Changed Nenagh AFC face into new campaign

With much of Limerick consumed with the All Ireland Senior Hurling final this Sunday, it has overshadowed the start of the soccer season which gets underway this evening, Wednesday.

Nenagh AFC begin their fourth campaign in the Limerick District League, at home to Kilmallock looking to build on a good end to last seasons campaign where they finished a credible sixth place.

However, another mid-table finish plus a Cup is their target after losing a number of key players in the off-season for a side that will be managed by club stalwart Martin Donnellan, with Dearan O'Gorman (coach), Tommy Martin (fitness coach) and Barry Fitzachery (stats).

Five players have transferred to rival clubs in Limerick, including midfielder James McGrath to league winners Janesboro; Regional United snapped up Ross Fitzgerald while Aisling Annacotty signed three players in Steven Daly, Dylan Sheehan and striker Ben Banaghan.

However, Nenagh's losses have been off-set by the return of defender Jack Dunne from Limerick FC under 19's, with the Kilbarron native having skippered Nenagh's under 17's to FAI Cup glory in 2016. Alexander Gardos is also back from a long term injury while Nathan Kelly and Roy Creagh also return to provide valuable experience to what is still a young squad.

“We lost some big players” admitted coach Dearan O'Gorman but that they managed to keep hold of goalkeeper Aaron Savage was a major boost with a number of clubs attempting to sign the Republic of Ireland junior net-minder.

 

To read more, pick up a copy of this weeks Nenagh Guardian locally or subscribe to our e-paper to access it online each Wednesday.