NERL edged out in Kennedy Cup decider

The NERL Academy fell just short in their bid to claim a first Kennedy Cup title, competing in their second final in three years.

The final was a closely contested affair, with both sides adopting similar approaches, defending resolutely and looking to strike on the counterattack. With the strong wind favouring Galway in the opening half, chances were at a premium.

Galway had to wait until the 26th minute for their first clear opportunity, and they made it count, taking a 1–0 lead into the break.

The NERL Academy had 30 minutes to find a way back into the game, but despite their determination and relentless effort, the breakthrough never came. Galway defended their advantage well and saw out the contest to lift the 2026 Kennedy Cup.

While the result is naturally disappointing, this group should be immensely proud of what they have achieved. Finishing as runners-up means the NERL Academy leave Limerick as the second-best team in the country and, for the first time in the League's history, secure a place among the top seeds for the 2027 Kennedy Cup.

It was a memorable week for the NERL squad that saw them secure their place in the knockout stages after topping their group following a 0-0 draw with Limerick District, a 1-1 draw with Dundalk (Kai Flynn was goalscorer) and a 4-0 win over Cavan & Monaghan with goals from Kai Flynn, captain Kevin Rispin (two) and Bobby Donoghue.

In the quarter-final the NERL secured a 2-1 win over Kildare with Dylan Clarke hitting the winner after Fionn Harte had opened the scoring.

With conditions more fitting of a winter's day, the NERL took the game to Cork in the semi-final from the outset and prevailed in a dramatic penalty shootout.

The first real chance fell to Jack Farrell in the 23rd minute, and he made no mistake, powering home a superb header from 12 yards following an excellent delivery from Mullingar's Cónal Murphy.

NERL had a golden opportunity to extend their advantage in the 40th minute when Kai Flynn was brought down in the penalty area after a brilliant solo run, but Murphy's spot kick was superbly saved by the Cork 'keeper.

Cork equalised with five minutes remaining to force a penalty shootout where NERL's number one, Feidhlim Nulty proved to be the difference. The goalkeeper produced two magnificent saves in the shootout to put NERL in control and hand Cónal Murphy the opportunity for redemption. Murphy duly obliged, calmly converting the decisive penalty to send the NERL Academy into the final where they narrowly came up short against Galway.

Conor Kearney was named NERL Academy Player of the Tournament. He was outstanding throughout the week at right-back, consistently winning his duels, defending with confidence, and showing real quality in possession as he drove the team forward.

Facing some of the best young players in the country, he rose to every challenge and came out on top time and time again.

His performances played a huge role in helping the 2012 Boys reach the Cup Final, and his commitment, consistency, and quality were evident throughout the tournament.

The NERL squad included - Adam Whitston (Parkvilla), Bobby Donoghue (Newtown United), Caiden Shaw (Athboy Celtic), Cian Cusack (Enfield Celtic), Cian McDonnell (Duleek), Conal Murphy (Mullingar Town), Conor Kearney (Kells Celtic Youths), Drew Barrett (Enfield Celtic), Dylan Clarke (Kells Celtic Youths), Evan McGuinness (Trim Celtic), Feidhlim Nulty (Parkvilla), Jack Farrell (Kells Celtic Youths), James Burke (Duleek), Jamie Bell (Trim Town), Jim Gleeson (Slane Wanderers), Kai Flynn (Parkvilla), Kevin Rispin (ParkCeltic Summerhill), Liam Barron (Robinstown), Miguel Hernández (Duleek).