Four Limerick sides advance in major competitions

Four Limerick District League sides advanced in the FAI Junior and Munster Junior Cups on Sunday.

Regional United produced a superb comeback as they came from 2-0 down against favourites Sheriff to advance to the semi final of the FAI Junior Cup.

Sheriff YC doubled their lead with 5 minutes remaining including a goal from former League of Ireland player Anto Flood.

However, Shane O’Donoghue’s men showed great character and were awarded two penalties from Kieran O’Connell to equalise. In extra time, the home side took the lead through Pat McDonagh for the first time and there were joyous celebrations afterwards.

Regional were joined by Aisling Annacotty in the last 4 after they overcame Westport 2-1 after extra time.

Aisling took the lead through Steve Daly but were pegged back by the hosts before half time. Aaron Murphy grabbed the winner for Annacotty to reach their first semi final.

Both sides will now face eachother in the semi final so one Limerick team is guaranteed to represent the city in the final at the Aviva Stadium.

In the Munster Junior Cup, Pike Rovers secured their passage with a 2-1 victory over Carrick United.

Conor Kavanagh gave the Hoops the lead from the penalty spot but Carrick equalised before half time. Paddy O’Malley was the hero for Mick Sheil’s men with a second half winner.

In the all Limerick quarter final clash, Geraldines overcame the challenge of fancied opponents Ballynanty on penalties after it ended 1-1 after extra-time.

Ronan Ryan gave Ballynanty the lead but player coach Bobby Tier scored a penalty to level the scores.