984. "Brilliant 14-year-old left winger Denise Lyons" named an outstanding performer by the East Antrim Times in a 1-1 draw w NI at Inver Park, Larne, May 1978. (If FAI birthdate correct she was 15yo) Played in 5-0 friendly defeat by Scotland at Dalyer 29.3.81: "...little Denise Lyons, in spite of her lack of weight, tried gamely in attack..." D Lyons was a 52nd-min sub for G Cross at Dalyer in 5-0 friendly defeat by England 3.5.81. Also listed by the East Antrim Times on the Republic senior panel beaten 2-1 by NI at Inver Park, Larne, 8.8.81. Limerick player in the squad for friendly v France 23.9.78 at Tolka Park. Said to be English-born but grew up in Newcastle West, Limerick. Keene State Owls coach 1992-2021, started 29th season in 2020. Announced her retirement in April 2021. As a "fiery competitor" from 1986 to 1989 scored 26 goals for the Owls while completing degree in sports management. Named to their HOF in 2003. Was "rampant in midfield" for Magcobar United in their 4-2 Limerick Cup final win over Bank of Ireland at Shanagolden, 12.10.80, impressing the watching WNT boss Tony Kelly. Dropped for the 30.8.86 1-0 ECQ win over NI at Seaview as had agreed her American scholarship. One source had her scoring for Benfica against Cork Celtic in 1987 (although it may have been Yvonne). Was a precocious soccer star for the Park Five team at the Bass ladies soccer tournament at the Olympic Balroom in Newcastlewest, April 1975, top scoring and hitting the winning goal in the final. "the youngest and smallest member of the team, whose artistry and ball control won the continuous applause of all the spectators". A plaque was presented to mum Mrs Tessie Lyons, in appreciation of Denise's skills.
Barbara Yvonne Lyons - 26.6.64 - CB - known as Yvonne. From Waterford, grew up in Carrick-on-Suir. 1992 FAI Player of the Year, also won it in 1998 - was nominated five times in total. Benfica player in squad for friendly v NI 17.10.93, "marshalled the defence superbly" in Ireland's 2-0 win in Sligo. A defender "In top form" (Irish Examiner) in 0-1 defeat by Sweden 7.6.92 at Frank Cooke Park, Ireland only beaten in injury time. Irish Kickboxing champ 1981. Also reportedly all-Ireland javelin champ at some stage. Girlhood Leeds fan but transferred her affections to Chelsea in 1997 as she preferred Ruud Gullit to dour George Graham! Made a playing comeback at 1991 'Bracken' after 5 years out of football and got player of the tournament as Munster captain, relaunching her WNT career. Uncapped 21yo Benfica MF in squad for Eng friendly 29.3.87. Made her debut as a substitute in this match and retained her place in the squad for the Wales friendly at Milltown 24.5.87. Won a Waterford League and President's Cup double with Benfica in 1986. Benfica player nominated for 91/92 Opel POTY and won ahead of I O'Hanlon and C Nagle. Started Ireland's 1-0 defeat by Spain at Dalyer 22.3.92, was a trainee accountant. Benfica player in squad for Euro qual in Bangor, Wales 7.12.97. Benfica player called up for WWC qual v Poland at Tolka Park, 2 Nov 97, skipper and played in a back three as dominant Ireland somehow fell to a 1-0 defeat. Benfica player named in squad for decisive Euro 97 qual in Brussels 4.5.96. Captain in the 5-1 defeat. Benfica defender listed as skipper in prog for Euro qual v Wales, Steboneath Park, Llanelli, 8.10.95. As at game v France at Turner's Cross 12.11.94 was 30yo accounting technician/Benfica player w 12 caps. Key member of the 1987 Benfica LFAI Cup-winning side but missed part of the 1988 season as was in Australia. Had 3 caps when she progressed through 1991 trials to get "long awaited" recall under new boss L Gorman. One of 3 Benfica players w S Furlong and T Leahy. She played for Benfica in the 92 LFAI Cup final which (due to repeated appeals from second round losers Rathfarnham) was played 10.1.93 at Dalymount Park in "atrocious" conditions. Benfica lost 4-1 to Welsox on penalties after a 1-1 AET draw. Later became a fitness instructor working out of the Kingfisher gym in Waterford, still in fine nick. Her profile attested to 32 caps, 20 as captain. Earlier had a 20-year career in Bausch+Lomb's finance dept. Presentation for 25th cap at 6-0 win over NI, Drogheda, 6.9.97, in which she scored her first goal for Ireland. In December 2014 Cork stalwart P Goggins namechecked S Furlong and Lyons "The Twin Towers from Benfica" as the toughest opponents of her career. Retired from international football after the desperate 0-0 draw with Belarus, 27.6.98, United Park, Drogheda.
M
Betty Maher - 31.3.51, Waterford - "Betty has been involved with Benfica since its formation 25 years ago. She has three caps for Ireland" per a 27.4.90 Waterford News and Star article about Benfica's 25-year anniversary. Nee Betty O'Callaghan - married 1977, her husband Richard tragically died on Christmas day 1990. She is the sister of Benfica stalwarts Joey O'Callaghan and Mary Reid. One of two Waterford players to be selected for the 2-1 inter-League defeat by NI at Oriel Park, Dundalk, 12.10.74 - her sister Mary was named as a reserve. In November 1976 she and Annette Doyle were invited to a national team training camp in Dublin. Both were from the St John's Park estate and at the time Maher worked for Waterford Glass. Both secured call-ups to the squad for the 5-1 win in Newry, 16.4.77. Was belatedly awarded her cap by the FAI on her 70th birthday in March 2021, alongside pal A Doyle. A Betty O'Callaghan equalised for Limerick in their 1-1 draw with the Ireland national team at Markets Field, 29.5.76. Must have been on loan from Waterford or a different player?Pauline Maher - 1999 FAI yearbook attributes a goal in 5-1 win v NI 1977 at Newry to "Maher". Played for an ex-International X1 v Limerick League at Jackman Park in October 1997: "...Mary Joyce, Ann Cross, Pauline Maher and Freda Noonan came on for the last 15 minutes..." - Limerick Leader. Scored a great goal against NI 16.4.77 in Newry: "Pauline Maher beat three players down the left wing, cut inside and rocketed a beauty over [Hilary] Brady's head and to the net. Sustained applause rang out around the Showgrounds". - Newry Reporter (who said the score was only 4-1?) According to the match programme for the League of Ireland's 9-1 defeat by Scottish League at Ravenscraig Stadium, Greenock, 17.3.74, she was an outside left with one cap v NI. One of five Limerick players to feature in the 1-1 draw with NI in Lurgan, 23.10.73, she scored the last-gasp equaliser. One of four Limerick players to be selected for the 2-1 inter-League defeat by NI at Oriel Park, Dundalk, 12.10.74. Pauline Maher was a Concord player in the Limerick team which beat Land Registrars (Dublin) 3-2 at Ringsend Park in the FAI Women's Cup semi, July 1975, hitting the first goal after five minutes: "This was a fine goal by Pauline, who rounded the full-back, cut inside and banged the ball into the net". Also scored in the League of Ireland final at the Waterford Glass grounds, 6.7.75, but understrength Limerick were shocked 4-3 by Avengers (Dublin), their first league defeat which cost them a third consecutive "Kevin Gaynor perpetual". Scored a penalty for the Bank of Ireland (Limerick) team beaten 2-1 by Analog in the Limerick League division 1 final, August 1981. Played for the Limerick X1 in the 3-1 defeat by tourists Reims at Markets Field, 21.8.73. Scored 6 "well engineered" second half goals for Limerick in a 10-0 destruction of Cahir, in the first LLOI season, May 1973. Named an outstanding player for Limerick in their 1-1 draw with the Ireland national team at Markets Field, 29.5.76.
Sonya Francis (Frances?) Maher - 18.6.74 from Ennis - uncapped member of squad v USA B 9.8.94 - had 1 u18 cap v Australia. Played for Lifford. Slippery Rock University, Pennsylvania (The Green and Whites) 1996-1999 under coach Noreen Herlihy. 40 goals 23 assists, named in HOF in 2012, was 1996 Rookie of the Year and the program's first all-American selection. Later studied postgrad in teaching in London. Active in Gaelic games, played camogie, and gaelic football for Banner Ladies. One of five Irish players w W-League 2 Springfield Sirens in 2000. 91/92 player of the tournament in u18 "Bracken" (all-Ireland inter-county) won by Lifford Ladies representing Clare. Lifford player in squad for friendly v NI 17.10.93. 1 goal as skipper in u20 "development team's" 6-0 win over NI in Belfast, 29.10.94. Elevated to the senior panel for next game v France at Turner's Cross, 12.11.94. Scored for holders Lifford in Presidents Cup final 21.11.93 at Kilcohan Park but they were beaten 2-1 by Cork Rangers. Benfica player named in squad for decisive Euro 97 qual in Brussels 4.5.96. Subbed in for S Ronan after an hour in the 5-1 defeat. Benfica defender listed in prog for Euro qual v Wales, Steboneath Park, Llanelli, 8.10.95. Boston player in squad for 4.9.99 5-0 friendly defeat by USA at Foxboro Stadium, came on at HT for C Conlon. Studied in London and turned out for Denham United Ladies. Lifford player called up to U18 squad to play Australia, 18.1.92, a 3-0 defeat at Coolock Lane. Joined Benfica in 1994 when she moved to study recreation management at Waterford RTC. A "new face" in M Cooke's squad for the ill-fated ECQ w Sweden in Boras, 20.9.92, she was an unused sub in Ireland's 10-0 defeat.
Edel Malone - 23.3.86 - Lifford Ladies Attended Hofstra Uni (2005-2009, 'redshirted' in 2006) Hometown: Ennis. Listed as a Hofstra player in match prog for WCQs v Switzerland and Scotland, 22.4.06 and 6.5.06 at Richmond Park. Started game and set up second goal for O O'Toole in 2-0 win over Swiss. Lifford player named in Noel King's u17 side for "European Youth Olympics" in Paris, July 2003. Debut 0-0 draw w Mexico at The Algarve Cup 11.3.06.
Aislinn Meaney - 24.10.98 - 5'2'' FW from Ennis. Signed by Akron University coach N Herlihy in Aug 19. Was previously 3 years in WNL w Galway WFC, started off at Lifford LFC, joined Galway in 2017. Played intervarsity stuff w NUI Galway 2017-2019 and went to 2019 Universiade in Naples. Senior debut 18.1.18 in a 1-0 friendly defeat by Portugal in the Azores, played 70 minutes at right back. Won another cap in the 0-4 friendly defeat by Poland in Ostroda, 9.10.18. Signed for Limerick-based WNL strugglers Treaty United in April 2022.
Emma Patricia Merrigan - 16.3.82 - GK Virginia Intermont University USA ...2000... Raheny United 2012/13. "Emma Merigan" Mercy College player named in u16 squad for April 98 triangular Tourney v Scotland and Wales in Conwy, Bangor and Porthmadog.
Paula Merriman - 20.1.67 - Belvedere player in squad for friendly v NI 2.11.85. Uncapped 19yo student DF per Eng 27.4.86 prog. Carried off w concussion in Ireland's 4-0 defeat at Elm Park after colliding w team mate. Missed the 30.8.86 1-0 ECQ win over NI at Seaview with a broken leg. Scored at both ends in Belvedere's CSL Cup final win over Dublin Castle, 29.7.85 which went to penalties after a 2-2 draw. Also scored in Belvedere's LFAI Cup final v Rathfarnham 8.9.85, another 2-2 draw, in Limerick. Listed as an Elm Rovers player in 1993 and 1995.
Giselle Milner - 7.9.71 - Started gutsy 0-1 defeat by Sweden 7.6.92 at Frank Cooke Park, listed as an Elm Rovers player. Subbed by Marian Leahy on 50 minutes. One of six Belvedere players in Squad for famous 1-0 win in Spain 8.12.91, 70th-minute 'goal' disallowed for offside, straight after she entered the fray for C Scanlan. Belvedere player named in Fran Rooney's U18 squad for 'Millenium International' v NI at Tolka Park 26.11.88. Played for L Gorman's Belvedere 'A' team in the 3-1 1991 LFAI Cup final defeat by Rathfarnham at Dalyer, 6.10.91. Belvedere player and youth leader in squad for return game w Spain at Dalyer, 22.3.92. In June 1993 scored "a blistering volley" as Leinster Ladies League won the annual Bracken at the public service grounds in Santry, beating holders the Munster League 2-0 in the final. Playing for Elm Rovers in the DWSL, June 1995. Shelbourne/Tempelogue in the 2000 DWSL. Tempelogue United 2001. Hamann Celtic 2002. From Cabra.
Ellen Molloy - 5.6.04, Kilkenny - Highly-promising Kilkenny teen signed by Wexford Youths in July 2019 and unleashed on the WNL in 2020. Promptly underlined her wunderkind credentials with a series of jaw-dropping goals and scooped the WNL POTM for August 2020. Rated by those in the know as a potential 'generational' talent. Has family links to Florida and is known to be pencilling-in a US scholarship. Called up by Vera Pauw for the 3-0 qualifying defeat in Germany, 19.9.20, then handed a senior debut in the 1-0 defeat in Kiev, 23.10.20. 86th-minute sub for H Scott. Scored twice against champs Peamount to hand them their first (and only) league defeat of the season. Peamount paid Molloy a very genuine compliment by handing the excellent K Duggan a marking job on her in the FAI Women's Cup semi, 8.11.20. She gave Duggan the slip once, flashing in ahead of N Farrelly, but her header came back off the post. Wexford lost 1-0 to a D Beirne goal but Molloy will have learnt more from that titanic tussle w Duggan than from thwacking in any number of 'worldies' against the League's lesser lights. Finished debut WNL campaign with 8 goals, named in the WNL Team of the Season and with the Young POTY award.
Geraldine Molloy - Listed in the programme for League of Ireland's 9-1 defeat by Scottish League at Ravenscraig Stadium, Greenock, 17.3.74. An inside forward from Donegal who had one cap v Wales. A 16yo (born 56 or 57) TT Harps right back listed in the programme for the historic 3-2 win in Wales, 13.5.73. Played for TT Harps in the first LLOI season, 1973.
Chloe Moloney - 19.5.98 - Defender from Quilty, Co Clare. Dad Aidan 'Horse' Moloney was a GAA star with Clare. Went to the 2015 U17 Euros in Iceland. With Galway WFC in 15/16 and the transitional 2016 campaign, in which she was named in the WNL Team of the Season. Signed for Peamount United for 2017 and retained her place in the WNL Team of the Year. Attended St Joseph's Secondary School Spanish Point and played youth soccer for Connolly Celtic, coached by Irene Hehir. Galway WFC player called into Sue Ronan's young and predominantly home-based squad for a training camp in Wales, August 2016. Senior debut in the second friendly v the hosts, a 2-1 win in Caerphilly, 21.8.16, 82nd-minute sub for N Prior. The game finished with an all-Galwegian back four: M De Burca with debutantes Shauna Fox, Sadhbh Doyle and honorary Galwegian Moloney.
Grace Moloney - 1.3.93 - Reading GK, U17 WWC 2010.
Janice "Jan" Mooney - c.1961 - Suffragettes player in squad for friendly v NI 31.8.80 and v Belgium 27.10.80. Joined District Line LFC in London 1987 "previously played in Ireland". A pass master, highly rated by manager John Jones, "added flair and composure to midfield". Won GLWFL Div 2 in 87/88 and lost League Cup final to Div One Spurs. 88 League Cup final match prog said she was 27yo. District Line captain by 92/93 - wore number 10. Wembley LFC (District Line became Wembley in 93) captain 94/95 in FAWPL - picked up an injury in October 94 - her replacement in the no10 shirt was a young prospect called Kelly Smith! She returned to her no 10 shirt for the following month's match w Liverpool (Smith went to number 7), but was not in the team lists for 95/96. Scored for Wembley in a 6-1 win over Fulham in the semi-final of the 1997/98 Middlesex Cup. One of 6 League of Ireland players in Tony Kelly's 1st squad v NI in Newry 14.6.80. Irish Examiner preview for final Euro84 qual v NI 23.10.83 said she was a "squad newcomer" from St. Joseph's FC and started the match. Named in Eamonn Darcy's first extended squad for training at St Pat's College, Drumcondra April 1984. J Mooney started at Dalyer in back-to-back 5-0 friendly defeats by Scotland and England, 29.3.81 and 3.5.81. Laid on the winner w "40-yard pass" for Ayala Liran as Wembley came from 2-0 down to inflict Arsenal LFC's first ever home defeat in National League, 3-2, 6.3.94. Suffragettes player in the squad for friendly v France 23.9.78 at Tolka Park. Civil Servant per FA Cup QF District Line v St Helens prog 4.3.90. Ran on to L Gorman's pass to "cool as a cucumber" lob Margaret McGough and equalise in 1-1 draw v Scotland 13.3.83 ECQ at Dalyer - listed as a Suffragettes player. Part of a Suffragettes team who played the Leinster Ladies League Cup final 17.10.82 v Glade Celtic at Harold's Cross, curtain raiser to a Shels v Shams LOI game. Described at that stage as an ex-Republic of Ireland player. Said to be a West Ham supporter.
Selina Moylan - 21.3.85 - Listed as "Selena" on FAI website. New Haven Chargers 2005-2008, named to their HOF in 2016. 5' 5'' from Ennis, co Clare. 81 games 49 goals. Later known as Moylan-O'Toole. FAI u19 POTY 2002. Broke through at Lifford LFC alongside E Malone and M Curtin. Played 17.9.08 v USA at Giants Stadium, came on for S Hughes 82 minutes into 1-0 defeat. Called up to the 10-week training camp in Indiana, summer 2009. Scored twice in an U16 fixture v NI at United Park, Drogheda, 7.7.01, but a Kiera Moss hat-trick saw Ireland lose 3-2.
Valerie Mulcahy - Cork - Capped as a HT sub for G Barrett in 2-1 friendly win in Klaksvik, Faroe Isles, 12.10.04. Irish Universities player at the August 2003 Universiade, Daegu, South Korea - club listed as University of Limerick/Wilton United. More famous for her Cork GAA exploits (10! all-Ireland titles) but played WNL stuff for Cork WFC in 11/12 and again (briefly) for Cork City WFC in 2016 after her GAA retirement. Campaigned in 2015 gay marriage referendum as an "out" sportswoman and married Meg in June 2015.
Claire Mulholland - 26.1.80 - Dundalk City player capped as an injury-time sub for C Thorpe in 2-1 friendly win in Klaksvik, Faroe Isles, 12.10.04. 24yo midfielder and credit union worker from Knockbridge in Dundalk. Joined Dundalk City in their original guise as Castletown Celtic and was part of their great success alongside J Pepper, G Murray and her younger sister Clodagh, culminating in the 2005 FAI Women's Cup win at Lansdowne Road 4.12.05. She laid on the winning goal for Sonia Hoey as Peamount were seen off 1-0 in freezing conditions. Quoted 2 senior caps owing to a debut in a friendly w NI which reportedly took place just before the Faroes game in October 2004. Also played Gaelic football for Louth.
Emma Mullin - 4.3.85 - FW from Kilmaine in Mayo, attended IT Sligo and UCD. Won 4 All-Ireland titles (as of 2010) with Mayo Gaelic football. Won the 2006 WFAI Cup w Mayo League, beating UCD 1-0 in the final. Several players including Mullin and Cora Staunton were dual-code footballers. She missed the subsequent UEFA Women's Cup campaign in Aug 2007 as was away with Ireland's World Student Games squad. Played for Castlebar Celtic in 11/12 WNL where "electric" goalscoring form (10 of her team's 23 goals) won her the Jan 2012 POTM and a senior call-up to the Algarve Cup squad. Won a senior debut cap v Hungary in final game 7.3.12 as Ireland won 2-1 to avoid wooden spoon. As a HT sub she scored in the 2013 WFAI Cup Final but Castlebar lost 3-2 to Raheny.
Allison "Alli" Murphy - 13.4.94, Plano, Texas. 5'3" versatile midfielder/full back handed a debut senior cap in the 1-0 friendly defeat in Belgium 11.4.21. Started the game as a right wing-back but hooked at half-time for AOG. First call-up was for the the 19.9.20 Germany ECQ. Played college ball for the Texas Tech "Red Raiders" (2012-2015) and was picked up by Washington Spirit as a second round pick (20th) in the 2016 NWSL college draft. Played reserve stuff only though 2016 then spent 2017 with Swedish minnows Gustafs GoIF in the Division 1 Norra Svealand (regionalised third tier). Attended an open trial for Houston Dash ahead of 2018 and snagged a contract. Played once v Orlando but Dash coach Vera Pauw diagnosed a lack of technique and fixed her up with a remedial transfer to Dutch football and PEC Zwolle for 18/19. After a brief summer '19 interlude with Selfoss in Iceland she signed for WSL Championship franchise London City Lionesses, under Irish coach Lisa Fallon, in July 2020. College coach Tom Stone had flagged up her eligibility to the FAI and she first trained with the WNT when they played USA in California, January 2016. Dad Stephen Murphy is from Limerick and went to the University of North Texas on a track scholarship - Alli spent long drizzly summers on the oul' sod, kicking a ball around with her cousins. Although she'd sent her packing from Houston Dash, Pauw came to be impressed by Murphy's dedication.
Marietta Murphy - Magcobar (Limerick) player named in squad v Belgium 27.10.80. 'Maritta Murphy' started the fractious 1-0 win at Dalyer per SoccerScene.ie, then subbed at HT for G Cross, who was injured heading the goal and subbed by E Brennan. Was "rampant in midfield" for Magcobar United in their 4-2 Limerick Cup final win over Bank of Ireland at Shanagolden, 12.10.80, impressing the watching WNT boss Tony Kelly.
Grace Murray - 26.5.89 - Played in a short 5-a-side game at Croke Park, at HT of the Ireland men's team's 1-0 defeat by Brazil, 6.2.08, becoming the first Dundalkian to play soccer at the mecca of GAA.
Noelle Murray - 25.12.89 - Raheny United player in squad for 2 friendlies in Wales, 24 and 26 April 2007 in Tredegar and Goytre.
Mc
Angela McCabe - see Angela Bates.Katie McCabe - 21.9.95 -
Denise McCarthy - Arklow player in squad for friendly v NI 2.11.85. "...played extremely well for a new look Irish ladies' soccer team in their 1-1 draw..."
Jacqueline "Jackie" McCarthy - 29.9.61 - FW - 5' 10'' - 68th-minute sub for C Scanlan in plucky 1-0 defeat by Sweden at Frank Cooke Park, 7.6.92 - listed as a Limerick United player. Pike Rovers player subbed in for T Leahy in 2-0 friendly win over NI, 17.10.93, Sligo. Twice-capped Greenpark United "strong centre forward" and mother of two in squad for Eng friendly 29.3.87. Made squad for 8.12.91 Euro qualifier in Spain after making costly trips along the N7 from Limerick to training sessions in Dublin for 7 successive weekends. One of 2 Limerick United players (w I O'Hanlon) in the squad. Was "ever-threatening up front" in Ireland's 1-0 defeat by Spain at Dalyer 22.3.92. A player of colour (Ireland's first? After C Hughton and P McGrath on the men's side). Brum-born to Irish mum and Jamaican father she never met, moved back to Limerick as a 6-month-old baby, found it hard being only black kid due to bullying etc. Favourite teacher got her into football: Rita Spring, in St Munchin's Girls School in Ballynanty. Later known as McCarthy O'Brien in honour of her beloved step-dad Mickey O'Brien (a noted all Ireland-winning handball player with a grocery shop). In a 2019 Limerick Leader interview she recalled winning 13 caps for Ireland from 1983 to 94 with a debut against NI at Chimney Corner FC. Kept playing/training between having her three children "understanding husband, Tom" then retired from soccer aged 33yo. Then got into Rugby Union and played for Munster and won 13 caps for Ireland, including at the 1998 World Cup, where World Rugby billed her as "Jackie O'Brian". Was a second row. One of six uncapped players in Fran Rooney's 16-player squad for NI Euro qual in Belfast 30.8.86 (w Green Park Utd). Played well in the 1-0 win, "McCarthy, a strong fast-moving 19-year-old, was causing some anxious moments to the Northern Ireland defence" - Ireland's Saturday Night report. Top-scorer at the pre-season Lancashire Trophy, August 1991, with Limerick. "Jackie O'Brien" mentioned as missing from the Analog team photo ahead of the "All-Ireland soccer final" (President's Cup?) v Suffragettes at the Mary Immaculate College grounds, 12.12.81. Featured for Analog in a 2-1 win over Bank of Ireland (Limerick) in the Limerick League division 1 final, August 1981: "the signing of Julie Horan and Jackie O'Brien midway in the season gave Analog the forward power they lacked". Jackie O'Brien was a St. Joseph's player on the Limerick 'A' team which beat Cork 2-0 at Garryowen, 20.9.80. Player-coach of the University of Limerick team containing G Cross and M Gallagher which won the FAI Intermediate Cup, beating Burke Rovers 3-1 at Pearse Stadium, Limerick, 10.9.95. Mum of Sam McCarthy. Was the top scorer in Limerick when part of the Ballynanty team stunned 1-0 by G Cross-inspired Caledonians FC in the area semi-final of the LFAI under 15 Cup, Bateman Park, July 1977. Jacqueline O'Brien was on the Limerick League team to play the League of Ireland as early as 6.11.76. A member of Greenpark's 1989 Limerick League and Cup double-winning side. From Kileely.
Samantha "Sam" McCarthy - Lifford player named in the squad for the 2003 Algarve Cup, where she started against Wales in the 2-2 draw 20.3.03. An "opportunist" Lifford forward in the u18 team which beat Turkey u18 6-1 at Drogheda, 22.11.00 to reach the second phase. Daughter of Jackie McCarthy: "Samantha McCarthy, whose claim to fame is that her mum Jackie is a former Ireland soccer international, replied with a double... McCarthy could have had seven or eight goals such was her eye for goal." - Drogheda Argus, 1.12.00. A free kick specialist per FAI women's pen pics 2003.
Savannah McCarthy - 26.3.97 -
Ciara McCormack - 29.9.79 -
Eileen Mary McCormack - 14.10.79, Ballintogher - FW, won FAI Women's Cups w Shamrock Rovers in 2000 and UCD in 2002. Never played organised soccer until she got to UCD to study Arts, Economy and History. Joined Shams then returned to UCD when they joined the DWSL in 2002. UCD from 97/98 and part of their intervarsity team, described as: "the eight goal kid who keeps getting better and better". After the 3-0 defeat in Scotland 3.10.99, an unimpressed Munster Express correspondent fumed: The Irish side persist in leaving out players from the squad like Eileen McCormack of Shamrock Rovers who is the most prolific forward in the country on current form". It must have done the trick as she was called up for the 17.10.99 1-1 draw in the Czech Republic and the 30.10.99 2-0 win v Croatia at Richmond Park.
Christine McDonnell - "Panel newcomer" from Thomond College in Eamonn Darcy's first squad for training at St Pat's College, Drumcondra April 1984. Reportedly recommended to Darcy by legendary ex-Limerick and Ireland GK Kevin Fitzpatrick. One of three "new caps" named in E Darcy's squad for friendly v Scotland at Tynecastle, 27.5.84. A member of the Killeady team which won the Cork League in September 1984: "...played in the recent 1-0 away win over Scotland". Player of the tournament for winners Thomond College in the inaugural 1983 Intervarsity Cup. From Cork: Mayfield United at 16yo, merged into Cork Celtic, Killeady - West Utd in 1982 LFAI U18 Cup - She recalled playing in the 84 senior LFAI Cup final with Killeady and losing to Dublin Castle on pens - later Christine O'Donovan (married her Killeady coach Tommy O'Donovan) and made an astonishing playing comeback with Lakewood aged 54 in 2018 after retiring in 2008/09. She was employed at UCC - deputy director of sport and physical activity. Thomond College (82-86). She recalled being the first third level (college) player to be called up for senior national team trials. At Kilcohan Park, Waterford 4.11.84 "Chris McDonald" (sic) hit a second half equaliser for Killeady Rangers to peg Dublin Castle back to 2-2 in the LFAI Cup final, they lost on penalties. Was the first chair of the WSCAI. On 29.11.81 she scored twice for Cork Celtic "A" who beat Cork Celtic "B" 5-1 in the Cork Ladies Cup (AKA the Martin Russell Trophy) final at Mayfield. In April 1991 she captained Cork Rangers in the new, five-team Munster Ladies' League - managed by hubby Tommy. Signed for Cork Rangers from Killeady ahead of their 1987 Ladies League of Ireland campaign.
Mary Therese McDonnell - 26.8.86, Orland Park, IL, USA - "excellent defender" per Iceland Euro play-off prog 26.10.08. Sister of S McDonnell.
Shannon McDonnell - Sister of MT McDonnell.
Roma McLaughlin - 6.3.98 - Peamount United player called into Sue Ronan's young and predominantly home-based squad for a training camp in Wales, August 2016. Senior debut in the first friendly v the hosts, a 0-0 draw at Rodney Parade, Newport, 68th-minute sub for JA Russell 19.8.16. Two days later started 2-1 win in Caerphilly 21.8.16, subbed off for fellow debutant S Noonan on 52 minutes. Senior competitive debut in 1-0 Euro qual defeat by Portugal, 20 Sept 2016. 82nd-min sub for K Duggan. From Greencastle, Donegal. Joined Peamount United from Greencastle Utd and enjoyed "superb debut season" 15/16. Named WNL Young POTY. Played v Basque Country in S Ronan's last game as coach. Quit Peamount for Shelbourne ahead of the 2017 season. 11 goals from MF in 2017 for Shels but they finished 3rd. Started 2018 season at Shels but handed scholarship w CCSU Blue Devils in 2018 by their Irish coach Mick D'Arcy. Compatriot Tiegan Ruddy also moved to CCSU at same time. 5'5'' attended Moville Community College. 10 goals in 18 games in 2019 including the NEC title clincher. In October 2020 she was hailed by Aaron Clarke of The WNL Show podcast as the most technically gifted player ever to grace the League.
Angela "Angie" McNally - 31.7.68, Dublin - Long Island University, Brooklyn on basketball scholarship (1987-91). Rathfarnham LFC. Ballinteer St Johns and Dublin GAA football, from a big GAA family: dad Paddy and brothers Johnny and Kevin all turned out for the "Dubs". Played for Meteors basketball club and won 40 caps for Ireland in the sport. Rathfarnham player in squad for Euro qual in Bangor, Wales 7.12.97. Rathfarnham player called up for WWC qual v Poland at Tolka Park, 2 Nov 97, subbed at HT in the 1-0 defeat. Missed the decisive Euro 97 qual in Brussels 4.5.96 after picking up a knock in the home fixture 31.3.96. Scored twice in 3-1 home Euro qual win over Faroes 28.10.95. In 1995 FAI Cup final scored twice directly from corners in Rathfarnham's 3-0 win over College Corinthians at what is now the Oscar Traynor Centre in Coolock, August 1995. M Leahy scored the other goal when McNally's freekick was parried. Was attached to West Coast Coolers basketball club at the time. Her corners provided both assists in the first Euro 97 qual 24.9.95, 2-0 win in Toftir over Faroes. Rathfarnham midfielder listed in prog for Euro qual v Wales, Steboneath Park, Llanelli, 8.10.95. Won 24 caps. Described by Mick Cooke as one of the best athletes he ever worked with: "Angie was supreme, a dream to coach and what an engine," he said. A teacher at Rosary College, Ballyfermot (1998).
Amanda McQuillan - 24.3.98 - 5'9'' GK from Johnstown in Navan - Johnstown FC, Trim Celtic, Shelbourne youth. Joined WNL club Raheny Utd in Feb 15 then back to Shels when clubs merged that summer. Won domestic treble w Shels in 2016. CCSU Blue Devils 2019 alongside R McLaughlin. Made senior debut as an 18yo v Euskadi 26.11.2016, 85th-min sub for E Byrne. Named FAI U17 POTY in March 2016. Played WSCAI stuff w IT Carlow and played at the 2019 Universiade in Naples. Called into 2017 Cyprus Cup squad by new boss C Bell as the only back up to veteran E Byrne, but M Hourihan was added to the panel and McQuillan remained unused. Unused sub for 1-0 friendly defeat in Scotland, 7 July 17.
N
Jennifer "Jenny" Nelson - WFTIA (WFTA?) player in first-ever u18 squad v NI 31.8.80. Named in Eamonn Darcy's first extended squad for training at St Pat's College, Drumcondra April 1984. Among five Glade Celtic players to start 1-1 draw v Scotland 13.3.83 ECQ at Dalyer. Listed as a Dunseedy player in the Leinster Ladies League squad for a "Bracken" Trophy fixture at Galway, 5.7.81. Was a late withdrawal (listed as a Belvedere player) from the squad for the England game at Flower Lodge, Cork, 22.9.85, replaced by Ann Thorpe.
Freda Noonan - One of five Limerick players to feature in the 1-1 draw with NI in Lurgan, 23.10.73, was listed as "Breda Noonan" in the Limerick Leader report. Last-minute stand-in GK from Limerick in League of Ireland's 9-1 defeat by Scottish League at Ravenscraig Stadium, Greenock, 17.3.74 (according to the Scottish papers, other sources say fellow Shannonsider Christine Quane played in goal). Played for an ex-International X1 v Limerick League at Jackman Park in October 1997: "...Mary Joyce, Ann Cross, Pauline Maher and Freda Noonan came on for the last 15 minutes..." - Limerick Leader. By 1997 she was known as Freda Noonan Taylor. Freda Noonan was a County Council playmaker in the Limerick team which beat Land Registrars (Dublin) 3-2 at Ringsend Park in the FAI Women's Cup semi, July 1975: "Freda Noonan had an outstanding game at inside left. Her constant running had the Dublin backs worried. It was Freda who put Limerick two goals up after fifteen minutes in the second half with a hard low ball from the left wing." Played in the final at Markets Field, 7.9.75, when Limerick beat CSO (Dublin) 2-1. Featured for Mungret in their Limerick Cup final against Garryowen at Pearse Stadium, 26.9.76, which they lost 6-5.
Saoirse Noonan - 13.7.99 - Followed her brother Eoin to Kilreen Celtic and played there with the boys, before moving on to Douglas Hall AFC when kicked out of boys' soccer. FAI schoolgirl international 2013/14 while attending Christ the King School in Douglas. Drafted into the Cork City WFC squad for the 2015/16 WNL and showed glimpses of star quality as an attacking midfielder/forward. A dual-code star she had played Gaelic football for Cork, winning the U16 All-Ireland in 2014. After drifting off the GAA scene, Cork coach John Cleary begged her to come back and she scored 2-5 in the 2016 All-Ireland minor final against Dublin at Pearse Park, Longford on 1.8.16. Later that month she was a Cork City WFC player called into Sue Ronan's young and predominantly home-based squad for a training camp in Wales, August 2016. Senior debut in the second friendly v the hosts, a 2-1 win in Caerphilly, 21.8.16, 52nd-minute sub for R McLaughlin. She played up front alongside S Roche. She would regularly travel to Dublin after school on a Friday to train with the U17 national team and go home on the Sunday night. She had also excelled in camogie and basketball but had to give them up. Played in the 2015 U17 Euros in Iceland (with an ankle knock) and captained the U17s in 15/16. 2016 FAI U17 POTY. In November 2017 she won the FAI Women's Cup with Cork City at the Aviva Stadium and was named WNL Young Player of the Season. Had a short trial stint with Bristol City of the WSL alongside T Ruddy and H Payne, but only Payne 'took the plunge' and signed on. In 2018 she played for Nemo Rangers GAA and made a hugely impressive debut season with Cork's senior Gaelic football team, albeit with the dreaded "Super Sub" tag. Made a "dream debut" scoring 2-2 in the Munster final win over Kerry 23.6.2018. The Rebels reached the All-Ireland final at Croke Park but lost to Dublin in front of a record 50,141 fans. She had been convinced to take part after Ireland U19s were knocked out in their 'elite round' qualifiers, staged at Turners Cross in April 2018. She also played in the 2018 WNL for Cork City, a situation described as "hectic". She also found time to pen a regular column in The42.ie website! Determined to keep playing both codes she laid down the law to her coaches: "I think they understand I want to play both, I'm going to play both and if one of them tells me I can’t, then it'll probably be more or less their sport that I'll give up". Cork LGFA boss Ephie Fitzgerald dubbed her "the face of ladies football for the next ten years". She suffered a partial tear of her ACL in Cork City's last WNL game of 2018 v Peamount which ruled her out for about 5 months. Netherlands-based Ireland coach Vera Pauw said she was monitoring Noonan's form from afar when she won the September 2020 WNL POTM, but that there was competition with more established players in her position. Ironically, given she'd been booted out of boy's soccer, Pauw ventured that Noonan should try training with boys to sharpen up. A marketing student at Cork IT from 2018, she has an entrepreneurial streak and set up a 1-to-1 coaching business during the covid lockdown. 5'7" tall.
O
Michele O'Brien - 28.6.80, Plainview, NY - Listed as a Long Island Lady Riders player in match prog for WCQs v Switzerland and Scotland, 22.4.06 and 6.5.06 at Richmond Park. 2005 FAI POTY. Scored 63rd-min consolation in 5-1 defeat by USA at Soldier Field, Chicago, 20.10.04, the first time Ireland had ever laid a glove on the Yanks. Usually a right-sided attacker. Florida International University student and Arsenal Ladies player named in Myles Kelly's squad for the Universiade in Daegu, Korea, August 2003.
Mary O'Callaghan - see Mary Reid.
Margaret O'Connell - 18.9.52 - St Joseph's player from Cabra w 15 caps per Denmark prog 17.4.85: "her midfield play has been the strong point of the side over the years". Avengers player listed as captain in prog for 3-3 draw w Scotland at Dalyer, 18.4.76. Suffragettes player in squad for friendly v NI 31.8.80 and v Belgium 27.10.80. One of 6 League of Ireland players in Tony Kelly's 1st squad v NI in Newry 14.6.80. A Margaret O'Connell scored a hat-trick in Civil Defence's 9-0 Leinster Ladies Soccer League win over Clerys at Cabra, 26.5.71 (a Wednesday night fixture). Scored 20th-minute opener in 3-3 draw with Wales at Limerick 26.5.74, listed no6 in prog. Dublin player in League of Ireland's 9-1 defeat by Scottish League at Ravenscraig Stadium, Greenock, 17.3.74. According to the match programme she was a Dublin right half who had been capped against Wales, NI and France in 1973. Named an "outstanding performer" by the East Antrim Times in a 1-1 draw w NI at Inver Park, Larne, May 1978. M O'Connell started 1-0 win over Wales 29.5.77 at Tolka Park. Avengers player in the squad for friendly v France 23.9.78 at Tolka Park. Listed as no 6 in match prog v England at Exeter, 2.5.78. St Joseph's player in Eamonn D'Arcy's injury-hit squad for ECQ w NI at Glenmalure Park, 5.5.85. Part of a Suffragettes team who played the Leinster Ladies League Cup final v Glade Celtic at Harold's Cross, 17.10.82 curtain raiser to a Shels v Shams LOI game. Described at that stage as an ex-Republic player. Mentioned as an international player with 12 caps ahead of Avengers' (Cabra) LFAI Cup semi-final clash with Cork Celtic at Turner's Cross, 14.10.79. Scored (listed as 'Madge' O'Connell) in the League of Ireland final at the Waterford Glass grounds, 6.7.75: an understrength Limerick were shocked 4-3 by O'Connell's Avengers (Dublin) team, Limerick's first LLoI defeat which cost them a third consecutive "Kevin Gaynor perpetual". Listed as an 18yo (born 54 or 55) Avengers right half-back in the programme for the historic 3-2 win in Wales, 13.5.73. Played for Civil Defence 30.11.70 in a 5-1 win over Local Government at Tolka Park, scoring 2 goals. Known as "Mags". Was playing for LLL club Brighton Celtic in 1987. Left Avengers for Suffragettes, then joined St Joseph's in 1982 when Suffragettes folded. Denmark 17.4.85 was the last of 16 caps. As an Avengers player in the no 5 shirt she started the 4-1 win over NI 30.6.73 at Bluebell United FC "The Red Cow" on the Naas Road.
Elaine O'Connor - 20.2.82 - Lourdes Celtic player named in u16 squad for April 98 triangular Tourney v Scotland and Wales in Conwy, Bangor and Porthmadog. Lourdes Celtic player called up to u17 squad for friendly in NI, November 1996. Lourdes Celtic player in Mick Cooke's u18 squad for friendly v Australia at Belfield, 18.12.96. 2004 FAI POTY. Lourdes Celtic FW in squad for 2nd UEFA u18 Euro mini tourney 23-27 Nov 98, v Eng, Hol and Faroes, hosted in Eng. Attended Hofstra Uni (2000-2003) alongside Dolores Deasley. Listed as a Long Island Lady Riders player in match prog for WCQs v Switzerland and Scotland, 22.4.06 and 6.5.06 at Richmond Park. In May 2020 O O'Toole hailed her as Ireland's best ever RM. Hofstra University and Shamrock Rovers player named in Myles Kelly's squad for the Universiade in Daegu, Korea, August 2003.
Christine O'Donovan - see Christine McDonnell
Kacey O'Driscoll - 12.5.86 - Listed as Casey on FAI website. Attended Hofstra Uni (2005-2008) hometown = Caherciveen, birthplace of Daniel O'Connell. In FAI 2005/06 team photo. 75th-min sub for O O'Toole in 5-1 defeat by USA at Soldier Field, Chicago, 20.10.04. Kerry gaelic football star alongside G O'Shea. Allegedly picked for FAI u19s based on performances for Kerry GAA and had never played a competitive soccer match. Kerry player in squad for u19 Euros 2nd qual round in Spain, April 2004, had already made senior debut v Sweden (u21s?). FAI report of 0-0 draw w Mexico at The Algarve Cup 11.3.06 cited O'Driscoll and E Malone winning their first senior caps. One of four FAI scholarships for talented young women's players, created from a goverment handout in 2006-07 (? not sure if taken up given she was at Hofstra)
Noreen O'Flynn - Started 1-0 win over Wales 29.5.77 at Tolka Park. Later Friends of Fulham. Willesden player in the squad for friendly v France 23.9.78 at Tolka Park ("Centre half Noreen has already won two caps"). Won Hounslow and District League (Later the Greater London Regional League) w Willesden in 76/77 alongside Cathy Hynes. That season Willesden won a third consecutive League and League Cup double with O'Flynn as captain. They trained at the Oxford Kilburn youth club in "County Kilburn". In March 78 hit 2 goals as skipper to beat Aylesbury 2-0 and put Willesden in WFA Cup semi final v QPR at Macclesfield, which they lost 2-0. Listed as no 9 in match prog v England at Exeter, 2.5.78. Not in FOF squad list 1990. Played for FOF in their 2-0 1985 WFA Cup final win over Doncaster Belles at Craven Cottage.
Aine Marie O'Gorman - 13.5.89, Enniskerry - Listed as a Stella Maris player in match prog for WCQs v Switzerland and Scotland, 22.4.06 and 6.5.06 at Richmond Park. Stella Marris player in squad for 2 friendlies in Wales, 24 and 26 April 2007 in Tredegar and Goytre.
Imelda O'Hanlon - 13.5.63 - A Limerick United defender "In top form" (Irish Examiner) in 0-1 defeat by Sweden 7.6.92 at Frank Cooke Park, Ireland only beaten in injury time. Pike Rovers player started 2-0 friendly win over NI, 17.10.93 in Sligo. Debut v NI in Nov 87 friendly win, Greenpark United defender "seen as a very competitive player, very cool under pressure and not hesitant about tackling". A member of Greenpark's 1989 Limerick League and Cup double-winning side, listed as being from Roxboro. Green Park player called into Limerick's "Bracken" squad, June 1990. Played for an ex-International X1 v Limerick League at Jackman Park in October 1997: "...the ex-internationals defence of Marion Slattery, Rose Cross and Imelda O'Hanlon were rock solid..." - Limerick Leader. A Limerick United player nominated for 91/92 Opel POTY w C Nagle and winner Yvonne Lyons. Made squad for 8.12.91 Euro qualifier in Spain after making costly trips along the N7 from Limerick to training sessions in Dublin for 7 successive weekends (along w Limerick teamate J McCarthy). Had a fine game at left-back in Ireland's 1-0 win in Lucena. Started Ireland's 1-0 defeat by Spain at Dalyer 22.3.92 but subbed after 22 minutes (injured?) for A Dunne. Played for Pike Rovers in 1994. In 2001 was coaching a girls' team in Corbally. Made FAI referee panel in July 2003 (same time as Rhona Daly). First gig as assistant in LOI Div 1 12.7.03 Galway v Monaghan. Went on the FIFA list Jan 04. Assistant in the 2004 LFAI Cup final at Lansdowne Road.
Tracey Marie O'Keefe - 12.7.73 - Dublin Castle player named (as 'Tracy O'Keeffe') in Fran Rooney's U18 squad for 'Millenium International' v NI at Tolka Park 26.11.88. 19yo "new face" in M Cooke's squad for the ill-fated ECQ w Sweden in Boras, 20.9.92. Started the 10-0 defeat. Mentioned as being unable to collect her 1991-1993 national team cap from Merrion Square, Nov 93, because she was on a US college scholarship. From Raheny.
Eabha O'Mahony - 17.5.02 - Debut 3.8.19 in a 3-0 defeat at the Rose Bowl. 69th-min sub at ML. Was still at Ballincollig Community School. Got Alex Morgan's jersey. Went to Eng v Swe 3rd place play off at WWC19 with parents as a fan. Played youth stuff for Lakewood Athletic, then joined Cork City WFC for 2018. 2018 WNL team of the season. Called to train w seniors in Jan 18 as a 15yo. Clearly earmarked for big things. Joins Boston College for 2021 and made 15 appearances (all starts) in her freshman campaign for the "Eagles". 5'7".
Nicole Stephanie "Nikki" O'Neill - Unused sub in 2-1 win over NI in Bangor, 9.12.89, while attached to Lakeside. Rathfarnham player started 2-0 friendly v NI 17.10.93 in Sligo. Lakeside player named as one of four "new caps" in Fran Rooney's senior squad for 'Millenium International' v NI at Tolka Park 26.11.88. Lakeside player called up to Fran Rooney's 22-player training squad, ahead of the 1991 Euro quals in November 1989. Nicky O'Neill Rathfarnham player named in squad for decisive Euro 97 qual in Brussels 4.5.96. Equalised on 66 minutes but Ireland ran out of puff and sagged to a 5-1 defeat. Played for Rathfarnham in a 5-1 LFAI Cup QF replay win over Cork Rangers, Loreto Park, July 1995. Captain in Rathfarnham's 3-0 win over College Corinthians at what is now the Oscar Traynor Centre in Coolock, LFAI Cup final, August 1995. Younger sister Ita Marie was a club teammate. Played in Shamrock Rovers' 4-0 LFAI Cup final win over Shelbourne at the Iveagh Grounds, August 1997. Played for Shamrock Rovers in the DWSL League Cup final 9.11.97 at Tolka Park, which they lost to Shelbourne on penalties after a 2-2 draw. Played for Shamrock Rovers in 2002 UWCL in Nis, Serbia.
Paula Mary O'Neill - 4.4.77 - mentioned alongside G O'Shea as an international soccer player at IT Tralee (March 1998) Shamrock Rovers player in squad for 4.9.99 5-0 friendly defeat by USA at Foxboro Stadium. Scored three goals for coach Myles Kelly's combined colleges team which thrashed Scotland (11-1), Wales (7-0) and England (3-0) in Liverpool, April 1997. Newbridge Town player called up by Mick Cooke for 4-0 WCQ win over Wales at Bray 8.3.98, when S Cullen and G Bennett withdrew with injuries. Debut v Belarus 0-0 27.6.98. Scored for the combined colleges in a 6-2 win over the senior NI team, 19.4.98.
Caroline O'Reilly - Cambridge player in squad for friendly v NI 31.8.80. Mentioned in the Limerick Leader as having taken an accurate 23rd-minute corner in the 0-0 draw at Markets Field, Limerick.
Claire Mary O'Riordan - 12.10.94 - DC/SC MSV Duisburg. 2017 Universiade in Taiwan.
Denise O'Sullivan - 4.2.94 -
Fiona O'Sullivan - 18.9.86 -
Olivia Christina O'Toole - 25.2.71 - Testimonial Ireland against Reading at AUL in Feb 2009. Started gutsy 0-1 defeat by Sweden 7.6.92 at Dalymount Park, listed as a Brighton Celtic player. Blacklyon player in Squad for famous 1-0 win in Spain 8.12.91, scored the winner from a free-kick 10 mins into second half. Also started Ireland's 1-0 defeat by Spain at Dalyer 22.3.92 and crafted Ireland's best chance for G O'Malley who hit it over the bar. C Scanlan in Nov 19 42.ie interview dubbed O'Toole the best player ever to come out of Ireland. Shamrock Rovers player called up for WWC qual v Poland at Tolka Park, 2 Nov 97, subbed off for clubmate M Saurin after 80 mins in the 1-0 defeat. Was in the Castle Rovers team for FAI Women's Cup final win over O'Connells at Richmond Park, 25.8.96, scored second goal in a 3-0 win. Castle Rovers player named in squad for decisive Euro 97 qual in Brussels 4.5.96. Played in the 5-1 defeat. As at game v France at Turner's Cross 12.11.94 was 23yo Castle Rovers player w 7 caps. Castle Rovers midfielder listed in prog for Euro qual v Wales, Steboneath Park, Llanelli, 8.10.95. Scored a "stunning" hattrick in Shamrock Rovers' 4-0 LFAI Cup final win over Shelbourne at the Iveagh Grounds, August 1997. Missed much of the 1997 season w injury but was "sensational" on her return - hit four goals past E Byrne as Shams crushed league champs St Pats 6-2 in the DWSL League Cup semi-final in Oct 1997 at Richer. Scored for Shamrock Rovers in the DWSL League Cup final 9.11.97 at Tolka Park, which they lost to Shelbourne on penalties after a 2-2 draw. Scored opener in Shams 2-0 29.8.99 FAI Cup final win over Shels at AUL. The team donned t-shirts bearing the legend 'The REAL Irish team' to protest Mick Cooke dropping O'Toole for the Sept 1999 friendly v USA at Foxboro Stadium. Helped herself to a hat-trick from the left wing as Shams crushed a young Bealnamulla side 7-0 in the 2000 LFAI Cup final at AUL, 20.8.00. Scored for Shamrock Rovers in 3-1 FAI Cup final win over St Catherine's 29.7.01, also at AUL - their sixth national Cup win in a row. Listed as a Shamrock Rovers player in match prog for WCQs v Switzerland and Scotland, 22.4.06 and 6.5.06 at Richmond Park. Raheny United player in squad for 2 friendlies in Wales, 24 and 26 April 2007 in Tredegar and Goytre. Scored a hattrick in a 6-0 friendly win over hapless NI at United Park, Drogheda, 3.9.95. Scored another hattrick in 4-2 Euro qual win in Scotland, 7 April 1996 at Forthbank Stadium, Stirling. 1994, 1996 and 2001 FAI POTY. First cousin Trevor Molloy played for Motherwell and various LOI clubs. Affectionately known as "Livvy". She joined Raheny United with team-mates S Boyle and L Greene when Shams folded at the outset of the 2006 DWSL season. Scored four for Blacklions in a 10-0 win over Bonnybrook at Tymon Park, August 1991, which secured the CSL Div 1 title.
P
Heather Payne - 26.1.00 - Debut in 1-0 friendly defeat by Scotland at Starks Park, Kirkaldy, 7.7.17. 90th-minute sub for D O'Sullivan.Janine Pepper - 22.3.85 - GK - In FAI 2005/06 team photo (2nd GK to E Bryne). Dundalk goalie capped in 2-1 friendly win in Klaksvik, Faroe Isles, 12.10.04. Unused sub in the 5-1 defeat by USA 20.10.04 at Soldier Field and was then flown home to captain her club in the FAI Women's Cup final before the game in Houston 23.10.04. Also played 6.6.05 in another 2-1 friendly win over the Faroes. A student at DKIT. Was playing for Castletown Belles in May 2018. Born in Newry but brought up in Dundalk. Joined Castletown Celtic FC at 7yo. Won North East League honours at U18 and senior level before the club came to an arm's length arrangement with Dundalk FC and became Dundalk City Ladies, competing in the DWSL and moving their home base from Fatima to Oriel Park. In 2000 they won the DWSL Intermediate League and Cup double in only their second season at that level. Pepper revelled under the coaching regime of Dundalk City's Tommy Tasker, a former LOI goalie. Took all the penalties, Jose Chilavert-style. Appeared in back-to-back FAI Women's Cup finals in 2004 and 2005, both staged at Lansdowne Road. In the 2004 final Pepper scored a penalty kick but Dundalk lost 4-1 to the dominant UCD team of the era. Present at the launch of the new Louth Schoolgirls Soccer League in February 2019. Gaelic footballer for Louth and the Naomh Malachi club. Called up to the U19s for a friendly with Portugal in August 2003 and won 12 caps at that level. Quoted 3 senior caps owing to a debut in a friendly w NI which reportedly took place just before the first Faroes game in October 2004.
Sophie Perry - 11.11.86 - Also billed as Perry-Campbell. 2013 Universiade in Kazan, 171cm tall.
Sarah Elizabeth Peters - 3.7.80, Bellevue, Washington - 5'8'' GK drafted by WUSA San Jose Cyberrays in 2003. A squad member of the newly-formed Seattle Sounders Select women's team in 2000. Seattle Sounders 2004, Oregon Ducks (college, 1998-2002 - didn't play in 98). Grew up in Woodinville and played for Washington Soccer Club 1995-98. Called up by Noel King in 2004. Listed as a Lady Hibernian Saints player in match prog for WCQs v Switzerland and Scotland, 22.4.06 and 6.5.06 at Richmond Park. Michigan Phoenix player in 2007 Algarve Cup squad - played in the 4-1 defeat by Italy 12.3.07. Played in back-to-back thrashings by USA: 20.10.04 at Soldier Field, Chicago, and 23.10.04 5-0 at Reliant Stadium, Houston. At the Cyberrays she was one of the understudies to celebrated US keeper LaKeysia Beene. Came to NI on a Christian 'Athletes in Action' tour in 2003/04 - may have been where she was scouted. Was a graduate soccer coach at Central Michigan University "Chippewas" in 2004 while attending CMU to do her master's in sport admin. Nominated alongside E Byrne and N Fahey for the 2007 FAI POTY, won by Byrne.
Christine "Chris" Phelan - 21.8.64 - Krups player in first-ever u18 squad v NI 31.8.80: "had a magnificent game at right full" in the 2-2 draw at Markets Field. Scored in 4-1 friendly win over Wales at Milltown 24.5.87, lobbed "rather short" Welsh keeper to make it 2-1 on stroke of HT. It was the last ever game at Shams' ancestral home before it was pulled down for housing. It was also her return to the WNT after a three-year absence - she was a 22yo centre half playing for Greenpark United in the Women's League of Ireland. Per HOL prog 29.11.87 was a 23yo Green Park defender w 5 caps, debut v France March 87. Green Park player named in Fran Rooney's 14-player squad for 23.3.87 2-0 friendly defeat in Caudry, France. Played for an ex-International X1 v Limerick League at Jackman Park in October 1997: "...Grainne Cross, Marion Leahy and Chris Phelan dominate midfield..." - Limerick Leader. New signing for Benfica, April 1992. She played for Benfica in the 92 LFAI Cup final which (due to repeated appeals from second round losers Rathfarnham) was played 10.1.93 at Dalymount Park in "atrocious" conditions. Her spot kick was saved as Benfica lost 4-1 to Welsox on penalties after a 1-1 AET draw. Played in 1993 LFAI Cup final replay win for Benfica, set up C Grant's second goal. Benfica skipper in 1997 DWSL campaign. In May 2000 she returned to Benfica "after a three-year absence" and played in a 2-0 DWSL win over Hamman Celtic. "Chris Phelin" was listed by the East Antrim Times on the Republic senior panel beaten 2-1 by NI at Inver Park, Larne, 8.8.81. The Irish Examiner report says she started the game. Named in the Bank of Ireland (Limerick) team beaten 2-1 by Analog in the Limerick League division 1 final, August 1981. A member of Greenpark's 1989 Limerick League and Cup double-winning side, listed as being from the Carey's Road area of the city. At the inaugural Mike Delaney Memorial Cup she scored twice in Greenpark's 4-1 final win over Cork Celtic, 13.9.87 at the Waterford Glass Sports Centre.
Niamh Prior - 11.12.99 - UCD Waves D/M L prospect given an 11-minute sub outing against Euskadi 26.11.16 in a 2-1 friendly win at Tallaght. Youth team St Joseph's Boy's AFC for 2.5 years, UCD Waves Jan 2015 - Jan 2017. Shels Jan 2017 - Jul 2019, back to DLR Waves. Trial w Glasgow Celtic in Jan 2020. UCD Waves player called into Sue Ronan's young and predominantly home-based squad for a training camp in Wales, August 2016. An unused sub in the first of two friendlies v the hosts, 19.8.21, a 0-0 draw at Rodney Parade, Newport. Two days later she started the 2-1 win in Caerphilly 21.8.16, being subbed off for fellow debutante C Moloney on 82 minutes.
Q
Christine Quane - One of eight Limerick players included in the League squad for the 9-1 defeat in Scotland, 17.3.74. Squad picked by Limerick coach Frank "Junior" Keane. She was a member of Herbertstown AFC who sponsored her for the trip. Reports in the Scottish press said F Noonan stood-in as the goalie, but a line in The Nationalist (Tipperary) 23.3.74, under the heading Kilteely, said: "Local girl, Christine Quane, played in goal for the Irish ladies soccer team which was defeated by Scotland in Glasgow on Sunday last". The same paper printed "Miss Christine Quane will play in goal for an Irish international ladies soccer team in Wales next month" on 2.2.74.Louise Quinn - 17.6.90, Blessington - Uncapped (according to match programme) DC in squad for Iceland Euro play-off 26.10.08. 2013 FAI POTY. Born on the day Ireland played Egypt at Italia 90.
R
Catherine Rafferty - "Kathleen Rafferty" Dublin Avengers LW capped v Wales 1973. "Kathern Rafferty" (sic) an 18yo (born 54 or 55) Avengers outside left listed in the programme for the historic 3-2 win in Wales, 13.5.73. Catherine Rafferty (same person as Kathleen?) scored for Civil Defence in their 3-1 Drumcondra Cup semi-final defeat by Drimnagh Bosco at the Phoenix Park, 25.5.71. Catherine Rafferty "at outside left, the outstanding player on view" played for Civil Defence 30.11.70 in a 5-1 win over Local Government at Tolka Park, scoring 2 goals. Played for Civil Defence in the 3-0 25.1.71 challenge match win over Jeyes "before a big attendance at Tolka Park", scoring once. Catherine Rafferty was on the Jeyes (Dublin) team which toured France in September 1972, playing several matches against Reims at different venues.Kathleen "Kay" Ramsbottom - RB from Evergreen (Kilkenny) "on the panel" for 1973 fixture v Wales. A 17yo Evergreen Kilkenny centre half listed in the programme for the historic 3-2 win in Wales, 13.5.73. Had to withdraw from the squad "at the last minute" (couldn't get the time off work). Played v Reims in 1972 and 1973. Kilkenny People 25.5.73: "And all the indications are, that by the time the next international against Northern Ireland comes around, Kilkenny will have another player on the team in former [Club Kilkenny] committee member Kay Ramsbottom". Played Kilkenny 7-a-side league stuff with Butts United in 1973. Married John Brennan 22.11.75. Article in the Kilkenny People said she had two caps v NI and France and that Reims had tried to sign her before A O'Brien. She played basketball, table tennis and Gaelic football for Club Kilkenny, and the latter at county level. She was the defensive lynchpin of Fit Remoulds who reached the Cup final and lost 1-0 to Suffragettes in Kilkenny, January 1972. Was 18yo in Dec 71 (born 52 or 53) rated as an inspirational, tough-tackling sweeper, good in the air and hit an excellent penalty. Joined Fit Remoulds that season from the defunct White Angels team. Hubby John played soccer for Freebooters AFC, a Kilkenny League team. Said to be a talented singer who knocked back offers to go on the club circuit. She captained Evergreen LFC who in March 1973 were one of 12 founding members of the Ladies League of Ireland. She ran senior citizens' parties for Club Kilkenny and was beloved by local grannies. In 2019 styled as "Kay B" she was a DJ on Community Radio Kilkenny City. One of 3 Kilkenny players - w C Jordan and U Grace - to guest on the Jeyes (Dublin) team which toured France in September 1972, playing several matches against Reims in different venues.
Niamh Reid Burke - 6.8.91 - Affectionately known as Nemo.
Bernadette Brid "Bernie" Reilly - 28.3.69 - Opened scoring in the 4-0 WCQ win over Wales at the Carlisle Grounds in Bray, 8.3.98. DWSL POTM for May 98 w Shamrock Rovers. Sources appear roughly evenly divided between Reilly/O'Reilly? Reilly is correct per S Ronan. 1997 FAI POTY. Welsox (Oct 93 squad v NI in Sligo). Played for a Connacht X1 v Ireland WNT 31.8.96, listed as an ex-Westport United player. Bernie Reilly was a Shamrock Rovers player in squad for Euro qual in Bangor, Wales 7.12.97. Shelbourne player in 1995. Shamrock Rovers player called up for WWC qual v Poland at Tolka Park, 2 Nov 97, part of a back three in the 1-0 defeat. Was in the Castle Rovers squad for FAI Women's Cup final win over O'Connells at Richmond Park, 25.8.96. Shelbourne player named in squad for decisive Euro 97 qual in Brussels 4.5.96. Played in the 5-1 defeat. Usually MF but "a revelation at left back" in 1-0 friendly win over NI 28.10.94 - tough assignment against speedy NI winger Mary Reid. Scored in Welsox's 4-0 1994 LFAI Cup final win over Verona, 25.9.94 at Richmond Park. As at game v France at Turner's Cross 12.11.94 was 25yo PhD student in microbiology w 5 caps following debut v NI in Oct 93. She played for Welsox in the DWSL and for UCD in the LSCAI (intervarsity). Also played squash and gaelic football. Shelbourne defender listed in prog for Euro qual v Wales, Steboneath Park, Llanelli, 8.10.95. Played in Shamrock Rovers' 4-0 LFAI Cup final win over Shelbourne at the Iveagh Grounds, August 1997. Played for Shamrock Rovers in the DWSL League Cup final 9.11.97 at Tolka Park, which they lost to Shelbourne on penalties after a 2-2 draw. Mayo Ladies FC website (2012) said: "Bernie Reilly - Westport - 28 senior caps in the early nineties also captained her country". Played for UCD from 92/3 to 95/6. Long-serving UC Galway and Irish Combined Colleges gaffer Dom Coll named her to a prestigious all-time WSCAI X1 in 1998: "Although Bernie played most of her [college] career in midfield for UCD, her speed and aggressive play made her an excellent centre half, and she was capable of making decisive runs upfield." She spoke warmly of her time playing for UCD: "College football taught me about friendship, dedication, hard work and most of all how to have fun, and a few beers while doing it. Five years on I was armed with the potential to reach the top, having played with the best, against the best, and having been trained only by the best." A native of Leenane, who attended Sacred Heart school in Westport and played as a youngster with Westport United in the community games. Took a break from soccer until she picked it up again at UCD. Played for Civil Service League in the June 1992 Bracken tournament and was player of the match in the senior section final, which the CSL lost to Munster League: "Bernie O'Reilly, playing only her first season with O'Connells Chicks, took player of the match...". Played at number 6 for a combined colleges X1 in their 2-1 defeat by a touring side, Eden from Auckland, NZ, 28.11.92 in Santry. Laid low with a broken ankle in summer 1999 but returned to the WNT squad as captain for the Croatia game 30.10.99, the elder stateswoman at 30yo.
Kariena Richards - 29.3.86 - Attended Hofstra Uni (2005-08) Hometown: Midleton. 5' 4'' DC. Played Gaelic football for Cork. Came on as 76th-minute sub for Y Tracy in 23.10.04 5-0 defeat by USA at Reliant Stadium, Houston.
Stephanie Roche - 13.6.89 - Back w Peamount for 2020.
Susan "Sue" Ronan - 21.2.64 - Grew up in Crumlin - Arsenal fan, idolised Liam Brady. Bombed out of boys' football aged 12 and joined the Cherrywood club, formed by Theo Dunne whose 2 daughters played there (Jean? - unlikely as Jean was from Offaly) Developed into a prolific striker. As Packard United player first squad call up for 4-0 defeat in Sweden, 18.9.88. She recalled goalie getting injured 5 minutes in, and an outfielder having to go in as no sub goalie in 13-player squad. S Hayden and M Leahy were both playing (SvFF records have Leahy listed at No1 and only one sub made - A Styles for Ronan) It was the first match Sweden played after losing the 1988 Fifa comp in China 1-0 to rivals Norway, Andelen and Sundhage scored two each. Ronan also recalled the whole team getting gut rot off a dodgy fish pie served up by the Swedes. Packard United player called up to Fran Rooney's 22-player training squad, ahead of the 1991 Euro quals in November 1989. Started 2-1 win over NI in Bangor, 9.12.89, while attached to Packard United. Great interview/write-up from Barry Egan on page 2 of the Irish Independent 1.5.94 was v complimentary - likening her to John Giles - but erroneously dubbed her Sue ROWAN. Shelbourne player named in squad for decisive Euro 97 qual in Brussels 4.5.96. Subbed off after an hour for S Maher in the 5-1 defeat. Her last cap? Worked as a lab assitant in 1996 but still trained most evenings, "football is my life". With Ireland under Mick Cooke she usually formed a highly-rated centre midfield with O O'Toole. "The 'chalk n cheese' duo of Sue Ronan and Olivia O'Toole must leave every other side green with envy. Both have the first requirement. They very rarely think of going backwards; they contain an astonishing ability to grab the ball and keep flowing forward. Ronan's silky passing, sleight of foot and intelligence of mind gild the lily; O'Toole's athletics, all round cleverness and mental ability over the first yard make her a marker's nightmare." (Derek Foley, Irish Independent) Scored twice ("crashed home two 30-metre drives") in the first 14 minutes of Welsox's 4-0 1994 LFAI Cup final win over Verona, 25.9.94 at Richmond Park. As at game v France at Turner's Cross 12.11.94 was 30yo Welsox player w 12 caps. Memorable game was NI 1988 when she scored her first goal for Ireland. Shelbourne player listed in prog for Euro qual v Wales, Steboneath Park, Llanelli, 8.10.95. Played in Shelbourne's 4-0 LFAI Cup final defeat by Shamrock Rovers at the Iveagh Grounds, August 1997. Played for Shels in the DWSL League Cup final 9.11.97 at Tolka Park, in which they beat Shamrock Rovers on penalties after a 2-2 draw. Welsox was a corruption of "Social Welfare" with roots in the old Dublin Civil Service League, they became Shelbourne in 95. Ireland manager 2010-2016, stood down to continue as FAI head of women's football. She played in Welsox's first LFAI Cup win, in the 92 final which (due to repeated appeals from second round losers Rathfarnham) was played 10.1.93 at Dalymount Park in "atrocious" conditions. They beat Benfica 4-1 on penalties after a 1-1 AET draw. On 9 April 1993 Ronan and Welsox played Arsenal Ladies (reportedly at Highbury) and secured a fine 0-0 draw against that season's English treble winners.
Bernadette "Bernie" Rooney One of six Boyne Rovers players selected for a 1-0 home friendly win over NI at United Park, Drogheda 2.3.86. From Balbriggan. Scored in Rovers' LFAI U19 Cup final win over St Columban's (2-1, 1984). Boyne Rovers 1985: "The wit on the team ... in attack, defence and midfield when ever needed".
Ciara Rossiter - 12.2.96 - Left-sided Wexford Youths stalwart capped in an understrength team's 3-0 defeat in the USA, 10.5.15. The match was outside FIFA's international dates so several regular players were not released by their clubs.
Sarah Rowe - 25.7.95, Ballina - Raheny Utd player handed a debut 4.3.15 at the 2015 Istria Cup opening game v Hungary. Came on as a 69th-min sub for JA Russell and had a hand in R Littlejohn's equaliser in a 1-1 draw. Farcically, she was then ordered back to Dublin by her college DCU who wanted her to play in a GAA match. Mayo GAA and Aussie rules star with Collingwood. Returned to soccer with Shelbourne in September 2021.
Tiegan Ruddy - 16.4.00 - From Celbridge in County Kildare and came through the youth structure at Ballyoulster United AFC with the boys. An FAI Schools international in 13/14 and 14/15 while attending St. Wolstan’s CS and was already attached to Peamount United. Broke into The Peas' WNL team in 2016, but signed for rivals Shelbourne w R McLaughlin ahead of 2017. Peamount United player called into Sue Ronan's young and predominantly home-based squad for a training camp in Wales, August 2016. Senior debut in the first of two friendlies v the hosts, 19.8.21, a 0-0 draw at Rodney Parade, Newport. Hailed by S Ronan: "Tiegan Ruddy, just 16 years old, really impressed at centre-half with Karen Duggan alongside her leading by example". Two days later she sat out the 2-1 win in Caerphilly 21.8.16. Captained the U17s at their 2017 Euros in the Czech Republic, May 2017. FAI Under 17 POTY in 2017. 5'8" tall. Joined R McLaughlin at CCSU Blue Devils under Irish coach Mick D'Arcy. Scored 1 goal in 8 apps as a freshman international business scholar in 2018. Switched to Maynooth University to study business and law on a sport scholarship from 2019. Was set to re-sign for Shels in summer 2019 but blew her knee out while running alone at home in Ireland, training for the 2019 Universiade. Champions Peamount announced Ruddy's return in Feb 2020 ("a statement of intent"). Seen as a talented midfield playmaker but she was still recovering from her ACL injury and unlikely to feature until the summer. The covid lockdown delayed the WNL until August 2020. Can play at centre back but prefers a central midfield role, as "a number 6".
Julie-Ann Russell - 28.3.91 - 2013 Universiade in Kazan, 167cm tall.
S
Margaret Mary "Mags" Saurin - 3.1.78, Dublin - LW - Was playing for Shamrock Rovers in June 1999. One of five Irish players w W-League 2 Springfield Sirens in 2000. 47 goals in 47 games for Christian Brothers University in 2001 and 2002. Assistant coach in 2003. Assistant coach at Akron Uni 2004-2007 under Catherine Byrne. Head coach IPFW Mastodons women's soccer 2007-2014. Head coach Oakland University women's soccer March 2014-2016, assisted by Claire Scanlan, quit in Jan 2017. Assistant coach Dayton University Feb 2017-date. Shamrock Rovers player in squad for Euro qual in Bangor, Wales 7.12.97. With Hamman Celtic in June 95, alongside J Kett. Hamman Celtic player in Mick Cooke's u18 squad for friendly v Australia at Belfield, 18.12.96. Shamrock Rovers player called up for WWC qual v Poland at Tolka Park, 2 Nov 97, subbed in for clubmate O O'Toole with 10 mins left in the 1-0 defeat. Played in Shamrock Rovers' 4-0 LFAI Cup final win over Shelbourne at the Iveagh Grounds, August 1997. Played for Shamrock Rovers in the DWSL League Cup final 9.11.97 at Tolka Park, which they lost to Shelbourne on penalties after a 2-2 draw. Shamrock Rovers player in squad for 4.9.99 5-0 friendly defeat by USA at Foxboro Stadium, played full match at no3. Tournament MVP with the winning Irish u19 team at the 1996 Dana Cup. Listed as a Fortuna Hjorring player in Oct 2000 when nominated for the 2000 FAI POTY. Blurb described her as a former DIT player who represented combined Irish colleges. "A prolific scorer at club level and a creator of chances for her country". DWSL POTY w Shams in 1999. Called into a revamped senior squad in November 1996 as a Hamman Celtic player, alongside several other members of the Dana Cup-winning youth team. Scored on her debut in subsequent 5-0 friendly win over NI at Banbridge. Her 2 late goals added sheen to the 4-0 WCQ win over Wales at the Carlisle Grounds in Bray, 8.3.98.
Nicole Patricia Schiereck - 14.6.75 - 79th min sub for O O'Toole in 5-0 defeat by USA in San Diego 23.7.06. US college player? Unused sub in ECQ 6-0 win over Bosnia at Richmond Park, 18.5.03.
Harriet Archer Scott - 10.2.93 - DF, debut at 2017 Cyprus Cup. FAI POTY 2017.
Clare Shine - 18.5.95 -
Nicola Sinnott - 8.8.87 -
Shannon Smyth - 22.6.87 -
Louise Stafford - 18yo school-leaver "newcomer" in squad v England 11.9.83. Outside-right from Seaview Celtic of the Waterford League. Named in Eamonn Darcy's first extended squad for training at St Pat's College, Drumcondra April 1984. Later repurposed as a full-back by Benfica and was part of their all-conquering 1989 side. 27.4.90 Waterford News and Star article said she had one cap gained against England in Reading. Had left Seaview Celtic for Benfica ahead of the 1984 season. From the McDonagh Road area of Waterford. Dad Matty Stafford, mum Bridie, four sisters, one brother. Matty was a LOI referee, died of a broken heart 24 hours after Bridie passed in August 2015.
Rebecca "Becky" Stokes - 20.6.82 - FC Kilmarnock player in squad for 2 friendlies in Wales, 24 and 26 April 2007 in Tredegar and Goytre. Later Becky Bisland. First called up for the 2-0 Scotland WCQ defeat 6.5.06. Qualified to play for Ireland via her mum.
T
Katie Taylor - Celebrated World boxing champ - Listed as a "Peaumont" (Peamount?) player in match prog for WCQs v Switzerland and Scotland, 22.4.06 and 6.5.06 at Richmond Park. St. James Gate player named in Noel King's u17 side for "European Youth Olympics" in Paris, July 2003. Final match for Ireland was Sept 2009 qualifier in Kazakhstan. Big mates w S Byrne who came up the ranks at the same time at same clubs, starting at Lourdes Celtic. There is a suggestion (Irish Independent 10.8.12) that Katie's mum Bridget had played for Pete's Angels, at one time the top women's soccer club in Bray. Sheila Murphy was in London to cheer on Katie at the Olympics and told the paper she recalled playing alongside Bridget on the team, who (according to Murphy) had also been represented by Carol Carr and Sue Hayden.Denise Anne Thomas - 22.12.79 - In FAI 2005/06 team photo. New York player per Iceland Euro play-off prog 26.10.08. A Leeds United player in 2003 Algarve Cup squad, w club team mates C Scanlan and C Thorpe.
Anne Thorpe - 24.7.64, Dublin - Sometimes listed as Ann without an 'e' - second season w Dub Castle in 1983 LFAI Cup final prog. CM or RW, or FW at a pinch. Played camogie for An Caislean club and Dublin. An "avid" tennis fan/player. Quality control officer for Lake Electronics (1983). Named in Eamonn Darcy's first extended squad for training at St Pat's College, Drumcondra April 1984. Debut in friendly v Scotland May 84, having only taken up soccer 2 years earlier. Named in squad for Sept 84 friendly v Wales, one of 12 Dublin players in 16-woman squad. Unused sub in 6-0 defeat by England at Flower Lodge, Cork 22.9.85. Played in 4-1 friendly win over Wales at Milltown 24.5.87 - the last ever game at Glenmalure Park before it was pulled down for housing. Dublin Castle player in squad for home friendly v Finland, 28.6.87. Methodist University "Lady Monarchs" 1987-1990. Her coach, whose son attended Methodist, helped sign her up. Majored in biology and PE. Described as "the middle of eight children" (?) Thrived Stateside and graduated with all time records in goals (81) and assists (42). South Atlantic Conf POTY 1990. School HOF 1998 by which time she was working as a physical therapist in West Hartford. Impressed MU coach Joe Pereia signed loads of other Irish players after Thorpe's success. Impressed the great sportswriter Con Houlihan in the 1-0 opening ECQ win over NI at Milltown 5.5.85: "Ann Thorpe at times recalled the days when there was a species of footballer known as a winger." Unavailable for the penultimate ECQ v NI at Seaview, 30.8.86 as she joined Civil Service League Division 5 minnows Trojans on their coast-to-coast "trip of a lifetime" US tour 22.8.86.
Caroline Thorpe - 2.8.81 - Player of the Tournament at Celt Cup in Caryduff, September 2000. Scored winner in 1-0 v Scotland and opening goal in 2-0 v NI, a 20-yard lob on 44 minutes. Red Lake player called up to u17 squad for friendly in NI, November 1996. Red Lake player named in u16 squad for April 98 triangular Tourney v Scotland and Wales in Conwy, Bangor and Porthmadog. Red Lake player in squad for 2nd UEFA u18 Euro mini tourney 23-27 Nov 98, v Eng, Hol and Faroes, hosted in Eng. W UCD in 2002/03. Captained Redlake squad for Under-14 FAI Women's Cup final against Bealnamulla at Richmond Park, 25.8.96. Missed a penalty but scored 3rd goal in a 3-0 win. Arsenal summer 2000 from St Catherine's who she joined for the 1999 season. Feb 2020 interview w The42.ie detailed personal troubles: Hit brace on Arsenal debut but left after one season due to bullying from unnamed senior teammate. Later she was away playing for Ireland when another teammate's cutting comment about her ("you want to be like that?!") voided her confidence and saw her spiral into depression and an eating disorder. She quit football to travel w boyf to Vietnam etc. but that turned toxic too! She had grown up in poverty in Dublin and when she joined St Catherine's in 1999, big-hearted club supremo Brother Bernard quietly paid her subs. After an Ireland game in Arklow (0-4 v Czechs 28.5.00), EPL giants Arsenal and Fulham were vying for her signature. She got back into football but was still unwell. POTM in 2013 FAI Cup final for Raheny's 3-2 win over Castlebar Celtic but had bulimia. 11-12 Peamount United in WNL after 1 match for Shamrock Rovers. 12-13 Raheny United, then second half of 13-14 (Jan-Apr) back at Peamount. Played 14-15 and 15-16 WNL for DLR Waves then retired. Hit rock bottom in May 2019 but found a new lease of life after getting drunk with Ronnie Whelan at a legends game. WNL article for April 2013 POTM mentioned 24 caps 6 goals for Ireland. Won 2011 FAI Cup w St Catherines. Won leagues and Cups w UCD before c.6 years out of football. Scored winning goal in Klaksvik, 2-1 friendly win v Faroes, 12.10.04.
Tyler Toland - 8.8.01 -
Yvonne Tracy - DF - Lifford player named in u16 squad for April 98 triangular Tourney v Scotland and Wales in Conwy, Bangor and Porthmadog. Lifford AFC player captained squad for 2nd UEFA u18 Euro mini tourney 23-27 Nov 98, v Eng, Hol and Faroes, hosted in Eng. Had also played in previous year's inaugural edition. Lifford AFC player called up to u17 squad for friendly in NI, November 1996. Wee bro Shane came over to play for Arsenal youth team 2005-2007 but got homesick. Crocked (ACL) for 06/07 Arsenal quadruple season. Did the same knee again in 2008, out for another 18 months. "Her ability to read danger early and use her control and pace to quickly turn defence into attack is a critical quality to have in the squad" per Iceland Euro play-off prog 26.10.08. Short spell at St Pats per FAI profile. Joined 'shamateurs' Arsenal LFC summer 2000, handed a sinecure in the club laundry. S Heapes and C Thorpe joined at the same time, all scouted by Vic Akers in a game v Czech Republic (0-4 defeat at Arklow Town, 28.4.00?) Snubbed a competing offer from full-time pro Fulham. Nominated for 2000 FAI POTY, dubbed "Treacy", blurb said: "She has been a fixture in the senior side for the last 12 months and was a member of the Celt Cup squad". The42.ie interview in July 19: "We were out of pocket all the time when we went back to play with the Irish team, but it didn't bother us. You're representing your country, you can't beat that." Released by Arsenal Feb 2014 w C Grant. Wanted to keep working at Arsenal and concerned about bad knee so retired aged 32. Reportedly had 78 caps.
U
W
Ann Wade - 3.4.67 - Tolka Swifts player in squad for friendly v NI 2.11.85. Named (as Anna Wade) in Eamonn Darcy's first extended squad for training at St Pat's College, Drumcondra April 1984. Anne Wade named in Eamonn Darcy's first WNT training session at Belfield 3.3.84. Listed as a Belvedere player in Aug 1987. Started gutsy 0-1 defeat by Sweden 7.6.92 at Frank Cooke Park, listed as an Elm Rovers player. FAI website listed her as captain for this match. Started Ireland's 1-0 defeat by Spain at Dalyer 22.3.92, still with Elm Rovers. Playing for Elm Rovers in the DWSL, June 1995. Ballymun player pictured collecting a 1991-1993 national team cap from Merrion Square, Nov 93. Mentioned as being from Glasnevin.Mary Veronica Waldron - 5.5.84, Dublin - Firhouse Ladies player named in u16 squad for April 98 triangular Tourney v Scotland and Wales in Conwy, Bangor and Porthmadog. Cricket international. Played for UCD in 2005 UWCL in Croatia.
Abigail Colleen "Abbie" Walsh - 28.2.76 - RB - Millwall Lionesses (for "over ten years" per FAWPL Cup Final prog 23.3.97, joined as 10yo per 97 FA Cup final prog). Millwall fan. Attended Loughborough Uni, final year 96/97 which restricted apps for club. Played for England Universities and also represented England's junior trampolining team - was once ranked 18th in the world. Was small but good in the air! Listed in the Millwall Lionesses squad for the National League Cup final at Alt Park, Knowsley, 24.5.92. Broke through in 91/92 when '91 Cup-winning team broke up. By 5.5.93 prestige friendly against New York she had 151 appearances at 17yo and had been called into England u21 training by John Bilton due to "outstanding form". Was a right back who could also play as a sweeper. 92/93 club player of the season. Millwall fan. Unlike peers Julie Fletcher and Mary Phillip a senior England call-up never came. Millwall Lionesses player in squad for 4.9.99 5-0 friendly defeat by USA at Foxboro Stadium, started match wearing no6, subbed off at HT for S Heapes. When Millwall men got to the 2004 FA Cup final, ex-player Walsh was running their club Community scheme.
Claire Walsh - 28.10.94 - 80th-minute sub for L Quinn in debut, 3-0 defeat v USA at Rose Bowl, 3.8.2019. Peamount Utd DF. From Wicklow and played Gaelic games for County and the Kilbride club.
Megan Walsh - 12.11.94 - GK from Bromsgrove w England youth caps, declared for Ireland in Nov 2021. Grandad from Wexford.
Emily Whelan - 22.8.02 -
Joan Williams - CF, scored two on debut v NI 1973 as a Dublin All-Stars player. 30.6.73 4-1 win at Bluebell United FC on the Naas Road. She scored the second and fourth goals adding to strikes from Maureen Stokes and Breda Hanlon (Cummins). Scored in 3-3 draw with Wales at Limerick 26.5.74. Got five caps (2 v NI, 1 v Wales, 2 v France (Reims?)) Scored four in Vards' 8-0 Leinster Ladies Soccer League win over Glen Abbey at Phoenix Park, 19.5.71 (a Wednesday night fixture). The next Tuesday (25.5.71) night she scored the opener in a 3-1 win over Civil Defence in the Drumcondra Ladies Soccer Cup semi-final at Tolka Park. Her sister Jacinta also scored for Vards in both these matches, as did team mate Anne O'Brien. Later went to Wales to play club football with Point of Ayr... still playing for Colwyn Bay LFC in 1990/91. Per Wales soccer expert John Carrier she enjoyed a long and successful career in Wales from 1975. Joined Prestatyn and went on to Chester LFC, Point of Ayr, Colwyn Bay, St Asaph and others. Still playing in 1994. Moonlighted as a GK in Dundalk's 7-1 defeat by Manchester Corinthian Nomads at Prestatyn Raceway 10.5.70, a de facto Ireland v England game. Paula Gorham said legendary boss Kevin Gaynor had "packed" his team with some reinforcements from Dublin, including Joan and Jacinta Williams. Got her start in soccer with Sinners Utd of Ballyfermot in the early 60s, coached by Margaret Wogan whose three daughters were in the team. She worked as a machinist in the rag trade. She had been part of the Drumcondra Cup-winning Vards team which merged with Hospitals Trust and Hotspurs into the All-Stars in 1972, alongside A O'Brien and V Elliott (Connaughton).
Comments
Post a Comment