What an end to normal time! After 88 minutes without many clearcut opportunities, the first 90 minutes of FAI Cup final hardly could have ended in more more dramatic fashion.
For the majority of the game it looked like we would be headed for extra time. While that did turn out to be the case, we never could have guessed the circumstances that would get us there.
It started in the 88th minute, when Shamrock Rovers were awarded what looked like a very soft penalty. Dundalk goalkeeper Gary Rogers was adjudged to have brought Aaron Greene down in the penalty area, although there appeared to have been very little contact.
Penalty Shamrock Rovers! #RTEsoccer pic.twitter.com/aS1rKm4pDL
— Soccer Republic (@SoccRepublic) November 3, 2019
That mattered little to Aaron McEneff who stood up and converted the spot kick. Pandemonium ensued.
Shamrock Rovers lead in the FAI Cup final! https://t.co/3OeMqqfxm4 pic.twitter.com/7XMiB6KBNF
— Soccer Republic (@SoccRepublic) November 3, 2019
Just when it looked like Rovers were about to end their 32-year FAI Cup drought, up steps Michael Duffy. The Derry native produced an absolutely stunning half volley to send the game to extra time, leaving Alan Mannus with no chance.
What a hit from Michael Duffy 🤯pic.twitter.com/KNwCBVzaq2
— Balls.ie (@ballsdotie) November 3, 2019
A goal fit to grace any final.
