Holders Catholic Institute hold their nerve to book Irish Senior Cup final spot

HOLDERS Catholic Institute took a major step towards retaining the women's Irish Senior Cup trophy when they defeated Dublin side Railway Union in their semi-final clash at Rosbrien on Sunday. 

With the game scoreless at full-time, the match was decided on a five penalty shuttle. Showing outstanding coolness, Institute players Anna Horan, Laura Foley, Rebecca Barry and Roisin Begley all converted their strikes and with keeper Pam Smithwick producing two great saves for the home side, it resulted in a 4-2 win for the Limerick girls who now look forward to returning to the Irish Senior Cup final.

Catholic Institute will now face Monkstown in the final following their semi-final win over Avoca.

The Irish Senior Cup final is due to take place at Belfield on April 29.

Meanwhile, Institute were also in action on Saturday when they played Ulster side Pegasus in the EYHL All Ireland senior league at Rosbrien.

Pegasus held a 1-0 half time lead in the fixture, but two goals each from internationals Roisin Upton and Naomi Carroll secured a precious 4-2 win for the home side.

With just one game to go in the league, Institute are now comfortably positioned in third place in the top four.

With a top four competition and a cup final to come, Institute will have plenty of action before they set off for the European Club Championships  in Turkey at the end of May.