Evergreen are the new KCLR McCalmont Cup champions after overcoming old rivals Freebooters in Saturday’s final.
A new name was guaranteed on the trophy this year after defending champions Bridge United were knocked out earlier in the competition, setting up a highly anticipated showdown between two of Kilkenny’s biggest clubs.
Freebooters arrived in Derdimus with a flawless defensive record, having not conceded a single goal on their route to the final. They opened their campaign with a 4-0 win over Thomastown, followed by a 6-0 victory over Stoneyford United B and a 5-0 success against Callan United. A narrow 1-0 win over Fort Rangers secured their place in the decider.
Evergreen’s journey to the final was equally impressive. The Premier Division champions began with a 5-1 victory over Stonyford United before defeating Deen Celtic 6-0. They then produced a dominant 5-0 win over defending champions Bridge United and followed that with a dramatic 3-2 semi-final comeback against Ormonde Villa.
The final itself lived up to expectations. Freebooters struck first through Bill Trehy, but Evergreen responded with goals from Diarmuid Behan in the first half and Dara Keane six minutes into the second half to secure a 2-1 victory.
The win completes a memorable league and cup double for Evergreen, adding the McCalmont Cup to the Premier Division title they already captured this season.
There could still be more silverware to come. Evergreen remain in contention for a treble and are set to renew their rivalry with Freebooters in the Premier Division Mock Lawlor Final later this week.
