Pike Rovers’ rise a success for Southill community

The moment that 11 Pike Rovers players emerge onto the Aviva Stadium turf this afternoon will mark a first in the careers of each and every one of them.

However, the community from their Southill base in Limerick will be in the stands in force to remind the Aviva debutants of the local ties that are the beating heart of this club.

Up in the stands club president Eddie O’Donovan Snr will watch his three grandsons, Wayne and Eddie O’Donovan and Shane Walsh, head out onto the field accompanied by his great-grandchild, who will be one of the flag-bearers.