Shamrock Rovers have ended their 32-year wait for an FAI Cup triumph, and it came in dramatic circumstances. After two late goals had sent the game to extra time, it always seemed like penalties would decide the outcome.
That's how it worked out. Rovers would hold their nerve in the shootout, converting all four spot kicks as Dundalk faltered on a couple of occasions. It was a huge win, and one that caps off the progress that has been made at the club.
Speaking to RTÉ after the game, Stephen Bradley said that he was delighted that his players could bring home the trophy.
"It takes us to the next level" - Stephen Bradley tells @Corktod this could just be the start for Shamrock Rovers #RTEsoccer pic.twitter.com/XPmXaO9LQN
— Soccer Republic (@SoccRepublic) November 3, 2019
I'm delighted for the players, delighted for the fans and everyone associated with the club. I'm so proud of this group, so proud of them.
The game is nearly over, Dundalk come back like they do as champions, and we stay in there. I'm unbelievably proud of the group...
We did, but that's why they're champions. They don't stop, they keep going.
All credit to my players, they've been unbelievable all year. They never give up, they stay together, and I'm delighted for them.
Penalties are a bit of a lottery, but teams can prepare for them. The old adage that you couldn't practise penalties has gone out of the modern game and Shamrock Rovers had prepared for the possibility.
Bradley also revealed that he thought this win would bring the club to the next level.
We had practised, and to be fair we had eight or nine that were really comfortable so it wasn't for us.
I'm so delighted for the players. All I do is put them out there, it's up to them to go across the white line and have the character and courage to play the way we do, and they've done that today...
For us as a group, I think it takes us to the next level. We've been building, getting better, we've been trying to catch (Dundalk).
I just think winning something gives you belief and it helps you grow as a team. We've done that today.
