Fanad United brace for Fairview test as they square off in FAI Junior Cup last eight

By the time Tramore AFC player Jack Deegan stepped up to take his penalty in the shootout two weeks ago at Triagh-a-Loch, there was nothing left to give.  

Legs were shot, lungs were burning, and the weight of the moment pressed down on every Fanad United player, coach, and supporter packed into the ground.  

But goalkeeper Mark McConigley had one last trick up his sleeve. As Deegan struck his shot, McConigley flung himself low, his outstretched hand pushing the ball away and sending Fanad into the quarter-finals of the FAI Junior Cup for the first time in over half a century. Pandemonium. 

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Fanad United have barely had time to let that euphoria settle before attention turns to the next hurdle: Fairview Rangers, one of the most decorated junior clubs in the country, roll into town this Sunday for a last-eight clash that promises to test every fibre of Arthur Lynch’s squad. 

Lynch knows what they’re up against. He also knows that games like these are decided on the finest of margins. 

“Against Tramore we needed a little bit of luck and we got it,” he admitted. “I don’t think there was a whole lot between the teams that day, we were pretty well matched, and we had chances early on which could’ve put us ahead.” 

In a game that ebbed and flowed, it was McConigley’s penalty save that proved the turning point. From there, Fanad weathered Tramore’s late flurry, Eddie O’Reilly rattling the crossbar in extra time before the game inevitably drifted toward penalties. 

“We showed that we are able to hold our nerve when things get tough,” Lynch said. “These games are going to be end-to-end, there are going to be chances, but at the same time you have to be wary regarding the opposition threat.” 

That threat will be formidable this weekend. Limerick’s Fairview Rangers arrive with a history littered with national success; a team used to the pressure of these occasions.  

But Lynch isn’t concerned about reputations. He sees a Fanad side growing in confidence, bolstered by a full squad for the first time this season and fuelled by the buzz that has gripped the club since their last-16 triumph. 

“We’re over the moon with the whole buzz around the club. We beat a very good Tramore team, and I think from this point onwards, whoever wins these national competitions deserves it because there won’t be a lot between the last eight teams left.” 

Fanad’s journey so far has been built on a collective effort. Lynch is quick to credit not just those on the pitch, but the entire squad. 

“Everyone played their part on the day. There were three or four players who were on the bench and didn’t get a game against Tramore, but they were vital to us all season. We know that it’s a team game, it’s a squad game.” 

Sunday brings another chance to show that resilience. Home advantage could be crucial, with Lynch hopeful that the backing of the Fanad faithful will give his players that extra edge. 

“With the home draw, the crowd is like having a 12th player . . . that’s just brilliant.” 

It’s going to take everything they have. Fairview Rangers won’t be in town for the scenery, and Fanad knows they’ll need another inspired performance to keep their dream alive.  

But if recent history has taught them anything, it’s that when the stakes are highest, they have a man between the posts who just might make the difference again.