WATCH: Limerick ETB battle back to reach Bobby Smith Cup final

LIMERICK ETB completed an inspiring comeback against the Dublin-based Cabra ETB at the UL North Campus thanks to a brace from striker Jack Ryan to reach the 2022 Bobby Smith Cup final.

The Shannonsiders came into the game as underdogs against their illustrious counterparts from the capital, but it could be argued that it was an end-to-end game throughout.

Mike McCarthy’s team fell to an early goal, a brilliant volley beating Treaty United keeper Adam Gallagher at his near post after good work from the Cabra right sided midfielder. Minutes later, Limerick responded. A long ball from Scott Kirkland fell into the path of Jack Ryan.

A mishap in communication between the Cabra defenders led to Ryan easily tapping the ball past the stranded goalkeeper to score for Limerick, making the score 1-1 as the half time break loomed. Both sides created scoring chances and both goalkeepers were busy as the game became frantic in the second half, but Limerick were beginning to develop a hold on the game.

WATCH: Spectacular winning goal from free kick as Limerick ETB reach FAI ETB Bobby Smith Cup final #LLSport @LimerickETB ⚽️ pic.twitter.com/HHdChXrZIl

— LimerickLeader Sport (@LimkLeaderSport) April 15, 2022

The central defensive partnership of Scott Kirkland and Jake Prendergast contributed to Limerick keeping the game level with brilliant defensive displays, alongside their energetic wingbacks Jonathan Moran and Craig Prendergast. The midfield duo of Ethan Fitzgerald and Leon Kirrane pressed incessantly and Sean Oyibo, Jack Ryan and Kuda Sheahan kept the visitors on edge throughout.

Their hard work paid off with minutes remaining when, after Josh Shinners won a free kick on the edge of the box late in the second half, Jack Ryan stepped up and was able to send the goalkeeper the wrong way and to send Limerick into the cup final where they will face FAI ETB Waterford.