Carrigaline Utd clinch SFAI Skechers National Cup for first time while St Kevin’s Boys complete National Cup double
Home Farm FC played host to three superb SFAI Skechers National Cup Finals last Sunday, with St Kevin’s Boys taking home the U12 and U14 titles, and Carrigaline Utd claiming a first ever SFAI National Cup.
Under the current restrictions, the finals were played in a behind closed doors setting, with limited entry for parents/guardians and club officials.
However, thanks to Fulltime Productions, best known for their work on the SFAI New Balance Kennedy Cup, all three games were streamed live.
The day begun with the U12 final between Shamrock Rovers and St Kevin’s Boys.
In what was a thrilling tie, full of great football and chances, it was St Kevin’s Boys that eventually broke the deadlock in the first period of extra-time after the game had ended 0-0.
Paddy Brides header at the backpost gave the local side the edge, and Jake Scott confirmed the result in the second period of extra-time when he netted from close range.
It was a fourth U12 title in a row for St Kevin’s Boys and the club would be celebrating again later in the day.
Next up was the intriguing U16 SFAI Skechers National Cup Final between Carrigaline United and Cherry Orchard.
United had never won an SFAI National Cup, while Cherry Orchard were looking to add yet another national crown to their illustrious record.
The game started at a frantic pace, and Conor Ryder had the Dubliners in front early on, however, Adam Costello equalised soon after.
Mitchell Cassin put the Orchard in front again in the first half, but back came Costello with just minutes remaining to score a wonderful goal from distance to take the tie into extra-time.
The young striker went on to bag his hat-trick from the penalty spot to put United in front for the first time, but Ryan Fahey levelled with a header to force penalties.
Jack Cullen was then the hero for the Cork youngsters, saving three spot-kicks to see the Barry Cup on its way to Carrigaline.
The day of the finals ended with the U14 SFAI Skechers National Cup Final between St Kevin’s Boys and Shamrock Rovers.
A depleted Rovers team scored early, but St Kevin’s were in front before the break, and they added further goals in the second half.
Mark Tarzan Isong netted four times for the winners, while young Leon McClaren came off the bench to score a wonderful goal for Rovers before the final whistle.
Visit the SFAI’s Facebook page to watch the three finals in full.
