St James’ Gate FC proclaim survival with last-ditch plan

FOLLOWING their announcement last week that they were to fold, St James’ Gate FC revealed yesterday that an 11th hour intervention has ensured the club has been saved from the brink of extinction.

Having endured significant financial difficulties in recent years, the Crumlin Road-based outfit who were first established in 1905, had seemingly passed the point of no return.

However, extensive media coverage in the past few days piqued the interest of several parties and club secretary/vice-chairman, Alan Sexton confirmed that James’ Gate will be in a position to participate in the Leinster Senior League for the upcoming 2022/23 season.

“There were maybe three or four offers that seemed to be a good fit, but unfortunately after they reviewed exactly what was required, they realised they wouldn’t be in a position to deal with all of the issues to push forward,” Sexton told The Echo.

“Fortunately on Monday, an interested party contacted me with a plan of action to revive the situation.

“After many positive conversations and meetings over the past couple of days, we are delighted to announce that we will have a team competing in the 22/23 season.

“We look to be on the first steps of a very exciting project, one that will hopefully spark the interest of former members and allow us to add to our playing and off-the-field club members also” he added.