Cobh Ramblers created history by reaching their first-ever cup final by beating Dundalk 1-0 in the EA Sports Cup semi-final. A very entertaining first half began with Dundalk controlling much of the possession. An early shot by Sam Byrne was the hig
Cobh Ramblers created history by reaching their first-ever cup final by beating Dundalk 1-0 in the EA Sports Cup semi-final.
A very entertaining first half began with Dundalk controlling much of the possession. An early shot by Sam Byrne was the highlight of the period but his attempt was off target. Ramblers grew into the game and didn’t seem fazed by their opponents.
Long range efforts from Christopher and O’ Connor lifted the crowd as the home side began to assert themselves. It was Dundalk, however, who almost broke the deadlock when in the 29th minute a Mountney free kick found the head of Sam Byrne who put it narrowly wide.
Ramblers ended the half the stronger side as first a searing run by Fernandes almost created a chance for Hull and then a shot from Hurley went narrowly wide. The second half began much in the vein as the first with Dundalk controlling the ball but the hunger of this young Ramblers side was a constant threat.
Dundalk sub Jarvis had a shot just wide of the post while at the other end Christopher forced a decent save from Sava. Then in the 75th minute came the breakthrough. A terrific ball by Christopher opened up the Dundalk defence for Chris Hull to run through.
The young striker took the ball under control and cooly slotted it past Sava to give the underdogs the lead. As expected Dundalk increased the pressure in search of an equaliser but failed to create any clear cut chances.
Ramblers held on to seal their place in the final.
