Lauren Keane was the star on opening weekend of the Women’s National League

www.limerickleader.ie

By Gerard Mulreaney (@gerardmulreaney

Limerick FC ladies started off life in the Continental Tyres Women’s National League with a superb 4-0 win over Kilkenny United at the Markets Field is n Sunday afternoon in front of a big crowd. 

The undoubted star of the show was debutant Lauren Keane (pictured above scoring), who scored twice, and she was also a deserving winner of our ‘Player of the Week.’

I caught up with Lauren after the game. 

How does it feel to score twice on your debut?
“Absolutely delighted with the result. I’m still on such a high right now. It was a big game for me, my first time ever playing in the Women’s National League.”

Keane continued, “Absolutely ecstatic to get two goals, I couldn't have asked for a better start to my national league debut. I wouldn't mind keeping that up week in, week out, but we’ll see I guess. The main thing is we got our 3 points and we will get ourselves prepared for the next match.”

The 20 year-old midfielder joined Limerick this season from Lifford Ladies. Keane had been with the club since she was 9 years-old, so it was a huge move for her to leave, but one she grasped with both hands. She said, “Lifford has played huge part of the player I am today.”

Limerick’s Assistant Manager Irene Hehir was her coach at Lifford Ladies in Ennis, so at least she has a coach who fully believes in her and her abilities. Hehir said, “Lauren was a member of the CSSL ETP squad for 4 years and from there managed to get trials with the U17 Irish squad, just missing the last cut. She played with Lifford seniors for the last 4 seasons, being an integral part of the squad. She is a managers dream to deal with, she has great enthusiasm and just loves the game. She has a brilliant attitude and natural ability, not realising sometimes how good she can be. Sunday was a big day for Lauren and she managed to keep the nerves and excitement at bay. Her early goal helped to settle the team and herself no doubt. She is a popular girl with all her team mates.”

Keane knows how important it was to get off to a good start. There will be some tough days throughout the season but beginning with a win at home in front of your own fans is a great way to start. She said, “We have so much talent in our squad here in limerick. Starting for Limerick on Sunday was a privilege for myself, and for everyone who lined out beside me. It was a huge game for us and it was a great result.”

“We couldn't have gotten a better start in the Women’s National League. We left everything out on the pitch, I know we can push on from this and keep improving.”

Photo Credit: Dermot Lynch (Limerick Leader)







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