HeadlinesBriefing favicon HeadlinesBriefing.com

Coleraine Clinch Irish Cup with Shevlin’s Double

BBC Sport •
×

Coleraine lifted the Irish Cup at Windsor Park, beating holders Dungannon Swifts 3‑2 after a dramatic 55‑minute comeback. Matthew Shevlin scored twice, turning a defensive mix‑up into the opener and sealing the win with a second goal that put the game beyond doubt.

Early pressure from Swifts saw Sean McAllister create chances, but a shaky defense handed Coleraine the lead at 19 minutes. The Bannsiders’ depth shone as Cooper added a tight‑angle finish, while Dungannon’s Doyle and Mitchell later pulled two goals back, keeping the scoreline tight.

Shevlin’s performance mirrored his season tally, with the striker contributing 55% of Coleraine’s goals. Manager John Higgins, in his first full campaign, guided the side to a European spot and a league second place, making this cup a fitting capstone.

The victory ends an eight‑year drought and positions Coleraine as a serious contender for the Gibson Cup next season, while Dungannon must regroup after a spirited but ultimately insufficient display.