by Adam Moynihan

Kerry FC’s first ever game in the League of Ireland will be a Munster derby at home at Mounthawk Park in Tralee.

Earlier this week the league unveiled the fixture list for the upcoming 2023 season and newcomers Kerry have been handed an enticing home opener against Cork rivals Cobh Ramblers. The match will take place on Friday, February 17 at 7.45pm.

Ramblers, the club who famously sold Roy Keane to Nottingham Forest, endured a difficult year in 2022. They finished bottom of the nine-team league, seven points adrift of Athlone Town.

On paper it appears to be a decent opening round fixture for Kerry, although it will be difficult to assess their chances until they officially reveal their squad and manager ahead of their maiden voyage at this level.

“It’s extremely exciting to see Kerry FC on an official fixture list and it’s another milestone day in the club's history,” general manager Seán O’Keeffe said.

“Season tickets are selling extremely well and I would encourage anyone who hasn’t bought one yet to not delay to secure the best seat in the house for what will be a landmark day for Kerry FC. It is looking likely to be a complete sell-out.”

Season tickets can be purchased via the club’s official website. Tickets will also be available on a game-by-game basis. These will become available in the weeks leading up to each individual match.

After the visit of Cobh, Kerry will play Bray Wanderers away, Treaty United at home, Galway United away and Wexford FC away. That Wexford match will be staged on St Patrick’s Day.

Elsewhere on the opening day of the 2023 First Division season, recently relegated Finn Harps will travel to Galway, Longford Town play Athlone Town, Treaty United host Bray Wanderers, and Wexford take on last year’s runners-up, Waterford.