Turner’s Cross to host unique game
Turner’s Cross will see a first next week as it hosts a very special football match.
Used to hosting Cork City FC, on Tuesday 29 November football legends David Meyler and Stephanie Roche will go head-to-head with two of Ireland’s top esports athletes.
Former Irish internationals Myler and Roche will take on Ireland’s top FIFA players Ciaran Walsh and Tyrone Ryan. They are members of Ireland’s premier esports team Wylde, part of Usain Bolt’s esports organisation. The game will be live on Twitch at 5pm.
Wylde players Tyrone Ryan and Ciaran Walsh represent Ireland in international FIFA competitions and are Ireland’s highest ranked FIFA players. Former Cork footballer Damien Delaney will provide live commentary and analysis alongside esports caster and football commentator, Darren Gibson.
Virgin Media Ireland Marketing Manager, Clare Quinlan said: “Ireland’s gamers are the next generation of esports athletes and professional players. Irish esports players and gamers at home compete internationally every day. We are delighted to sponsor Ireland’s first esports academy, the Wylde Academy in Cork powered by Virgin Media’s 1Gb speeds and 9.99% reliable broadband, the academy is an exciting opportunity to help nurture and support gaming talent in Ireland.”
A keen online gamer, former professional midfielder David Meyler said: “After retiring from professional football, I started gaming online and have since become a keen content streamer on Twitch. I am delighted to be part of this campaign, especially as it takes place on my home turf.
“I began my career playing for Cork City, and although I’ve played many a soccer game in Turner’s Cross, this will be my first-time gaming on a pitch. I am thrilled to be competing with Wylde esports players, Tyrone and Ciaran, as I understand the level of skill and dedication gaming at his level takes. They are both seriously impressive.”
Stephanie Roche added: “I love playing FIFA, but I am not a patch on Ciaran and Tyrone on the FIFA pitch! Ciaran and Tyrone’s commitment to perfecting their craft is incredible. This experience has been totally eye-opening, and the Wylde players are a testament to the fact that gaming is serious business, and they truly are athletes.”