WNL Season Preview: Castlebar Celtic

Manager: Damon Kearney

Stadium: Celtic Park

Players in: Not available

Players out: Emma Hansberry (Wexford Youths)

Extratime.ie Key player:Catherine Hyndman

The Castlebar full-back has been a key member of her side’s in recent years and with the loss of key players such as Emma Hansberry and Sarah Rowe in the last twelve months, Hyndman will be key to her side’s success this season.

The no nonsense defender, who was recently recalled to the Northern Ireland squad for their behind closed doors clash with Ireland has been described by her peers as being a player who isn’t afraid to put her body in the way to make a challenge. The defender's ability to break forward and get deliveries into the box has also shown that she is a capable footballer at both ends of the pitch.

Extratime.ie One to watch: Jessica Nolan

The Ireland under 19 star who also represented Ireland at the recent Under 17 European Championships will be aiming to make an impression on the Women’s National League when she lines out for Castlebar Celtic.

The midfielder who can also play in defence has shown on international duty that she has great ability, with her pace and her close control of possession being two of her key aspects - If she can get a run of games with Castlebar it will be interesting to see how her impact will result on Celtic’s results.

How they did last season:

League: Fifth place

Women’s FAI Cup: Semi-final

League Cup: Quarter-final

What to expect this season:

Last season saw Castlebar finish fifth in the Women’s National League table and during the summer it was announced that manager Adrian Carberry was to leave the club. With the appointment of Damon Kearney, the Mayo club will be looking to improve upon their five league victories.

Despite the loss of key players in recent seasons, Celtic will be looking to build on the foundations set by Carberry and if they can gather some early points and build up momentum they could challenge for a top five finish.

First game: Shelbourne Ladies (H) 10/10/15