Monaghan kicked off in this their first ever National Cup final and in truth they were deservedly beaten by a good St Kevins Boys. St Kevins Boys "owned " the ball for long stages of the game but things might have been differant for Monagahn if a "cast iron" penalty decision went for them with fifteen minutes remaining.

From ther first minute of the game Robert Brady a tall gangling player was the tormentor in chief of the Monaghan United defence and deservedly won the man of the match award.

The first goal came 9 minutes after the Monaghan defence had led a charmed life. It was that man Robert Brady who hit a sweet shot from 20 yards which beat the despairing dive of Aaron Mc Carrey in the Monagahn goal.

At this stage St Kevins were in the ascendency and should have added to their score. At times it looked as if it Mc Carrey v St Kevins Boys. A measure of Kevins superioirity it was not until the 22nd minute that Monaghan United forced their first corner.As the half neareda close Monagan's David Savage had a great chance but Kevin's keeper Ryan Kinsella was quick off his line and dived bravely at Savage's feet to save the danger.

Monaghan to their credit regarnished their efforts and the second half saw a true reflection of the team. With Brady now being marked tightly James Clarke began to show his true qualities.
If ever a teams name was not on the cup was evident from St Kevins second goal. When a ball beat the Monagahn defence the keeper Aaron Mc Carrey was quick off his line and when the ball bounced awkwardly outside his box he did well to get a good header which cleared out to St Kevins Eoin Wearen who delicately chipped the ball over Mc Carren head as he raced back to goal.

If only - if only the ball bounced better - if only a Monaghan player had got the ball. Soccer is full of "If only's"

Monaghan never gave up - but they were never going to score three against St Kevins Boys. Monaghan in their desperation threw Mc Carrey up front and replaced him in goal.All to no avail and despite great chances Monaghan were unable to break down a strong Kevins defence.

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