Loughgall were made to suffer penalty shoot-out heartbreak as Armagh City lifted the Bob Radcliffe Cup for the fourth time in their history.
Former Cliftonville goalkeeper John Connolly produced two spot-kick saves to seal a 6-5 triumph for City after a scoreless 90 minutes and extra-time period.
There were a clear lack of clear sights on goal throughout the game however City came closest, in the first half, when Eamon Kelly connected with a cross to hit the post.
Marcus Dallas had the best chances for Loughgall in an even game; in the first half he fired narrowly wide with a half volley. And just before the final whistle he was denied by ‘keeper Connolly who did well to hold onto the midfielders’ low shot.
Loughgall had ‘keeper Gareth Buchanan to thank in the extra-time stages when he parried Shea Campbell’s fierce effort. Buchanan also rushed out to close down Stefan Lavery after he was deftly released clear albeit at a narrow angle.
Loughgall: Buchanan, Carson, Taylor, Copeland, Hudson, Walsh, Ferguson, Dallas, Mullen, Ryan, Rea (Mallen 73m). Unused subs: Henderson, Blevins, Dane, Tavares.
Armagh City: Connolly, Campbell, Noonan (Grimley 95m), Toal, Mallon, Bell, Kelly, Hoey, Donnelly, S McGerrigan, Lavery. Unused subs: Morgan, Cullen, Clarke, Atrach.
