Allenwood edge Sallins in thrilling Kildare Women's Shield Final

Allenwood Celtic edged out Sallins Celtic in a thriller to get revenge for their 2016 Kildare shield final loss with a 2-1 win.

In a hard-fought and closely contested So Fresh Entertainment Women’s Shield Final, Allenwood Celtic emerged victorious, defeating Sallins Celtic 2-1. The final, marked by some fantastic individual performances and relentless attacking from both sides, ultimately saw Allenwood claim the trophy thanks to a brace from their standout player, Chloe Donnelly.

The game kicked off with a high tempo, with Sallins Celtic creating the first clear-cut chance in the 2nd minute. An Aoife Hand corner was headed goalward by Violet Moloney, forcing a superb save from Allenwood keeper Stacey O’Sullivan, who somehow tipped the effort over the top corner. The early stages saw a fascinating duel developing on the wings between Allenwood's

Chloe Donnelly and Sallins' Sofia Di Stefano. Donnelly, linking up well with Sinead Crowe, showcased some intricate passing, but Sallins' defender Martha Plummer proved a formidable barrier. Sallins pressed hard, and in the 11th minute, a loose goal-kick fell to Sofia Di Stefano, whose shot was again expertly saved by Stacey O’Sullivan.

The deadlock was broken in the 37th minute. Tara Jacob threaded a superb ball in behind the Sallins defence, and Chloe Donnelly was clinical, slotting a lovely shot past the onrushing Sallins keeper Jane Healy to put Allenwood Celtic women 1-0 up. Sallins pushed for an equaliser before the break, with Di Stefano having a free kick saved, but Allenwood's defence held firm, sending them into halftime with a narrow lead.

Sallins introduced Aoife Fe Faoite at halftime to gain a foothold in midfield, a change that immediately paid dividends. Just three minutes into the second half (48th minute), Sallins drew level. An Aoife Hand corner found Emma Mooney, who finished smartly to make the score 1-1. However, the parity was short-lived. In the 52nd minute, Chloe Donnelly restored Allenwood's lead from a free kick.

Sallins keeper Jane Healy made a valiant effort, palming the initial shot onto the bar, but the spin carried the ball back into the goal, giving Allenwood Celtic women a 2-1 advantage. As the half progressed, Sallins fought desperately for the equaliser. Di Stefano was denied yet again by an alert Stacey O’Sullivan in the 63rd minute, who was quick off her line to smother the danger.

As fatigue set in, the game became scrappier, but Sallins continued to press. A goal was disallowed for offside in the 83rd minute, providing a late scare for Allenwood. The Allenwood backline of Claire Ivers, Amanda Moore, Grainne Stafford, and

Katie Hand stood resolute under immense pressure, protecting their slim lead until the final whistle. The match ended on a disappointing note for Sallins' goalscorer and birthday girl, Emma Mooney, who had to leave the field with an injury.

Best for winners Allenwood Celtic in a fantastic all round team performance, Chloe Donnelly was rightly named Player of the Match for her two crucial goals. Other key performers for the winners included the sharp midfield work of Tara Jacob and the solid defensive contributions of Claire Ivers, Katelyn Ivers Magee, Katie Hand, and the outstanding goalkeeping of Stacey O’Sullivan. For Sallins Celtic, the twin forces of Martha Plummer and captain Hannah Plummer battled bravely throughout.

They were ably supported by defender Samantha Cully and midfielder Isabella Campion. Ultimately, Chloe Donnelly's decisive goals proved the difference in a pulsating final that showcased the best of women's local football.

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