Shamrock Rovers’ Gary O'Neill and Ronan Finn celebrate winning with the trophy(Image: INPHO/Ryan Byrne)

League of Ireland trophy decision made as old favourite makes a comeback

by · Irish Mirror

Shelbourne and Shamrock Rovers will get their hands on two very different pieces of silverware on Friday night - depending on who wins the Premier Division.

Damien Duff’s Reds are in action in the Ryan McBride Brandywell against Derry City knowing a win would guarantee them top spot, which they have held onto for most of the campaign.

Meanwhile, Stephen Bradley’s Rovers need Shels to slip up and then win against Waterford, as they are currently two points behind, but with a better goal-difference.

READ MORE: 'It's all his fault,' says Damien Duff as he lifts lid on relationship with Shamrock Rovers manager

READ MORE: Damien Duff details his efforts to bring Ireland legend Wes Hoolahan back to Shelbourne

Given that the two games are being played so far apart, the FAI had explored several options to ensure the winners would get their hands on the trophy, including chartering a helicopter.

In the end, it was decided to commission a replica, which would be sent to Tallaght, with the real version at the Brandywell with the current table-toppers.

Owen Heary lifts the old Premier Division trophy in 2006

Although the replica was completed earlier this week, a decision was made on Friday to use the original Premier Division trophy, last won by Shels in 2006, along with the current design.

Sign up for our League of Ireland news service on Whats App

Click this link or scan the QR code to receive the latest League of Ireland news and top stories from the Irish Mirror. If you don’t like our community, you can check out any time you like. If you’re curious, you can read our Privacy Notice.

So if Shamrock Rovers take the honours tonight and secure a never-done-before five-in-a-row, they will lift the old trophy, with Mick Byrne and Pat Byrne presenting it to Roberto Lopes and Lee Grace, who have shared captaincy duties this year.

If Shels emerge victorious, skipper Mark Coyle will lift the same trophy that Rovers have lifted for the last four seasons.

Get the latest sports headlines straight to your inbox by signing up for free email alerts