Kerry FC secured a spot in their first-ever FAI Cup semi-final with a thrilling 4-3 extra-time win against Sligo Rovers.
Goal Scorers
Kerry FC: Cian Brosnan (49′), (90+2′), Joe Adams (77′), Daniel Okwute (116′)
Sligo Rovers: Owen Elding (15′), (16′), (61′)
First Half
Sligo Rovers started off strong, quickly showing that they were the more confident team. Kerry FC tried to create some chances, but Sligo’s defense handled the early pressure with ease. In the 15th minute, Owen Elding took advantage of poor defending to score and put Sligo Rovers in the lead. This excited the fans who had traveled to support the team. Just a minute later, Elding scored again, increasing the lead and leaving Kerry FC in shock as Sligo Rovers moved ahead 2–0.
Kerry FC were made an early change in the 27th minute when defender Daniel O’Connor was withdrawn through a poor performance and was replaced by forward Cian Brosnan. The substitute almost made an instant impact, firing narrowly wide shortly after his introduction, but Sligo continued to dominate the first half.
Second Half
After a disappointing first half, Kerry FC came back with new energy after the break. The hosts appeared much sharper, as defenders Chris McQueen and Niall Brookwell held strong to prevent Sligo from getting more chances. However, even with their improved defense, Sligo’s Owen Elding scored his third goal in the 61th minute, making the away side lead 3-0 and putting Kerry FC in a tough position.
Kerry FC made some changes by taking out Kevin Williams and Carl Mujaguzi for Finn Barrett and Daniel Okwute to boost their attack. The adjustment paid off quickly; in the 66th minute, Cian Brosnan scored Kerry’s first-ever goal against Sligo Rovers. This sparked hope among the home fans.
Daniel Okwute came close shortly after but the shot went wide. In the 77th minute, Kerry FC got a chance when a foul in the box led to a penalty. Joe Adams converted it confidently, bringing the score to 3–2 and raising nerves in the away end.
Sligo Rovers still posed a threat. Nineteen-year-old Owen Elding once again tested the Kingdom’s defense with a free-kick, but his shot went wide. Then, deep in stoppage time, something unexpected happened. In the 92nd minute, Daniel Okwute passed the ball to Cian Brosnan, who finished it calmly and completed an incredible comeback, leveling the score at 3–3. The home crowd went wild, and with the referee’s whistle, the match went into extra time.
Extra Time
In the first half of extra time, Kerry FC maintained strong control over Sligo Rovers, especially after Cian Brosnan scored a crucial equalizer. Sligo Rovers did their best to address their weaknesses and hoped to find a goal for the win, but Kerry’s defense held firm. Kerry FC forward Daniel Okwute had some close calls, but his shots went wide over the crossbar.
After a hard-fought first half from both teams, Sligo Rovers pressed relentlessly for the breakthrough goal but were denied by a brilliant save from Kerry FC goalkeeper Matthew Connor.
In the 116th minute, Kerry FC produced an unbelievable twist. Daniel Okwute struck a superb shot, sending the ball home to make it 4–3 for Kerry FC. The home fans erupted in disbelief and joy. The management team also joined in the celebrations, with Head Coach Colin Healy joyfully embracing his players on the sidelines.
With two minutes of added time signaled, Kerry FC defended fiercely to prevent Sligo Rovers from forcing penalties. Finally, the referee’s whistle blew, confirming Kerry FC’s dramatic victory and securing their spot in the Semi-Finals of the Sports Direct FAI Cup.
What’s Next
Kerry FC will visit UCD AFC next Friday in the League of Ireland First Division. This match is important as the Kingdom tries to secure a late play-off spot.
Meanwhile, Sligo Rovers are back in Premier Division action at The Showgrounds. They will host Drogheda United. After their loss to Kerry FC, the Bit O’Red are eager to bounce back with a win and keep a comfortable lead over Cork City.
Teams
Kerry FC: 16. Matthew Connor; 3. Sean O’Connell, 4. Oran Crowe, 5. Chris McQueen, 6. Carl Mujaguzi; 8. Ronan Teahan (C), 10. Joe Adams, 14. Robbie Cleary, 15. Kevin Williams, 19. Daniel O’Connell, 28. Niall Brookwell;
Sligo Rovers: 29. Sam Sargeant; 2. Edwin Agbaje, 3. Sean Stewart, 4. Sebastian Quirk, 5. Patrick McClean (C); 8. Jad Hakiki, 10. Ciaron Harkin, 15. Oliver Denham, 16. James McManus, 28. Ryan O’Kane; 47. Owen Elding