Russell 'over the moon' as young stars ignite Shels
Shelbourne manager Seán Russell praised his young players after a dominant victory in the FAI Cup final against Athlone Town. The win highlighted the potential of teenagers Halle Harcourt and Maeve Wollmer, who are now being monitored for senior international selection.
Why it matters
The performance of young talent in domestic cup finals is a key indicator for the future of the Republic of Ireland women's national team.
Shelbourne boss Seán Russell is hoping his young stars can soar towards Republic of Ireland recognotion after they helped dismantle double-chasing Athlone Town in the Club Orange FAI Cup final on Sunday.
Halle Harcourt, 16, and Maeve Wollmer, 18, were both on the scoresheet as the Reds toppled Lily Agg's freshly crowned SSE Airtricity Women's Premier Division champions.
Shels stumbled in the run-in to fall out of the title race, but there was sweet redemption for ex-Treaty United boss Russell. With Republic of Ireland head coach Carla Ward watching in the stands, his experienced side - gilded with a youthful exuberance - executed the game plan perfectly.
"It was everything that we would have hoped for, so I'm over the moon," said Russell.
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