Dungannon Swifts Secure Historic Irish Cup Victory Over Cliftonville

Dungannon Swifts captured their first ever Irish Cup title after a dramatic penalty shootout victory over Cliftonville at Windsor Park. Led by former Down footballer John McGovern, who scored the opening goal, the Swifts played much of the match with ten men following a red card for Steven Scott. Cliftonville forced extra time with a late injury-time equalizer, but misses from their players in the shootout secured Dungannon's historic 4-3 win on penalties. This triumph not only marks a landmark achievement for the club but also qualifies them for European competition next season, capping a remarkable season in which they also finished fourth in the Irish Premiership. The win is particularly meaningful for manager Rodney McAree, who previously lost an Irish Cup final as a player with Dungannon. Cliftonville, meanwhile, will have to pursue European football through the end-of-season play-offs.