In a tough and very tense All Ireland SFAI Cup tie in Kilmallock (Limerick), played in front of a large crowd, Castleknock Celtic overcame the local team after extra-time, in an evenly fought game.
The sides were very evenly matched throughout the game. Shane Murphy scored the first goal in the first half from a 20 metre swerving free kick which deceived the goalkeeper. Kilmallock went very close through Gavin O'Mahony's effort which was excellently saved by Celtic keeper, Cormac Moore, who was on the top of his game throughout. The home side pressed for the equaliser and hit the cross-bar with a free kick in the second half. Kilmallock eventually equalised with an own goal from Liam Fleming to bring the game into extra time. But Liam was to make up for this when he delivered an expert cross for Paul Olima to head home in the first period of extra time. From there on, play swung from end to end with both sides creating and missing chances, especially with Kieran Ryan shooting just wide. But the Celtic defence held out despite intense pressure. Celtic's win was a real all-round team performance, but we must mention Neil Ahearne and Shane Murphy who excelled. Man of the match for Kilmallock was Niall Burchell, the home side's right full back.
Well done to both sides for a hugely entertaining game. The big pity was that someone had to lose.