A late winner the difference as Maher Shield Final serves up thriller - Kilkenny Live

It took a dramatic late winner to decide the 2026 Pat Maher Shield Final as a determined Bridge United turned around a two goal deficit to snatch the title away from Fort Rangers.

Former Wexford FC striker and Bridge United player/manager, Conor English netted the all important clincher in front of a large attendance at the United Grounds in Thomastown.

Although in a seemingly tricky position with half-time approaching, it should come as no surprise to fans that the Goresbridge side found a way to win. English's men have become cup specialists in the Kilkenny & District League, beating Freebooters and Thomastown United in the last two McCalmont Cup finals respectively.

Fort Rangers appeared to be in a commanding position with six minutes of the first half remaining, with Emmet Nugent playing a key role as both scorer and creator

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Emmet Nugent converted a 16th-minute penalty to put his side ahead before setting up Ryan Maguire for their second in the 39th minute.

Bridge United’s disappointing first half worsened when English missed a penalty, making it seem increasingly likely that the night in Thomastown would belong to 'Fort.

However, a goal from Marty Dalton just two minutes before half-time proved to be the turning point, leaving only one goal separating the teams at the break.

Eoin Kavanagh provided the assist for Nick Llanos to level proceedings on the 54th minute, giving the Croatian his first goal in all competitions in the process.

The next half hour delivered what the final of cup/shield competitions so often do, tension and excitement with Conor English showing nerves of steel to notch the all important winner.

More to follow...

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