Athlone Town secure historic first Women's Premier Division title

Athlone Town have made history by claiming their first-ever SSE Airtricity Women's Premier Division title, defeating Bohemians 2-0 at Athlone Town Stadium. Goals from Madison Gibson and Kellie Brennan sealed the victory, making them only the fifth team to win the league since 2012.

With Shelbourne's earlier 3-0 win over Peamount United, the title race was pushed to the limit. However, Athlone's superior head-to-head record ensured they secured the championship with one match still to play against Galway United on October 12th.

The breakthrough came in the 26th minute when Gibson capitalised on a poor clearance from Bohemians goalkeeper Rachael Kelly, driving forward to smash in her seventh goal of the season. Just seven minutes later, Brennan doubled the lead, turning her defender inside the box before converting from close range. Athlone nearly extended their lead further, with Gibson shooting off target and Brenda Tabe rattling the crossbar with a header.

Bohemians made attempts to fight back, but Athlone goalkeeper Katie Keane kept them at bay, earning her 10th clean sheet of the season. The result confirmed Athlone’s 15th win of the season and their first league triumph.

Athlone Town’s rise has been remarkable, following their Women's FAI Cup win last year and back-to-back President's Cup victories. Ciaran Kilduff’s squad now aim to complete a domestic double, as they will meet Shelbourne again in the Sports Direct Women's FAI Cup Final on October 20th in Tallaght Stadium.