by DSFC Media | Mar 27, 2025 | Uncategorized
Bangor v Dungannon Swifts
Clearer Water Irish Cup semi-final
Seaview, Saturday 29 March, 5.30pm
Tickets via Ticketmaster
It’s now less than 48 hours until the big game and excitement is building for both players and fans of Dungannon Swifts FC.
After the achievement of securing a top six finish in the league this month, the focus shifts to the Irish Cup and the prize of a place in the final to challenge for a first ever victory in the competition.
Manager Rodney McAree said the mood is good in the camp, despite a weakened team going down 3-0 to league champions Linfield on Monday in a game moved to facilitate its broadcast on Sky Sports.
“The result on Monday didn’t go our way. Yes, we made some changes but we still a had strong team on the pitch,” he said.
“The game was little bit disruptive because we lost our Tuesday training session as preparation for Saturday, but at this stage of season everyone knows their roles and responsibilities and we had a recovery session where the mood was very good.
“Everyone is looking forward to Saturday now and excited about the game.”
Bangor will present an unfamiliar challenge at Seaview, but no-one will be under any illusion about the danger the seasiders pose.
The team have dominated the Championship division this year and confirmed their threat with a stunning 3-1 victory over Glentoran to reach the semi-final.
“It’s going to be an extremely tough game. Bangor will provide a physical challenge, a direct challenge,” said Rodney.
“They have very good individuals but collectively they work extremely hard, they have lot of energy and experience.
“For anyone to think that we would be complacent going into this game would be ludicrous. You only have to look at the Glentoran game to understand what a great side they are.”
Cheering the boys on this Saturday will be a sizeable and very vocal Dungannon support, a feature of away games in particular as the club has enjoyed one of its best ever seasons.
And for Rodney, a lifelong Swifts fan as well as a former player and manager, it will be a very special feeling to lead the club in only its fourth Irish Cup semi-final.
The first, in 2007, saw a penalty shoot-out victory over Cliftonville before the agony of defeat on penalties in the final against Linfield. Rodney was one of the scorers in that 2-2 draw, as well as converting a penalty.
He was also manager in 2017 when Dungannon lost 1-0 to the same opponents at the semi-final stage, with the club again missing out by the same slim margin against Cliftonville two years ago.
“We feel the buzz in the town, we feel the support we’re getting,” he said.
“For me personally, I played in an Irish Cup final and it was a fantastic experience. We nearly got over the line and on another day we could maybe have won.
“We have lost in another couple of semi-finals but this is our next opportunity.
“As a player I always dreamt of playing in a final. Now as head coach, and particularly with my home town team that I’ve supported all my life, it would be a special experience to do that again.
“There is still a long way to go but this is group of players who are self-driven and who also want to drive each other on and we are all just looking forward to the game on Saturday.”
Road to the semi-final:
Quarter-final:
Carrick Rangers 1-3 Dungannon Swifts
Round 6:
Dungannon Swifts 2-1 Coleraine (AET)
Round 5:
Dungannon Swifts 5-0 Rathfriland Rangers
by DSFC Media | Oct 1, 2024 | Uncategorized
Dungannon Swifts manager Rodney McAree has committed his future to the club by signing a three-year extension to his current contract.
McAree, who has expressed his happiness with the club, is focused on building a long-term vision and is keen to plan for the future. His continued presence will provide stability and direction for the team as we aim to improve and grow in the coming seasons. This extension reflects McAree’s commitment to the Swifts and his belief in the club’s potential, signalling a promising period ahead for the team and its supporters.
Click the link to watch Rodneys full interview: https://youtu.be/Kif3kO4RLLM
Congratulations, Rodney! We’re delighted to have you continue leading our team. This commitment signals a bright and promising future for Dungannon Swifts as we work towards new goals and growth under his guidance.
#RMBAWA
by DSFC Media | Aug 22, 2024 | Uncategorized
Dungannon Swifts Announce the Signing of Danny Wallace
Dungannon Swifts are delighted to announce the signing of Danny Wallace, a versatile defender who can play both as a centre-half and on the left of a back three. At 29 years of age, Danny brings a wealth of experience to Stangmore Park.
He reunites with manager Rodney McAree, having previously worked with him at Warrenpoint. Danny is no stranger to the demands and expectations that come with playing under McAree’s leadership. His journey includes stints at Warrenpoint and Glenavon, from where he has made the switch to Dungannon Swifts, after spending three seasons with the Lurgan side.
Eager to fight for his place in the squad, Danny is determined to make his mark in the upcoming season. He will be wearing the number 23 shirt as he steps onto the pitch at Stangmore Park.
Welcome to the Swifts, Danny! We look forward to seeing you in action.
Watch interview with Danny here: https://youtu.be/E_ENMl6Ky4M
by DSFC Media | Jul 11, 2024 | Uncategorized
Swifts Manager, Rodney McAree with new signing, Gael Bigirimana.
Dungannon Swifts are thrilled to announce the permanent signing of Gael Bigirimana, the creative central midfielder who played on loan with the team last season. At 31 years old, Bigirimana’s move to Dungannon has become permanent, marking an exciting new chapter for both the player and the club.
Bigirimana, a talented Burundian footballer, has settled well into life at Dungannon. His love for the club and the town, combined with the happiness of his family, has influenced his decision to stay. Despite interest from clubs across the water and another Irish League club, Bigirimana chose to remain at Stangmore Park, demonstrating his commitment and passion for Dungannon Swifts.
Known for his creativity on the field, Bigirimana has already made a significant impact during his loan spell. His permanent signing is a moment of celebration for everyone at the club. As he continues to wear the number 34 shirt, Bigirimana is eager to give back to the club and looks forward to the upcoming season and its challenges.
Welcome to Stangmore Park, Bigi!
Watch our exclusive interview with Gael Bigirimana below and join us in celebrating his return.
https://youtu.be/VRxuF_ZKU3M
Up The Swifts!
by DSFC Media | Jul 11, 2024 | Uncategorized
Dungannon Swifts have made an exciting addition to their squad with the signing of central midfielder Bobby Jack McAleese. Known for his dynamic box-to-box style, McAleese’s football journey is marked by determination and resilience. He began his career with Bertie Peacock Youth, showing early promise that led him to Coleraine FC. His talent soon caught the eye of Nottingham Forest, where he continued his development.
However, McAleese faced significant challenges, including an injury setback and the disruptions caused by the COVID-19 pandemic. These hurdles prompted a return home, where he played for Portstewart FC and then Glebe Rangers, steadily rebuilding his career.
The move to Dungannon Swifts represents a fresh start and a new opportunity for McAleese, facilitated by John Gregg’s support in helping to gain the move for him. His versatility and relentless work ethic make him a valuable asset for the team, and fans will be eager to see how he impacts the squad in the upcoming season. We got a taste 
of his ability last week at Rathfriland Rangers and hopefully we will see lots more during the season ahead.
Welcome to Stangmore Park, Bobby Jack. Bobby Jack will wear the Number 22 jersey.
by | Feb 9, 2023 | Uncategorized
For those interested in travelling to the Newry and Portadown matches over the next two weeks, please click on the image below and sign up for the Bus on our Facebook page. More details to follow.
