Rockvale Rovers and St Odhrans Silvermines produced a thrilling U21 Division 4 Final that had drama, momentum swings, and a nail-biting conclusion under pressure.

Rockvale Rovers got off to an ideal start, hitting 1-01 in the opening minutes and setting the tone with a sharp attacking display. Despite this strong opening, they were guilty of some wastefulness in front of goal as the first half wore on. Silvermines gradually found their rhythm, working their way back into the game and creating chances of their own. By halftime, Rockvale had built a slight edge, leading 2-03 to 1-02.

The second half saw both sides go toe-to-toe in a pulsating, end-to-end contest. Silvermines looked more clinical, finding scores with greater ease. Rockvale thought they had extended their lead with a goal, but it was correctly disallowed for a hand-pass to the net. At the end of regulation time, the sides were level at Rockvale 3-06, Silvermines 2-09 — a fair reflection of a tightly contested affair.

Extra time brought even more intensity. Rockvale appeared to take control during the two added periods, pushing three points clear late on. However, with the final whistle looming, Silvermines launched one last attack down the left wing. In a moment of brilliance, they rifled the ball into the top corner for a dramatic equaliser, making it 3-09 apiece and forcing the match to be decided by 25-metre kicks.

In the shootout, Silvermines held their nerve, showing greater composure to claim the title in dramatic fashion.

A heartbreaker for Rockvale, but a final that will live long in the memory.