THE DOUBLE - Shelbourne FC MU17's
Completing the double is a rare accomplishment and a testament to the hard work and dedication of the players, coaching staff, and the entire Shelbourne FC MU17 Squad….
The League Title
The Shelbourne MU17 team had an outstanding 2024 season, clinching both the EA Sports LOI MU17 League title and the Mark Farren Cup. With one League game remaining, they are unbeaten throughout the season and winning both titles showcases the skill, teamwork, and consistency throughout the whole squad, marking a remarkable achievement for the club's youth development.
A decisive 6-2 victory over second-placed Cork City in last weekend's penultimate League match secured this year’s League of Ireland Under-17 title with a game to spare.
The title also secures European Football for the young Reds in next seasons UEFA Youth League.
The 2024 Mark Farren Cup
The magic of the League of Ireland MU17 Mark Farren Cup Final is still very much alive, it holds a unique allure; it carries an atmosphere of excitement in the moment and leaves a lingering sense of nostalgic contentment afterward for everyone involved. The exposure it gives teams is of immeasurable value, offering both experience and a solid foundation. This year’s final was no exception, showcasing the remarkable skill and determination from both Kerry FC and Shelbourne FC.
Kerry FC faced a challenging match, trailing by two goals at halftime and eventually conceding four goals against the Dublin club. Late in the game, Luke Palmer scored a consolation goal for the visiting Kerry side.
In the words of Samuel Mansfield's Kerryman Newspaper Match Report; “It was always going to be an uphill task for the u17 Kerry side against a Shels side that are unbeaten this entire calendar year, and that task was made extremely difficult after the Kingdom saw themselves two goals behind after just twenty minutes.” Special praise was reserved for Shelbourne’s young forward; “Dan Ring was the best player on the pitch, contributing a goal and two assists for his side and proved to be a class above the rest on the day.”
The winning goals from Shelbourne FC 4-1 victory over Kerry FC in the 2024 U17 Mark Farren Cup Final…
(Video Credit: Shelbourne FC Instagram Page)
The Squad
The Shelbourne FC squad is heavily weighted toward players who will still be eligible for the U17s next season, which makes their achievement even more impressive.
Here's a very quick ‘Fans View’ of some of the players from the successful MU17's squad (featuring players who have played 7 games or more).
GK: Ali Topcu (08)
Highly rated Irish U17 international goalkeeper - exceptional with both his hands and his feet. Known for his incredible focus, he was a key member of the Shelbourne MNL Senior team squad during their European campaign earlier this year.
GK: Finn Moylan (08)
A young player comparable to Caoimhin Kelleher at Liverpool (who serves as a reliable and talented backup to Alisson.) Like Kelleher, he’s skilled enough to start for most other teams in the league but currently competes within a strong Shels goalkeeping unit across their 17's and 20's where competition must be fierce. Finn has shown the composure, technical ability, and readiness to step up.
Def : Fiachra Coffey (07)
Another of the recent Irish International contingent in 2024, Fiachra embodies the modern full-back role, contributing as much in attack as in defense. His composure and experience have been central to the team’s strong performances.
Def: Paddy Brides (08)
What an impressive debut season for the Cavan native. Arriving late in pre-season, he quickly cemented his role as a key member of the squad. A steadfast central defender with the versatility and technical skill to excel at right-back as well.
Def: Lee Dunne (08)
Despite battling several injuries this season, (partly due to his relentless work ethic), Lee's progress has been remarkable. His crossing ability is every forward’s dream.
Def: Mario Omozee (08)
A crucial part of a resolute backline that prides itself on clean sheets. A quiet leader who lets his performances do his talking. Has featured in International squads this year and deservedly so.
Def: Taylor McCarthy (07)
A Rolls-Royce of a defender, exuding class and composure under pressure. Shows remarkable potential for a stellar career, already featuring with the Shels senior squad this season and earning international recognition.
Def: Alex Carlisle (08)
A versatile center-back who has also proven effective at left-back as well as centrally. His relentless training is evident in the progress he’s made this season.
Def: Raff Dike (08)
A talented center-back with exceptional speed. His development this season has been particularly impressive.
Def: Luca Cailloce (07)
Luca has appeared only sporadically for the 17's, as he has been involved with the under-20 and senior squads, but he has proven to be invaluable when called upon.
Mid: Ray Offor (07)
An exceptionally gifted central midfielder with a well-rounded skill set. He excels defensively, is a hard tackler, dominates in aerial battles, and poses a significant goal-scoring threat - all while maintaining a constant smile on his face. A true leader on the team.
Mid: Alex Flynn (08)
The sky's the limit for this young talent. He has added goal-scoring to his already impressive metronomic passing ability this season. If the midfield is the engine, this lad is the oil that keeps it running…
Mid: James Bailey (07)
A key leader who motivates the team with his strong work ethic and relentless determination. An exceptional link player, he has a knack for leaving opponents in the dust. He consistently scores spectacular goals, showcasing his remarkable talent.
Mid: Tommy Toth (08)
Tommy showcases the best first touch and composure in tight spaces I've witnessed in years. He is a vital part of a talented group of central midfielders.
Mid: Arber Ferizaj (08)
A talented midfielder who combines dominant defensive skills with an impressive attacking drive and an exceptional passing range.
Mid: George Mosneagu (07)
It's unfortunate that the season is ending just as he's returned from a challenging couple of years, mainly sidelined by injury. He's a player of supreme talent, he's set to thrive now that those setbacks are behind him.
Mid: Cillian Ryan (08)
Amidst a team of talented players, Cillian’s performances are hard to miss. He kicked off the season in outstanding form, only getting better with each game. Though he's been on the fringes of the Irish squad this season, he's been unfortunate to miss out on our latest Irish squad… Cillian's skill on the ball is exceptional; he could beat a defender in a phone booth, and he’s a reliable playmaker who consistently finds the net as well.
One of Cillian's spectacular strikes…
Mid: Aaron Keogh (08)
After overcoming a long-term injury, Aaron made a strong return in the second half of the season, consistently contributing and proving to be a regular threat on goal. His dynamic movement and eagerness to stay involved set him apart. I'm sure he’ll be quick to tell you, he’s better than his older brother, a regular in Dundalk's first team.
Mid: Cian Corboy (07)
Like George, Cian is a highly talented player whose season has been significantly impacted by injury. With immense skill and potential, all he needs is a bit of luck to return to full fitness.
Att: Brian Okanume (08)
A dynamic attacking force - a livewire of an attacking threat who can always be relied upon to make an impact when called upon.
Att: Dan Ring (07)
This kid has been phenomenal this year. Not only is he an exceptional goalscorer—capable of scoring truly remarkable goals—he also leads defensively from the center-forward position with a relentless work ethic. It’s no surprise he’s already made his first-team debut in their title chase. I look forward to watching his continued progression.
Att: Max Ferguson (08)
Another of the dynamic, relentless, and aggressive forwards the squad is blessed with. Hardworking and creative, he's a constant challenge for defenders and thrives on scoring and setting up goals when it matters most. He's ending the season in outstanding form!
Finn Sherlock (Hoffenheim)
Honorable mention to the person who started the season as team captain prior to his move to Hoffenheim in the Bundesliga, Finn Sherlock. An inspiration to the academy by demonstrating that talent is nothing without hard work and determination to back it up.
Earlier this year, Finn Sherlock starred in “A Day in the Life of the Shelbourne Academy” Video showcasing their Academy, “built on passion, dedication, and the relentless pursuit of greatness. Where together, they aim to inspire, empower, and shape the footballing stars of tomorrow”…
Completing the double is a rare accomplishment and a testament to the hard work and dedication of the players, coaching staff, and the entire Shelbourne FC Squad….
Here’s to the UEFA Youth League European Football next season!
All photos in this article are by Paul Maguire… Paul will be featuring in next week's Behind the Lens: League of Ireland Unseen Feature…