Cliftonville FC marks 27 years since their last Pioneer Cup clash with Bohemians
Cliftonville FC, Ireland’s oldest football club, looks back at their historic Pioneer Cup rivalry with Bohemians, marking 27 years since their last encounter in 1999. The Reds have a rich history in the competition, which began as the Victory Cup in 1945 and evolved into a friendly challenge between the two clubs.
What was the Pioneer Cup?
Originally known as the Victory Cup, the competition celebrated the end of World War II. The first match in 1945 saw Bohemians win 9-8 on corner kicks after a 3-3 draw. The Pioneer Cup became a regular friendly between Cliftonville and Bohemians, with the Reds lifting the trophy for the first time in 1954 thanks to a Bruce Shiells strike.
Key moments in the Pioneer Cup history
Cliftonville FC claimed their first Pioneer Cup victory in 1954 with a 1-0 win over Bohemians. The Reds enjoyed several successes, including a 4-2 win in the Tyler Cup in 1979, with John Platt scoring a hat-trick. The last Pioneer Cup match in 1999 saw Cliftonville’s Mickey Donnelly score the only goal in a 1-0 win.
What comes next for Cliftonville FC?
As Cliftonville FC prepares for their next fixture against Coleraine FC at home on December 12, 2026, currently sitting 5th in the table, the club continues to build on its pioneering spirit and historic achievements.
