Ireland stars O'Gorman and Duggan call time on football careers

Aine O'Gorman, left, and Karen Duggan of Peamount United celebrate a goal in 2022. Photo by Seb Daly/Sportsfile

Two Republic of Ireland stalwarts, with more than 150 caps between them, will play their last games of football in Saturday's final round of matches in the SSE Airtricity Women's Premier Division.

Áine O'Gorman, 36, and Karen Duggan, 34, played together with Peamount United, though O'Gorman left for Shamrock Rovers three years ago, having won two league titles and two FAI Cups with Peas. Duggan has lifted four titles and one FAI Cup.

The news follows confirmation that another long-serving star, Wexford captain Kylie Murphy, will end her stellar club career against Cork City on Saturday.

Internationally, Wicklow woman O'Gorman has represented Ireland 119 times over 18 years, crowning her Ireland career by making the squad for the 2023 World Cup in Australia and New Zealand. While mainly playing in defence for her country, as an attacker she racked up more than 200 goals in her LOI career.

Stylish midfielder Duggan, from Kilkenny, has played 35 times for Ireland, retiring from international football in 2018. 

She will make her final club appearance against Bohemians on Saturday, with Peamount saying: “Captain, Leader, Legend. After an outstanding career, Karen Duggan has decided she will be retiring from football after tomorrow’s match.

“A natural leader, a tireless midfielder, and an inspiration to so many, her impact goes far beyond the game. With countless appearances, trophies and unforgettable moments, Karen’s legacy is etched into the history of Peamount United and Irish football. Thank you, Captain Karen.”

Ahead of O'Gorman's last game for Rovers against Shelbourne at Tolka Park, the club said: “All at Shamrock Rovers FC are thankful for the three seasons that Áine has given the club and wish Áine all the very best in her future endeavours.”

Meanwhile, Treaty United have appointed Laurie Ryan as their new senior manager for next season. The 31-year-old captained Athlone Town to the 2023 FAI Cup and League of Ireland title in 2024.