Rovers take on Shels in women’s U17 league

It’s game-week four for the Bit O’Red Under 17 girls who take on Shelbourne Ladies today in Tolka Park at 2pm.

Damon Kearney’s charges will be hoping to bounce back from last week’s defeat to Athlone, but they will be under no illusions as to the threat that Shels pose.

One of the top sides in the country, Shelbourne Ladies will be tough opponents, but this is a Rovers side that continues to be an unknown entity to their opponents.

In team news, Kearney’s squad was boosted this week with the addition of midfielder Kate O’Dowd, who joins having enjoyed spells with Kiltimagh Knock United and Urlaur United.

Head coach Kearney has been pleased with his side’s progress so far, with the Rovers girls picking up one victory on the opening day of the season against Peamount United.

Kearney said: “The girls were disappointed with last week’s defeat against Athlone, but we are still learning. Everyone is working very hard and each week we are seeing improvements in different areas of the pitch.

“We don’t want to focus too much on results at this stage, for us this is about instilling a certain style of play in the team and getting everybody on board with that. We want to be able to play with no fear and to be able to go to places like Tolka Park and be full of confidence.

“I believe in this squad, we have the talent to compete with the league’s best.”