With Athlone Town already through to the semi-finals of the 2020 FAI Cup the competition continued this Friday afternoon in Ballybofey where League Champions Shamrock Rovers survived an almighty scare before recovering from a two goal half-time deficit to defeat Finn Harps by three goals to two. The hosts scored two fine first half goals and looked to be on the cusp of a huge shock but calamity struck for the hosts during a five minute spell early in the second half with the concession of three penalty kicks. The first, taken by midweek international call-up Aaron McEneff, was saved by goalkeeper Mark Anthony McGinley but within seconds a second spot kick was conceded and this time McEneff made no mistake. A few minutes later the drama continued with the award of penalty number three for a perceived foul by McGinley which was hotly disputed, but to no avail, and McEneff did the necessary from the spot. Another midweek international call-up Graham Burke then scored the third and winning goal to secure the semi-final berth for the ‘Hoops’.
Quarter-Final number three took place in Dalymount Park later this Friday this evening where Dundalk recovered from their recent erratic form with a comprehensive four one victory over hosts Bohemian. The ‘Lilywhites’ will travel to face Athlone Town in the semi-final on Sunday the 29th November but before that they will host Rapid Vienna in the Europa League at 8pm on Thursday evening in the Aviva Stadium.
The remaining quarter-final between North West rivals Sligo Rovers and Derry City is scheduled for the Showgrounds at 7.30pm on Wednesday next with the winners travelling to face Shamrock Rovers in the semi-final.