Castlebar Celtic reach FAI Junior Cup semi-final after thrilling encounter
Castlebar Celtic's Paul McDermott beats Gorey's Philly Yeats. Picture: John Corless
Castlebar Celtic survived a tense FAI Junior Cup quarter-final against Gorey Rangers on Saturday, eventually advancing to the semi-finals after winning the penalty shoot-out 5-3.
Celtic made the ideal start when Johnny Cocozza converted Dylan Edwards' cross after just four minutes. Gorey responded strongly and would have levelled before half-time but for two excellent saves from Celtic goalkeeper Stefan Hester.
Celtic had their moments too, with Luke Kelly, Oran Murphy and Jason Hunt all going close but they went in, a goal to the good, at the break.
Gorey increased the pressure after the restart and pushed former Bray Wanderers defender Paul Murphy, up front, seeking an aerial advantage, and he levelled-it on 53 minutes when he headed home Stephen Kinsella's free kick.
With Gorey pressing, Jason Hunt broke, before sending an excellent pass to Luke Kelly who brilliantly made it 2-1 just after the hour.
Gorey battled on and got a deserved equaliser in stoppage time when Calem Devereux forced extra time.
Gorey pressed during the extra 20 minutes, but Celtic gave a defensive masterclass and took their composure to the penalties. Mark Cunningham, Aiden McHale, Ben Murphy, Oran Murphy and Johnny Cocozza all scored impressively.
Substitute goalkeeper Peter Basquille, on for the injured Hester, saved from Ethan Vickers to secure a memorable Celtic victory.
