DkIT end Carlow’s run to reach semis
CFAI RUSTLER’S CUP DKIT 1 CARLOW IT 0
DKIT played host to IT Carlow who were aiming to win the CFAI Rustler’s Cup for an unprecedented seventh time in a row.
It was the home side who enjoyed the majority of first half possession and put together some well worked passages of play despite heavy pitch conditions.
The first real opportunity of the match fell to Jack O’Keefe who was denied by the Carlow keeper after a lovely through ball from Deane Watters.
The Dundalk side went close again through Conor McDonald with the Cliftonville FC man hitting the woodwork after initially being denied by another great save from the IT Carlow keeper.
DkIT were dealt a huge blow when 10 minutes in to the second half Emmet Hughes was sent off on a second yellow card.
IT Carlow’s confidence began to grow with the visitors applying heavy pressure but they failed to capitalise on their chances against a resilient DkIT defence led by Anto Reilly.
DkIT keeper Ronan Browne was also in fine form as he made a number of crucial saves in the second half.
However, DkIT remained very danger- ous on the break and it was from one of these breaks in the 90th minute that Jack O Keeffe was fouled after good work from Carlton Ubaezouno down the left hand side.
The striker dusted himself down and showed great composure to slot the ball past the IT Carlow shot-stopper in what was virtually the last kick of the game.
DkIT now progress to the semi-finals of the competition and will face Dublin Institute of Technology on 21st February. DKIT Ronan Browne, Cian O’Flynn, Sam Reilly, Anto Reilly, Emmet Hughes, Deane Watters, Conor McDonald, Sean O’Connor, Conor Haggans, Carlton Ubaezouno, Jack O’Keefe. (Subs-Conor Tully, Colm Gill). Manager, Liam Burns.