Donegal Underage League reach SFAI Under-14 National Cup final

The Donegal Underage League reached the SFAI National Cup Under-14 final at the weekend.

The side, managed by Cappry Rovers man Paddy McNulty, took a 3-1 win over the Waterford Schoolboys League at Kingscourt Harps FC in Cavan.

The side had the perfect start as Daithi McHugh fired in after a pass from Ryan McNulty just two minutes into the game.

It set the tone for an intense first half, with the boys from the hills pressing hard and using the conditions to their advantage.

To their credit, Waterford battled bravely against both the elements and relentless Donegal pressure. Despite facing into the wind, they absorbed wave after wave of attack and remained firmly in the contest.

As halftime approached, it looked like the solitary goal would separate the sides. However, Donegal found another gear. Breaking down a stubborn defence with clever, interlinking play, they struck twice in quick succession through Levi Kelly just before the interval to take firm control of the game.

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The second half saw Waterford now backed by the wind, and they made full use of it. For long spells, they peppered the Donegal defence with sustained pressure. But the hard work Donegal had put in during that dominant first half proved decisive, as they stood firm and maintained their advantage.

Waterford eventually found a breakthrough in the closing minutes, but it proved to be only a consolation.

Donegal will now face South Belfast in the final in Limerick on March 14.