WPD Preview: Peamount United vs City

Cork City FC Women kick off their 2025 SSE Airtricity Women’s Premier Division campaign tomorrow afternoon, as they make the trip to Dublin to take on Peamount United at PRL Park.

On our last visit to PRL Park, City took the points thanks to Freya DeMange’s goal from the halfway line.

There will be new faces in both dugouts, as Frank Kelleher takes charge of City for the first time in the league since 2018, while Emma Donohue leads Peamount United, following James O’Callaghan’s departure after eight years in charge.

There will be some new and familiar faces on the pitch, as Kelleher has made a number of additions to his squad ahead of the start of the season. Eva Loftus and Cathranne Fitzgerald have joined the club, while former players Fiana Bradley, Ciara Fitzpatrick and All-Ireland winner Lauren Homan have all returned to City!

Speaking to City Edition’s Eugene O’Regan, Frank Kelleher spoke of his excitement at being back, and also looked ahead at the first fixture: “It's fantastic to be back. When you're offered, with any football club, a senior position, be it in the women's or the men's game, it's hard to turn down.”

“I think the key is that Peamount is under new management. And so are six other clubs within the Women's National League. So some of the detail you would have been able to do before, the analysis of previous seasons if you like, becomes null and void because of the new manager.”

“We are going in a little bit blind, but this is about managing it in game. I'm really looking forward to seeing what Peamount have and what we have and to match that up in the game and in the moment to see can we exploit their weaknesses a little bit.”

Frank has confirmed that Ciara McNamara, the captain in Frank’s previous spell, will again wear the armband this season. The defender, who last season made her 200th appearance for City, was proud to become Club captain again:

“I was delighted when Frank asked me to captain the team this season. It's an absolute honour to lead this team, and it’s something I will never take for granted.”

On our last visit to PRL Park, City took the points thanks to Freya DeMange’s goal from the halfway line.

Saturday’s lash will be officiated by Claire Purcell, with Niall McLoughlin and Dylan Redmond as her assistants. Chris Campbell is the fourth official.

Make sure to follow the official Cork City FC Women Instagram, X (Twitter) and Facebook accounts for matchday content and live game updates!      

How can I watch?

The game will be streamed live on the official League of Ireland streaming platform, LOITV!