Following the breakaway from the Ulster Province-based Irish Football League after independence, the League of Ireland played it’s first season in 1921-22 with eight teams, all based in Dublin.

The inaugural season was won by St. James’ Gate, the team representing Guinness brewery, who finished two points above second placed Bohemian FC, with Shelbourne FC three points further back.

Following the season, 6th placed Frankfort FC, based in Raheny, North Dublin, and YMCA dropped out of the League of Ireland, and were replaced by Shamrock Rovers, Shelbourne United, Pioneers, and Rathmines (all Dublin teams) and Athlone Town and Midland Athletic. The latter two are both based in the midlands region of Leinster Province (the Eastern Province).

References 1921-1975

(1) Noel Dunne and Seán Ryan (1975) “Chapter 16 – League Tables 1921-1975” The Bass Book of Irish Soccer. pg. 108. Mercier Press, Dublin and Cork. Republic of Ireland.

Researched, compiled and written by Enda Mulcahy for the

Eirball | Irish North American and World Sports Archives

First Published: 3 September 2026. Last Updated: 3 September 2026

(c) Copyright Enda Mulcahy and Eirball 2026

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