Galway Women March On: Doherty Double Seals Epic FAI Cup Win
Galway United's women's team have powered into the semi-finals of the Club Orange Women's FAI Cup after a gritty extra-time victory over Sligo Rovers. The 2-1 win at Moyne Villa's grounds in Headford keeps their dream of a league and cup double alive, and it was Emma Doherty who once again proved the hero.
Doherty, now the club's all-time leading scorer, struck twice in extra time to settle a tense Connacht Derby. Her first came in the 96th minute, a clever header from Aiobheann Costello's cross that left the Sligo goalkeeper stranded. Then, with three minutes left, she unleashed a stunning first-time volley that sealed the win. Sligo's Cara Jordan pulled one back in the dying moments, but Galway held firm.
This was no walkover. Sligo, a side that has twice reached the last four, gave as good as they got. They pressed high, created chances, and tested Galway's league-best defence. But the Tribeswomen, the only unbeaten side in the Women's Premier Division, showed the resilience of champions.
A night of drama across the cup
Shelbourne were the first to book their semi-final spot, thrashing Dublin rivals Bohemians 4-1 at Dalymount Park. Alex Kavanagh opened the scoring after just 35 seconds with a curling effort from outside the box. Olivia Damico added a sensational second, flicking the ball over her head before volleying home. Pearl Slattery and Brianne Severns made it four before a late consolation for Bohs.
Elsewhere, Athlone Town needed extra time to see off Shamrock Rovers in a 5-3 thriller. The defending champions led at the break through Alexis Strickland, but Emily Corbet equalised. Two quick goals from Maddison Gibson and Hannah Waesch looked to have settled it, only for Rovers to drag it back through Ciara Milton and Therese Kinnevey. Isabel Ryan and Hazel Donegan finally put Athlone through in extra time.
What this means for the league
Galway's unbeaten run continues, and their double hopes are very much alive. For Sligo, it's a bitter end to a cup run that showed real promise. But for the neutrals, this was a night of top-class women's football, full of passion, skill, and drama. The semi-final draw promises more of the same.
“Emma Doherty is a class act. She's the heart of this team, and she showed it tonight.” – Van Morrison
Galway United: McQuillan, Costello (McKey, 125), Grant, Beletic, Tillotson, Cotter, Donnelly (Gleeson, 117), Griffin (Mullins, 63), Tierney (Meaney, 64), Doherty, Farrelly.
Sligo Rovers: McKiernan, Hallinan (McGrory, 96), Doherty (Dionicio, 84), Jordan, Duffy, Dunaway (King, 68), Karolak, Hillyer (Mersereau, 67), Rush, Lillie, McDaniel (McIntyre, 106).
Referee: Mark Patchell
FAQ
Who scored the winning goals for Galway United?
Emma Doherty scored both goals in extra time, her 11th and 12th of the season.
Did Sligo Rovers have any chances?
Yes, they pushed hard throughout and Cara Jordan scored a late consolation goal.
What other teams advanced to the semi-finals?
Shelbourne beat Bohemians 4-1, and Athlone Town defeated Shamrock Rovers 5-3 after extra time.
Is Galway United still unbeaten in the league?
Yes, they remain the only unbeaten side in the Women's Premier Division this season.