Donegal edge Carlow in extra-time thriller to claim U14 Bowl

Donegal’s U-14 girls secured a dramatic 4-3 extra-time victory over Carlow in the Bowl final, capping off a thrilling contest with a last-gasp winner.

Fresh from an impressive semi-final win over Limerick, Donegal started with intent, and it took just minutes for Mollie Elliott to make an impact. After riding a challenge from the Carlow goalkeeper, she stayed on her feet and slotted the ball home to give her side the perfect start. Ten minutes later, she struck again, doubling Donegal’s advantage with a composed finish.

Despite a late push from Carlow towards the end of the first half, Donegal’s defence, well-organised by goalkeeper Megan McGinley, held firm. Then, just before the break, Elliott completed her hat-trick with a powerful strike, giving Donegal a commanding 3-0 lead at half-time.

However, Carlow came out fighting in the second half, pulling a goal back almost immediately. The battle in midfield intensified, with Aisling McGinley, Ava Greer, and Alex Crawford working tirelessly to keep Donegal in control. But Carlow refused to back down, scoring a second midway through the half to set up a tense finale. Deep into stoppage time, they equalised from a well-taken free kick, sending the match to extra time.

Carlow carried their momentum into the additional period, putting Donegal under sustained pressure. But defenders Leanne Gordon and Emily Doogan stood strong, ensuring goalkeeper McGinley was well protected.

With the match heading towards penalties, Donegal’s determination paid off. Ruby Sheridan was brought down in the box, and the referee pointed to the spot. Up stepped Ava Greer, who coolly dispatched her penalty into the bottom corner, sparking wild celebrations from the Donegal supporters.

Carlow threw everything forward in the dying moments, but Donegal’s defence held firm to seal a memorable victory. It was a breathtaking contest, with Donegal showing resilience and character to lift the U14 Bowl.

Congratulations to managers Brid McGinty, John Francis Doogan, and Olivia Sleigh on guiding their squad to a fantastic achievement.

Donegal squad:

Aisling McGinley (Letterkenny Rovers), Alex Crawford (Drumbar Utd), Amy Lateef (Lagan Harps), Aoife Kilpatrick (Milford Utd), Ava Greer (Milford Utd), Brooke Johnston (Raphoe Town), Caoimhe Sleigh (Finn Valley Ladies FC), Eadaoin Kennedy (Ballyraine FC), Emily Doogan (Keadue Rovers), Kaytlin Fay (Kilmacrennan Celtic), Leah Ward (Keadue Rovers), Leanne Gordon (Milford Utd), Megan McGinley (Milford Utd), Mollie Elliott (St. Catherine’s FC), Nease Diver (Gweedore Utd), Nuala Doherty (Gweedore Utd), Reah Robinson (Bonagee Utd), Saoirse Deasley (Raphoe Town), Tara McDaid (Bonagee Utd), Teaghan Doherty (Lagan Harps), Ruby Sheridan (Bonagee Utd).