Killarney Athletic U13 Girls Triumph In Penalty Shootout

In a thrilling cup encounter held at Killarney on 6 May 2025, Killarney Athletic U13 Girls faced off against local rivals Killarney Celtic, with the match concluding in a dramatic 1-1 draw after extra time. The contest ultimately went to penalties, where Killarney Athletic emerged victorious with a score of 4-2, securing their place in the next round of the competition.

Killarney Athletic lined up in a 4-4-2 formation, a tactical setup designed to provide both defensive solidity and attacking options. Lori Rujevcan took her position in goal, while a back four comprised of Aoibhinn Heinhann on the right, Elizabeth Brosnan and Regan O’Shea in central defence, and Fiadh O’Sullivan on the left aimed to keep the opposition at bay. In midfield, Evie Doolan and Laura O’Sullivan operated on the right and left flanks respectively, with Roisin O’Sullivan and Clodagh Hegarty anchoring the centre. Up front, Leah Heinmann and Erica Moloney were tasked with leading the line and converting chances into goals.

The substitutes for Killarney Athletic included Robyn Higgins, Aria Sheehan, Lucy Myles, and Lauren O’Donoghure, providing the coach with options to change the game as needed.

The match began with both teams displaying a competitive spirit, but it was Killarney Celtic who struck first, taking the lead in the 24th minute. A well-placed shot from the opposition found the back of the net, putting Killarney Athletic under pressure as they sought to respond before the half-time whistle.

As the first half drew to a close, Killarney Athletic regrouped and focused on their strategy, aiming to exploit the width provided by their midfielders. The half-time break arrived with Killarney Celtic leading 1-0, leaving the Athletic side with much to ponder.

The second half saw Killarney Athletic come out with renewed determination. Their efforts paid off in the 51st minute when Roisin O’Sullivan was awarded a penalty after being fouled in the box. With composure, she stepped up and converted the penalty with her left foot, equalising the score at 1-1 and igniting celebrations among her teammates.

As the match progressed, both teams fought hard to find a winner, but neither could break the deadlock, leading to an additional 10 minutes of extra time. Despite several attempts from both sides, the score remained unchanged, forcing the match into a penalty shootout.

In the shootout, Killarney Athletic showcased their nerve and skill, converting four penalties to Killarney Celtic's two, sealing a hard-fought victory. Elizabeth Brosnan's commanding performance in defence earned her the Player of the Match accolade, highlighting her crucial role in both the defensive and attacking phases of play.

This thrilling encounter not only showcased the talent within the Killarney Athletic U13 Girls team but also set the stage for an exciting cup campaign ahead.