Roche puts North Dublin in seventh heaven

THERE was a shock result in yesterday’s SFAI Umbro Kennedy Cup final when the North Dublin Schoolboys League halted the DDSL’s eight-in-row ambitions by claiming their first title since 1995.

Limerick University’s bowl pitch was abuzz when striker Paddy Roche supplied the solitary goal of the final after 20 minutes. And NDSL’s victory was fully deserved on a day their tactical plan of suppressing the opposition’s trademark passing game swung the match in their favour.

A mazy dribble from winger Chris Darby started the move for the goal as his pass was finished brilliantly by Ashbourne United forward Roche.

Rarely did the DDSL side, who conceded just one goal in their five previous games, enjoy a concerted spell of pressure in the second half.

Due to some stern NDSL defending, the favourites were restricted to efforts from distance such as Fuad Sule’s half-volley which went wide.

Elsewhere on finals day at the 32-league event, Cork clinched third spot in the play-off against fellow beaten semi-finalist Galway on a penalty shoot-out following a scoreless draw. Galway at least had the consolation of completing the week as the only team not to concede a goal in their six matches.

The Midlands League powered past North Tipperary 4-1 helped by a Shane Tierney brace to claim the Plate prize.

Jason Hunt bagged both Mayo goals in their 2-1 Bowl final triumph over Carlow, while Athlone came from behind to beat Drogheda 2-1 in the Trophy decider.