Hoops home at Tolka

SHAMROCK Rovers will play their home games at Tolka Park next season.

The news was confirmed by Shelbourne FC yesterday and means that Rovers’ original plan to base themselves in Morton Stadium, Santry has been scrapped.

The decision makes financial sense for Shels, who otherwise would have been facing into a season lacking the gate receipts accruing from the traditionally popular derby fixtures between the two Dublin clubs.

And for relegated Rovers, the location closer to the city centre means they can maximise their own attendances as they attempt to keep up the club’s profile during their first year in the First Division.

Rovers are still hopeful that they will be able to complete their league campaign at their new home in Tallaght.

Meanwhile, United Park in Drogheda is set to play host to international football, with the Republic of Ireland’s U21 team taking on Sweden there in a friendly on February 28 (7.30).

Elsewhere, it was confirmed yesterday that Cork City midfielder Colin O’Brien has signed a new one-year contract with the club.

City boss Damien Richardson said: “Colin was essential to what we achieved this year and I am delighted he has agreed to put pen to paper on a new deal.”

O’Brien is the longest-serving player at Cork City and next year will be his 13th at the club.