Macron Galway Cup hailed a big success

The 9th annual Macron Galway Cup saw more than 50 teams from six countries play 127 games and compete to be named winner of their category.

The prestigious underage soccer tournament this year welcomed teams from all over Ireland, UK, Finland, Norway, Ukraine and beyond for a thrilling five day event; with names such as the FAI’s Emerging Talent squad, Leeds Utd, Maccabi Haifi and DNIPRO Ukraine, among the teams competing.

The tournament – which showcases the talents of some of the brightest rising stars – has become a major recruiting opportunity for the FAI and other organisations over the past nine years.

More than 1,200 players and coaches were in attendance, with the Inaugural under 19 Macron Cup seeing Limerick FC, Derry City, Salthill Devon and Cork City taking part. Limerick emerged victorious, beating Cork City 3-0 in an evenly contested final.

This year’s 15 Elite section featured Republic of Ireland, Arvoll IL from Norway, Macabbi Haifa, from Israel, Torquay United Academy and St Kevin’s Boys from Dublin. Waterford pipped top english side Leeds United in the 13 Elite event.

Overall victory went to the Republic of Ireland squad, defeating Macabbi in a well contested final, with St Kevin’s capturing the plate final.

For further information and pictures from the event, check out www.GalwayCup.com or search ‘Macron Galway Cup’ on Facebook.