FAI Cup Final hero Mark Doyle departs St Patrick's Athletic to join Rhode Island FC

Newly formed USL team, Rhode Island FC announced the signing of Mark Doyle from St. Patrick’s Athletic on Tuesday. 

The former Drogheda forward has departed 2023 FAI Cup winners to take up an opportunity to play abroad. 

Kanno Smith, head coach and general manager of Rhode Island FC when speaking to club media spoke of his excitement of the Dubliner joining ahead of their inaugural campaign.

“Mark is a player with a proven track record of repeated success. He is a very direct player with a habit of scoring goals in key moments which makes Mark an incredible asset to our growing Rhode Island FC roster. It is an honor to welcome him to the team”

Upon signing for Rhode island, Doyle stated he was grateful for the opportunity to sign the American side. 

“I am incredibly excited to join the Rhode Island FC roster, and I am grateful for the opportunity to be a part of the club’s inaugural season. 

I look forward to working alongside my teammates and coaching staff to create a team that is ready to compete from our first game and that Rhode Island FC fans will be proud to cheer on”. 

St. Pats on Doyle’s departure stated in a social media post, "Mark Doyle's time at the club has come to an end as he takes up an opportunity abroad. 

He scored 15 times in 73 appearances during his two years with us. Mark’s last goal as a Saint was the opener in our FAI Cup Final win last Sunday. Thanks for your efforts 'Rick’ & good luck."

Doyle signed for the Saints ahead of 2022 campaign, joining his former Drogheda United manager Tim Clancy in Dublin 8 after a successful period with the Boynesiders. 

The forward in his two years with the Inchicore side made 73 appearances for the club, scoring 15 times, while grabbing 6 assists. 

Doyle’s last goal for the Supersaints came in the 3-1 FAI Cup Final win against Dublin rivals Bohemian’s as St. Pats won their second cup in three seasons.