Rugby returns to the Markets Field next week

CLUB rugby makes a return to Markets Field for the first time in 58 years next week with the historic stadium hosting the clash between Young Munster and a Munster President's Select side in the Sporting Limerick Rugby Charity Night.

It had been envisaged that the Limerick Charity Cup final between holders Young Munster and Garryowen would be the first fixture to be played at the venue, but that will not be the case as agreement could not be reached over the timing of the fixture.

 Instead the Sporting Limerick Rugby Charity Night fixture will go ahead at the Markets Field on Thursday, December 15, at 7.30pm.

The Markets Field has  hosted matches back to the 1880s and welcomed the Dave Gallaher-led All Blacks side which played  Munster on November 28, 1905.

Welcoming the event, North Munster Rugby Chairman Ger Malone said that it was 'timely and fitting" that the game would return to a 'venue so steeped in Munster Rugby history.'

Markets Field owners LEDP (Limerick Enterprise Development Partnership) see the event as being a further step in the recognition of the venue as a multi-sport facility for  Limerick. 

Local charities, including Milford Care Centre, Parkinson's Association, Redemptorist Fathers Christmas Poor Campaign, and Limerick Marine Search and Rescue. 

A charity designated by the family of the late Anthony Foley will also benefit from this special rugby occasion.

Coaches and players clubs for the Munster President's Select will be drawn from a wide circle of Limerick, Clare and Tipperary clubs in a hugely positive drive to raise necessary funds for the charities.