Shelbourne’s Dominance in the Men’s FAI Cup
Shelbourne made a strong statement in the Sports Direct Men’s FAI Cup this week, with John Martin scoring a hat-trick to lead his team to a 4-0 victory over Fairview Rangers. The win secured their place in the third round of the competition, where they will compete in the next draw on Tuesday. This result comes ahead of their upcoming Champions League match against Qarabag on Wednesday.
Martin opened the scoring just five minutes into the game, and Daniel Kelly doubled the lead within 24 minutes. Sean Boyd assisted Martin for his second goal in the 73rd minute, and Martin completed his hat-trick four minutes from the end. The 2024 SSE Airtricity Men’s Premier Division champions now look forward to the next stage of the cup with confidence.
Other Notable Results in the Men’s FAI Cup
Cork City also advanced to the next round with a 3-0 win over Leicester Celtic at Turner’s Cross. Charlie Lutz scored a penalty in the 68th minute, followed by a goal from Kitt Nelson three minutes later. An own goal late in the game sealed the victory for Cork City.
Cobh Ramblers continued their strong performance by defeating Bangor Celtic 2-0 away from home. Samuel Bellis and Matthew Whelan were the goalscorers for the First Division side. Meanwhile, Salthill Devon claimed a 1-0 win over St Michael’s, with Timmy Molloy scoring the decisive goal in the 10th minute.
Women’s Premier Division Highlights
In the SSE Airtricity Women’s Premier Division, Galway United managed to secure a 1-1 draw against defending champions Athlone Town. Aislinn Meaney equalized in the 85th minute, canceling out Kelly Brady’s early header. Despite the draw, Athlone Town remains unbeaten this season and holds a two-point lead at the top of the table.
Shelbourne bounced back from their recent loss to Bohemians with a strong 4-1 victory over Peamount United. Eoin Wearen’s team came from behind after Aisling Spillane gave Peamount an early lead. Penalties from Aoibheann Clancy and Kate Mooney helped Shelbourne take control, and Mooney and Noelle Murray added to the scoreline to secure the win.
DLR Waves stunned Shamrock Rovers at Tallaght Stadium, with Michelle Doonan scoring the only goal of the match. This result marked another significant win for Laura Heffernan’s side following their previous success over Peamount.
Other Key Matches
Bohemians, Wexford, and Treaty United all won their respective fixtures. Leiagh Glennon scored the only goal as Bohemians beat Waterford 1-0 at Dalymount Park. Della Doherty, Ciara Rossiter, and Leah McGrath led Wexford to a 3-0 victory over Sligo Rovers. Treaty United defeated Cork City 3-1, with Isabella Flocchini, Madelyn Robbins, and Mara McCleary scoring the goals. Aine Walsh’s late goal was a consolation for Cork City in the match.
