PICTURES: Newtown Rovers celebrate Limerick WSSL Junior Cup final win over Regional

PLAYED in extremely wet conditions at Pike Rovers, Newtown Rovers produced a strong second-half performance to claim their first-ever Limerick Women's and Schoolgirls’ Soccer League Junior Cup title with a 3–0 victory over a youthful Regional side on Saturday.

With heavy rain making accurate passing football difficult, the first half ended scoreless as both teams battled for control.

The deadlock was finally broken early in the second half when Amy Thompson unleashed a long-range effort that the Regional goalkeeper was unfortunate not to keep out. Newtown doubled their advantage when Carrie Carroll reacted quickest to a scramble in the penalty area, slotting home from close range. The victory was sealed when Hayleigh Power rose highest to meet a corner, powering a header into the net to make it 3–0.

Despite the scoreline, Regional a young and determined team never gave up and continued to press until the final whistle.
Amy Thompson from Newtown Rovers was named Player of the Match, selected by match officials Alan Kinkead, Ray Ryan, and Chloe Kenna, for her outstanding midfield display and crucial opening goal.

Meanwhile, last Saturday's eagerly anticipated Open Cup clash of Herbertstown and Aisling Annacotty was postponed due to an unplayable pitch following heavy rainfall. A new date for the final will be announced shortly.

The action continues next weekend with two more EI Electronics LWSSL Cup finals down for decision.

The Division 1 Cup Final between Newtown Rovers and Aisling Annacotty is due to kick-off at 11am. Meanwhile, the Division 2 Cup Final between Murroe FC vs Ballylanders is due to get underway at 3pm. Venues for the games TBC. See www.limerickleader.ie for update on the venue.