Casterba 3–0 North End United – Ireland FAI Cup, 17 May 2026

Casterba booked their place in the next round of the FAI Cup with a comprehensive 3‑0 victory over North End United on 17 May 2026. The match, played at Casterba’s home ground in County Cork, was a classic cup tie between a lower‑league side and a spirited amateur outfit, with the home side’s superior fitness and organisation proving decisive.

Match Overview

From the first whistle, Casterba imposed themselves on the game. Playing in the Munster Senior League – the third tier of Irish football – they faced North End United, a Wexford‑based club from the Leinster Senior League. The gulf in class was not immediately obvious, however, as North End defended resolutely for the opening 25 minutes. The deadlock was broken when Casterba’s star striker Conor O’Keeffe latched onto a through ball and calmly slotted past the advancing goalkeeper.

Key Moments

• 27th minute – 1‑0: Conor O’Keeffe (Casterba) – clinical finish after a defence‑splitting pass from midfield.
• 44th minute – 2‑0: A corner kick was only partially cleared; the ball fell to defender Eoghan Horgan, who volleyed home from 12 yards.
• 58th minute – 3‑0: O’Keeffe turned provider, crossing for winger David O’Brien to head in at the far post.

North End United had their best spell just after half‑time when they pressed high and forced a series of corners, but Casterba’s goalkeeper James Murphy was equal to everything. As the game wore on, the home side’s professionalism told – they managed the tempo and saw out the victory without alarm.

Cup Magic & Context

The FAI Cup has a long tradition of giant‑killing, but on this occasion the higher‑ranked side justified their billing. Casterba, who have never won the competition, are enjoying a strong run and will hope to reach the quarter‑finals for the first time in a decade. North End United, competing in their third FAI Cup campaign, can be proud of their performance despite the scoreline – they forced Casterba to work hard for every goal.

Standout Performers

• Conor O’Keeffe (Casterba) – A goal and an assist; his intelligent movement was a constant headache for the North End defence.
• Eoghan Horgan (Casterba) – Scored a crucial second goal and was solid at the back.
• James Murphy (Casterba) – Made two excellent saves in the second half to preserve the clean sheet.

What’s Next

Casterba will learn their next opponent in the FAI Cup draw later this week. With the club aiming to climb the Munster Senior League table as well, this cup victory provides valuable momentum. For North End United, attention turns back to their Leinster Senior League campaign, where they sit comfortably mid‑table.