Waterford overcome Carlow and the conditions to book Kennedy Cup Bowl final spot
Waterford Kennedy Cup Squad are through to the Kennedy Cup Bowl Final. Photos: Keith Wiseman
Goals from Fionn Fell and Fareed Alabi fired the Waterford Schoolboy League into the Kennedy Cup Bowl Final as they overcame the Carlow and District Underage League in difficult conditions at the University of Limerick.
Following heavy rainfall in the days leading up to the game, the fixture was moved to an all-weather pitch. However, persistent rain and strong winds continued to make conditions challenging for both sides, with the contest ultimately decided by two well-taken Waterford goals either side of half-time.
Carlow made the brighter start and could have taken the lead inside four minutes. Logan Doran delivered a cross from the left which was knocked down by Odhran Nolan into the path of Dylan Prendergast, but his volley drifted just over the crossbar.
Waterford gradually settled and began to create chances of their own. On 13 minutes, Fareed Alabi found space down the right and delivered a cross towards the back post for Louis McDonald, but he was unable to keep his effort on target. Alabi was again involved nine minutes later when he set up Dale Redmond, only for the Carlow goalkeeper to make a crucial save.
The breakthrough arrived deep into first-half stoppage time. Dale Elliott surged forward on the left and produced an excellent delivery into the box where Fionn Fell reacted quickest, finishing from close range to give Waterford a deserved lead.
Carlow responded strongly after the restart, with Odhran Nolan going close to levelling matters. His powerful long-range strike appeared destined for the net, only for Waterford goalkeeper Rory Kirwan to produce an outstanding save to preserve his side’s advantage.
Waterford then strengthened their grip on the game in the 34th minute. Alabi collected possession in the right channel, drove into the penalty area and calmly finished from ten yards to double the lead.
With the weather continuing to deteriorate, Waterford showed composure and discipline to see out the remainder of the game without serious threat. Their solid defensive display ensured a clean sheet and secured their place in the Bowl final.
They will now face Donegal on Friday afternoon, aiming to cap an impressive ending to the campaign with silverware.
