Today, April 7th 2020, marks the 20th anniversary of Dundalk FC’s memorable 2-1 win over Bohemians in the FAI Cup final at Tolka Park.
On a sunny afternoon, the Lilywhites, who included a host of local players such as John Whyte, Christopher Lawless, Cormac Malone, David Hoey, Cormac McArdle and captain David Crawley in their line-up, were backed by a huge travelling support in Drumcondra.
Kenny’s Bohemians went into the game as red-hot favourites to win the trophy against a Dundalk side that had been relegated from the League of Ireland Premier Division just a week earlier.
Tony O’Connor put The Gypsies ahead on 39 minutes, cutting in from the right and driving a low, left-footed effort past Dundalk keeper John Connolly.
Martin Murray’s side hit back five minutes later when Haylock collected a low cross from Hoey with his right foot and spun away from goal before sweeping a left-footed effort high past Wayne Russell.
And Dundalk pulled ahead five minutes after the restart as Haylock struck again, stabbing home from close range after Russell had failed to collect a Stephen McGuinness header.
Bohs pushed for an equaliser but Dundalk held on to secure our ninth win in the competition, 60 years after our first victory over Cork United!
Check out the Dundalk FC Facebook page for more pictures from that unforgettable day while you can also listen to a special 20th anniversary podcast with Martin Murray, John Whyte and Cormac Malone below.
