Match Report: Cork City Women 1–0 DLR Waves Women
Ireland Women's Football Cup (FAI Cup) | 5 July 2026, 21:00

Overview

Cork City Women edged past DLR Waves Women in a hard-fought FAI Women’s Cup contest, winning 1–0 thanks to a first-half strike from Sarah Murphy. The cup tie was a tightly contested affair with few clear-cut opportunities, but Cork’s defensive resilience saw them through to the next round.

Match Summary

The opening stages were cagey, with both sides feeling each other out. DLR Waves enjoyed slightly more possession but could not penetrate a well-drilled Cork backline. Cork City, playing with a high press, forced several turnovers in the opponents’ half.

The decisive moment came in the 38th minute. A quick break down the right wing saw Ciara O’Brien whip a dangerous low cross into the box. Sarah Murphy arrived at the near post and deftly flicked the ball past the DLR Waves goalkeeper, giving Cork City a 1–0 lead that they held into half-time.

Second-Half Resistance

After the break, DLR Waves Women pushed hard for an equaliser. They introduced fresh legs up front, but Cork City’s goalkeeper Emma Fitzgerald made a string of key saves, particularly a brilliant stop in the 72nd minute to deny a header from close range.

Cork City almost doubled their lead in the 84th minute when a shot from Aoife Murphy struck the post, but the rebound was cleared. DLR Waves could not find a way through, and Cork City held on to secure a hard-fought victory.

Standout Performers

• Sarah Murphy (Cork City Women): Scored the winning goal and worked tirelessly off the ball.
• Emma Fitzgerald (Cork City Women): Kept a clean sheet with several vital saves.
• Ciara O’Brien (Cork City Women): Provided the assist and was a constant outlet on the wing.

Cup Progress

Cork City Women advance to the quarter-finals of the Ireland Women’s Football Cup, where they will face a strong league contender. For DLR Waves Women, the defeat ends their cup run, but they can focus on improving their league position.