Battle of The Rovers – Under 19

Tonight our under 19 side travel to Roadstone in Dublin to face Shamrock Rovers at the club’s academy facilities in the Enda McGuill Cup semi final.

The Bit O’ Red defeated Cabinteely 3-2 in the quarter final to set up tonight’s clash.

The sides met at the same stage in last season’s competition, with the Shamrock Rovers winning the game 3-0.

Manager Brian Dorrian spoke with us ahead of tonight’s semi final:

‘It’s going to be a tough test for our lads. We done very well in the quarter final, and this is again a tougher test. We know Shamrock Rovers will be strong, they always are at this level, but we go up there with no fear and will give it a good go”.

Rovers have lost a number of players throughout the season as they make the step up to first team football. Liam Kerrigan, Jack Keaney, Ed McGinty, Niall Morahan & Luke McNicholas have all been part of the senior set up throughout 2019, offering them little chance to play at under 19 level.

With a trip to Cork on Friday for Liam Buckley’s men, Luke McNicholas may miss out tonight, with summer signing Cormac Henry expected to continue in goal. Defender Scott Lynch made his senior debut on Saturday night and will be part of tonight’s squad, however Niall Morahan misses out with a knee injury.

‘It’s hurt us a little bit results wise, but we don’t mind as long as lads are progressing into the first team squad. That’s what it’s all about for us. We’re looking forward to the game and the chance of getting into a cup final’