Raheny stars aim for more Champions League glory

RAHENY United’s ladies’ team will be looking to create more history when they take part in the knockout stages of the Champions League following more exploits in Europe last week.

The Pride of the Northside followed up group victories in the qualifying tournament against Olimpia Cluj Napoca of Romania (2-1) and third-placed FC NSA Sofia of Bulgaria (2-0), with a third victory last Thursday against Hibernians of Malta (2-1) with goals from Catherine Cronin and Claire Shine.

This was the first time an Irish team has won a qualifying group in the Champions League and is a marvellous achievement for Raheny United and ladies’ soccer in Ireland.

Casey McQuillan’s hugely talented team can now look forward with anticipation to being one of the 32 teams going into the draw for the knock out stages which takes place this Friday, August 22.

The next round of the competition will be played on October 8 and 9; and 15 and 16, with the final scheduled to take place in Berlin on May 14, 2015. Possible opponents for the home and away ties include Liverpool FC, Paris Saint-Germain, FFC Frankfurt, Olympique Lyonnais and current holders Vfl Wolfsburg.

A delighted Raheny United manager Casey McQuillan said the work has just begun for his team.

“We will go home, enjoy the achievement and look forward to the draw for the knockout stages,

? he said.

“I am extremely proud of what we have achieved for Raheny United and ladies’ soccer in Ireland.

?

Family members, friends and supporters as well as a contingent of club members greeted the team when they returned home last Friday.

Reform Alliance TD for Dublin Bay North, Terence Flanagan, congratulated Raheny United on their Champions League progress.

“Congratulations to Raheny United for their success so far in the Champions League,

? he said.

“I look forward to supporting the team further in the competition.

?

For up to date information you can follow on twitter @rahenyunited – Raheny Utd on Facebook or on the website www.rahenyunited.ie