Sligo Rovers are delighted to announce the signing of defender Ella Karolak ahead of the 2026 Women’s Premier Division season. The 23-year-old centre back joins the Bit O’Red from the University of Illinois, where she developed into a composed and reliable defender, recognised for her leadership, communication, and consistency in defensive duels.

Karolak spent four seasons with the Illini as a Division I athlete, making 52 starts and accumulating 4,620 minutes of competitive action. She was a three-time Defensive MVP (2022, 2023, 2024), twice named Big Ten Player To Watch, and served on the team’s leadership committee throughout her career. Ella gained experience in the USL W League, helping Detroit City FC claim the Great Lakes Division title in 2025 and being named Defensive Player of the Year with FC Olympia in 2024. Off the pitch, she achieved multiple academic honours, including Big Ten Distinguished Scholar and three-time Academic All-Big Ten selection.

Reflecting on her move to the Showgrounds, Karolak said:

“It’s really exciting to sign for the club. I admire the history on the men’s side, and I want to help create history for the women’s team as well. The league is highly competitive, but I believe our squad can compete at the top level. Sligo is a beautiful town, and the community has been incredibly welcoming.”

On her playing style and what she brings to the team:

“I like to be involved in every phase of play and always want the ball. I’m comfortable on both feet, enjoy dictating play from the back, and am defensively strong. I like to be vocal on the pitch, organising the team and communicating with my teammates. I want to ensure we’re solid at the back while supporting the attack whenever possible.”

Looking ahead to the season and settling in with the squad, she added:

“I’ve seen teams in situations similar to Rovers, where growth and evolution are needed. Many of the club’s objectives align with my own, and I want to help the team make a real impact this season. Off the pitch, I’ve really enjoyed getting to know the squad. Everyone has been welcoming, which has made joining a new environment much easier.”

Rovers manager Gavin Hughes said Karolak immediately stood out for her composure, leadership, and defensive awareness.

“Ella has already, in this short time, led by example and brought real physical presence to our defensive unit. She plays comfortably off either foot and has an excellent range of passing. She sees things and executes them very well, whether short or long.

She is always positive and proactive, and her leadership skillset will be huge for us this season. She is the kind of player who sets the tone for the whole team, particularly within the defensive line.”

With Ella Karolak joining, the squad now stands at twenty-three players ahead of the 2026 Women’s Premier Division season, joining earlier signings Abby Rooney, Ava Hallinan, Alice Lillie, Bonnie McKiernan, Emma Duffy, Leah Kelly, Anna McDaniel, Kelsey McQuillan, Rachel McGoldrick, Katie Melly, Emma Hansberry, Keela Scanlon, Ciara Henry, Cara King, Jessica Casey, Alana Doherty, Keeva Flynn, Ivana McMahon, Sydney Stephens, Manu Baptista Filipe, Cara Jordan, and Natalie Yoo.

Jack Dempsey

Sligo Rovers are delighted to announce the signing of midfielder Natalie Yoo ahead of the 2026 Women’s Premier Division season. The 24-year-old joins the Bit O’Red after spending three seasons as a Division 1 athlete with the Texas A&M Aggies, advancing to the NCAA Elite Eight and making regular contributions over multiple campaigns. She also played her final graduate year at the University of San Diego, where she was team captain and part of the programme’s rebuild under a new coaching staff.

Yoo completed her bachelor’s degree in Business Marketing before adding a graduate qualification, demonstrating her commitment and discipline both on and off the pitch. Born in Southern California, Yoo holds dual nationality and has Korean heritage, and she was invited to join a South Korean national development squad, highlighting her recognition at international level.

Reflecting on her move to Rovers, Yoo said:

“It feels really exciting and is a dream of mine to play at this level. I spoke with Ciaran Fadden, assistant manager, about what I can bring to the team. I’m hungry to do well, and I’ve heard a lot about the league. It felt like the right environment to push myself.”

Describing her playing style, she added:

“I’d describe myself as competitive and someone who likes to be centre of the action in midfield, whether dropping deeper or supporting the attack. I’m creative and technical, enjoy taking on players, making forward runs into the box, and playing incisive passes. I’m comfortable on both feet and always look to make an impact for my team.”

On settling in with the squad, Yoo said:

“It’s been a bit of a culture shock, but everyone has been really welcoming. The dressing room has been great, which has made settling in much easier.”

Looking ahead to the season, Yoo explained:

“I want to help the team win games and compete at the top end of the table. Personally, I want to keep improving every week and contribute with goals and assists.”

Rovers manager Gavin Hughes believes Yoo adds balance and drive to the midfield.

“Natalie is technically very strong and fearless in possession. She loves getting on the ball, drives at defences, and brings creativity to everything she does. She has a great mentality and great energy, and we are excited to see her in the league.”

On why she is the right fit at this stage of the season, Hughes added:

“We trust that her attitude and desire to make things happen will give us another dynamic in the final third. She wants responsibility and thrives in competitive environments, which is exactly what we need.”

Regarding her impact off the pitch, he said:

“She is focused, professional, and eager to learn. Those standards raise the level within the group, and that is important for us as we continue to build.”

With Natalie Yoo joining, the squad now stands at twenty-two players strong ahead of the 2026 Women’s Premier Division season, joining earlier signings Abby Rooney, Ava Hallinan, Alice Lillie, Bonnie McKiernan, Emma Duffy, Leah Kelly, Anna McDaniel, Kelsey McQuillan, Rachel McGoldrick, Katie Melly, Emma Hansberry, Keela Scanlon, Ciara Henry, Cara King, Jessica Casey, Alana Doherty, Keeva Flynn, Ivana McMahon, Sydney Stephens, Manu Baptista Filipe, and Cara Jordan.

Jack Dempsey

Sligo Rovers’ men’s senior team make the relatively short trip south to Galway this Friday as the one hundredth Connacht Derby takes place at Eamonn Deacy Park, kick-off 7.45pm.

This will be the Bit O’Red’s fourth game of the season as John Russell’s men go in search of a fourth straight win over Galway United, who have won one and drawn one of their first two games.

A win for Rovers by Corribside could potentially see us climb the table after defeats to Derry City and Bohemians in the opening weeks. While last week’s draw away to Waterford saw Sligo take a well deserved point from a long trip to the RSC.

Games involving Galway this year have been close with Drogheda coming away with a narrow one goal win on the first day of the season. United saw their clash with St Patrick’s Athletic rained off the following week, days before John Caulfield’s side took an impressive draw from the home of the 2024 champions, Shelbourne. 

In team news, and as per Thursday morning, Rovers will be without Shane Blaney who picked up a hamstring injury in that game in the south east. 

Cian Kavanagh, who headed the winner on our last visit to EDP in September 2025 returns following a short illness. While new signings Sean McHale and James McManus will be available. A few players will undergo late fitness tests to determine their ability to take part. 

“It’s going to be a huge Connacht derby and given the time of year we’re at, it’ll be under the lights and in front of what I expect will be a big crowd and a big atmosphere”, Russell tells sligorovers.com, previewing the game.

“I was pleased with the result in Waterford last week and it was an ideal and much improved reaction from the defeat to Bohs the week before. We were a lot more solid, first to second balls and defended our box really well. We asked for a reaction and we got it.

“We now go to Galway and it’s a massive game for both sides.

“They’ve added a lot of bodies in the winter. Some we know, some we don’t. So in that way, they’re somewhat of an unknown but I’m happy that we’ve analysed them well. 

“They’ve got a very experienced manager in John. 

“He knows how to get results from his players. He’s a cup and league winner and we know the way he likes his teams to play. They can smother you if you let them so we have to be ready. They’ll be looking to play off a big home crowd and we may have to quieten things down early on. 

“But we’re going there to get a result as we do every game. We had to shuffle things around a bit last week and we’re hopeful we’ll have as many bodies available as possible. 

“We know there’s a big Rovers crowd coming down to pack out the away end once more and the players are really looking forward to getting going on Friday night.”

David Goulden

New Sligo Rovers loanee Sean McHale says he isn’t here to just make up the numbers after the Meath native was confirmed as Bit O’Red player on Sunday afternoon.

The 20-year-old Dunboyne native sealed a deal which has been a while in the making, after the centre-half moved on loan from St Patrick’s Athletic until the end of the current season.

McHale, an Irish underage international, arrives at the Showgrounds seeking top flight experience after two years on loan in the First Division.

He’ll be playing under new manager John Russell, a long time fan of the former Shelbourne, Wexford and Dundalk player who is also a talented gaelic footballer. 

“I’ve met with John a few times and we’ve had some great conversations. I’m delighted to be here now and am ready to get playing”, Sean tells sligorovers.com.

“I’ve been on loan the last two seasons so when Rovers came in for me, I thought this is the ideal place to go, to develop and play. It’s important to choose which club you go to so Sligo for me, was the ideal place to go.

“I spoke to a few lads who were here over the last few years and they told me enough good things about Rovers and Sligo and that was all I needed. I’m moving to Sligo now and it’s a new experience for me and I can’t wait to get going with it.” 

A serious ankle injury curtailed Sean’s time at Dundalk last season in an FAI Cup game against Rovers at Oriel Park last July. Two months later, McHale underwent surgery on several ruptured ligaments but is now excited about getting back on the pitch under the tutelage of Russell. 

“John has a proven track record of bringing players through, especially young ones”, he continues. 

“He gives them game time and trusts them and that makes it a really attractive proposition for me. You cannot beat gaining first team experience. It’s invaluable. 

“I’m here to get game time but also get results for Sligo Rovers. We need to aim for European football at the end of the year and we’re good enough to do that. 

“In the First Division, it feels like there’s a lot of defending to do in games so as a centre back it was great for me. It was all about gaining experience and going through different types of experiences in games. Even with the injury, I learned a lot in terms of what I need to do to be a professional football player.” 

Rovers had aimed to bring McHale in on a full-time basis over the past number of months, but an agreement could not be reached with his parent club. However, Russell is happy to get his man as he prepares for the one hundredth edition of the Connacht derby against Galway, this coming Friday.

“He’s been on my radar for a while”, Russell reveals. 

“We tried to get Sean in permanently over the winter but we couldn’t get a deal done unfortunately. 

“We’ve had an injury at centre half so the move to get Sean in was accelerated slightly by that. 

“He’s a big boy, a natural defender with a left foot and I feel he’s one of the best young defenders in the country. I saw a lot of him when he was at Wexford and Dundalk before he got injured and he’s got huge potential. We’re glad that he’ll hopefully realise that potential here at the Showgrounds.”  

David Goulden

Having played a key role in Sligo Rovers’ mid-season renaissance in 2025, midfielder James McManus is keen to make his mark once again for the Bit O’Red this season.

The energetic box-to-box midfielder has returned to the Showgrounds on loan from Bohemians until the end of this season and is aiming to play his part in this Friday’s Connacht derby with Galway United.

The Republic of Ireland underage international featured 15 times for Rovers last season, scoring in an FAI Cup game against Dundalk at Oriel Park. The St Kevin’s Boys graduate was a key figure in our rise from the foot of the table to guaranteeing Premier Division safety on the final day of the season at Tallaght Stadium.  

Learning from and lining out under Rovers manager John Russell has made its mark on the young Dubliner, who turns 21 in March. He says Russell’s input into his development to date was a major swaying factor in his choice to return to the north west.  

“It was a very simple decision for me to make, being honest”, James tells sligorovers.com. 

“It feels like John is a massive influence on every player who comes here. He’s proven time and time again that he can get the best out of young players. 

“I’ve never enjoyed my football as much as playing under him last year. He gives players such freedom to express themselves and this played such a big part in coming back here. 

“I loved my time playing for Rovers last year and once I knew John was interested in bringing me back, the decision really made itself.”

McManus’ signature was confirmed just hours before the January deadline on Sunday evening. He feels he has an advantage now given that he will be more than familiar with his surroundings and team-mates having spent those four months at the Showgrounds last term.  

“I’m really looking forward to the season ahead. It’s a huge opportunity for me. I think I showed the Rovers fans what I could do last year but maybe in glimpses. I want to kick-on on now and make a big impact back here. 

“I built some really great relationships here last year so settling in again won’t be an issue. Players like Jad (Hakiki) and Ryan (O’Kane) are such gifted, technical footballers and they’re the sort of lads you want to be playing around. It’s very exciting to link up with them again.

“The new players are very impressive too as John has signed lads who have experience of playing in the league already. That’s something that I think is vital.  Archie (Meekison) is here now too and I would have played plenty with him at Bohs. He’s a really explosive player who will only improve further under John. 

“We now have to aim high and set the standards from early on. We went on a great run from the middle of the season last year and it ended up making a huge difference in the end. 

“We have to look forward now but take each game as it comes. The league was so competitive last season and will be more-so this year. I’m very proud to be part of it all again this year!” 

Welcoming McManus back to the fold, Russell tells sligorovers.com that he feels as if James’ addition is a natural choice. 

“I think our supporters won’t need me to explain in too great detail why I brought James back. 

“Anyone who saw him play for us last season will see how intelligent he is and how he can dictate play. He can do a bit of everything which is a dream for any manager. I’ve been a massive fan of him for a few years and it’s a delight to have him here again in our colours. 

“I feel he gives us something that we’ve been missing in our first three games and I know from speaking to him the last few weeks how keen he was to come back here and continue the work he started last summer. 

“He’s gone straight back into training and it’s like he’s never left. We’re excited to see how he can do this year, starting with the derby on Friday, we hope.” 

David Goulden

Sligo Rovers’ senior men’s side are on the road for the second time this season as we head to the Regional Sports Centre to take on Waterford this Friday, kick-off 7.45pm.

On the hunt for our first league points of the season, the Bit O’Red face into what will be our longest road trip of the league season, with approximately 600 kilometres to traverse on match day.

The RSC proved happy hunting ground for Rovers in 2025. The season began with a narrow defeat to the Blues at the Showgrounds, but Rovers did beat this week’s opponent three times in our next three games against the Munster men. This included a four goal win at the RSC in May and a 2-1 victory at the same venue in August. 

John Russell’s side go into this bout at the foot of the table with just two games played following defeat to Derry at the Brandywell and a night to forget against Bohs at the Showgrounds last weekend. 

Waterford have amassed just the one point so far having picked a worthy draw off Shels on night one, before being beaten in Drogheda last Friday.

Russell leads his men south without the services of Conor Reynolds who again misses out with injury. 

Midfielder Jad Hakiki last week, suffered the recurrence of a knock picked up in a pre-season match against Finn Harps. The Dubliner will as of Thursday morning, be assessed ahead of kick-off. 

Carl McHugh is expected to be fully fit for next week’s game in Galway but may make the bench this Friday.

Cian Kavanagh is not expected to make the match day squad due to illness.

Previewing the game, Russell says it’s a chance for his players to redeem themselves after a chastening result and poor showing against Bohs last week.

“We’ve dwelled on it enough”, he tells sligorovers.com.

“Nobody showed up that night and it was a performance that was absolutely miles off what I expect from my players. But we’re still early on in the season and Friday is a huge opportunity for us to show how quickly we can bounce back.

“We did well against Waterford last season but that means absolutely nothing at this moment. We have to go down there and put in a performance that’s fitting of what we’ve worked on over pre-season and what matches our ambitions. Every one of the lads has to play his part. 

“We saw what happened last season when we fell behind and we have to do everything we can to make sure it doesn’t happen again. But we’re two games and we’re still building those connections. It’s the same for all the teams.”

The Rovers boss is aware of Waterford’s strong points, but is hopeful of seeing his side claim our first points of 2026.  

“Waterford have strengthened during the winter and are a huge threat”, he warns. 

“Players like Conan Noonan, Conor Carty, Padraig Amond and Tommy Lonergan. They are all players who can get goals from nothing and we must be on full alert down there. 

“We’ll go to pick up a result and kick-start our season. The players have a point to prove and they’re very eager to get going.”

David Goulden

Sligo Rovers are delighted to announce that Cara Jordan has joined the Bit O’Red ahead of the 2026 Women’s Premier Division season. The 24-year-old left winger arrives from the United States, becoming the third overseas signing for the squad this season following Sydney Stephens and Manu Baptista Filipe.

Originally from Connecticut, CJ developed her game through the Sporting CT and UConn sporting systems. She went on to represent the University of Connecticut while completing degrees in Exercise Science and Physics. During her time with Sporting CT, she played a key role in helping the side claim the 2025 WPSL National Championship, highlighting her influence at a competitive level.

CJ is a versatile and driven winger who thrives when involved in the play and creating opportunities for her teammates. She enjoys taking on defenders, linking up in attack, and contributing in the final third with creativity and flair.

“I’m really looking forward to getting going at Sligo Rovers,” CJ said. “The girls have been so welcoming and helpful. I like having freedom in the final third and being creative. I’m competitive and want to win things here with Rovers.”

On moving to Ireland, she added:
“I’ve been living with Damien and Mairead and they have been incredible, helping me settle in from day one. Arriving in Ireland, I didn’t know anyone, but I instantly connected with Sydney and Manu. We travelled together, explored the town, and quickly became close friends, which has made the transition so much easier. I love Sligo. It’s a beautiful town with friendly people and it already feels like home.”

Rovers manager Gavin Hughes said CJ has already impressed with her attitude and influence in training.

“CJ stands out for her work ethic and drive to improve every session,” Hughes said. “She communicates well, supports her teammates, and brings energy to every drill. She’s confident on the ball and looks to make the players around her better. That mindset will be important as we continue building the squad.”

On how CJ will connect with supporters, Hughes added:
“She’s committed, approachable, and passionate about the game. That enthusiasm will show on matchdays and in the way she represents the club. I have no doubt our fans will quickly take to her.”

With the addition of Cara Jordan, the squad now stands at twenty-one players ahead of the 2026 Women’s Premier Division season, joining earlier signings Abby Rooney, Ava Hallinan, Alice Lillie, Bonnie McKiernan, Emma Duffy, Leah Kelly, Anna McDaniel, Kelsey McQuillan, Rachel McGoldrick, Katie Melly, Emma Hansberry, Keela Scanlon, Ciara Henry, Cara King, Jessica Casey, Alana Doherty, Keeva Flynn, Ivana McMahon, Sydney Stephens, and Manu Baptista Filipe.

Jack Dempsey

Sligo Rovers are delighted to announce that Manu Baptista Filipe has joined the Bit O’Red ahead of the 2026 Women’s Premier Division season. The 23-year-old midfielder arrives at the Showgrounds following her time in the United States, where she combined her studies with a strong collegiate football career.

Originally from Porto, Manu developed her game at Sporting Clube de Braga, progressing through the club’s academy system between 2017 and 2020. During her development years, she also gained recognition at U16 underage international level, taking part in Portugal national training camps and highlighting her potential from an early age.

Manu later relocated to the United States to continue both her football and education in the collegiate system. She completed a degree in International Business and a Master’s in Education while competing at a high level of college football.

Reflecting on the challenges of moving abroad, Manu said:
“When I arrived in the United States, I didn’t speak English, so it was a tough adjustment. Covid was at its peak when I moved, which made it even more challenging. I had to quarantine for ten days when I arrived, and I remember thinking, ‘What am I doing here?’ It wasn’t until my first training session that I felt at home.”

Manu now continues her football journey in Ireland, bringing versatility and intelligence to the Sligo Rovers midfield. A right-footed midfielder, she enjoys being on the ball, linking play, and initiating attacks from deeper areas.

“I like to be involved in the game as much as possible. I enjoy short passing, give-and-go movements, and playing under pressure. I like to help start attacks and contribute on set pieces. I work hard, I am adaptable, and I like to communicate on the pitch. I always want to help the players around me improve.”

On her decision to join Sligo Rovers, Manu highlighted both the football opportunity and her early impressions of the town and club:
“I’m really excited to get going at Sligo Rovers. I’ve only been in Sligo a few days, but I love it already. It’s a cosy town, and you can see the love for football straight away. The people have been so welcoming, which has made the move easier.”

A familiar coaching connection also influenced her return to Europe.
“Ciaran Fadden was my assistant coach when I was in America, so we always kept in touch. I was interested in coming back to Europe, and when the opportunity arose, it felt like the right move for me.”

Rovers manager Gavin Hughes believes Manu will bring strong technical quality and tactical awareness to the squad.

“Manu stood out during recruitment because of her composure on the ball and her ability to influence games from midfield. From her early training sessions, you can see her understanding of space, her work rate, and her constant involvement in play.”

Hughes also highlighted how her style fits the team’s philosophy:
“She suits the way we want to play. She is comfortable receiving the ball under pressure, keeps possession moving, and has the vision to link defence and attack. Players with that level of awareness are extremely valuable.”

Off the pitch, Hughes expects Manu to positively influence the squad environment:
“She is a strong communicator and has already integrated well with the group. She brings energy, positivity, and enthusiasm, which will be important as we continue to build a competitive and supportive environment at Sligo Rovers.”

With the addition of Manu Baptista Filipe, the squad now stands at twenty players ahead of the 2026 Women’s Premier Division season, joining earlier signings Abby Rooney, Ava Hallinan, Alice Lillie, Bonnie McKiernan, Emma Duffy, Leah Kelly, Anna McDaniel, Kelsey McQuillan, Rachel McGoldrick, Katie Melly, Emma Hansberry, Keela Scanlon, Ciara Henry, Cara King, Jessica Casey, Alana Doherty, Keeva Flynn, Ivana McMahon, and Sydney Stephens.

Jack Dempsey

Sligo Rovers are thrilled to announce that Sydney Stephens has joined the Bit O’Red ahead of the new season. The 23-year-old arrives at the Showgrounds after completing her Master’s in Sports Management at the University of Illinois, where she combined her academic studies with an impressive collegiate football career with Illinois Soccer.

Sydney joins Sligo Rovers as a midfielder with a reputation for creativity and vision on the pitch. She was a regular starter for the University of Illinois women’s soccer team and made significant contributions in goals and assists while balancing her studies. Alongside her playing career, she has also pursued coaching, completing a grassroots licence to prepare for the future.

Speaking to sligorovers.com, Sydney described her excitement at joining the club and her decision to move to Ireland:

“After my college season finished, I looked at different opportunities to continue developing my game, and Ireland really stood out as a place where I could focus fully on football at a high level. Sligo Rovers showed belief in me and offered the right environment to keep improving, so I’m really excited to get started here.”

Sydney has built a reputation as a creative and intelligent midfielder. She reads the game well, can dictate play from the centre of the pitch, and brings vision, energy, and enthusiasm to the team.

“I like to think I’m a natural leader. I’ve always been the centre of the pitch, so communication naturally comes back to me. I enjoy having the game played through me. I’m creative, comfortable on both feet, and I can play across the pitch, including the wings. I’d rather set up a goal than score one myself. I work hard and give everything on the pitch, and I think speed is a big part of my game. Off the pitch, I like to be vocal too, an engine. Growing up, we always had a mentor for younger players, so that leadership has been ingrained in me, and now I want to role model the way I was guided.”

Her football education began in the St Louis Scott Gallagher academy, where she spent her formative years learning both on and off the pitch. The club instilled in her core values that have stayed with her throughout her career: tradition, passion, humility, respect, and unity.

“I was born and raised in Waterloo, Illinois, and I’ve been playing football as long as I can remember. I completed a Master’s in Sports Management at the University of Illinois because I want to play football for as long as humanly possible and eventually become a coach. I’ve also completed a grassroots coaching licence to give myself every advantage. My time at St Louis Scott Gallagher taught me everything I need to know about culture, core values, and being a team player – tradition, passion, humility, respect, and unity – and those lessons have stuck with me throughout my career.”

Sydney has quickly settled into life at the Showgrounds and praised the welcoming environment from club staff and teammates.

“The move to Sligo has been really welcoming. Damian and Mairead Grimes have been incredibly supportive, and I don’t know what I would have done without their guidance. Gavin Hughes and his staff have also been fantastic. The standards here are high, and no one is guaranteed a place, so we all have to work hard and give everything for the team and the girls.”

Rovers manager Gavin Hughes is confident that Sydney will make an immediate impact both on and off the pitch.

“Sydney is a technically gifted player who brings creativity, speed, and intelligence to every session,” Hughes said. “She’s a natural leader and already commands respect in training. Her experience at a high level of college football, combined with her mentality and professionalism, make her a perfect fit for the squad.”

He added that her influence extends beyond her on-field contributions.

“Off the pitch, Sydney has the character and leadership qualities we value. She understands what it means to be part of a group and is already mentoring some of the younger players. That attitude will be crucial as we continue to build the culture here at Sligo Rovers.”

With Sydney Stephens’ arrival, the squad now numbers nineteen players for the 2026 Women’s Premier Division season, following the earlier signings of Abby Rooney, Ava Hallinan, Alice Lillie, Bonnie McKiernan, Emma Duffy, Leah Kelly, Anna McDaniel, Kelsey McQuillan, Rachel McGoldrick, Katie Melly, Emma Hansberry, Keela Scanlon, Ciara Henry, Cara King, Jessica Casey, Alana Doherty, Keeva Flynn, and Ivana McMahon.

Jack Dempsey

Bohemians hit Sligo Rovers for four at the Showgrounds as the Bit O’Red struggled through a night to forget in horrific wintry conditions in the north west.

Colm Whelan hit a second half hat-trick for a strong Bohs side, after Dayle Rooney had fired the visitors into the lead early on.

The defeat leaves Rovers at the foot of the table with just two games played ahead of trips to Waterford and Galway.

Rovers boss John Russell gave first starts at the Showgrounds to new signings Jeannot Esua, Alex Nolan and Mai Traore who was cleared to take part following visa issues which saw him miss the opening night in Derry.

It took just 90 seconds for Bohs to hit the lead through Rooney, while Whelan hit a 13 minute hat-trick.

Eager to now put this result beyond them, Rovers move on to next Friday and the journey to the RSC to face Waterford.

Match sponsor: Snug Bar, Sligo.

Sligo Rovers: Sam Sargeant; Jeanot Esua, Gareth McElroy (Shane Blaney HT), Ollie Denham, Will Fitzgerald; Alex Nolan (Sean Stewart 75), Seb Quirk, Daire Patton (Archie Meekison 75), Ryan O’Kane; Jad Hakiki (Cian Kavanagh 63); Mai Traore.

Bohemians: Kacper Chorazka; Senan Mullen, Patrick Hickey, Sam Todd; Darragh Power (Cian Byrne 81), Jordan Flores (Niall Morahan 76), Dawson Devoy, Dayle Rooney; Ross Tierney (Harry Vaughan 81); Douglas James-Taylor (Hugh Martin 69), Colm Whelan (Adam McDonnell 76). 

Referee: Alan Patchell.

Attendance: 2,754.