Mullingar set to host first-ever international match

The Football Association of Ireland has today announced details of the 2009 Under 15 international tournament which will take place in Athlone, Tullamore and for the very first time, Mullingar.

Among the teams competing are Belgium, Lithuania, Russia and the Republic of Ireland who will compete in the four-nations tournament from the February 10-13.

Chairman of Mullingar Athletic, Edward Tynan was delighted with the announcement and he was looking forward to Mullingar hosting its first ever international football match: “Obviously, this is a truly historic occasion for Mullingar Town and Mullingar Athletic.

"To the best of my knowledge, this is the first ever international match in any sport to be held in Mullingar Town and it promises to be a memorable occasion.”

“This year, Mullingar Athletic are celebrating 25 years in existence.

"The club have come such a long way since our inauguration in 1983 and I think this is an ideal way to celebrate our anniversary.

"I have no doubt that this will create great excitement among the local community in Mullingar Town as we mark our anniversary celebrations in style,” added Tynan.

Mullingar Athletic have grown from strength to strength since the club was established in 1983, the club now have a total of six pitches which include four grass and two astro turf pitches with developments underway for a state-of-the-art, full size, all-weather pitch.

Under the stewardship of Chairman, Edward Tynan and Secretary, Liam McGovern, Mullingar Athletic have also become a designated FAI Regional Development Centre for the midlands area where the FAI Emerging Talent Programme develops the best players in the midland areas.

The tournament will kick-off on Tuesday, February 10 in Tullamore where the Republic of Ireland will face Belgium following the meeting of Lithuania and Russia.

Tournament Fixtures

Tuesday February 10 -Tullamore

Lithuania v Russia

Rep of Ireland v Belgium

Wednesday February 11 - Mullingar

Russia v Belgium

Rep of Ireland v Lithuania

Friday February 13 - Athlone, Lissywoolen

Belgium v Lithuania

Rep of Ireland v Russia