Munster Youths Cup: Fairview Rangers 1-0 Springfield Ramblers

Fairview Rangers got the better of the Rams in a pulsating cup tie in front of a large attendance in Limerick. From the start the winners, parading two current U18 internationals played with pace and panache, forcing a series of corners which were defended well by a solid rearguard superbly marshalled by the excellent Conor Hughes. The Rams who lost two players to injury picked up during the warm-up, soaked up a huge amount of pressure before gradually finding their rhythm and looked threatening with Alex Ryan pinpointing some excellent deliveries in to the Fairview penalty area. Fairview can count themselves fortunate to have 11 players on the pitch at half time after Alex Ryan was hacked from behind when bursting clear on goal, a yellow card was brandished much to the relief of the partisan home following. Half time score 0 – 0.

The second half saw Fairview attempt a few attacking moves but found it hard getting past the hard working duo of Conor Hughes and Dominic Roche. However, this changed on 56 minutes when a rasping effort from 18 yards slotted past Michael McCall-Walsh to give the Limerick outfit a deserved lead, sparking wild celebrations from the home faithful.Springfield made a series of substitutions in an effort to balance the tie, and were denied by excellent defending. As the game approached stoppage time, Dylan Higgins rose majestically to an inswinging corner and his downward header shaved the upright. A frantic finale saw the Rams throw the kitchen sink at Fairview, but alas the final whistle signalled the end of the road.

Excellent performances from Conor Hughes, Dominic Roche and MOTM Alex Ryan.