Ciarán Kilduff steps down as Athlone boss after Cup final defeat

Ciarán Kilduff has stepped down as head coach of Athlone Town, following their 6-1 defeat to Shelbourne in the Sports Direct Women's FAI Cup final.

In testing conditions, a first-half blitz from Shelbourne saw them seize control with goals from Kate Mooney (2), Noelle Murray (2), Jess Gargan and Leah Doyle, before Brenda Tabe pulled one back for Athlone.

The cup final defeat was a disappointing end to what has been an incredible season for Athlone under Kilduff, as he helped lead them to their first ever Premier Division title.

Kilduff's Athlone beat Shels on penalties in the final of the cup last year, but it will be for their exploits in the league this season that they will be most remembered, winning it for the first time, just four years after they first entered the division.

Speaking about his decision to step down, Kilduff told the official Athlone Town website: "It has been an absolute honour to work with such talented players and dedicated staff.

"Winning the Premier Division title with this team is something I will cherish forever. However, after much reflection, I feel this is the right moment for me to step away.

"I informed the club of my decision after the game, I am extremely proud of what we have achieved, and I would like to thank the club, players, and supporters for their incredible support throughout my time here."

Speaking after the cup final defeat, Kilduff was eager to stress that their season will not defined by what he described as '45 minutes of mayhem', when Shelbourne score six goal.

"Up until that first half you would have to pinch yourself and say it's as amazing as the season could go," he told RTÉ Sport.

"You win the President's Cup, you win the league and you make the FAI Cup final. It was an