It commenced on 28 August 2009, and the final was played on 15 May 2010, with Bohemians defeating St Patrick's Athletic 1–0 to claim their first Setanta Cup triumph.

On 22 June 2009, the draw for the competition was postponed because of the financial troubles of organiser Setanta Sports.

Teams were drawn from the top four of both leagues,[3] with an additional place for the winners of the previous competition, Cork City.

In a further change to the format of previous years, games were expected to take place on weekends instead of midweek.

Postponed due to waterlogged pitch Due to Cork City's resignation from the competition, Sligo Rovers were awarded a 3-0 win Due to Cork City's resignation from the competition, Cliftonville were awarded a 3-0 win Derry City ceased to exist, St Patrick's Athletic awarded 3-0 win[5] Derry City ceased to exist, Linfield awarded 3-0 win[6] St Patrick's Athletic won 6 − 2 on aggregate Bohemians won 3 − 1 on aggregate