Troops in Syria show support for Athlone Town ahead of play-off tie

Local members of the Defence Forces serving in Syria have shown their support for Athlone Town ahead of the club's promotion play-off tie against Waterford United.

Athlone play the opening leg of the First Division play-off semi-final against Waterford at home tomorrow (Tuesday) night.

In a social media post, the club shared a photo of troops in Syria proudly displaying an Athlone Town flag.

"Our club is currently well represented in Syria, with, from the left, holding the flag, ex-senior team players Ryan Gaffey and Anthony Jinks, while on the right is our current kit and logistics man, Lee Bolger. C'mon the Town!" wrote the club.

A draw on Friday against local rivals Longford Town was enough to secure Athlone's spot in the play-offs, which involve two two-legged semi-finals and a final among four First Division clubs.

This is then followed by the winner playing the second from bottom team in the Premier Division for a place in the top tier next year.

Athlone's first leg against Waterford kicks off in Lissywollen at 7.45pm tomorrow, while second leg at the RSC in Waterford is on Saturday at 3pm.

Virgin Media Television announced today that it will be broadcasting the decisive game of the Premier Division promotion/relegation play off series live on Friday, November 10.

In addition to Athlone and Waterford, Wexford and Cobh Ramblers are the other First Division teams involved in the play-offs.

With UCD already relegated, Cork City and Sligo Rovers are currently battling it out to avoid the ninth place spot in the Premier Division.