FAI Cup Final 2021: Dundalk End 12-Year Wait For Success

Lilywhites Lift 12th FAI Cup

Dundalk FC secured a 12th FAI Cup on Sunday afternoon after overcoming Shamrock Rovers in a penalty shootout at the Aviva Stadium.

The Lilywhites will represent Ireland in next season's UEFA Europa Conference League after a dramatic 4-2 win on penalties. Dundalk came from 2-0 down at half-time, with goals from Sean Gannon and Patrick Hoban sending the game to extra-time.

The FAI Cup had not been played since 2019 due to the COVID-19 pandemic, but the 2021 showpiece certainly made up for lost time with a thrilling encounter.

Rovers Start Strongly

Shamrock Rovers, bidding to win the double after securing the league title last week, were the better side in the opening 45 minutes.

They took the lead on 13 minutes when Rory Gaffney slotted home from 12 yards after being teed up by Aaron Greene. Gaffney doubled their advantage just before the break, heading home Dylan Watts' cross.

Dundalk Turn It Around

Dundalk improved after the break and pulled a goal back on 53 minutes when Gannon bundled the ball home from close range.

They continued to press and got their reward with 15 minutes remaining when Hoban headed home Chris Shields' cross.

Penalty Drama

Neither side could find a winner in extra-time, so the game went to a penalty shootout.

Dundalk keeper Nathan Shepperd was the hero, saving spot-kicks from Gaffney and Greene. Shields, Hoban, Gannon and Daniel Kelly all converted their penalties for Dundalk.

The win was Dundalk's first FAI Cup success since 2009 and their 12th overall.