Tullamore Town claim historic SFAI U16 success

A second half goal from defender Sam Heffernan proved the difference as Tullamore Town claimed a historic SFAI U16 Subway National Trophy win over Donegal Town on Sunday.

Played at the home of Evergreen FC in Kilkenny, Tullamore Town claimed the prized silverware following an evenly matched contest against their Ulster opponents.

It was the second title success for Tullamore Town in a week following their 3-0 victory over Athlone club St Francis in the MSL U16 Paddy Lennon Cup.

The SFAI champions returned to Tullamore on Sunday night to a rapturous reception from family members and friends with the club describing the win as an "incredible achievement for the town".

"What an unbelievable achievement from this group of players and coaches. What a day for the club, the families, the supporters, and the whole town. Memories made forever".

The club also paid tribute to the management team behind the U16 success.

"Now that the dust has settled and we know it wasn’t all a dream, a massive word of praise has to go to Ciaran Nestor, John Grennan and Damien Kelly.

"A management team who are always happy to let the players take the spotlight and stay in the background themselves, but their work right throughout this season cannot be overstated.

"The dedication, preparation, standards and belief they brought to this group helped guide the lads to a historic cup double and memories that will stay with this club for a very long time.

"What they have achieved together is something truly special and everyone in Tullamore Town FC is hugely proud of them".

Tullamore Town: Oisin Rigney, Conor McEvoy, Evan Doran, Kevin Cleary, Sam Heffernan, Ben Nestor, Daniel Flanagan, Sean Ryan, Fionn Kane, Jayden Daly, Shane Costello. Subs: Harry Grennan, Albert Jolly, Liam Freer, Conor Kelly, Aidan Bennies, Jack Kirwan, Daniel Trainor, Tim Cusack.