Kelly completes cup double with Shels

Harry Shorthose Aoife Kelly helped Shelbourne complete a cup double last Sunday as they lifted the Women’s FAI Cup at Tallaght Stadium, adding the trophy to the All-Island Cup they won earlier this season.

The 21-year-old started in central midfield and played the full 90 minutes as Shelbourne overcame league champions Athlone Town to claim another piece of silverware.

“We're absolutely delighted,” said Kelly. “We had a great weekend, so we're really happy with it. It's a big achievement. You start the year looking to win silverware, so to come away with two cups is really special for the team.” Shelbourne produced something of an upset against an Athlone side who had already secured the Women's Premier Division title and were aiming to complete a domestic treble, having also won the President's Cup earlier in the campaign. Prior to the final, Athlone had suffered just one defeat all season.

“Athlone are a really good side and obviously the rivalry between Shels and Athlone is quite big,” Kelly explained. 

“It was a great game, we put in a really good performance and came out on top, so we're delighted.” A blistering opening half proved decisive as Shelbourne struck three times before the interval to put themselves firmly in control. Kelly felt the team's preparation and unity laid the foundations for victory.

“I think we went into the match really ready to go and, in the first half, we put on a really good performance. All the girls were really good and we worked for each other.

“To get three goals and go in at half-time in that position was really nice. We knew after that if we just kept together, we had a chance.

“Obviously they scored then late on, but I think the performance we put in, I think we deserved to win.” 

The triumph was also a significant personal milestone for Kelly. Having been an unused substitute when Shelbourne won the competition in 2023, she returned three years later as a key member of the side.

“On a personal level, I'm really happy as well. It's almost full circle. I was there when I was around 15, so I'm absolutely delighted to do it with some of the girls who were there back then as well.

“It's really special because I've grown up a lot since then. A few years ago, I was much younger and it was special to be part of it as a young player, but to come back now and play a bigger part in it is really special.” Despite the cup success, Kelly insists there is still plenty to play for this season. Shelbourne remain in the hunt for second place in the Women's Premier Division, a finish that would secure qualification for European competition.

“I think it's very important that we try to pick up as many points as possible over the next few matches. There are other teams around us and getting that second-place spot is important,” said Kelly.

“We need to get back into training this week, stay focused and make sure we're ready for those games.”