Ann Kennedy Tournament Final

Cappamore Celtic 0 - Clodiagh Rangers 1

Clodigh Rangers claimed their first Tournament title with this slender one nil lead against a classy Cappamore Celtic side in the final of the Ann Kennedy Cup Tournament played at Rearcross FC Grouds last Friday evening, Cappamore who ply their trade in Division 1A of the Limerick & District League provided stern oppostion for Clodiagh Rangers and with a bit more luck in front of goals the outcome may have been different, however credit must also go the Drombane side who defended brilliantly throughout. Cappamore made a strong start with incisive runs through the centre and came close three minutes in with a clever effort from David Kennedy that wasn't far away. Chris Cronin was denied on the 25 minute mark when his effort from inside the area was just wide of the Clodiagh upright. The LDMC side continued to push however the Clodiagh rearguard proved their worth and dealt admirably with all that came their way with captain James Ryan very much to the fore. Clodiagh adopted a more attacking approach in the second half and Diarmuid Delahanty grabbed what proved to be that elusive Golden Boot goal with a low drive past a helpess Cappamore custodian, Shane Ryan however did deny the NT&DL Premier Division side minutes later with a superb save from Michael Browne. Clodiagh had to pull all the stops in the final ten minutes to thwart a last ditch onslaught from Cappamore who attacked in droves, however the Clodiagh defence shone once again and were most instrumental throughout in helping the Drombane side to clinch their first Tournament title. Cappamore were unlucky on the day, however Clodiagh were worthy winners and will be back in strength next summer to defend their title. A well attended post match function in Kennedy's Lounge saw James Ryan accept the Ann Kennedy Cup from Rody Kennedy in addition to a Sports Voucher to the value of €200-00, Cappamore's captain David Kennedy was presented with the Runners Up Shield, while Clodiagh's James Ryan was presented with the Player of the Tourmement accolade, Diarmuid Delahunty was the winner of the Golden Boot award, Our thanks to Kennedy's Bar & Shop for their sponsorship of the Tournament.

Cappamore Celtic: Shane Ryan, Alan Ryan, David Duggan, Diarmuid Green, Mike Sweeney, Liam McMahon, Jason Healy, Alan Wallace, Thomas Healy, Chris Cronin, David Kennedy(Capt)
Subs: Philip Coyle, Paudie Coyle, Brian Paul

Clodiagh Rangers: Robert Quinlan, Paul English, Gerry Quinn, James Ryan(Capt), Ciaran Carroll, Declan Carr, Denis McCullagh, Stephen Fewer, Michael Browne, Diarmuid Delahunty
Subs: Pat Shott, Joe Butler, John Ryan, Gerard Crowe

Referee: Jim Lees
Assistant Referees: David White, Johnny Mitchell