Dundalk outclass Bohemians to reach FAI Cup semi-final

Eleven-time FAI Cup winners Dundalk recorded a comfortable victory over Bohemians at Dalymount Park, on Friday evening, to reach yet another cup semi-final. 

Filippo Giovagnoli’s side were impressive throughout the match, scoring four well-worked team goals along the way. 

Michael Duffy got matters underway within the first minute with a neat finish under Bohs ‘keeper, James Talbot. David McMillan’s through-ball to assist Duffy was one of his several contributions to help his side to victory. 

At the end of the first quarter, Bohs were handed a lifeline when referee, Rob Harvey, pointed to the penalty spot. A speculative ball from midfielder, Conor Levingston, led to a goalmouth scramble resulting in a Chris Shields handball. Andre Wright then stepped forward and slotted the ball passed Dundalk’s veteran goalkeeper, Gary Rogers, despite him getting a hand to Wright’s effort. 

Another penalty was awarded 15 minutes later, but this time for Dundalk. A wonderful flick from goal scorer, Duffy, gave the forward the space to drive at the hosts’ defence and draw the foul from Keith Buckley. McMillan stepped up and calmly dispatched the spot kick to regain the lead for the visitors. 

Three minutes later, McMillan had the ball in the Bohs net once again. A wonderful build-up which started with Rogers from a goal kick, worked its way up to Cameron Dummigan, who whipped over a superb cross to McMillan. A precision header caught Talbot out at his near post and a two-goal cushion was established on the stroke of half-time. 

The second half was quite comfortable for Dundalk and matters got worse for Bohemians in the 72^nd minute when they were reduced to ten men. Defender, Michael Barker, was shown a second yellow card, which left a mountain to climb for his side in the final quarter. 

The inevitable outcome of this semi-final was confirmed when substitute, Nathan Oduwa, scored Dundalk’s fourth with three minutes to go, putting an end to the Bohs challenge. 

The unfortunate news for Dundalk following their progression is the loss of their striker, Pat Hoban. Hoban will now miss the rest of the season due to an ankle injury which will require surgery. Consequently, the forward will be unable to play in the remaining Europa League fixtures for Dundalk before Christmas. 

Dundalk now move on to Thursday night when they host Rapid Wien in a must win game. A loss will surely put an end to progression from their Europa League group.