Cup final goes global as Canadian Norman savours glory

A record-breaking crowd may have witnessed St Patrick's Athletic's FAI Cup final victory over Bohemians at the Aviva Stadium, but interest levels were global for the Irish soccer showpiece.

Just short of 44,000 spectators watched on as the Saints battled back from a goal down to claim a 3-1 success, and a second victory over the Gypsies in the cup decider in three years.

The Dublin derby brought about an electric atmosphere to Dublin 4, but as far away as Canada there were watch parties owing to the presence of former Vancouver Whitecaps defender David Norman in the Pat’s defence.

It has been a year to remember for the 25-year-old, who won a promotion medal with Northampton Town before joining the Inchicore club in July.

The former Canada Under-23 international, whose career has also taken him to Queen of the South in Scotland and MLS side Inter Miami, said the support he received made it an extra special occasion.

"My parents and my in-laws made the long trip out a couple of days ago. They weren’t going to miss this one for anything," he told RTÉ Sport.

"I was pleased to have them in the crowd. There were a few watch parties back in Vancouver and Vancouver Island.

"It was a great day."

"We play for each other, the staff, the players, but when we see our family in the stands…they are the ones who supported us since we were kids, dreaming of playing in cup finals, playing in environments like this in front of 40,000 plus fans."

Former Canadian international Jeff Clarke was part of a Pat’s side that claimed league titles in 1998 and 1999, but Norman isn’t sure where he has broken new ground in the cup.

"I’m not sure any Canadian has won the FAI Cup. It’s a special moment for sure, will have to check the history books after."