Liverpool legends coming to Durrus

BY GER McCARTHY

WEST Cork League club Durrus FC are hosting a fundraiser in the Westlodge Hotel where Ronnie Whelan and Ray Houghton will be guests of honour.

The former Republic of Ireland and Liverpool stars are returning to West Cork having previously played for a Republic of Ireland XI against the West Cork Masters League in Dunmanway back in July 2014. Whelan and Houghton also lined out for a Liverpool selection against Drinagh Rangers twelve months later.

A questions and answers session with the former Irish internationals is scheduled for Tuesday, September 26th, at 8.30pm in the Westlodge Hotel, Bantry. 

Chief organiser and Durrus FC stalwart Tadhg O’Sullivan is hoping for a big turnout and an opportunity to raise funds for the rural West Cork League club.

‘The main reason behind getting Ronnie Whelan and Ray Houghton over here is to raise the profile of Durrus FC as well as raising some much-needed funds for the club,’ O’Sullivan commented. 

‘We are a small west Cork club that has just been promoted from the second to the first division and constantly reliant on small fundraisers to get us from September to May each year. So, we just thought this year, when this opportunity arose that we would take it on. Even though there is a bit work in it and a lot of effort involved in organising the event, the bigger picture is that it should put us in a better position for next season.

‘I got a phone call confirming Ronnie and Ray were available for that particular week in September and asking if we wanted to do something. I didn’t hesitate at the opportunity to help raise the club’s and West Cork League football’s profile. 

‘There is a big Liverpool following all over Cork and Kerry too, so for many it will be only be a case of making the hour-long trip to Bantry for the chance to meet Ronnie and Ray. 

The Westlodge is well capable of catering for anyone wishing to make a night of it and stay over.’

Football fans of all ages will enjoy a golden opportunity to meet and listen to two of the finest footballers this country has ever produced along with hearing some of their behind the scenes stories from their time at Anfield. 

• Tickets available to purchase from the Westlodge Hotel (027-50360), from any Durrus FC club member or Tadhg O’Sullivan (086-1774628). See the Durrus Castle FC Facebook page for further details.