Farrelly, Palmer a boost to league

THE developing profile of the Eircom League was accentuated yesterday when two former internationals, Gareth Farrelly of Ireland and Carlton Palmer of England were introduced by Bohemians and Dublin City.

Farrelly, who was capped six times by the Republic between 1996 and 2000, will wait for another couple of weeks before he assumes control of Bohemians where he was recently appointed player/manager.

Gary Howlett, another former Irish international, will continue to act as caretaker-manager when Bohs play Shamrock Rovers tonight in the League and Longford Town on Monday in the final of the League Cup.

Bohs are seriously in need of a lift and their loss to Kildare County on Monday in the FAI Cup replay served to highlight just how far they have fallen this season. Strange to think the current group of players won the double two seasons ago.

The introduction of Carlton Palmer at centre-back for Dublin City can hardly be regarded as a progressive step - he won the last of his 15 caps in 1993. He played in the European Championship finals but was only ever capped by Graham Taylor.

Manager Roddy Collins is obviously struggling for a short-term boost to a team that looks bound for the First division. Their performance against Cork City last week-end was an encouragement, however, and the point they gained was invaluable.

Dublin City travel to play Drogheda United tonight with Drogheda knowing a win will see them overhaul Shelbourne and go top of the table.

Waterford United travel to St Pat’s and manager Alan Reynolds will have Mark Clifford and Dave Mulcahy back after injury and Ken Coleman also available. Waterford have also signed Dublin City defender Ben Whelehan.

St Pats manager John McDonnelly has signed Brendan Markey from Monaghan United and Robbie Doyle from Bohemians.

Limerick GAA star Stephen Kelly is toying with the idea of playing in the League and Cork manager, Pat Dolan, is helping him reach a decision.

“The issue is whether he wants to commit to professional football. He has a successful Gaelic career and I am suggesting he plays with us for the rest of the season and then decides if he wants to give the commitment.”

City, who will not play again until September 10, have decided to loan Willie Byrne and Brendan Sweeney to Cobh Ramblers and Michael Mulconry to Avondale United.