Crettyard United claimed the U-16 Schoolboys/girls Football Association of Ireland National Trophy after defeating Howth Celtic 6-5 on penalties at the weekend.
The shootout succeeded a grueling 120 minutes which produced four goals but failed to separate the two sides.
The Laois club fell behind but despite that early set back, Crettyard managed to keep themselves in the game.
A chance came in the form of a set piece and it was Oisin Kelly who rose highest to meet the ball before directing the it into the right hand side of the goal, out of reach of the keeper’s flailing arms.
Celebrations began when Crettyard edged into the lead just after halftime due to a Seamus Lynch effort that caught out Howth Celtic’s keeper.
However, victory would not be that easy, as Howth Celtic replied with a goal for themselves minutes later.
This strike brought the game into extra time. The first half of which was a cagey affair as both sides understood the consequence of a mistake at this late on.
Fears of a slip up became reality when the referee awarded a penalty for Howth Celtic with eight minutes left.
However, the strong hand of Josh Murray alleviated any worries as his outstretched arm kept the game all square.
The referee blew his whistle, concluding the affair and confirming that a penalty shootout would decide who went home with the trophy.
The young men held their nerve, great penalties put them 6-5 up and left Howth Celtic in a position where they had to score to keep themselves in the contest.
The pressure proved too great Howth Celtic’s penalty found the welcoming arms of Josh Murray as the Crettyard faithful went into jubilation.
Captain and man of the match, Fionan Brennan lifted the trophy in front of the travelling support.
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