Shelbourne FC’s Under 16 boy’s team are gearing up for a historic moment in the club’s history as they prepare to contest the All-Ireland final this weekend, the club’s first at that age grade.
The team’s remarkable journey to the final of the SFAI Cup has culminated in a highly anticipated clash against Lourdes Celtic. The match is scheduled for a 4 o’clock kick-off at Jackson Park, the home ground of Wayside Celtic this coming Saturday May 13th.
The Shelbourne FC Under 16 team has faced formidable challenges throughout their campaign, squaring off against top-tier opponents such as St Kevin’s Boys and Corinthians from Cork. In the semi-finals, they secured a hard-fought victory against a strong Mervue United team hailing from Galway. These impressive performances have left them on the cusp of glory, with the opportunity to create their own piece of Shelbourne history should they emerge from Saturday’s decider victorious.
Manager Darren Hennessy, along with his coaching staff comprising Keith Hansard and Jude McKenna, is brimming with pride for the team’s accomplishments. Speaking about the upcoming final, Hennessy said the club have never before reached an All-Ireland final at that schoolboy age level before, and that has further fuelled the players’ motivation to make history for the club.
Hennessy told ShelbourneFC.ie “This is a special moment for these boys and this club, if the road to the decider is anything to go by, the final promises to be a cracker.
“Lourdes Celtic are a talented squad with exceptional players and our lads are aware of the challenge that lies ahead and understands the importance of executing our game plan, sticking to what we do best and not letting the occasion get to us.”
Hennessy took the opportunity to extend his gratitude to the parents and players for their unwavering support and commitment throughout the season.
He also expressed appreciation for the continued assistance provided by Shelbourne FC, highlighting the club’s invaluable contributions.
Additionally, Hennessy thanked the coaches at Shelbourne, both at the schoolboy and League of Ireland academy levels, for their guidance and encouragement.
Hennessy is calling upon loyal Shels supporters near and far to get down to the game on Saturday to cheer on the future stars of Shelbourne FC. He hopes the youngsters can draw confidence from the backing of the passionate Shels supporters and is asking anyone able to get down to the game to do so.
Good luck, lads!
