Organisers of a tribute match to the late Liam Miller attempted to host the game at Páirc Uí Chaoimh.

The game is set to go ahead at Turner's Cross on September 25th, when a host of former Manchester United, Celtic and Republic of Ireland stars will play a match in aid of the Cork man's family.

Speaking to the Irish Examiner, Cork Lord Mayor Mick Finn, one of the event's organisers, revealed that "attempts were made" to stage the game at Páirc Uí Chaoimh in order to meet the anticipated high demand for tickets.

The famous Cork stadium, which re-opened last year after a €80m redevelopment, has a capacity of 45,000 while Turner's Cross holds around 7,000.

"One pity is that we didn't have the use of a bigger venue in the city. I know attempts were made to get Páirc Uí Chaoimh, which is a pity, but I have no doubt that the Cork public will row in behind this and it will be a fantastic event," said Mr Finn.

"There is such a demand for this event that I have no doubt it will sell out within a couple of minutes. Attempts were made by Michael and myself and others to see if Páirc Uí Chaoimh would be available. But they have their own internal practices, the response was it wasn't available on this occasion."

Cork are bound by the rules of the GAA which meant they could not make Páirc Uí Chaoimh available for a one off soccer game but Finn explained that Cork County Board were willing to help out in other ways.

"They have offered their premium facilities free of charge, conscious of the fact that Liam played with Éire Óg, and captained his school to a Sciath na Scol final in '93. They are making those facilities available if required, but unfortunately, on this occasion, it was just too soon for it to be organised."

Tickets for the game go on sale tomorrow and are expected to sell-out, with a black tie gala dinner set to be held at Cork City Hall after the match.

Tweet

Most Read Stories