Newport Town's Brian O'Sullivan is challenged by Carbury FC's Daniel Smith during their FAI Cup game in Newport. PHOTO: ODHRAN DUCIE

Newport hold their nerve to reach last 32

Newport Town 2

Carbury FC 2 (AET)

Newport win 4-3 on penalties

 

By Thomas Conway at Derryleigh Park

 

Newport Town's fairytale rule in the FAI Junior Cup will continue into the New Year after holding their nerve in the penalty shootout to defeat Carbury FC in this fifth round clash on Sunday.

Carbury from the Sligo/Leitrim League made the journey to Derryleigh Park in the midst of a fifteen game winning streak, a run which many assumed would continue that afternoon against their Tipperary-based Limerick District League third tier opponents, Newport Town.

However, following 110 minutes of football, 9 spot-kicks, and a colossal effort both on and off the pitch, it was Newport who prevailed, earning a place in the last 32 of the competition that started out with over 700 teams, and and win that will last long in the memory of anyone who was lucky enough to witness the encounter.

Drenched by frequent bursts of rain, both sides hurtled fire and brimstone at one another throughout and yet it was a game which never simmered over, played with a mutual respect that lasted beyond the final kick.

 

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