Tom Murphy, Gary Shaw & Tommy Barrett

Final Whistle League of Ireland

This week we're focusing on the opening weekend of the First Division with Treaty United manager Tommy Barrett, Bray Wanderers striker Gary Shaw and Wexford keeper Tom Murphy talk about how their sides are preparing for the season ahead.

The show starts with co-hosts, Dean Zambra and Breifne Earley discusses the results of the weekend including Dean's Longford Town side getting out of the blocks early with a 2-0 victory over Derry City. They also discuss the unlikely top three sides in a very early league table.

Treaty United manager Tommy Barrett joins to talk about the return of senior League of Ireland men's football to Limerick and the mid-west region, the circumstances and driving forces behind the emergence of Treaty United and the expectations on and off the field for the league's new boys.

Wexford netminder Tom Murphy, an ever present for the side last season, discusses new arrivals and the strengthening of the club in the dugout as well as within the playing squad. He discusses the significance of the new LOITV service and Dean and Tom finish the chat with a mention of their shared interest in following Peamount United's campaign in the Women's National League.

Finally, Bray Wanderers top marksman last season Gary Shaw is in very relaxed form ahead of the new season. He chats about the differences in the league over his career specifically the support staff with video analysis, nutrition and strength & conditioning all now common place with each of the clubs.

Gary also highlights the importance of international call ups for squad members such as Brian Maher and the international pathway this showcases for youngsters coming through the underage sides at any League of Ireland club.