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Dublin Live
Dublin Live
Sport
Emma Nevin

'Sad day for Irish football' as iconic Dublin club folds after 120 years

St James Gate FC has announced that they are shutting their doors after 120 years due to "many circumstances".

The Dublin 12 based club has a rich history in Irish football and were the first ever winners of both the League of Ireland and the FAI Cup. They were established in 1902 for the St James's Gate Brewery workers, the home of Guinness.

In a statement released on Tuesday evening, the club said they had "heavy hearts" but "unfortunately the day has come where we have no choice but to close the doors on 120 years of history."

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They continued: "Many circumstances had led to our decision, but effective immediately St. James Gate FC will not be submitting a team for the upcoming Leinster Senior League season and will no longer be competing moving forward.

"The club has enjoyed many successes over the years including becoming the first winners of the League or Ireland and FAI Cups meaning our name will forever be etched in Irish Footballs History books.

"Thank you to all of our sponsors over the years and everyone who has bought any tickets for any of our previous fundraising efforts, it is greatly appreciated."

Many supporters expressed their sadness at the club's closure, saying it will be a "massive loss for the Dublin 12 community".

One wrote on social media: "Very sad day. St. James Gate is a great club with a massive tradition and will be a huge loss to the Dublin 12 and wider football community. A lot of great players graced the Iveagh Grounds over the years for St. James Gate such as Irish and Manchester United legend, Jackie Carey."

Another said: "This is a very sad day in the history of Irish Football. A pivotal role in developing football in the early days of the Free State which the sport in Ireland should be forever grateful."

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