Season Review 2016 - Limerick

Manager: Martin Russell.

Top Scorer: John O’Flynn and Chris Mulhall (12).

Highest Attendance: 1,590 vs. Cobh Ramblers (March 19^th).

Lowest Attendance: 847 vs. UCD (July 2^nd).

Star Player: Chris Mulhall. Mulhall has truly re-invented himself since arriving at Limerick. The ex-UCD man looks fitter than ever before and has been licensed to drift into central areas by Blues boss Martin Russell, allowing him to contribute a hefty 12 goals as Limerick ran away with the First Division title in 2016.

Best Young Player: Paudie O’Connor. At the tender age of 19, Paudie O’Connor has contributed to the positive way Limerick have played football this past season while also looking solid when placed alongside the experienced figure of Robbie Williams. It’s a testament to O’Connor that Limerick conceded the fewest goals (26) in the First Division in 2016.

Best New Signing: Stephen Kenny. Kenny has proved a real addition to Martin Russell since arriving from Cobh Ramblers last January. Kenny found the net four times during the 2016 First Division campaign, but his countless assists and willingness to work easily justified his manager’s decision to bring him to Markets Field.

What we expected they would do: At the beginning of 2016, few people would’ve bet against Limerick with their budget and ability to offer the attraction of full time football. In fact, when we asked our reporter for their predictions at the beginning of the season, 21 out of 30 reporters backed Limerick to win the title.

What they actually did: Not only did the Munster side go and win the title, but they did it with a final gap of 23 points from Drogheda United, who eventually finished second. 2016 also saw the Blues reach the EA Sports Cup Final, only to lose out 4-1 to St Patrick’s Athletic at the Markets Field.

What they need to improve on for next year: There’s no doubt that there’s a sizeable gap in quality between the Premier and First Division. However, if Limerick can go into 2017 with the correct attitude, having added depth to an already strong squad, there’s no reason why they can’t compete at the top end of the Premier Division table next season.

#GreatestLeagueInTheWorld moment of season: Limerick fans stortmed the pitch at the UCD Bowl when their team was confirmed as First Division champions in August. The joy on their fans’ faces certainly made it their moment of the season anyway.