Irish football legends from Bohemians and Shamrock Rovers will renew their famous Dublin Derby rivalry this Saturday afternoon in a special charity match to support four-year-old Rayne Judge from Glasnevin.
The game, kicking off at 3 pm at Tolka Rovers FC, will raise vital funds for Rayne’s treatment abroad following her diagnosis with Stage 4 Diffuse Midline Glioma, a rare and aggressive form of brain cancer.
Bohemians’ title-winning manager Roddy Collins and Rovers’ double winner Mick Byrne will take charge of the respective legends’ sides, reviving a rivalry that defined Irish football in the early 2000s.
“This gesture by Bohemians and Shamrock Rovers is very much appreciated,” said Rayne’s father Colm Judge. “The support from the three football clubs, the players, the supporters and the organisers mirrors the incredible response we’ve received from the public since Rayne was first diagnosed just two months ago.”
“Rayne has just finished her first round of radiation treatment and she is fighting this cancer all the way. She still gets up with a smile on her face every day, and this event will do so much to help her keep fighting. We are really looking forward to the day.”
Colm, who played basketball for Tolka Rovers, added that the club’s offer to host the match was “especially meaningful.”
Roddy Collins, returning to the Bohemians dugout for the first time in two decades, will lead a squad featuring Jason Byrne, Gary Deegan, Robbie Doyle, Joseph Ndo, Gavin Peers, Shaun Maher, Danny North, Gareth O’Connor and Mark Rutherford.
“I’ve been waiting to get back in as manager of Bohs for 20 years or more,” smiled Collins. “It’s great to reconnect with the lads, but most importantly, to raise funds and awareness for Rayne’s treatment. When you hear a story like hers, supporting this is a no-brainer.”
Rovers boss Mick Byrne will line up a strong Hoops team, including Gary McCabe, Marc Kenny, Dean Kelly, Pat Sullivan and Trevor Molloy. “It’s going to be a great occasion for a great cause,” he said. “I started my career at Bohs and finished it at Rovers — two great clubs coming together for Rayne makes it extra special.”
How to Support Rayne
Match tickets for the Legends game cost just €10 and are available via revolut.me/shaunicgr
Organisers have asked anyone buying tickets and paying by Revolut to include their full name and the number of tickets required in the payment note. This information will be used for match day admission at the gate.
Image Credit: Sportsfile
Further Reading for Sport for Business members:
Read our Sport for Business Coverage of Sporting Charity
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