Magheraveely will make history this Saturday when they take on Glebe United in Division Two when they will be the first IFA affiliated club to play a home match in the Republic of Ireland.

Magheraveely are now based in Clones at the Peace Link, where they will play all their home games.

Club chairman Phillip Hutchinson explains that there was unique circumstances surrounding their application to play in Clones.

“We made our case to the IFA and we had a broad range of support. Our circumstances would be pretty unique in that we were travelling 20 plus miles to play our home games in Enniskillen as there was no pitch any closer. Then you had facilities like they do in Clones which is only a couple of miles away so it was an option that we as a club to to explore,” he said.

The move to Clones was approved by all concerned and Philip feels that it is a sign of the times that a team from Northern Ireland are able to base themselves in the Republic of Ireland.

“We didn’t actually know that we would be the first IFA affiliated club to play our home games outside the jurisdiction but I suppose it is a sign of the times that we are in and it shows how much things have moved on in society,” he added.

And the chairman says that the club are moving into superb facilities in the border town.

“The facilities are really top notch and are up to a high standard and we’re looking forward to it,” he commented.

Magheraveely had support from across the community for their switch and Philip says they appreciate all the help and backing they received.

“Credit to the IFA, we appreciate it was not an easy decision for them and also credit to all the people who helped us out. Tom Elliott, Arlene Foster and Richie McPhilips all helped us out while we also had backing from the Bishop of Clogher, John McDowell and Clone Parish Priest Fr. Richard Mohan. Obviously we are thankful to the Fermanagh and Western League for their help while we also had letters of support from Fermanagh District Council, Monaghan County Council, John Delaney at the FAI, former IFA chief Jim Boyce, Clones Town FC and Barry McGuigan.” With the new season getting underway on Saturday, Philip is now looking forward to the action starting.

“We’re looking forward to the season starting and I think that it will be a good move for our supporters who now don’t have far to travel to come and support the team,” he said.