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Southern Regional College's Higher Education Football team have been crowned College University Football Association of Ireland Plate champions after a dramatic 2-1 victory over ATU Galway in the CUFAI final at Athlone Town Stadium on Thursday last 19 March.
The Newry-based college's side produced a memorable performance in what proved to be a tense and eventful final. Having fallen short at the final in 2025, the SRC squad returned determined to go one better this time around.
The first half offered little in the way of goals, ending 0-0 following a standout save from the SRC goalie. The second half, however, proved to be a different story entirely. SRC broke the deadlock in the 63rd minute through Aaron Downey, only for the match to take a dramatic turn when the SRC goalie was shown a red card, leaving the team with ten men.
With a player short, Ross Watson stepped up to cover both centre back and goals. Despite the setback, SRC continued to press and create opportunities, though they were unable to add to their lead. ATU Galway capitalised on the situation, drawing level in the 91st minute and pushing the final towards what looked like a penalty shootout.
It was SRC striker Dominik Piotrowski who had the final say, however, converting a chance in the 95th minute to seal a 2-1 victory and claim the CUFAI Plate title for Southern Regional College.
SRC football manager Rory McGreevy paid tribute to his players following the final whistle. "After last year's final disappointment, the SRC HE Football team showed great determination to win the game in the dying seconds to lift the CUFAI Challenge Plate. I am extremely proud of all the work and dedication they put in to win the match and all the effort they have put in the last few years to help establish this team."
Lee Campbell, Principal and CEO of Southern Regional College, also offered her congratulations. "Congratulations to our Higher Education Football team who secured the CUFAI Plate title, in what was a thrilling match final. This is a fantastic achievement for the team, and each player should be incredibly proud of their success. A special word of thanks must also go to the dedicated SRC coaching and support staff, whose commitment, guidance, and hard work behind the scenes have been instrumental in this accomplishment. This success is a true reflection of the collective effort, teamwork, and determination shown by everyone involved."
The full final is available to watch back on the CUFAI YouTube channel at www.youtube.com
