As we enter Round 8 of the FAI National League, the pressure is on for several clubs to do what they need to do in order to reach the Semi-Finals in November.

With spots open for the three group winners and just one for the best-placed runner-up, teams will be leaving it all out on the pitch in these closing fixtures.

It’s all or nothing now for the fifteen teams, and there’s plenty for spectators to keep an eye on so here are three things to look out for in this week’s FAI National League:

Donegal Derby

It’s the match that the whole of Donegal has been waiting for – the Donegal Derby. Bonagee United will host Cockhill Celtic for the very first time in the FAI National League and it’s sure to heat up Round 8 with more than just points on the table to play for. It hasn’t been the best run for the two teams so far in the competition but they now have a chance to earn their place as top club in Donegal.

A first Semi-Finalist?

There’s no doubt that it’s been an impressive run so far for Home Farm DCU with going unbeaten in their six games so far and just two of those fixtures resulting in a draw. Now it’s time for them to finish off the hard work and achieve their end goal. If they win against Mervue United on Saturday, Home Farm DCU will be in a very strong position to secure a spot in the Semi-Final’s in November. So keep an eye out for how they get on tomorrow and in the coming weeks.

Group 2

One thing that’s kept a tight grip on everyone’s attention so far in the FAI National League is Group 2’s ongoing battle for table position. Mayo currently sit at the top with 9 pts but are closely followed by the remaining four, with just three points separating the top and bottom of the group. This is anyone’s group to take as they don’t show any signs of settling down.

Mayo host Salthill Devon on Saturday at 14:00 while TU Dublin travel to John Hyland Park to face St Francis on Saturday at 15:00. 

Round 8

Saturday, October 16^th

Group 1 | Home Farm DCU v Mervue United | Whitehall Stadium | KO 14:00

Group 1 | Bonagee United v Cockhill Celtic | Dry Arch Park | KO 17:00

Group 2 | Mayo FC v Salthill Devon | Umbro Milebush Park | KO 14:00

Group 2 | St Francis FC v TU Dublin | John Hyland Park | KO 15:00

Group 3 | UCC AFC v Killarney Celtic FC | Mardyke Sports Grounds | KO 14:00

Group 3 | Newbridge Town FC v CK United FC | Station Road | KO 17:00

By Abby Whelan