Callaghan the hero as Sligo move into the semi-finals

Sligo Rovers are into the semi-finals of the Mark Farren U-17 Cup after a 2-0 victory over Shelbourne at the Showgrounds last night.

Second half goals from Mark Byrne and Darren Collins gave Danny O’Leary’s men the win.

Listen to Sligo manager Danny O’Leary’s after-match interview here

It all could have so different had Shelbourne striker Jordan Adeyemo scored in the opening minute, when he was sent clear on goal, only for Sligo goalkeeper Lorcan Callaghan to deny him.

Minutes later William Hondermarck headed over when it seemed easier to score. Other opportunities fell to Shels, but again they failed to take them.

That was he story of the night, as Callaghan and Adeyemo had an almighty battle between them. We counted at least eight times that Callaghan denied the striker, all excellent saves by the talented keeper.

Shelbourne manager Stephen Finn had previously told us that he rated Callaghan very highly, even calling him the best keeper in the league at this age group, and he excelled again last night.

Sligo came more into the game as the first half wore on, with striker Darren Collins giving the Shels rearguard a torrid time, however they went in scoreless at the break.

Mark Byrne headed the home side in front just after the interval when some great play by Collins forced the Shelbourne keeper out of position, and his Cross found the head of Byrne to score.

Shelbourne then took the initiative but time after time Callaghan pulled off superb saves to keep the bit o’red ahead.

Hear Shelbourne boss Stephen Finn’s after-match interview here

Late on Collins was sent thorough on goal and his effort was guided into the far corner to seal the win.

Man of the match: Sligo Rovers goalkeeper Lorcan Callaghan