Kerry secured a dramatic 6-5 penalty shootout victory over Shelbourne in the Club Orange FAI Cup, marking a difficult start for Shelbourne manager John Russell. Despite Shelbourne rallying to lead after Odhran Casey’s 52nd-minute red card, Kerry’s late comeback and composure from the spot eliminated the visitors, continuing the club’s reputation for giant-killing.
Cup Shock at Mounthawk Park
John Russell’s tenure at Shelbourne began with a setback at Mounthawk Park, a venue where he previously managed Sligo Rovers during a famous comeback victory. The match saw Shelbourne forced to field academy goalkeeper Finn Moylan due to injuries to Wessel Speel and Conor Walsh, leaving the club without a senior stopper on the bench.
The game turned on its head following Odhran Casey’s dismissal for two yellow cards. While Daniel Kelly put Shelbourne ahead with 30 minutes remaining, two errors from the rookie goalkeeper allowed Sean O’Connell and Cian Murphy to score for Kerry in the 78th and 79th minutes. Jack Henry-Francis forced extra-time with a 92nd-minute deflection, but Kerry ultimately prevailed in the shootout after Harry Halwax saved three Shelbourne penalties.
Did you know?
This result adds to Kerry’s reputation for giant-killing, following their run to the semi-finals of the competition in 2025 under manager Colin Healy.
FAI Cup Second Round Roundup
Elsewhere in the competition, several other sides secured their spots in the next round through decisive performances:
- Dundalk FC: Defeated St. Mochta’s 3-1 at Oriel Park, with goals from Shane Treacy, Trevor Clarke, and Harry Groome. Dean Morgan provided a late consolation for the visitors.
- UCD: Overcame a 1-0 deficit against Treaty United to win 2-1. Despite a red card for Colm Whelan, UCD struck back through Hughie Smith and Charles Akimrintoyo after Ronan Manning’s penalty had initially put the Limerick side in front.
- Athlone Town: Recorded a comfortable 3-0 victory, featuring a debut goal from Josh Farnham alongside strikes from Patrick Ferry and Aaron Connolly.
- Drogheda United: Dominated Lucan United in a 4-0 win. Mark Doyle scored twice, while Thomas Oluwa added a penalty after a foul on Jason Bucknor. Lucan finished the match with ten men following Stephen Odiashi’s dismissal.
- Bray Wanderers: Secured a 1-0 win over Finn Harps at Finn Park, with Conor Knight scoring the decisive goal in the 92nd minute.
- Galway United: Advanced with a 4-0 win over Crumlin United. Matty Wolfe netted two goals, with Francely Lomboto and Stephen Walsh also scoring.
Looking Ahead: Third Round Draw
With the second round concluded, attention now turns to the next stage of the tournament. The draw for the third round of the Club Orange FAI Cup is scheduled for Tuesday, 21 July, at 6:00 pm. The proceedings will be broadcast on Inside Sport on RTÉ Radio One.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who won the penalty shootout between Kerry and Shelbourne?
Kerry emerged victorious 6-5 after a sudden-death shootout.
When is the third-round draw for the FAI Cup?
The draw takes place on Tuesday, 21 July, at 6:00 pm on RTÉ Radio One.
How did Shelbourne line up in goal?
Due to injuries to Wessel Speel and Conor Walsh, Shelbourne gave a first-team debut to academy goalkeeper Finn Moylan.
Stay tuned for further coverage of the FAI Cup. Subscribe to our newsletter for weekly updates on Irish football fixtures and results.
Keep reading
