Inny’s young guns write their names in history
A small rural Westmeath club with a big heart, Inny FC etched their name into Irish football history on Sunday as they claimed the All-Ireland SFAI U14 title with a sensational 1-0 victory over Kilkenny’s Freebooters AFC.
The final in Evergreen FC, Kilkenny on Sunday pitted the village side from Westmeath against a local powerhouse just 7km from the venue. Remarkably, the day belonged to Inny FC, whose supporters made the long journey in huge numbers and were rewarded with a performance full of grit, belief and a moment of pure magic from Patrick Wallace.
Wallace was the match-winner with a strike described by manager Garry Doyle as “Bobby Charlton-esque” – a stunning effort from 30 metres that lit up the national decider and sealed a historic win.”It was Bobby Charlton-esque; the technique, the control, the strike,” Doyle said.
“It was just an incredible goal. Patrick has scored in six of the eight finals we have played in. It was superb. But the collective team effort was amazing.”
The significance of the achievement wasn’t lost on Doyle, who paid tribute to the club’s volunteers and the sheer scale of their effort.
“They are the first village team to win the cup; it has been dominated by Dublin and Galway City,” he said. “It is a phenomenal achievement. We are indebted to the volunteers who have made this the success story it is.”
The logistical difference between the two clubs underscored the magnitude of Inny’s triumph, and Doyle highlighted the dedication of their travelling support.
“Supporters travelled 189km to the game in Evergreen FC, Kilkenny on Sunday; Freebooters AFC were just 7km away. That kind of investment sums up the people involved; it is a remarkable story and the club has really been driven by Colin and Jenny Murtagh, Chairman and PRO, who have dedicated their lives to it. The number of hours volunteers have put in to it is incredible.”
Beyond the goal and the silverware, the performance reflected a special group of young athletes whose commitment to sport is exceptional. “These players play sport seven days a week,” Doyle said. “One of them is a champion track and field runner; all 11 of them play GAA; the goalie, Colm O’Rourke, plays four sports. Their lives are dedicated to it. It is a fitting reward for all they give.”
For Inny FC, a club of just 150 members, this All-Ireland title is a landmark moment – not just for the players and coaches, but for every volunteer, parent, and supporter who has helped shape this remarkable journey.