2023 LOIW Season Preview: Sligo Rovers

Sligo Rovers celebrate during a match against Athlone Town on Satuday, 27 October 2022.

Sligo Rovers celebrate during a match against Athlone Town on Satuday, 27 October 2022. Credit: Gerry Shanahan (ETPhotos)

Manager: Steve Feeney

Stadium: The Showgrounds

Players In: Bonnie McKiernan (Athlone Town), Jodie Loughrey (Donegal), Keri Loughrey (Donegal), Casey Howe (Glentoran).

Players Out:  Caoimhe Brennan, Kristen Sample, Farragh McDonagh, Yasmin Connolly, Gemma McGuinness (Galway United), Paula McGrory

Extratime.com Key Player: Emma Doherty

Doherty was one of the breakout stars during last season’s campaign, Sligo Rovers’ first.

The striker had, up to last year, only played up to under 17 level in the Women’s National League for Donegal before being signed by Steve Feeney ahead of the 2022 season.

The Republic of Ireland international adapted to the league in no time at all and wound up scoring 11 goals throughout the season in 25 league appearances.

With that being Doherty’s first season – what will she be capable of in 2023?

Extratime.com One to Watch: Casey Howe



To add to their attacking ranks, Norther Ireland international Casey Howe has committed to Sligo for the 2023 season.

Even at just 20 years of age she has quite a bit of experience under her belt from her time in the Northern Irish League having previously played for Linfield and Glentoran.

During her time in Northern Ireland’s Women’s Premiership she scored 32 times across 40 appearances and already being a senior international, she is sure to bolster Feeney’s ranks this season.

What to expect this season:

Rovers made a great account of themselves during their first season in the Women’s Premier Division last year.

They may have finished eighth, but with 20 points and some impressive results (like their 3-2 win over Shelbourne) – they have been an excellent addition to the league.



Feeney has managed to keep most of last year’s squad together and continuity is a great way to build on a project, the addition of Casey Howe in particular could prove significant for the Bit O’Red too.

That being said the loss of Gemma McGuinness to Galway United could be key, and it remains to be seen how much improvement Sligo will see in their defensive capabilities.

Last season they conceded 66 goals, almost twice as many as Bohemians who finished just above them in seventh, that was something that held them back greatly.

Expect them to be a competitive side once again, they will take points off some of the bigger teams and definitely don’t be surprised if they finish higher than last season.

First Game:

Sligo Rovers -v- Shamrock Rovers, March 4th, Showgrounds (kick-off 5pm)

About Paul Corcoran

Paul Corcoran is an experienced writer and journalist and has contributed to various publications including the Galway United match programme Maroon View. He spends much of his time covering the fortunes of Galway United's teams … View Full Profile