Galway girls capture U-14 Gaynor Cup for first time

National success is a rare treat at any level, but to complete a seven game unbeaten run over a weekend is a sign of true quality and Galway’s achievement in winning the FAI Girls U-14 Gaynor Cup for the first time in their history was a tribute to all involved.

Limerick University hosted the three day event with 18 leagues represented and Galway made the perfect start as they cracked home 11 goals when winning their opening three matches on day one.

They registered their biggest win of the weekend when dismissing Clare by 6-0 in their opening encounter. Aoife Thompson (two), Chloe McDonagh, Eve McDaid, Aoife Lynagh and Lucia Lobato were all on the mark to get them off to a terrific start.

The next two outings were a lot more competitive as Sadhbh Doyle scored twice in their 2-0 victory over Longford, before Chloe McDonagh (two) and Alison Blaney found the range in a 3-1 success over Wexford.

Day two saw the challenges become a lot more difficult and the Galway encounter against Kerry provided a real challenge as they went behind for the first time, but a second half finish by Meghen Hengerer secured parity in a 1-1 draw.

The final group game against the Inishowen League was a winner takes all situation – with just the victor emerging from the group. Following another close contest, a Sadhbh Doyle goal was enough to give Galway a 1-0 victory and secure a semi-final slot.

The Cork League and the Dublin Metropolitian League are the standard bearers at this level of the game and it was fitting that the Galway girl’s would dismiss both on their way to the title.

The morning of day three saw them pitted against Cork in the semi-final and in windy conditions. Chances were presented at both ends, but generally defences dominated. Galway goalkeeper Karen Connolly displayed her prowess with some smashing saves, while the back four of Aoife Lynagh, Gemma Coll, Rachel Henniffy and Amy Coyne excelled in testing conditions.

For more, read this week’s Connacht Sentinel.