Dundalk victorious...again

On Sunday in Irish football's showpiece event, the FAI cup final, Dundalk completed the double. A Richie Towell extra-time strike was enough to get the better of a stubborn Cork City side that despite a period of pressure in the 2nd half couldn't match Dundalk's fitness in extra-time.

City had come into the game having finished 2nd to Dundalk in the league and were chasing a first cup win since 2007. The game wasn't a classic as both sides tried to break the deadlock. Up until Towell scored it seemed like City were settling for penalties. After the goal, City did chase the leveler and did hit the top of the bar late on in extra-time. The fitness of Dundalk though is what won them the cup. City were out on their knees come extra-time and the goal was a result of tiredness from Garry Buckley being unable to keep pace with Daryl Horgan who squared for the free Towell in the box.

For Dundalk it's been an exceptional season. They have secured the double and will be the team to beat once more next season. They'll also return to the champions league qualifiers in July next year. This year they were unlucky to draw the strongest side in the qualifiers in BATE Borisov from Belarus. A kinder draw next summer and they may well make it through a few rounds in Europe. For City, it's likely there will be changes in personnel.  The Europa league beckons for City again in 2016. A first qualifying round exit in July to Icelandic side KR Reykjavík was disappointing and hopefully City will also get through a round or two next July. Whatever happens an interesting winter lies ahead.