The Seagulls see off a challenge to progress to the Semi-final of the Leinster Senior Cup.
Bray Wanderers 1–1 Drogheda United
(Bray win 6–5 on penalties)
Gareth Danaher reports from the Carlisle Grounds.
Leinster Senior Cup Quarter-Final – Monday, April 20, 2026
Bray Wanderers progressed to the semi-finals of the Leinster Senior Cup after edging Drogheda United in a dramatic penalty shootout at the Carlisle Grounds on Monday night.
After an intense first half, Bray had a golden opportunity to take the lead on 32 minutes. Fagbemi was fouled in the box, but O’Neill’s penalty was missed, leaving the sides level at the break.
It was the visitors who struck first just after the hour mark. Cian O’Connor gave Drogheda the lead in the 61st minute, finishing smartly to put the Premier Division outfit in control.
Bray responded positively and were rewarded seven minutes later when Flynn Ryan levelled the tie on 68 minutes with his first senior goal, a powerful header that sparked renewed belief among the home support.
With the sides locked at 1-1, neither could find a decisive breakthrough in the remaining minutes of normal time or during extra-time, despite both having spells of pressure.
The contest moved to penalties, where composure proved decisive. Bray converted six of their spot-kicks, with Ryan, already on the scoresheet, stepping up to dispatch the winning penalty. Drogheda fell just short, missing one crucial effort as the shootout finished 6-5 in favour of the hosts.
The penalty scorers for Bray on the night were Sammy, Ferizaj, Knight, Tucker, Fagbemi and Ryan. Drogheda’s final penalty kick was rattled off the crossbar by Mare.
It was also a notable night for the club’s young talent, as Shelly made his senior debut after being introduced in the 62nd minute.
The result sees Bray advance to the final four of the competition, while Drogheda bow out after a competitive showing on the road.
The Seagulls return to league action this Friday night (April 24th) against league leaders, Cork City. Kick off at the Carlisle Grounds is at 7:45pm.
Bray Wanderers: Rian Hogan (gk), Benjamin Fagbemi, Mark Chidi, John Bilili Sesay, Conor Knight, Ethan Cheese, Aime Nyembo Azende, Kyle Tucker, Billy O’Neill, Tyreik Sammy, Dean O’Shea
Subs used: Richard Ferizaj, Jack Lawless, Flynn Ryan, Bailey Shelley.
Drogheda United: T. Hennessy (gk), C.Donnelly, F.Kareem, S.Farrell, J.Bolger, R.Brennan, B.Bosakani, J.Brennan, C.O’Connor, K.Cruise, D.Mare.
Subs used: E.Maher, C.Kelly, S.Brady, S.McGrath, M.Simoes Cardo.
Referee: Robert Dowling.
Attendance: 308 (official).
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