Cherry Orchard Crowned FAI U-17 National Cup Champions After Narrow Win Over St. Kevin's

Cherry Orchard emerged victorious in the FAI U-17 National Cup final, defeating St. Kevin's 1-0 in a tightly contested match at Richmond Park. Evan Matthews scored the decisive goal in the second half, securing the championship for his team.

The match began with both teams displaying their attacking intent. Matthews had an early opportunity with a dangerous free-kick that was well saved by Fennelly, the St. Kevin's goalkeeper. St. Kevin's responded with a counter-attack that saw their forward McDermott's effort well cleared by Cherry Orchard's defense.

Matthews had another chance later in the first half but failed to hit the target. Both teams had chances to take the lead, with Cherry Orchard's O'Dowd coming closest when his first-time shot at the near post went just wide.

St. Kevin's also threatened, with McDermott forcing a good save from Boland in the Cherry Orchard goal. However, neither side could break the deadlock in the first half.

Cherry Orchard started the second half brightly, with O'Dowd's close-range effort well saved by Fennelly. The breakthrough finally came when Kian Matthews scrambled the ball home from a tight angle following Ayoola's cross.

Despite St. Kevin's best efforts, they were unable to find an equalizer. Cherry Orchard's goalkeeper Boland made a crucial save from McGee's long-range shot, while Hearns and Dunne both had chances for St. Kevin's in the dying moments but failed to convert.

Cherry Orchard's resolute defense held firm in the closing stages, securing the 1-0 victory and the FAI U-17 National Cup title for their team.