The sacking of the ex-Canadian footballer comes three days before the team’s biggest game of the season – a promotion/relegation play-off against SSE Airtricity League First Division side UCD.

Bircham had joined the side in May, becoming the fifth manager to do so in a 12-month period and the team finished 27 points above Longford Town under his tutelage after being bottom upon his arrival.

However, draws to Longford and St Patrick’s Athletic in their final two games meant they could not avoid a play-off, which now sees their Premier Division status hang in the balance after being promoted for the 2018 season.

Bircham had revealed on Tuesday morning that he had been suspended by Forrest for a week after a conversation via text the previous night but, less than an hour after he made the information public, he was sacked.

In his statement about today’s events, Forrest said: “Since I arrived in Waterford my full and total commitment has been to unite the club and build a Waterford FC we can all be proud of.

“I am extremely disappointed to have had to make this tough decision we did today especially given the huge match we have facing us on Friday.

“I feel we were backed into a corner, given an ultimatum, which as an owner left me no choice but to act now in the long term best interests of the club.

“I would have only made this decision when left with no other option and I take no personal satisfaction from it.

“Therefore, it would not be right for me to comment any further on the above as we now need to put all our energy into Friday’s game and have the squad fully focused.

“The club would like to thank Marc for the great job he has done for us and wish him all the best for the future.

“Finally, I would encourage everyone to all get behind the team as you have done throughout this season as we, THE BLUES, fight for our right to be in the League of Ireland Premier.”

Waterford will play UCD on Friday, November 26 at Richmond Park with kick-off scheduled for 7:45 pm.

The post Waterford FC owner ‘left with no other option’ but to sack Bircham appeared first on SportsNewsIreland.

The game, held at Richmond Park, will determine the league status of both clubs for the 2022 season.

Waterford finished ninth in the SSE Airtricity League Premier Division while UCD finished third in the First Division and beat Treaty United and Bray Wanderers to get within one game of the top flight.

Initially, Bircham claimed that he was suspended by the club’s owner after a “difference of opinion on a couple of matters” with the club’s owner, Richard Forrest, on Monday night.

However, Waterford announced via social media that the manager had been sacked under an hour later.

Their brief statement reads: “Waterford FC have terminated the contract of Marc Bircham. The club will be making no further comment at this time.”

Bircham had joined the club in May when they were bottom of the league and his efforts saw them finish 27 points ahead of Longford Town but fail to avoid a play-off.

He was the fifth manager the club had employed in 12 months since the departure of Alan Reynolds.

Speaking to WLR this morning following his sacking, Bircham said that he was surprised at the decision, but could not say much more under the advice of his legal team.

“I put out a statement today which I thought was perfectly fine, just stating facts and letting everyone know I wasn’t there and I won’t be at the game.

“Then I just found out on social media that they terminated the contract. Nobody has contacted me whatsoever.

“The owner texted me last night that I was suspended for a week and I’m not allowed contact players or staff.

“I was surprised this morning and even more surprised now. My official statement is that I am surprised. It’s all out of my control.

“The decision has been made without me.”

Waterford will play UCD at Richmond Park on Friday, November 26 at 7:45 pm with their Premier Division spot on the line.

The post Waterford manager Marc Bircham sacked before play-off appeared first on SportsNewsIreland.

Forrest held a 33 percent stake in the club since earlier in the year and the remaining shares were transferred to him this week.

The former owner Lee Power made a statement on leaving:

“I would also like to think that I have left the club in a much better place than when I purchased it in 2016 when we were in the first division, attracting crowds of 200 and close to going out of business.”

New club owner Richard Forrest wishes to release the following statement on behalf of the club, the fans, and his future ambitions for the club.#WaterfordFC #Blueshttps://t.co/EG9YKvW3PS

— Waterford FC (@WaterfordFCie) June 4, 2021

Waterford are ‘sleeping giants’

The Blues finished in fifth place in the League of Ireland last year but have only won two games this campaign.

This could give a much-needed boost to a team sitting rock bottom after 14 games.

This a long way off the team that qualified for the Europa League in 2019 but were controversially replaced with St. Patrick’s Athletic.

New investments

Forrest said he will invest in the first team as keeping premier league football is a priority at the club.

Rumours have spread that the owner is already in talks with his son, George Forrest on a move to Waterford.

The 21-year-old central defender has played for Crawley Town but was released by Braintree Town this year.

With a new owner and new investment, will there be enough time for Waterford to salvage their season.

The post UK businessman Richard Forrest buys Waterford FC appeared first on SportsNewsIreland.

The League of Ireland Premier Division season came to a conclusion yesterday after each team played just 18 games. Despite it’s brevity, the 2020 season was not without it’s drama, incidents and of course, standout performers.

With that said, here are our picks for the best XI of the 2020 League of Ireland Premier Division season:

GOALKEEPER

Edward McGinty – Sligo Rovers

At just 20 years of age, Ed McGinty made quite an impression this season as his side finished 4^th in the league table.

McGinty was voted Sligo’s Young Player of the Year in 2019 and has only improved since. He was one of the few players to play every league game of the season as he firmly established himself as the Bit O’ Red’s number one. He made several stunning saves during a stellar season. McGinty also played a key part in Sligo’s win over Dundalk yesterday as he managed to keep a clean sheet.

He recently earned a call up to Jim Crawford’s Ireland u21 squad ahead of the upcoming games against Iceland and Luxembourg. A credit to his domestic form.

Ed McGinty included in @FAIreland Under-21 squad. https://t.co/IvD4hEvCnt

— Sligo Rovers (@sligorovers) NOVEMBER 6, 2020

RIGHT BACK

Andy Lyons – Bohemians

Normally this position is reserved for Sean Gannon of Dundalk but his lack of playing time in recent weeks and Dundalk’s less than impressive season means he misses out. Instead, Andy Lyons comes in at right back.

The 20-year-old made the right back position his own this season after featuring on a rotation/sporadic basis in season’s past. Impressive going forward but also accomplished defensively, Lyons helped his club to a 2^nd place finish this season. Lyons will only improve in years to come, meaning overseas interest may not be far off for the young right back.

CENTRE BACKS

Joey O’Brien – Shamrock Rovers

The veteran full back turned central defender had a very impressive season as Shamrock Rovers went unbeaten on their way to winning the league title.

Despite having Premier League and international experience, O’Brien is arguably one of the most underrated players in the league. His ball retention as a defender and football IQ is second to none when compared to other defenders in the league.

His experience is vital to this Shamrock Rover’s team. His inclusion in this XI is warranted given his commanding performances this season.

Roberto Lopes – Shamrock Rovers

Joey O’Brien’s defensive partner for Rovers makes up the 2^nd central defensive spot in this XI. The Cape Verdean international produced some immense displays this season on the way to the title. His performance against AC Milan in the Europa League qualifiers showed how capable he is of performing as a high level.

In truth, Shamrock Rover’s other starting central defender, Lee Grace, was unlucky to miss out on the XI. His performances were equally as impressive as the aforementioned centre backs.

LEFT BACK

Tyreke Wilson – Waterford

Wilson had an impressive first season in the League of Ireland. The young left back arrived from Manchester City in January and has made quite the impression since.

Like Andy Lyons, Wilson is a modern day full back in that he can attack and defend with equal efficiency. He scored an incredible free kick earlier in the season as Waterford defeated Bohemians. Waterford will do well to keep hold of him after a fine debut season.

What a fantastic freekick from Orchard boy Tyreke Wilson. Tyreke helped his Waterford FC side to a 2-0 victory over Bohemians as they climb to fourth place in SSE Airtricity League. Keep up the good work Tyreke #COFC#ForTheFuture pic.twitter.com/jAaRz5DVov

— Cherry Orchard FC (@CherryOrchardFC) SEPTEMBER 11, 2020

CENTRE MIDFIELDERS

Aaron McEneff – Shamrock Rovers

The former Spurs trainee has impressed since joining Dundalk from Derry in 2019. He was pivotal in Shamrock Rover’s title challenge as he started the majority of their games.

McEneff is a technical midfielder with a ferocious shot. He displayed his finishing ability on occasion as he ended the campaign with 3 goals to his name.

76: GOAL!

Sligo Rovers 1-2 SHAMROCK ROVERS.

Aaron McEneff sidefoots the ball over Sligo goalkeeper Ed McGinty to give the visitors the lead at the Showgrounds.

It’s LIVE now on eir sport 1! #LOI #SLIvSHA pic.twitter.com/wJCjVAtxeT

— eir Sport (@eirSport) MARCH 7, 2020

Keith Buckley – Bohemians

Keith Buckley featured in all but one of Bohemian’s games all season as they achieved their highest top flight finish in a decade.

The Bohs’ captain produced several impressive performers this season with his combative displays in the centre of the park. Bohemians needed a leader with the retirement of Derek Pender and Buckley more than stepped up to the plate as he lead his young side to an excellent finish.

Gary O’Neill – Shamrock Rovers

It’s an all Rovers/Bohs midfield three as Gary O’Neill takes the final spot.

Like McEneff, O’Neill joined Rovers in 2019 and hasn’t looked back since. The former UCD man scored the winning penalty in last season’s FAI cup final and has only improved since. His performances in the Rovers midfield this season have firmly established him as an important member of the first team squad for years to come.

RIGHT WINGER

Jack Byrne – Shamrock Rovers

Byrne is the first name that springs to mind when you think of a League of Ireland footballer and it’s easy to see why. He joined Shamrock Rovers for the 2019 season and has earned several plaudits since.

The winger/midfielder won Player of the Year for the 2019 season and it looks likely he’ll reclaim his title for 2020. He put in some spectacular performances this season which seen him rack up 9 goals and 4 assists.

Although it would be nice to witness Byrne in the league for another season it doesn’t look likely. Reported interest from Bournemouth, Stoke City and Colorado Rapids could provide a challenge for Rovers to keep him at the club.

The @SSEAirtricityLg at it’s brilliant best.

Jack Byrne #LOI | #GreatestLeagueInTheWorld pic.twitter.com/GzFYaX8wxD

— FAIreland (@FAIreland) FEBRUARY 28, 2020

LEFT WINGER

Danny Grant – Bohemians

Grant is one of the most improved players in the league this season. He had a good 2019 season but stepped up a level this term.

The inverted winger was key to Bohemian’s finishing as high as they did. His 7 goals from the wing were vital in securing a top 2 finish.

Grant is undoubtedly one of the most exciting players in the League of Ireland currently. His breath-taking performances this season have earned him an inclusion in Jim Crawford’s u21 squad. Bohemians could mount a serious title challenge next season if they can hold onto Grant and secure some first team additions.

GOAL | @FinnHarpsFC 0-1 @bfcdublin

24 | Lovely touch inside and Danny Grant makes no mistake

WATCH LIVE | https://t.co/IBZkINEa20#WATCHLOI | 𝗦𝘂𝗽𝗽𝗼𝗿𝘁 𝗬𝗼𝘂𝗿 𝗖𝗹𝘂𝗯 pic.twitter.com/hBonq5XxNE

— SSE Airtricity League (@SSEAirtricityLg) AUGUST 15, 2020

STRIKER

Pat Hoban – Dundalk

Despite Dundalk’s unimpressive league form, Pat Hoban can hold his head up high with his return this season.

The striker has scored goals with regularity since re-joining the Lilywhites. This season, he kept up his goalscoring form as he chipped in with 10 league goals, making him the league’s top goalscorer.

Dundalk lead!

GOAL | @stpatsfc 0-1 @DundalkFC

23′ | Darragh Leahy got in around the back to get on the end of a cross and Hoban tapped home

WATCH LIVE | https://t.co/IBZkINEa20#WATCHLOI | 𝗦𝘂𝗽𝗽𝗼𝗿𝘁 𝗬𝗼𝘂𝗿 𝗖𝗹𝘂𝗯 pic.twitter.com/50QDAaK0eB

— SSE Airtricity League (@SSEAirtricityLg) NOVEMBER 1, 2020

The post The best League of Ireland Premier Division XI of the season appeared first on SportsNewsIreland.

The 2020 Irish Premier Division came to a conclusion last night. Each team played just 18 league games in a season plagued by Covid-19. The season itself was not it’s drama, though. Last night in particular featured several twists and turns as each club aimed to finish their season on a high note. Some clubs rejoiced while others suffered the consequences of defeat. Here’s how it played out.

Finn Harps vs. Waterford

In one of the most decisive fixtures on the day, Finn Harps took on Waterford. Prior to the game, Finn Harps found themselves in the relegation/promotion play-off spot. Waterford also found themselves with a lot on the line. A win for Waterford would have ensured a European spot for the club. Additionally, only a win would suffice – along with other results – if Harps were to move out of that position.

They did just that as they narrowly defeated Waterford by 1-0. A goal from Adam Foley in the 27^th minute proved to be the deciding goal. Harps were very nearly back where they started in the final minute of extra time, though. Waterford found themselves in the opposition box in the dying seconds with a clear sight of goal. They shot at goal, but Dave Webster was there to stop a certain goal as he cleared off the line.

In truth, Harps deserved to avoid a relegation battle, having won 3 of their last 4 games. After the Harps win, it was down to Derry City and Shelbourne to win or draw their games in order to ease their survival hopes.

Waterford can count themselves unlucky not to have made Europe after their season, but the better team won on the night.

THE GREAT ESCAPE!!! WE’VE DONE IT!

WE ARE STAYING UP #UTH pic.twitter.com/5UJFeQaaVp

— Finn Harps FC (@FinnHarpsFC) NOVEMBER 9, 2020

Derry City vs. Cork City

As mentioned previously, Derry City had to at least draw their game to avoid slipping into the play-off spot. Cork City, on the other hand, had nothing to play for other than pride. The Rebels had been condemned to automatic relegation earlier in the season.

Despite the disparity of fortunes on the line for both clubs, Derry City very nearly succumbed to defeat. Cork took the lead through Beineón O’Brien-Whitmarsh’s goal in the 59^th minute to put pressure on the Northern club. A Finn Harps win and a Shelbourne draw would have meant relegation for Derry if the scoreline remained as it was.

James Akintunde was the hero in the end, though. His strike for Derry in the 76^th minute meant Derry almost certainly avoided the play-off. Derry had the best goal difference by far of the 3 clubs fighting for survival so even if Finn Harps won, Derry would likely retain their position in the Irish Premier Division.

The match finished 1-1 as Derry narrowly avoided a relegation battle.

Derry leave Turner’s Cross with a point to finish the league season and avoiding the play-off.

#RAWA28 pic.twitter.com/noEe8jQAHI

— Derry City FC (@derrycityfc) NOVEMBER 9, 2020

Shelbourne vs. Shamrock Rovers

Similar to the Derry vs. Cork fixture, both teams in this fixture were playing for entirely different outcomes. Shamrock Rovers had already been crowned champions, meaning they effectively had nothing to play for – other than their unbeaten run. Shelbourne, on the other hand, had it all to play for. If results in their own game and other fixtures didn’t go their way, they would be dragged into a relegation play-off.

Shamrock Rovers’ showed no sympathy for the relegation battling Shelbourne as they fielded a strong side. Their quality showed in the end as they ran out 2-0 winners. Their win last night meant they finished the league season unbeaten. This is just the 3^rd time this has happened in League of Ireland history, with Rovers also going unbeaten in the other 2.

𝗧𝗛𝗘 𝗜𝗡𝗩𝗜𝗡𝗖𝗜𝗕𝗟𝗘𝗦

Rovers become the first side in 93 years to go an entire season undefeated in the league

We are the only club in League of Ireland history to achieve this

1925 – @ShamrockRovers
1927 – @ShamrockRovers
2020 – @ShamrockRovers pic.twitter.com/xclqYiJYP9

— Shamrock Rovers FC (@ShamrockRovers) NOVEMBER 9, 2020

A wonderful Jack Byrne goal kicked it off in the 22^nd minute as he went on a marauding run up the pitch before smashing into the corner of the net. Jack Byrne has inarguably been the best player in the League of Ireland, despite what the naysayers may claim. His stock has only risen in the past few months and this may be the last time League of Ireland fans get to witness his ability in a Shamrock Rovers shirt in the foreseeable future amid reported overseas interest. The midfielder will also join up with the Republic of Ireland squad ahead of the Wales fixture.

Aaron Greene put the finishing touches on the game as his 57^th minute goal effectively sealed Shelbourne’s relegation play-off spot. Results in the Finn Harps and Derry City games meant Shelbourne were condemned to the play-off spot.

Shelbourne will now face Longford Town on Saturday as they look to stay in the Premier Division for at least another season. It should make for a fascinating contest.

CONFIRMED!@SSEAirtricityLg Promotion/Relegation Final@shelsfc v @LongfordTownFC#Town2020 pic.twitter.com/c3PjsyM3P6

— Longford Town FC (@LongfordTownFC) NOVEMBER 9, 2020

Dundalk vs. Sligo Rovers

After a disappointing domestic season by their standards, Dundalk needed a win to ensure a European spot. Similarly, a Sligo Rovers win would mean a *potential* European spot for the Bit O’ Red.

In a surprise result, Sligo Rovers ran out 2-0 winners. A bizarre goal from Jesse Devers in the 10^th minute opened the scoring as his attempted cross went straight over Gary Roger’s head into the net. Sligo Rovers ensured their victory through a Ronan Coughlan goal in the 95^th minute.

After Waterford’s defeat, Sligo move up to 4^th place. Although currently in a European position (1^st-4^th place), that could change given the winners of the FAI Cup. In order for Sligo to qualify, they must either win the FAI Cup or a team from 1^st to 3^rd must win. Currently, all top 4 teams are still in the cup out of the 6 remaining teams, so it looks good for Sligo as it stands. There is no guarantee of a European spot as for now, though.

Despite Dundalk’s abysmal result, they still finish in 3^rd place after Waterford’s loss to Harps. They will compete in Europa League qualifying next season, but it’s clear that much work is to be done if they intend to claim the league title.

Full-time: Dundalk 0-2 Sligo Rovers

The #bitored come from bottom of the table at the restart to finish fourth after a magnificent victory to round off a brilliant run

The FAI Cup will now decide the outcome of the European place pic.twitter.com/s7tpzjprnI

— Sligo Rovers (@sligorovers) NOVEMBER 9, 2020

Bohemians vs. St Patrick’s Athletic

St Pat’s could have potentially claimed a play-off spot with a win against Bohemians, but even if they did, they would have to rely on other results. Bohs’ on the other hand had nothing to play for as their 2^nd place position was secured earlier in the season.

Bohemian’s have had an incredible season; particularly given the youthfulness of the squads they’ve chosen over the season. They were the youngest team in the Irish Premier Division and 21^st youngest team in Europe’s top flight divisions as they finished the season. They continued to trust in youth last night as they played yet another young team. Brighton bound 16-year-old Evan Ferguson was the focus of attention as he started his first league match of the season.

The teenager nearly made an impression early into the game as a Danny Grant cross found him before he bundled the ball into the net. In a controversial decision, though, the goal was ruled out for handball.

St Pat’s were the first to score an official goal as Jordan Gibson broke the deadlock in the 37^th minute. That didn’t last for long, though. Danny Grant scored the equaliser just before half time for Bohemians. The left winger has been in terrific form this season which has warranted his inclusion in the latest Ireland u21s squad.

Andre Wright, another in form man, secured the win for Bohemians with his penalty in the 63^rd minute. The match finished 2-1 to Bohemians.

Danny Dre
⠀
Another goal added to each of their season tallies last night!
⠀
: @sportsfile pic.twitter.com/R57WT7xQmV

— Bohemian FC (@bfcdublin) November 10, 2020

Here’s how the final league table looks:

FINAL TABLE | Premier Division

Wow. What a night. @FinnHarpsFC survive@sligorovers in potential European spot @ShamrockRovers unbeaten Champions @shelsfc head to the promotion/relegation play-off#LOI | #GreatestLeagueInTheWorld pic.twitter.com/sw9yJdC6vF

— SSE Airtricity League (@SSEAirtricityLg) NOVEMBER 9, 2020

The post Drama filled Irish Premier Division final day recap appeared first on SportsNewsIreland.

The FAI said in a statement, “The player did not train and Waterford FC suspended the training session and the player will now undergo a Covid-19 test,”. They said as a result of a suspected case of Covid 19 the SSE Airtricity League between the two teams has been postponed. The FAI said,” “As a result of this suspected case, the SSE Airtricity League has postponed Tuesday night’s game pending the result of the player’s test”.

The player did not play in Waterford’s last game against Shelbourne, however he did travel with match day squad to the game. The FAI that the FAI medical team “will now review all aspects of this case before making any further decisions.”

Waterford also issued a statement confirming the news. It said, “At 8:45am this morning (Monday, 3 August), a player from our senior team reported to the club doctor with flu-like symptoms and has been sent for testing immediately”. The statement said the results are pending and until they receive these results club training and staff meetings at the club have been stopped. It continued, “Our Covid-19 management team will work in conjunction with the FAI and HSE to ensure that every precaution possible is taken”.

Waterford also confirmed they won’t be travelling to Sligo for the game. In which the statement said, “This may not be a confirmed case and we do not wish to cause any unwanted concern, however, the safety of the players, staff and public are of the utmost importance and for that reason, we will not be traveling to Sligo for our Tuesday fixture”.

The club that they will continue to keep people updated through their social media channels. Waterford restarted the Premier Division with a 1-0 wi over Shelbourne on Saturday last.

The post Sligo and Waterford postponed due to Covid 19 appeared first on SportsNewsIreland.

The former Republic of Ireland international made 34 appearances and played a part in the 1990 and 1994 World Cups. He is not unknown to management. He has managed Oldham, Plymouth, Newport, Notts County, Fleetwood and Carlisle. Sheridan also had two spells at Chesterfield who operate in the National League. His last spell of management at the club ended in January 2020.

Sheridan made over 600 appearances for various sides in England. The majority of them appearances coming for Leeds United and Sheffield Wednesday. The league is set to begin on July 31st.

Speaking to Waterford.fc.ie, Sheridan said he was “under no illusions of the task I hand”. He continued, “Speaking to [chairman] Lee [Power] and others around the club, I am more than aware of what the club means to fans, and those involved”. He said the club will be “looking to hit the ground running” and getting sharp again ahead of the league resumption.

Sheridan stated that him and the chairman have met a couple of times and have set goals and will now look to pushing the players to make sure they achieve these goals. Chairman of the club Lee Power said he was delighted with the appointment. He said, I’ve known John for over 20 years and am delighted that he has agreed to help me and the club out.

Power continued, “To have someone with John’s calibre managing the club is fantastic for the supporters and the city and will also put to bed a number of silly rumours that have surrounded my families commitments and ownership of the club.”

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