Dundalk IT triumph in dramatic Challenge Cup final shootout
DKIT 3-3 MTU Kerry (Dundalk IT win 4-3 on penalties)
Dundalk Institute of Technology (DkIT) emerged victorious in a thrilling Challenge Cup final, defeating MTU Kerry 4-3 on penalties after a pulsating 3-3 draw in normal time, with both sides deserving huge credit for serving up such an entertaining game; a wonderful advertisement for the women’s game in Ireland.
However, it was DKIT’s day and captain Stephanie Cunningham led by example, scoring the opener and later lifting the cup, while Chloe Ibezim of Shamrock Rovers put in a player-of-the-match performance.
The Dundalk side secured their place in this final with a 4-0 victory over RCSI in the semi final, and they started brightly, with captain Stephanie Cunningham breaking the deadlock with a stunning free-kick into the top right corner.
In fairness, MTU Kerry responded well to this setback, by finding an equalizer, but DkIT regained control when Chloe Ibezim converted to make it 2-1 at halftime. The scoreline didn’t reflect DkIT’s dominance, as several chances went begging, but their defence held firm under occasional MTU Kerry pressure.
Second Half:
DkIT began the second half on the front foot, dictating possession, but MTU Kerry struck against the run of play to level at 2-2. Undeterred, DkIT hit back to regain the lead thanks to another goal from Chloe Ibezim.
However, MTU Kerry found a late equalizer, flicking the ball over the defence before finishing clinically into the bottom corner. DkIT pushed for a winner in the closing stages with the Johnson twins coming out strong from the back. But, with tired legs setting in, the match ended 3-3, forcing penalties.
Not for the first time representing DKIT, goalkeeper Rebecca Lambe Fagan produced a key save when her team’s need was at its greatest.
The Bellurgan United and Louth ladies netminder saved MTU Kerry’s first penalty to give DkIT the advantage. The team kept their composure, converting four penalties to clinch a dramatic 4-3 victory.
As the final whistle blew, captain Stephanie Cunningham proudly lifted the Challenge Cup, capping off a remarkable performance. Chloe Ibezim, who was instrumental in attack, was deservedly named player of the match.
This was a thrilling contest, and thanks to a heroic team effort, it turned out to be another memorable victory for DkIT!
Dundalk IT: Rebecca Lambe Fagan; Emily Johnson, Louise Johnson, Charlii Holbrook, Stephanie Cunningham, Katie Brophy, Chloe Coleman, Ellie Smyth, Chloe Ibezim, Jessy Arogundade, Marcella Molloy.
Subs: Sarah Warman, Jumayin Lawal, Aoife Hallinan, Adela Hampejsova, Nadine Kelly.