Rovers In For A 'Real' Challenge

Tallaght football club, Shamrock Rovers, will be playing what could be their best and worst game of their lives tonight, as they take on one of the world's most expensive teams, Real Madrid in Dublin.

The friendly fixture will be one of the biggest games in the Dublin club's history as they take on a team worth in excess of €500million.

The galaxy of stars preparing to take on the Ireland Premiership team in front of an expected 11,000 spectators includes some of the very best in the world, such as Kaka, Cristiano Ronaldo and Sergio Ramos.

Looking forward to the Monday night match, Rovers manager Michael O'Neill said there was no pressure on the game.

"It’s going to be a great occasion, in Tallaght, for the players, for the club, and everyone concerned," he said.

He added: "The most important thing is that everyone has a good night. Let’s be honest: we’re playing against the most expensive team, that are signing the best players in the world that are currently available. I hope that the players go and enjoy it, have a great experience out of it, and it's a great experience for everyone concerned at the club."

Concerned over the huge numbers expected to attend the game, Superintendent Eamon Dolan speaking at Tallaght Garda Station appealed to fans attending the match to allow plenty of time as many spectators would not be familiar with the grounds and surroundings, advising they should use public transport where possible.

Superintendent Dolan said: "The stadium is well served with public transport. The RED Luas line will be well serviced and there are ten bus routes servicing the Square Shopping Complex all within easy walking distance of Tallaght Stadium. "

Special parking facilities have been available in the square shopping complex, which includes a multistorey carpark, near the ground. There is also additional underground parking at the Marks & Spencers Store and Supervalu Store, which are both adjacent to the Square Shopping Centre. The public are also encouraged to use the Car Park facilities at the Red Cow Luas Terminus and use the Luas to the Stadium. There will be no parking facilities available at the Arena Complex.

Access to the Stadium will be signposted from the M.50 and N.7 routes.

The stadium’s capacity has been increased from 3,000 to almost 11,000 with the provision of temporary seating. The match has been scheduled for an 8pm kick off and all tickets for the game have been sold.

(DW/KMcA)