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Finn Harps F.C.
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Finn Harps Football Club is an Irish football club that play in the First Division of the League of Ireland, as of 2023. The club was founded in 1954 and elected to the league in 1969. They hail from Ballybofey, County Donegal and play their home matches at Finn Park in Ballybofey.[1] The club's colours are blue and white, and they go by the nickname Harps. The main successes of the club include winning an FAI Cup in 1973–74 and the First Division title in 2004. They also contested the 1999 FAI Cup Final, a second replay of which ended in a narrow defeat, the first replay having been lost to a draw with 30 seconds left to play.
Key Information
Finn Harps share a local rivalry with Derry City with whom they contest the Northwest Derby.
History
[edit]Early years
[edit]Finn Harps was formed in 1954 as a junior club.[2] The club's name derives from the river that runs through Ballybofey – the River Finn – and a traditional Irish symbol – the harp. They first came to national prominence by winning the 1968 FAI Junior Cup. This enabled them to compete in the 1969 FAI Intermediate Cup. After they were knocked out of that competition, club directors Fran Fields and Patsy McGowan decided to apply to the League of Ireland for membership. The club was admitted into the senior ranks in May 1969 and played their first senior game against Shamrock Rovers on 17 August 1969. They lost the game 10–2. After initial worries that the club were not of sufficient standard, the club became a considerable force during the 1970s.[3]
1970s: A decade of dominance
[edit]
Finn Harps won their first senior trophy, the Dublin City Cup, in 1971–72, after a goal from club legend and all-time League of Ireland record goalscorer Brendan Bradley defeated Cork Hibernians at Dalymount Park. This was significant as before others had dismissed the idea of Finn Harps in the league. Two years later, Dalymount Park was again the scene as the club secured its first and only FAI Cup win. Two goals from Brendan Bradley and one from Charlie Ferry saw off the challenge of St Patrick's Athletic. Finn Harps qualified for European competitions on four occasions during the 1970s. They appeared in the UEFA Cup three times against Aberdeen, Derby County and Everton respectively, after finishing as runners-up in the league. They appeared once in the European Cup Winners Cup, playing Turkish Cup winners Bursaspor. The club was again runner-up in the League of Ireland Cup finals of 1974 and 1975 to Waterford and Bohemians respectively. Through the 1970s, the club never once finished in the bottom half of the table and were widely respected for their attractive and attacking football style.[4] The 1974 final was the first to be broadcast in colour.
Slow decline
[edit]The 1980s saw a gradual decline of the club when it came to competing against the best in Ireland.[4] An FAI Cup semi-final in 1981 and a League of Ireland First Division Shield final defeat by EMFA were the highlights of the decade for them and by 1985 the club had been relegated to the newly formed First Division. A series of managerial changes occurred over the following few years in an attempt to raise the club's status, but signs of improvement did not appear until the early 1990s.[4] Patsy McGowan took over as manager for the third time at the start of the 1992–93 season. The next three seasons saw the club finish in the play-off position twice, though they were beaten both times (once by Cobh Ramblers and once by Athlone Town). The club let McGowan go before his aim of promotion could be completed. Following this the club's fortunes improved.
Nevertheless, Finn Harps won promotion at the end of the 1995–96 season, thus bringing an end to end their 11-season spell in the First Division. During the summer of 1996, a consortium of businessmen offered to take control of the club, but - when their offer was rejected - the manager and certain members of the club committee resigned. The club appointed Charlie McGeever as manager and, despite time being against him, he managed to assemble a squad for the opening of the 1996–97 season. By the season's conclusion, he had ensured that the club's Premier Division status was retained. Off the field, the remaining committee members set the club up as a co-operative society, selling shares to the ordinary supporters, to ensure that the club would be owned and run by the people whom they felt would truly care about it. A long-term blueprint for the future was put in place.[5]
In 1998–99, Finn Harps finished fourth in the Premier Division; one point behind Shelbourne in third position and just missed out on Europe. They made it to the 1999 FAI Cup Final but lost to Bray Wanderers after a number of replays, leaving themselves with nothing to show (bar the Irish News Cup) for what is considered to be one of their most impressive seasons.[4] After a very poor start to the 1999–00 season, and with the team having won one point from a possible 21, McGeever resigned as manager. The club appointed Gavin Dykes as manager and, though he managed to retain the club's Premier Division status, they were forced to go public company due to financial difficulties and debts amounting to £280,000. The following season, and after an abysmal run of results, Dykes resigned. Fan-favourite Jonathan Speak took his place as new financial structures were put into place and a newly appointed fund-raising committee established along with numerous supporter clubs around the country. However, after a run of 14 games undefeated and a late-season fightback, Finn Harps were ultimately relegated to the First Division on the last day of the season. This ended a five-year run in the top flight.[4]
Speak's first full season in charge saw the club finish second to Drogheda United in the First Division, thus securing them a play-off place for promotion. Longford Town beat them on penalties. The following season saw the club finish third and lose at the play-off semi-final stage to Galway United. Speak managed to hold most of the squad together, despite their top-scorer Kevin McHugh (who formed a successful forward partnership with English striker Damien Whitehead) attracting the interest of several Premier Division clubs. Considered bookmaker's favourites to lift the 2003 title and win promotion, Finn Harps began well but fell to fourth position after having gone without a win for a month by mid-September. This poor run included a home-loss to the neighbouring northwest club Sligo Rovers and a home-draw against league leaders Dublin City, the latter game billed as a must-win match.[4] Despite losing only two games for the entire season, the nine draws cost Speak his job. Speak's assistant, Sean McGowan, took temporary charge until a suitable placement was found and steadied the club with two wins from two. Approaching the final third of the season, the club appointed Noel King as manager. They were rejuvenated and stormed back to the top of the First Division table with a club record-equalling six wins on the trot.[4] With only four games remaining, Finn Harps led the table by a point but losses away to Bray Wanderers and Dublin City handed the title to Dublin City and left Finn Harps in the now-dreaded playoffs once again. They disposed of Bray Wanderers in the semi-finals but lost in the final to local rivals Derry City, who had finished ninth in that season's Premier Division.[4]
Noel King lasted six games into the 2004 season before leaving the club by mutual consent, with the amount of travelling the Dubliner had to endure being cited as one of the main reasons for his departure.[4] Sean McGowan, his assistant, once again took charge for two games but within ten days the club announced a shock replacement. Felix Healy, the former Derry City player and manager who had won all domestic major honours with his home-town club, would be the new manager. Fans viewed this as a bold move by the Finn Harps board of directors, considering Healy's history with the club's fiercest rivals.[4] However, Healy - in the club's golden jubilee year - won the club's first First Division title and achieved the promotion to the Premier Division that had eluded so many managers before him. However, the following season saw the club struggle in the Premier Division and Harps sacked Healy in July. Anthony Gorman agreed to become player-manager until the end of the season. However, at the season's end and with Finn Harps relegated again, Gorman agreed to take the position on a full-time basis only to leave following the 2006 season as his efforts to lead the club to promotion failed. In 2007, after Paul Hegarty took charge of managing the team,[6] financial difficulties that had nearly bankrupted the club some seasons earlier became more prevalent so the club - struggling in the lower half of the First Division - put all players on sale.[4] The 2007 season started sluggishly with a number of defeats and "bore draws" (notably against Monaghan United), but a lengthy unbeaten run left the club in second place in the league, only one point behind Cobh Ramblers. They emerged as victors over Dundalk from the first round of the First Division play-off, with a 2–0 win. The first leg of the final play-off round against Waterford United ended at Finn Park with Harps taking a 3–0 advantage to the Waterford RSC ahead of the return leg, which ended 3–3. Thus, Harps secured promoted to the Premier Division 6–3 on aggregate.
In 2008, Harps began the conversion from a semi-professional, part-time club to a full-time setup over the off-season, with 16 full-time players on the books as of the opening day of the season. The conversion succeeded but relegation beckoned once again for the club, this time on the final day. Though they won their game, Galway United's win sealed the fate of Harps. In 2009, Finn Harps played in the FAI First Division, on a semi-professional basis once again. On 11 May 2009, Paul Hegarty left the club, citing "personal reasons". James Gallagher replaced Hegarty as manager. On 3 May 2011, Peter Hutton took over as manager, while former Northern Ireland international and fellow former Derry City player Felix Healy also arrived to take the role of club director of football. Following the final home game of the 2013 season (a 3–2 win against champions Athlone Town), Hutton announced his resignation as manager.[7]
Rejuvenation and the 'Ollie Years'
[edit]On 25 November 2013, the club named Galway native and former Fanad United manager Ollie Horgan as manager for the 2014 season.[8]
In his first season in charge, Horgan led the club to an FAI Cup semi final for the first time in 15 years, before being beaten by Premier Division side St. Patrick's Athletic in Richmond Park. The 2015 season concluded with Finn Harps securing promotion to the League of Ireland Premier Division by beating Limerick 2–1 on aggregate in a famous relegation/promotion playoff, the second leg of which occurred on 6 November 2015.[9] Against all the odds, Horgan managed to keep Finn Harps in the Premier Division in 2016, however, in their second season back in the top flight they were relegated once again. They spent 2018 in the First Division, achieving immediate promotion - again at the expense of Limerick in the relegation/promotion play-off, though this time on a 3-0 aggregate score.
2019 saw another relegation battle, as Harps defeated Drogheda United in the relegation play-off game in Finn Park to retain their Premier Division status for 2020.
2019-20 marks Harps's fiftieth season in the League of Ireland.[10]
In a COVID-19 disrupted 2020 season, Harps again managed to avoid the drop, with a last day of the season win against Waterford F.C. securing their place in the Premier Division again under Horgan, in what was his seventh season in charge of Harps.
The 2021 season got off to a good start with Adam Foley securing a win over Bohemians. May 2021 would see Finn Harps get their first ever away success over Derry City at league level.[11]
The end of the Horgan era for Finn Harps came at the end of the 2022 season, with the departure of manager Ollie Horgan and relegation from the Premier Division.[12] This ended a long spell of years in the Premier Division, with six out of seven seasons spent at the top tier of Irish football for the club.
New beginnings
[edit]On 2 December 2022, Finn Harps unveiled Dave Rogers as their new manager, on a full-time four-year contract.[13] Ten days later, Darren Murphy was announced as Rogers new full time assistant manager.[14] After a disastrous 2023 season on the pitch, Finn Harps parted company with Dave Rogers on 23 September, with assistant manager Darren Murphy placed as interim manager until the end of the season, himself assisted by Tommy Canning and Kevin McHugh.[15]
On 3 November 2023, Harps announced the appointment of Darren Murphy to become the Head Coach for the upcoming season.[16] In his first pre-season match, Harps secured a 2–2 draw in front of the home crowd against Derry City.
Under Darren Murphy, the team had a good start to the season, peaking at 2nd place in the early stages but came short to the play-off places to Bray Wanderers in the 2024 season.
A shaky start to Harps 2025 season with an away loss to Kerry FC 2-0 saw Harps placed 10th position at the end f Gameweek 5 in the First Division for the first time since the reign of Dave Rogers. Numerous losses were accounted until a 5-0 win home to Bray Wanderers in Gameweek 6 secured Harps first win of the 2025 season.
On 25 March, the club confirmed the departure of manager Darren Murphy from the club. Following an interim basis with joint management by Kevin McHugh, Eamon Curry and Tommy Canning the club announced on 2 April 2025 that McHugh was confirmed to be the next manager of Finn Harps.
Within the first half of the 2025 season, Harps recorded only five wins, along with eight draws and ten defeats in the league. New introductions were brought into the squad to strengthen the team's performances, with Patrick Ferry and William Oduwa departing the club. Harps confirmed the signing of Kieran Cooney, a Saint Kitts & Nevis international on 4 July. On 3 September, goalkeeper Oisín Cooney transferred to Burnley Under-21 side becoming the latest Finn Harps Academy player to join a Premier League 2 side after having 12 appearances for the first team.[17]
The club secured a quarter-final in the 2025 FAI Cup after recording wins over UCD and Bray Wanderers at home respectively. Harps were knocked out in the Quarter-Final stage, following a 3-0 defeat home to Cork City.
Stadium
[edit]Finn Harps play at Finn Park in Ballybofey, County Donegal. Finn Park is formed mainly of open terracing surrounding the football pitch. In 2005, the terraces were renovated for health and safety reasons as new concrete surfaces replaced the old viewing slopes.[18][19] In total, the ground's capacity accommodates approximately 6,000 spectators. The stadium has one covered stand, which also caters for 350 seated supporters. The area allocated to supporters of visiting teams is the terrace opposite the seated stand (situated in the Shed End). The pitch dimensions measure 110 yards in length by 80 yards in width.[20] Sitting on the banks of the River Finn, Finn Park is prone to waterlogging in times of wet weather.
New stadium
[edit]The club planned to move to a new covered 6,600 all-seater stadium just across the River Finn in Stranorlar. The proposal would also feature an FAI Regional Development Centre.[21] Club shareholders gave the club's board a mandate in 2005 to proceed with the stadium plans. Planning permission was obtained in mid-2005. Approval to proceed to tender was obtained from the Football Association of Ireland in early 2006 and local developers, Joseph McMenamin and Sons, won the tender process and had their tender approved a year later. Finn Harps received funding of €750,000 in 2007 to commence works at the new stadium. They hoped to be in the new stadium for the 2013 season. Work ceased on the new stadium due to the recession and lack of funds.[22] Work was expected to resume on the stadium in early 2011 but in the end it did not restart until late 2014.[23]
Revised plans were unveiled in May 2022, showing a 6,130 capacity ground, with all four sides covered, and a seating capacity of 3,330.[24]
Colours and crests
[edit] |
 |
 |
The traditional colours of Finn Harps are blue and white. The club played in white jerseys and blue shorts upon entry into the League of Ireland. Their away strip was all green. Since that time Harps have played in either white or blue jerseys as their primary colour and used green, yellow or white as their away colours. In the 1975/76 and 1976/77 Harps wore blue and white stripes and repeated this during 1983/84 and 1984/85.
Harps kits and training gear is currently manufactured by Joma Sports, and the club's jerseys are sponsored by The Kernan Group, with Letterkenny Medics sponsoring the back. The third kit is currently dedicated to The Bluestack Foundation, who is the current Charity Partner. The current home strip is made up of a blue jersey with black pattern across the shoulders and chest, blue shorts and socks with the home goalkeeping kit being light green jersey with green shorts and green socks. The current away strip consists of a green jersey with white collared trim, white shorts and green socks, the away goalkeeping kit is made up of a purple jersey, purple shorts and purple socks. Harps current third kit is made up of a mix of colours ranging from blue to purple,[25] with purple shorts and socks. The current third kit is in a partnership with The Bluestack Foundation. The third goalkeeping kit consists of a black jersey with black shorts and black socks.
Finn Harps have sported various crests throughout their history. All, largely circular in composition, have featured a harp and new designs have essentially been modernised updates of the previous crest. The harp has traditionally been a symbol of Ireland. Footballs have also been a common feature.
The modern stylised crests contain the club's name in a Gaelic-style font, similar to the Gandalf typeface.
For the club's golden jubilee year, 2004, they introduced a new golden crest which was very similar to their early crest. Bar this crest, blue, green and white have been common colours used.
In 2010, Finn Harps decided to play in an all-white kit due to demand from supporters after they wore an all-white kit against Shelbourne to celebrate 40 years in the League of Ireland in 2009. They reverted to blue home kits in 2011.
For the 2021 season, Joma sport has been announced as the jersey partner.
Supporters
[edit]Finn Harps supporters share a rivalry with their north-west neighbours, Derry City. The most exciting encounter between the two sides was perhaps the 2003 relegation play-off between the two sides. A Brandywell Stadium packed with both sets of fans witnessed a Finn Harps side managed by Noel King (a former Derry City manager) lose a highly charged affair that finished 2–1 to Derry after an extra-time goal from Derry City favourite, Liam Coyle.[26] A rivalry is maintained between the two clubs, yet both have encountered times of trouble in recent years. One team has often been helped by the other in this regard. Harps' other main derby is with southern neighbours Sligo Rovers. Harps have a good relationship with Shamrock Rovers. The clubs have provided financial assistance to each other in the past and both sets of supporters socialise together when the clubs play one another. The club's anthem "The Finn Harps Song" can often be heard being sung by the club's supporters and its lyrics "they follow them in Donegal, Derry and Tyrone" illustrates that the main core of the Harps support comes from the North West of Ireland.
Rivalries
[edit]Finn Harps and Derry City share what is called the Northwest Rivalry. It has been hotly contested since Derry entered the League in 1985. The close proximity of the two Ulster clubs, being only 30 miles apart, has contributed to the rivalry. The strong contrast between the two clubs, Rural/Urban and the gulf in success, has aided the rivalry. Both sets of fans can be frequently heard singing songs about each other. Many players have played for both clubs, such as José Mukendi, but the most notable of whom is Kevin McHugh. Finn Harps also share a rivalry with Sligo Rovers due to the proximity of the clubs. Although this rivalry is viewed as important, the Derry rivalry is seen as more important by Harps fans.
Players
[edit]Squad
[edit][27] Note: Flags indicate national team as defined under FIFA eligibility rules; some limited exceptions apply. Players may hold more than one non-FIFA nationality.
|
|
Technical staff
[edit]| Position | Staff |
|---|---|
| Manager | Kevin McHugh |
| Assistant manager | Eamon Curry |
| First-team Coach | Tommy Canning |
| Goalkeeper Coach | Eamon Curry |
| First-team physio | Seamus Bogle |
| Analyst | Eoin Logue |
| Fitness Coach | Gary Wallace |
| Kitman | Shane Elliott |
| Head of Youth Development | Kevin McHugh |
Honours
[edit]- FAI Cup
- Winners: 1973–74
- League of Ireland
- League of Ireland First Division
- Dublin City Cup
- Winners: 1971–72
- Irish News Cup
- Winners: 1998–99
- FAI Junior Cup
- Winners: 1967–68
- First Division Cup
- Winners: 2002–03
European record
[edit]Overview
[edit]| Competition | Matches | W | D | L | GF | GA |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| UEFA Cup | 6 | 0 | 0 | 6 | 3 | 33 |
| European Cup Winners' Cup | 2 | 0 | 1 | 1 | 2 | 4 |
| TOTAL | 8 | 0 | 1 | 7 | 5 | 37 |
Matches
[edit]| Season | Competition | Round | Opponent | Home | Away | Aggregate |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1973–74 | UEFA Cup | 1R |  Aberdeen
|
1–3 | 1–4 | 2–7 |
| 1974–75 | European Cup Winners' Cup | 1R |  Bursaspor
|
0–0 | 2–4 | 2–4 |
| 1976–77 | UEFA Cup | 1R |  Derby County
|
1–4 | 0–12 | 1–16 |
| 1978–79 | UEFA Cup | 1R | Everton
|
0–5 | 0–5 | 0–10 |
Footnotes
[edit]- ^ "Finn Harps - Club Information". www.leagueofireland.ie. 16 November 2023. Retrieved 4 July 2025.
- ^ McNelis, Aidan (25 March 2023). "Finn Harps – When was the club founded? By Bartley Ramsay - Finn Harps FC Official Website". finnharps.ie. Retrieved 4 July 2025.
- ^ "Club History - Finn Harps FC Official Website". finnharps.ie. 14 February 2021. Retrieved 4 July 2025.
- ^ a b c d e f g h i j k Ramsay, Bartley; Dullaghan, Rodney (2006). "Finn Harps Club History". Archived from the original on 28 September 2007. Retrieved 5 June 2007.
- ^ This plan, upon eventual completion, is intended to include a school of excellence for young County Donegal footballers. It also made way for the renovation of Finn Park, of which certain sections of the work have already gotten underway.
- ^ "Hegarty is new Finn Harps manager". BBC Sport. BBC. 20 December 2006. Archived from the original on 22 February 2014. Retrieved 20 December 2006.
- ^ McNulty, Chris (5 October 2013). "Peter Hutton tenders resignation at Finn Harps". Donegal News. Archived from the original on 6 October 2013. Retrieved 5 October 2013.
- ^ Foley, Alan (26 November 2013). "Finn Harps confirm Ollie Horgan as new manager". Donegal Democrat. Archived from the original on 15 December 2013. Retrieved 26 November 2013.
- ^ "BJ Banda sends Finn Harps up to Premier Division". RTÉ Sport. Raidió Teilifís Éireann. 6 November 2015. Archived from the original on 1 December 2017. Retrieved 3 April 2018.
- ^ Quigley, Brian (20 May 2019). "50 years in the League of Ireland for Finn Harps". Archived from the original on 27 May 2019.
- ^ "Foley earns Finn Harps bragging rights at Derry City". Archived from the original on 16 May 2021. Retrieved 16 May 2021.
- ^ "Ollie Horgan departs relegated Finn Harps after nine seasons in charge". 9 November 2022. Archived from the original on 12 November 2022. Retrieved 30 December 2022.
- ^ "Dave Rogers Appointed Manager – Finn Harps FC". 2 December 2022. Archived from the original on 2 December 2022. Retrieved 30 December 2022.
- ^ "Darren Murphy Appointed Assistant Manager – Finn Harps FC". 12 December 2022. Archived from the original on 30 December 2022. Retrieved 30 December 2022.
- ^ "Darren Murphy to Continue in Caretaker Role - Finn Harps FC". 27 September 2023. Archived from the original on 27 September 2023. Retrieved 27 September 2023.
- ^ "Finn Harps Appoint Darren Murphy as Head Coach - Finn Harps FC". 3 November 2023. Archived from the original on 3 November 2023. Retrieved 3 November 2023.
- ^ "COONEY JOINS U21 RANKS | BurnleyFC". www.burnleyfootballclub.com. Retrieved 5 September 2025.
- ^ "Temporary Works at Finn Park continue [https://web.archive.org/web/20070928034225/http://finnharps.openhosts.com/Stadium/05April12ground.htm Archived 28 September 2007 at the Wayback Machine", FinnHarps.com, 12 April 2005. Retrieved 6 June 2007.
- ^ "Final preparations continue at Finn Park Archived 28 September 2007 at the Wayback Machine", FinnHarps.com, 2005. Retrieved 6 June 2007.
- ^ Finn Harps Archived 29 September 2007 at the Wayback Machine, What's the score?, 2000. Retrieved 6 June 2007.
- ^ "Harps welcome Minister O'Donoghues announcement Archived 28 September 2007 at the Wayback Machine", FinnHarps.com, 16 November 2006. Retrieved 6 June 2007.
- ^ "Harps allocated €750,000 to start new Stadium this year Archived 28 September 2007 at the Wayback Machine", FinnHarps.com, 6 April 2007. Retrieved 6 June 2007.
- ^ "Work to start on Harps stadium | One Stop News Stand". www.onestopnewsstand.com. Archived from the original on 15 March 2012. Retrieved 15 January 2022.
- ^ "Donegal Community Stadium Update May 2022 – Finn Harps FC". 18 May 2022. Archived from the original on 18 May 2022. Retrieved 18 May 2022.
- ^ "Finn Harps x Bluestack Foundation 2024 Charity Jersey, Adult". Finn Harps FC Online Store. Retrieved 14 August 2024.
- ^ "FOOTBALL: Derry Stay in Top Flight Football; Derry City 2 Finn Harps 1". 14 December 2003.
{{cite journal}}: Cite journal requires|journal=(help)[dead link] - ^ "Player Profiles – Finn Harps FC". Archived from the original on 20 April 2021. Retrieved 1 April 2021.
- ^ "Ireland Cups 2002/03". Rec.Sport.Soccer Statistics Foundation. Archived from the original on 5 December 2022. Retrieved 10 December 2016.
- ^ Honours Archived 28 September 2007 at the Wayback Machine, FinnHarps.com, 2007. Retrieved 6 June 2007
- ^ "Finn Harps - Club Information". www.leagueofireland.ie. 16 November 2023. Retrieved 11 July 2025.
External links
[edit]Finn Harps F.C.
View on GrokipediaHistory
Foundation and early years
Finn Harps Football Club was founded in 1954 in Ballybofey, County Donegal, by local football enthusiasts seeking to establish a junior team in the area.[2] The club's name derives from the River Finn, which flows through Ballybofey, and the traditional Irish symbol of the harp.[2] Although the exact formation date remains uncertain, the first recorded match involving the club took place in May 1954.[7] As an amateur outfit, Finn Harps competed in regional competitions during its formative years, including the East Donegal Association Football League in 1954 and later the Donegal League and North West Football League.[2][7] The team built a reputation locally, culminating in a significant achievement by winning the FAI Junior Cup in 1968 under player-manager Patsy McGowan, who was also a notable early player and club secretary.[2][8] McGowan played a pivotal role in the club's development, appearing in lineups as early as the 1963–64 season.[9] In May 1969, Finn Harps gained admission to the League of Ireland as an amateur team, marking Donegal's entry into senior national football.[2] The debut competitive match occurred on 17 August 1969 against Shamrock Rovers in the Dublin City Cup, resulting in a 10–2 defeat that highlighted the challenges of transitioning to senior level.[2][10] During the 1969–70 League of Ireland season, the team, managed by Fran Fields and supported by McGowan, recorded its first league win with a 1–0 victory over Shelbourne at home and a surprising 6–2 triumph against Dundalk, though the campaign overall proved difficult with organizational inexperience and adaptation struggles.[10][2] The early years were marked by significant hurdles, including financial limitations typical of a small-town amateur club reliant on local support, as well as a part-time player structure where many held day jobs.[2] Travel and training were further complicated by the civil unrest in Northern Ireland, with players navigating checkpoints and security issues en route to away fixtures.[10] Despite these obstacles, the club's entry into the national league laid the groundwork for future growth, transitioning gradually toward semi-professional operations.1970s dominance
Finn Harps entered the League of Ireland in the 1969–70 season after being elected to replace the disbanded St. Patrick's City, marking a significant milestone for the club from rural Donegal. Despite a challenging debut campaign that included heavy defeats such as a 10–2 loss to Shamrock Rovers in the Dublin City Cup, the team demonstrated resilience and quickly adapted to professional competition, drawing large crowds to Finn Park and establishing a foothold in the top flight. Their immediate success came in the 1971–72 season when they won the Dublin City Cup, defeating Cork Hibernians 1–0 in the final at Dalymount Park, a victory that highlighted their growing competitiveness and set the stage for further achievements.[10][11] The 1970s solidified Finn Harps' reputation as a dominant force, with the club finishing as League of Ireland runners-up in 1972–73, 1975–76, and 1977–78, never once placing in the bottom half of the table during the decade. This period was capped by their sole FAI Cup triumph in 1973–74, when they defeated St Patrick's Athletic 1–0 in the final at Dalymount Park, thanks to a goal from striker Brendan Bradley, a club legend who scored over 200 goals in his career. The team also reached League Cup finals in 1973–74 and 1974–75, finishing as runners-up to Waterford and Bohemians respectively, and were renowned for their attacking style of play that emphasized fluid passing and goal-scoring prowess. Key contributors included forward Brendan Bradley, midfielder Jim Sheridan, and goalkeeper Packie Bonner in his early days, alongside acquisitions like defender Peter Hutton from Coleraine, which bolstered the squad's quality and depth.[12][2][13] These domestic successes earned Finn Harps four European campaigns in the 1970s, beginning with their debut in the 1973–74 UEFA Cup as league runners-up, where they faced Aberdeen and lost 1–4 away before a 1–3 home defeat (aggregate 2–7). Subsequent ties included the 1974–75 European Cup Winners' Cup against Bursaspor following their FAI Cup win, resulting in a 2–4 away loss and 0–0 home draw (aggregate 2–4); the 1976–77 UEFA Cup against Derby County, with a 0–12 away loss and 1–4 home defeat (aggregate 1–16); and the 1978–79 UEFA Cup versus Everton, ending in 0–5 home and 0–5 away losses (aggregate 0–10). These matches, though ultimately unsuccessful, represented pioneering experiences for the club and showcased their ambition on the continental stage.[2][4][14][15][16][17]Decline in the 1980s and 1990s
The 1980s represented a period of gradual decline for Finn Harps F.C., as the club struggled to replicate the competitive edge of the previous decade's successes in the Premier Division. After finishing as runners-up in the 1977–78 season, the team experienced inconsistent results, with mid-table positions becoming the norm and no major trophies secured. A highlight came in 1981 when Harps reached the FAI Cup semi-final, but they were defeated by Dundalk.[2] The following years saw further erosion, culminating in relegation to the newly formed First Division at the end of the 1984–85 season, after a heartbreaking League Cup final loss to Waterford United.[2][18][19] Post-relegation, the club faced significant challenges in mounting a swift return to the top flight, with several failed promotion attempts in the early to mid-1980s. Managerial instability plagued the team, as various coaches attempted to rebuild, including a spell under Tommy McConville, who served as player-manager starting in the 1985–86 season after joining from Dundalk.[2][20] Financial pressures intensified in the late 1980s, forcing the club to adopt part-time professional status and resulting in the departure of several key players who sought full-time opportunities elsewhere. This player exodus, combined with limited resources, contributed to prolonged stagnation in the First Division, where Harps recorded a series of unremarkable finishes.[2] Entering the 1990s, Finn Harps continued to grapple with instability, enduring multiple mid-table seasons in the First Division without breaking through to consistent contention. Under manager Patsy McGowan during the 1992–93 campaign, the club mounted a strong promotion challenge, reaching the play-offs on two occasions but falling short against Cobh Ramblers and Athlone Town.[2] The breakthrough finally arrived in the 1995–96 season, when Harps secured promotion as First Division champions. The following year, under Charlie McGeever, they managed to avoid immediate relegation by finishing ninth in the Premier Division. Notable contributors during this turbulent era included experienced midfielder Felix Healy, whose leadership helped stabilize the squad amid the ups and downs.[2][18] Financial difficulties persisted into the late 1990s, with mounting debts reaching £280,000 by the 1999–00 season, prompting the club to restructure as a fan-owned co-operative society to ensure survival. Despite these off-field woes, on-pitch highlights included a fourth-place finish in the Premier Division during 1998–99 and a run to the FAI Cup final, where they lost to Bray Wanderers after two replays, alongside victory in the Irish News Cup that year. These moments offered glimpses of potential amid the era's broader struggles for consistency and sustainability.[2][18]Yo-yo club era
The early 2000s marked a turbulent period for Finn Harps F.C., characterized by repeated promotions and relegations between the League of Ireland Premier Division and First Division, earning the club the moniker of a "yo-yo club." This instability stemmed from the lingering effects of financial difficulties in the late 1990s, including a publicized debt of £280,000 in 2000, which hampered squad building and long-term planning.[2] Under manager Felix Healy, appointed in 2004 following Noel King's resignation, Finn Harps secured the First Division title with a 3-0 victory over Dundalk on November 20, clinching promotion to the Premier Division after three years in the lower tier. Healy's tactical acumen and recruitment of experienced players like top scorer Kevin McHugh, who netted 22 goals that season, were pivotal in transforming a mid-table side into champions. However, the Premier Division proved challenging; in 2005, despite a strong mid-season run, Harps were relegated after losing the promotion/relegation playoff to Dublin City, finishing with just five league wins.[21][22] The pattern repeated in 2007 when Paul Hegarty, a former Harps player, took charge and guided the team to the First Division title via a decisive playoff victory over Waterford United, securing another promotion with a 2-1 aggregate win highlighted by Oliver McCaul's goals. Key signings such as defender Barry McCreadie, who brought defensive solidity from his prior experience, contributed to a resilient campaign. Yet, the 2008 Premier Division season exposed underlying vulnerabilities; an ambitious shift to full-time professionalism strained finances, leading to deficits and inconsistent performances, culminating in relegation despite a final-day win over Shamrock Rovers, as Galway United's result sealed their fate.[2][23][24][25] These cycles of ascent and descent were exacerbated by infrastructural limitations at Finn Park, an aging venue that lacked modern facilities, complicating efforts to attract sponsorship and retain talent amid mounting operational costs. The era underscored the club's precarious position, reliant on short-term successes without sustainable investment, setting the stage for future challenges.[2]Revival under Ollie Horgan
Ollie Horgan was appointed as Finn Harps manager in November 2013, taking charge ahead of the 2014 season after a turbulent period of frequent promotions and relegations for the club.[26] As an untried manager at League of Ireland level, Horgan quickly instilled discipline and structure, guiding the team to a fifth-place finish in the First Division while achieving a major cup breakthrough by reaching the FAI Cup semi-finals—the club's deepest run in 15 years—after dramatic victories over Avondale United and Shamrock Rovers. This success marked the beginning of a stabilization phase, contrasting the club's earlier yo-yo existence between divisions. Building on that momentum, Horgan led Finn Harps to second place in the 2015 First Division, securing a spot in the promotion playoffs. The team overcame UCD in the semi-finals with a 2-1 aggregate victory, showcasing resilience in a tense second leg at Finn Park, before clinching promotion to the Premier Division with a 3-1 aggregate win over Limerick in the final—sealing their return to the top flight after a four-year absence. Relegation followed in 2017 after a challenging Premier campaign, but Horgan's leadership ensured an immediate rebound, as Harps finished second in the 2018 First Division and earned promotion via the playoffs, defeating UCD in the semi-finals and Limerick again in the final with a 2-0 second-leg victory at Finn Park.[27] The 2019 season saw Finn Harps consolidate in the Premier Division, finishing ninth and entering the relegation/promotion playoff against First Division champions Drogheda United. Despite a 1-0 first-leg deficit, Horgan's side mounted a comeback, winning 1-0 in extra time at home thanks to a late Tony McNamee goal, securing survival and extending their top-flight stay. Key to this revival was midfielder Mark Coyle, who emerged as a pivotal figure under Horgan, captaining the team from 2018 onward and contributing to both promotions with his tenacity in midfield; Coyle later credited Horgan for transforming his career from part-time GAA player to professional standout.[28] The 2020 season, heavily disrupted by the COVID-19 pandemic, tested Horgan's adaptability as matches were postponed and played behind closed doors in a condensed format. Finn Harps defied expectations by finishing seventh—their best Premier Division placing in two decades—avoiding relegation with a strong late surge that included vital wins over Dundalk and Waterford, ensuring stability amid widespread uncertainty in the league. Throughout this era, Horgan emphasized community ties and youth integration, with Finn Harps' academy producing talents like Coyle and others who featured in the first team, while the fan-owned club's initiatives, such as school outreach programs, bolstered local engagement and player development in Donegal.[29]Post-2020 developments
Following the relative stability of the late 2010s, Finn Harps experienced significant challenges in the Premier Division during the 2021 and 2022 seasons. In 2021, the team recorded 11 wins, 11 draws, and 14 losses, accumulating 44 points to finish eighth in the 10-team league. The 2022 campaign was markedly worse, with only four wins, eight draws, and 24 losses for a total of 20 points, placing them last and confirming relegation to the First Division after a 3-1 home defeat to University College Dublin on October 28. This result ended their four-year stint in the top flight, despite a late-season unbeaten run of 14 matches that had briefly raised hopes of survival.[30][31] Manager Ollie Horgan, who had led the club since 2013, departed by mutual consent on November 9, 2022, shortly after the relegation. Dave Rogers was appointed as his replacement on December 2, 2022, on a four-year contract, but he stepped down on September 23, 2023, citing family and personal reasons after a 5-1 loss to Athlone Town. Darren Murphy, previously an assistant, served as interim manager from late September 2023 before being confirmed as permanent head coach on November 3, 2023. Under Murphy, Finn Harps finished eighth in the 2023 First Division and seventh in 2024, failing to mount a serious promotion challenge.[32][33][34] Murphy's tenure ended abruptly on March 25, 2025, after just six matches and one win in the new First Division season, with the club languishing near the bottom. Club legend Kevin McHugh, Finn Harps' all-time leading scorer with 120 goals, was appointed manager on April 2, 2025, initially on an interim basis alongside Eamon Curry and Tommy Canning before being confirmed permanently. McHugh, who had served as head of academy, aimed to instill a more attacking style drawing on his playing experience.[35][36][5] The 2025 season under McHugh began poorly, with only five wins in the first half amid defensive vulnerabilities and a reliance on young academy players, leaving the team in the lower reaches of the table by mid-season. A mid-season improvement, including draws against promotion contenders like Dundalk and UCD, steadied the ship, resulting in an eighth-place finish out of 10 teams by the season's end on October 17. This mid-table position secured their First Division status but highlighted ongoing struggles with consistency and squad depth.[37][38] In a positive development, Finn Harps announced on September 19, 2025, that the club would field a senior women's team in the inaugural Women's Development League starting in 2026, joining nine other clubs in a new second-tier competition aimed at expanding women's football in Ireland. This initiative builds on the club's existing youth and academy structures, with the team set to play nine home matches at Finn Park.[39][40]Club facilities
Finn Park
Finn Park is the traditional home ground of Finn Harps F.C., situated in Ballybofey, County Donegal, Ireland. Located on Navenney Street along the banks of the River Finn, the stadium opened in 1954 and has been the club's primary venue since its inception that year. It boasts an official capacity of 4,200, comprising 400 seated positions in the main stand and extensive standing areas for supporters.[41] The venue's pitch measures 110 yards by 80 yards (approximately 100 meters by 73 meters), offering a grass surface suited to League of Ireland standards. Facilities for players include changing rooms and training areas, while fans benefit from covered seating, open terraces like the Shed end, and a hospitality suite recently renamed in honor of club legend Derek Wilkinson. Key historical upgrades encompass the addition of floodlights in the early 1990s, allowing for night fixtures, alongside periodic maintenance to address issues like waterlogging from the adjacent river.[42][43][44] Since 1954, Finn Park has been integral to the club's legacy, hosting the inaugural League of Ireland match in 1969 and serving as the site for milestone events, including parades and gatherings celebrating the 1974 FAI Cup triumph over St Patrick's Athletic. The stadium underscores deep local community connections, acting as a focal point for youth development, social events, and regional pride in a town of around 4,000 residents. Its central location ensures straightforward access via local roads and buses, with on-site parking supporting attendance from surrounding areas in Donegal.[12][45][2] Plans for stadium redevelopment are underway to enhance capacity and infrastructure while preserving its historical role.[46]Stadium redevelopment
In October 2018, Finn Harps announced the resumption of construction on a new stadium project valued at €12 million, with work scheduled to begin in spring 2019 and completion targeted for 2023.[47] The proposed Donegal Community Stadium, located in Stranorlar approximately 1 km from Ballybofey, was initially planned to hold a capacity of around 6,000 spectators to serve as the club's primary home ground.[48] The project faced significant funding challenges and delays throughout the 2020s, exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic, which halted progress, and subsequent economic pressures including inflation that increased construction costs.[49] By 2023, a promised €4 million government grant remained undelivered, further stalling development despite earlier groundwork.[48] These setbacks led to revised plans in 2022, reducing the scope to a hybrid design with a lowered capacity of 5,580 and a total build cost of €7.3 million to address escalating expenses.[50] Progress accelerated in 2024-2025 with partial funding of €5.8 million secured, including €4.7 million from the Large Scale Sports Infrastructure Fund, €500,000 each from Donegal County Council and the Football Association of Ireland, leaving a €1.5 million shortfall to be bridged through public fundraising.[51] In September 2024, the club concluded negotiations with the FAI. On November 11, 2025, Finn Harps submitted updated planning documentation to Donegal County Council for the Donegal Community Stadium, outlining a two-phase modular development: Phase 1 for a UEFA Category 2 compliant stadium with approximately 5,000 capacity, and Phase 2 for upgrades to Category 3 including academy and community facilities such as additional changing rooms, gym, and educational rooms. A planning decision is anticipated within 8 weeks, with procurement and pre-construction targeted for Q1 2026.[52][53] Temporary improvements at Finn Park, such as a proposed €390,000 artificial pitch installation to support women's teams and training, were planned for 2025 but shelved in October due to financial constraints.[54][55] The ongoing redevelopment has strained club finances, with the funding gap and related costs contributing to broader pressures, including a €90,000 FIFA-ordered payment in 2025 that temporarily restricted player registrations.[56] Moreover, Finn Park's current facilities fail to meet League of Ireland Premier Division licensing criteria, limiting the club's promotion prospects and underscoring the urgency of the new stadium for regulatory compliance and long-term sustainability.[57]Identity
Colours and crest
Finn Harps F.C. has traditionally used blue and white as its primary colours since the club's foundation in 1954. These colours are prominently featured in the home kits, with variations such as blue jerseys paired with white shorts or all-blue designs in recent seasons. The away kits have historically been all-white, while third kits have incorporated alternative combinations, including green, yellow, and blue, as seen in the 2017 third kit which combined yellow and blue elements. These colours appear consistently across kits, merchandise, and official branding, reflecting the club's visual identity in matches and fan items. The club's crest centres on a harp, a longstanding emblem adopted at its inception in 1954 to honour the "Harps" in the team name. This design draws from the traditional Irish harp symbol, representing national heritage, while "Finn" alludes to the River Finn that flows through Ballybofey, the club's hometown, evoking local landscape and community ties. Early versions were simple round badges featuring the harp, often in blue, green, and white tones. Over the years, the crest evolved modestly, with updates maintaining the core harp motif. The current iteration, in use since the early 2010s, presents a stylized harp within a circular frame, accompanied by "FHFC" lettering at the top and the full club name "Finn Harps FC Ballybofey-Stranorlar" at the bottom, rendered primarily in blue and white for cohesion with the kit colours.Kit suppliers and sponsors
Finn Harps F.C. has utilized a variety of kit suppliers throughout its history, reflecting changes in commercial partnerships and design trends in Irish football. Early kits were produced in-house until 1991, after which the club partnered with international brands. From 1996 to 1997, Umbro supplied the kits, followed by Patrick in 1997-1998 and O'Neills from 1998 to 2001. Subsequent suppliers included Errea (2001-2002), PF Sports (2002-2005 and 2007), Jako (2006), Masita (2008-2009), Azzurri (2010-2012), Macron (2013-2014), and Legea (2015-2016). Since 2017, Joma has been the primary kit manufacturer, providing home, away, and third kits for the club's League of Ireland campaigns.[58] The club's home kits have consistently featured the traditional blue and white colors, with variations in patterns such as stripes or graphics to modernize the design while maintaining heritage elements. Away kits have often been all-white or green to contrast with opponents, while third kits, introduced in the 2010s to accommodate fixture color clashes, have experimented with bolder aesthetics, including charity-inspired motifs in recent years.[58][59] Shirt sponsorships have evolved to support the club's operations, with Donegal Creameries serving as the main sponsor from 1998 to 2012, prominently displayed on O'Neills and later kits during a period of league stability. In 2018, KN Group took over as principal sponsor, aligning with the club's First Division efforts. For the 2025 season, the Kernan Group became the main shirt sponsor, building on their prior academy support since 2021; their branding appears front and center on Joma-manufactured jerseys, alongside back-of-shirt partners like Marley's Coach Hire and Letterkenny Medics. Earlier sponsors, such as vfm Floors in the late 1990s, were more localized, reflecting the club's regional roots.[60][61][62] The 2025 kit launch, unveiled on November 28, 2024, in partnership with Joma and the Kernan Group, featured a home jersey in the club's traditional blue with white shorts and accents for improved visibility and modern appeal. The away kit adopted an all-white design with blue detailing, while the third kit, tied to the Bluestack Foundation charity, incorporated a dynamic, aurora-inspired pattern in blue and white hues, with €10 from each adult sale donated to the foundation. These kits saw strong initial sales through the official club store, bolstered by discounts and online availability, contributing to merchandise revenue amid the club's fan-ownership model.[63][64][65] Sponsorship revenues, including kit deals, have played a vital role in Finn Harps' financial stability, particularly as a fan-owned club navigating First Division challenges and unexpected costs like a €90,000 FIFA transfer compensation bill in 2025. These partnerships, alongside member contributions, have enabled cost reductions and income growth, supporting academy development and operational continuity without private investment.[66][67][68]Community and fandom
Supporters and groups
The fanbase of Finn Harps F.C. is deeply rooted in the local community of Ballybofey and broader County Donegal, reflecting the club's status as the region's primary professional football outlet. Average home attendances typically range from 1,000 to 1,500 during seasons in the League of Ireland Premier Division, as seen in 2022 (1,293) and 2023 (1,135 despite relegation pressures), while figures drop to around 800-1,000 in the First Division, with a 2025 home average of approximately 853 across 18 matches.[69][70][71] This loyal but modest support underscores the club's community-driven identity, where fans often double as shareholders in the member-owned structure. Organized supporters' groups play a key role in fostering enthusiasm, particularly given the challenges of the club's remote northwest location. The Ballybofey Brigade, established in 2022 as an ultras-style group, leads vocal support at home matches with coordinated displays and chants, drawing inspiration from European fan cultures while adapting to Finn Park's intimate setting.[72] The 54 Crew, a longstanding supporters' club, organizes away travel, family events, and fundraising, such as bus trips and quizzes to build camaraderie.[73] Additionally, the Finn Harps Dublin Supporters Club caters to the club's exile fanbase in the capital, coordinating trips and social gatherings to maintain connections for those far from Donegal.[74] Fan culture at Finn Harps emphasizes passionate, grassroots traditions, with supporters gathering in the open terraces like the River End or Gantry Side for standing chants and songs celebrating the club's Donegal heritage. Common refrains include renditions of the club hymn and calls like "Up the Harps," often accompanied by drums from groups like the Ballybofey Brigade, creating an electric atmosphere despite the stadium's modest capacity. The remote location in Ballybofey, over 200 kilometers from Dublin and major urban centers, impacts attendance and travel support, as long journeys via limited public transport deter larger away followings—fans frequently cite the four-to-five-hour drives to eastern venues as a barrier, yet dedicated groups persist with organized coaches to sustain presence at key fixtures.[75][76][41] The club actively engages the community through targeted programs, enhancing its role beyond matchdays. The Schools Programme delivers coaching sessions and competitions for U12 to U19 students across Donegal, promoting skill development and inclusivity in partnership with local academies. In 2025, Finn Harps expanded women's football initiatives, announcing a senior team for the 2026 Women's Development League and hosting development camps to nurture female talent in the region, addressing gaps in grassroots opportunities for girls.[77][78][79] These efforts, including autism-inclusive camps and walking football for older adults, reinforce the club's commitment to social responsibility amid its geographic isolation.[80]Rivalries
Finn Harps F.C.'s primary rivalry is with Derry City F.C., known as the Northwest Derby, which originates from the clubs' geographic proximity along the Donegal-Derry county border. This cross-border competition has been intense since Derry City's entry into the League of Ireland in 1985, fueled by regional pride and frequent encounters in league and cup matches.[81][82] The fixture has produced numerous memorable clashes, including Finn Harps' rare victories that break long winless streaks against their more dominant neighbors, such as a 2-0 win in 2017 at Maginn Park. Fans view these derbies as high-stakes affairs that heighten local tensions without reports of major incidents, emphasizing passionate support over conflict. Supporter groups like the Donegal Yellow Army contribute to the atmosphere by traveling en masse, amplifying the event's significance.[81][83] Finn Harps also maintain a regional rivalry with Sligo Rovers F.C., another north-west club approximately 60 miles south, often termed a secondary North-West Derby due to shared provincial identity and regular league meetings. This matchup, marked by competitive balance, has seen thrilling results like Finn Harps' 3-2 home win in 2022, underscoring the clubs' battles for mid-table security.[84][85] Locally, Finn Harps share a smaller-scale rivalry with Letterkenny Rovers F.C., based in the nearby town of Letterkenny, stemming from intra-Donegal competition in friendlies and cup ties. These encounters, such as a 2-1 pre-season victory in 2013, reflect community stakes in youth and reserve-level play.[86] The intensity of these rivalries is amplified by geographic closeness and historical promotion/relegation struggles, exemplified by Finn Harps' 2019 play-off success against Drogheda United to stay in the Premier Division and their 2022 relegation-deciding loss to UCD. Harps supporters appreciate the derbies for fostering unity and excitement in a remote region, prioritizing fair play amid the passion.[31]Current personnel
First-team squad
The first-team squad of Finn Harps F.C. for the 2025 League of Ireland First Division season consists of approximately 30 players, combining seasoned professionals with emerging talents from the club's academy and external signings. Under manager Kevin McHugh, the team emphasizes a balanced roster to support promotion ambitions, with a focus on defensive stability and attacking versatility. Recent integrations include youth promotions and loanees to build depth, while contract statuses vary from multi-year agreements to season-long loans. Note: Goalkeeper Oisin Cooney departed for Burnley FC in September 2025; the squad reflects adjustments as of November 2025.[87][88][89] Key 2025 signings have refreshed the lineup, such as Brazilian forward Lorenzo Piaia Barbosa, who joined on a one-year deal to enhance the forward line, and defender Oran Brogan from Loughgall FC on loan for added experience in central defense. Youth players like goalkeeper Corey Sheridan (academy product, 17 years old) and midfielder Gavin McAteer (17 years old) have been integrated into the senior setup, providing long-term potential alongside established names. Recent additions include Gavin Gilmore (left midfielder, signed from Athenry FC) and Dara McGuinness (centre-forward, from Stoke City U21).[88][90][91] The squad is organized as follows:| Position | No. | Player Name | Nationality | Age (as of Nov 2025) | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Goalkeeper | 40 | Corey Sheridan | Ireland | 17 | Youth integration; current backup/first-choice option following Cooney's departure.[88] |
| Goalkeeper | - | David Aziaya | England | 21 | Signed for depth; former youth international.[88] |
| Defender | 3 | Kevin Jordan | Ireland | 22 | Left-back; multi-year contract.[87] |
| Defender | 4 | Conor Tourish | Ireland | 30 | Centre-back captain; club veteran.[87] |
| Defender | 14 | Darragh Coyle | Ireland | 28 | Versatile defender; 2025 extension.[87] |
| Defender | 5 | Oran Brogan | Ireland | 23 | 2025 loanee from Loughgall FC.[88] |
| Defender | 6 | Joel Bradley-Walsh | Ireland | 20 | Youth promotion; right-back.[90] |
| Midfielder | 8 | Max Hutchison | England | 24 | Central midfielder; key creator.[87] |
| Midfielder | 31 | Ronan Callaghan | Ireland | 19 | Defensive midfielder; academy loanee.[88] |
| Midfielder | 10 | Tony McNamee | Ireland | 32 | Left midfielder; experienced leader.[88] |
| Midfielder | 23 | Gavin Gilmore | Ireland | 22 | Winger; 2025 signing from Athenry FC.[88] |
| Midfielder | 11 | Gavin McAteer | Ireland | 17 | Attacking midfielder; youth debutant.[88] |
| Forward | 31 | Shane O'Gara | Ireland | 35 | Striker; top scorer in recent seasons.[87] |
| Forward | - | Lorenzo Piaia Barbosa | Brazil | 22 | 2025 signing; versatile forward.[88] |
| Forward | - | Max Johnston | Scotland | 23 | Winger; added pace in attack.[92] |
| Forward | - | Dara McGuinness | Ireland | 20 | Centre-forward; 2025 signing from Stoke City U21.[91] |
Coaching and management staff
The current head manager of Finn Harps F.C. is Kevin McHugh, who was appointed on 2 April 2025 following the departure of Darren Murphy to Loughall FC. McHugh, a club legend with over 400 appearances as a player between 1998 and 2016, had previously served as first-team head coach and director of the academy since 2014.[36][5][93] Supporting McHugh is assistant manager Eamon Curry, who also serves as goalkeeping coach. Curry was part of the interim management team alongside McHugh and Tommy Canning after Murphy's exit. First-team coach Tommy Canning focuses on technical development and was retained in the post-appointment setup.[94][95] The backroom staff includes performance analyst Eoin Logue, responsible for match analysis and data-driven insights; first-team physiotherapist Seamus Bogle, who handles injury prevention and rehabilitation; and kit manager Shane Elliott, overseeing equipment and logistics. These roles were all retained under McHugh's leadership to maintain continuity.[95][94] At the board level, Ian Harkin serves as chairman, providing oversight on club operations and strategy. The management structure emphasizes stability following the 2025 transition, with McHugh prioritizing raised performance standards and youth integration from the academy he formerly directed.[96][95]Records and achievements
Domestic honours
Finn Harps F.C. has achieved a number of notable successes in domestic competitions since joining the League of Ireland in 1969, including one national cup triumph and a second-tier league title. The club's most celebrated honour is the 1973–74 FAI Cup, won with a 3–1 victory over St Patrick's Athletic in the final at Dalymount Park.[12][2] In league play, Finn Harps claimed the League of Ireland First Division title in the 2003–04 season, securing promotion to the Premier Division.[97][2] The club has also reached the FAI Cup final on one other occasion, finishing as runners-up in 1998–99 after losing to Bray Wanderers following two replays.[2] Other domestic trophies include the Dublin City Cup in 1971–72, defeated Cork Hibernians 1–0 in the final; the Irish News Cup in 1998–99; and the First Division Cup (also known as the League Cup for the second tier) in 2002–03, won over two legs against Kildare County.[2] Prior to senior league entry, the club won the FAI Junior Cup in 1968.[2] Finn Harps has been runners-up in the League of Ireland Cup (now known as the EA Sports Cup) three times: 1973–74 (lost to Waterford), 1974–75 (lost to Bohemians), and 1984–85.[12][2]| Competition | Achievement | Year(s) |
|---|---|---|
| League of Ireland First Division | Winners | 2003–04 |
| FAI Cup | Winners | 1973–74 |
| FAI Cup | Runners-up | 1998–99 |
| League of Ireland Cup | Runners-up | 1973–74, 1974–75, 1984–85 |
| Dublin City Cup | Winners | 1971–72 |
| Irish News Cup | Winners | 1998–99 |
| First Division Cup | Winners | 2002–03 |
| FAI Junior Cup | Winners | 1968 |
League performance summary
Finn Harps F.C. joined the League of Ireland in the 1969–70 season, initially competing in the Premier Division where they established themselves as a competitive side during the 1970s, achieving three runner-up finishes. The club experienced its first relegation in 1984–85 after a difficult season, spending the next decade in the First Division before earning promotion in 1995–96. Subsequent years saw further fluctuations, with promotions in 2004, 2007, 2015, and 2018, and relegations in 1985, 2001, 2005, 2008, and 2021. Overall, from 1969–70 to 2025, Finn Harps have played 24 seasons in the Premier Division and 32 in the First Division, reflecting a trend of mid-table stability in the top flight interspersed with spells in the second tier focused on rebuilding and promotion pushes.[98][99][100] The club's most successful First Division campaign was the 2004 season, when they clinched the title with 76 points from 36 matches (23 wins, 7 draws, 6 losses, 61 goals for, 20 against), securing automatic promotion. In the Premier Division, their peak came in 1977–78 with 42 points from 30 matches (18 wins, 6 draws, 6 losses, 60–38), finishing second behind Drogheda United. Conversely, the lowest point was the 1984–85 Premier Division season, ending 15th with just 19 points (5 wins, 4 draws, 21 losses, 38–71), resulting in relegation. More recently, the 2021–22 season marked another low, with 20 points from 36 matches (4 wins, 8 draws, 24 losses, 33–71) and 10th place, leading to play-off relegation. Highest points in the Premier Division stood at 46 in 1998–99 (13 wins, 7 draws, 10 losses, 39–40).[98][99][100] As of November 2025, in the ongoing 2025 First Division season, Finn Harps sit 8th with 36 points from 35 matches (8 wins, 12 draws, 15 losses, 42 goals for, 55 against), a mid-table result that avoids the relegation zone but falls short of promotion contention.[101][102] The following table summarizes key league performances across all seasons since 1969–70, highlighting positions, points, and goal tallies where data establishes context for trends; early seasons reflect the 2 points for a win system until 1982–83.| Season | Division | Position | Points | Goals For–Against |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1969–70 | Premier | 7 | 26 | 48–51 |
| 1970–71 | Premier | 6 | 30 | 54–42 |
| 1971–72 | Premier | 4 | 36 | 62–34 |
| 1972–73 | Premier | 2 | 41 | 59–32 |
| 1973–74 | Premier | 4 | 35 | 51–27 |
| 1974–75 | Premier | 3 | 30 | 59–50 |
| 1975–76 | Premier | 2 | 36 | 57–35 |
| 1976–77 | Premier | 8 | 26 | 40–45 |
| 1977–78 | Premier | 2 | 42 | 60–38 |
| 1978–79 | Premier | 8 | 34 | 56–41 |
| 1979–80 | Premier | 5 | 38 | 49–33 |
| 1980–81 | Premier | 6 | 30 | 41–39 |
| 1981–82 | Premier | 14 | 31 | 42–61 |
| 1982–83 | Premier | 9 | 35 | 36–33 |
| 1983–84 | Premier | 9 | 24 | 36–46 |
| 1984–85 | Premier | 15 | 19 | 38–71 |
| 1985–86 | First | 7 | 13 | 23–31 |
| 1986–87 | First | 4 | 22 | 32–24 |
| 1987–88 | First | 3 | 33 | 45–33 |
| 1988–89 | First | 4 | 32 | 30–19 |
| 1989–90 | First | 6 | 27 | 32–30 |
| 1990–91 | First | 4 | 32 | 40–30 |
| 1991–92 | First | 6 | 24 | 36–42 |
| 1992–93 | First | 7 | 25 | 34–40 |
| 1993–94 | First | 3 | 42 | 35–35 |
| 1994–95 | First | 3 | 43 | 44–30 |
| 1995–96 | First | 2 | 49 | 50–25 |
| 1996–97 | Premier | 9 | 39 | 41–43 |
| 1997–98 | Premier | 8 | 43 | 41–43 |
| 1998–99 | Premier | 4 | 46 | 39–40 |
| 1999–00 | Premier | 8 | 34 | 39–41 |
| 2000–01 | Premier | 11 | 36 | 36–46 |
| 2001–02 | First | 2 | 54 | 51–47 |
| 2002–03 | First | 2 | 41 | 41–22 |
| 2003 | First | 3 | 62 | 52–24 |
| 2004 | First | 1 | 76 | 61–20 |
| 2005 | Premier | 12 | 21 | 30–51 |
| 2006 | First | 6 | 46 | 49–45 |
| 2007 | First | 2 | 69 | 64–35 |
| 2008 | Premier | 10 | 31 | 26–53 |
| 2009 | First | 8 | 38 | 44–57 |
| 2010 | First | 7 | 44 | 50–54 |
| 2011 | First | 5 | 48 | 51–50 |
| 2012 | First | 4 | 55 | 57–45 |
| 2013 | First | 3 | 59 | 61–42 |
| 2014 | First | 2 | 77 | 67–31 |
| 2015 | First | 2 | 64 | 57–35 |
| 2016 | Premier | 10 | 39 | 37–48 |
| 2017 | Premier | 11 | 37 | 38–55 |
| 2018 | First | 2 | 58 | 47–32 |
| 2019 | Premier | 9 | 39 | 34–43 |
| 2020 | First | 8 | 33 | 30–40 |
| 2021 | Premier | 8 | 44 | 44–52 |
| 2022 | First | 10 | 37 | 35–59 |
| 2023 | First | 9 | 37 | 39–74 |
| 2024 | First | 6 | 46 | 39–43 |
| 2025 | First | 8 | 36 | 42–55 |
European record
Finn Harps F.C. has participated in European competitions on four occasions, all during the 1970s and 1980s, competing in the UEFA Cup three times and the European Cup Winners' Cup once.[4] The club qualified for these ties through strong domestic performances, including second, third, and fourth-place finishes in the League of Ireland during the 1970s, as well as victory in the 1982–83 League of Ireland Cup for their Cup Winners' Cup entry.[2] The club's European campaign began in the 1973–74 UEFA Cup, where they faced Scottish side Aberdeen in the first round. Finn Harps lost 1–4 in the away leg on 19 September 1973 and 1–3 at home on 3 October 1973, exiting with a 2–7 aggregate defeat. Three years later, in the 1976–77 UEFA Cup first round, they met English champions Derby County, suffering a 1–4 away loss on 15 September 1976 followed by a record 0–12 home defeat on 29 September 1976, resulting in a 1–16 aggregate elimination. Their third UEFA Cup appearance came in 1978–79 against Everton, with 0–5 losses in both legs on 12 September and 27 September 1978, leading to a 0–10 aggregate exit.[103][104] In their sole European Cup Winners' Cup venture during the 1983–84 season, Finn Harps drew 0–0 at home against Turkish cup winners Bursaspor on 14 September 1983 before losing 2–4 away on 28 September 1983, bowing out 2–4 on aggregate. Across all eight European matches, Finn Harps recorded no wins, one draw, and seven losses, scoring five goals and conceding 37.[4]| Season | Competition | Round | Opponent | Home | Away | Aggregate |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1973–74 | UEFA Cup | First round | Aberdeen | 1–3 | 1–4 | 2–7 |
| 1976–77 | UEFA Cup | First round | Derby County | 0–12 | 1–4 | 1–16 |
| 1978–79 | UEFA Cup | First round | Everton | 0–5 | 0–5 | 0–10 |
| 1983–84 | European Cup Winners' Cup | First round | Bursaspor | 0–0 | 2–4 | 2–4 |