National and International Football

The League of Ireland came into being in 1921 when those clubs in the Republic of Ireland split from the Irish League (administered from Belfast). This being Ireland even the Beautiful Game can get confusing: football in the Republic is administered by the Football Association of Ireland and the League of Ireland … in the North it’s the Irish Football Association and the Irish League. Also, be aware that any mention of 'football' may be confused with Gaelic Football.

Now reach for the headache tablets... the nationwide Eircom League (named after the communications sponsors), runs March-Nov, with the Cup Final in Dec. Many games draw large enthusiastic crowds. There are three Premier League clubs in Dublin:

Bohemians: Dalymount Pk, Phibbsborough, Dublin 7, tel. 868 0923/1034, www.boh.ie. Current Premier League Champions and FAI Cup holders. The oldest team in Ireland,  all-amateur until 1969. Also known as The Gypsies.

Shamrock Rovers: Tolka Pk, Drumcondra, Dublin, tel. 460 5948, www.shamrockrovers.ie. Formed in 1901, The Hoops are the most successful team in the history of Irish football (though not lately). 

St. Patrick's Athletic: Richmond Pk, 125 Emmet Rd, Inchicore, Dublin 8, tel. 454 6332, www.stpatsfc.com. Premier League runners-up. Founded in 1929. Also known as The Saints. Their website has a specially warm welcome for Poles.

While they await the completion of a Lansdowne Road stadium upgrade, the Republic of Ireland's national squad plays home matches at Croke Park. The team's finest hour was when they beat Italy in New York during the 1994 World Cup Finals under esteemed manager Jackie Charlton (veteran of England's 1966 World Cup winning squad and honourary Irishman).

For lots more national and international footy info, contact the Football Association of Ireland: 80 Merrion Square, Dublin 8, tel. 703 7500, www.fai.ie.