Loughgall
- Leagues Played
- Northern Ireland Championship 288 Northern Ireland Premier 76 Northern Ireland Cup 22 Northern Ireland League Cup 16 Club Friendly List 11 UK Friendlies 7 Northern Ireland Mid Ulster Cup 4
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- Related Teams
- Loughgall Reserves
Wikipedia - Loughgall F.C.
Loughgall Football Club is a semi-professional Northern Irish football club currently playing in the NIFL Championship.
History
The club, founded in 1967, is situated in the village of Loughgall, near Armagh in County Armagh and they play their home games in the village at Lakeview Park. The club was accepted into the old Irish League B Division in 1991, having played largely at junior level prior. Alfie Wylie is their longest serving manager, being in charge from 1986 to 1999. In the 1996–97 season, the club would have a good season, notably defeating Cliftonville in the League Cup, winning the Bob Radcliffe cup and reaching the semi-final of the Irish Cup. In the space of four years, the Lakeview Park side would win four consecutive B Divisions however would not be granted election to the 1st Division, being overlooked for other, arguably bigger clubs further down the league table.
First Premiership foray, Championship era and Premiership return (2004-)
They achieved senior status in 2004 on promotion to the Irish Premier League, but reverted to intermediate status upon relegation in 2007. In 2007, under the management of Niall Currie, the club had their most successful season, winning the first division, Bob Radciffe, Mid Ulster Cup, Intermediate Cup and Carnegie League Cup. The villagers would win the league again in 2009–10 but would not be promoted. On 3 March 2018, Loughgall defeated Glenavon 2–1 to reach the semi-final of the Irish Cup for the first time since 1997.
In April 2023, the club would return to the NIFL Premiership for the first time since 2007, following a 3–1 win away to Dundela. In being promoted, the village of Loughgall would become the smallest settlement, with a population of 283, to have a top flight team in Europe. The club would start their season away to Newry City. The club would perform incredibly well in the top flight, securing a notable victory over champions Larne, and finishing well clear of the relegation zone. The villagers plaudits would see manager Dean Smith receive Manager of the Year from the NIFWA. Striker Benji Magee had been subject of significant interest from Larne, Glentoran and Walsall following a strong campaign with the club, before securing a move to champions Larne in August 2024.
The team plays its home matches at the Loughgall Football Club's ground, which provides an intimate setting for supporters to rally behind their players. Over the years, Loughgall has enjoyed various successes, including notable cup runs and league performances, showcasing their competitive spirit and dedication to the sport.
Loughgall is not just a football club; it is a cornerstone of the local community, engaging with fans of all ages and promoting the values of teamwork, sportsmanship, and community pride. With a commitment to developing young players and a focus on achieving success on the pitch, Loughgall continues to be a beacon of hope and ambition in Northern Irish football.