Leinster Senior Cup: Dundalk FC 3-1 Shelbourne

After a string of positive results in the League of Ireland, Dundalk were able to replicate that form in the Leinster Senior Cup Quarter Final after producing a dominant 3-0 win against Shelbourne in Oriel Park.

Dundalk got off to a flying start with the first goal coming after only one minute. Aaron Keogh won possession inside Shelbourne’s half before sending a well delivered cross to Tunde Anunlopo who converted with a fine finish.

After a difficult start Shelbourne managed to string together a promising chance in the 10th minute thanks to the skilful display of Joey Wuna down Dundalk’s right wing before who almost set up James Bailey for the equaliser.

Shelbourne went closer in the 16th minute when Cillian Ryan went on a sole run but, after rounding Peter Cherrie, could only shoot into the side netting.

After 39 minutes Dundalk got their second after Keogh’s corner was converted by Ethan Hall after a scramble when he managed to shoot to the bottom right hand corner past Conor Walsh.

Dundalk maintained control of the game in the second half with the first chance coming in only the 48th minute after Keogh sent in a intricately threaded pass to Max Ferguson inside the six-yard box but it was tipped over the bar Conor Walsh for a Dundalk corner.

In the 56th minute, Dundalk scored their third. Shay Casey received the ball at the edge of the box and after taking a touch around the final defender he delivered a well-placed shot past Walsh to make it 3-0.

Dundalk maintained the pressure until the 69th minute when a collision with a Shelbourne defender saw TJ Molloy go down with what appeared to be a serious injury requiring a five minute pause of play while he received treatment by medical personnel.

Leo Gaxha made his long awaited return as a substitute, and he went close in the 79th minute when his header from Keogh’s cross was saved by Walsh.

Shelbourne pulled one back in the closing stages through Sean Moore.

Photos: Gerry Scully