The Shamrocks bridged an 18-year gap on Sunday night when they clinched the
Cosmopolitan Soccer League’s John Kilby Cup after a dramatic penalty shoot
out victory over NYAC at Randall’s Island.

There hasn’t been a Rocks first team success of this nature since the
Robbie Walsh led team claimed a memorable repeat in this same competition
in 1999 and 2000.  But they were made to work for it by their Division 1
rivals in a tense game that ended 1-1 after normal time.

Idy Watt’s brilliant strike in the first minute had NYAC on the back foot
immediately but they rode the storm and equalized early in the second half
through a headed goal.

For the third time in this cup run, Kevin Grogan’s men were forced into
spot kicks with captain Zachary Gosse winning the coin toss and electing to
kick first. Stu Colbert, Gosse and Dan Giorgi scored theirs while
Gianfranco Barone watched the second NYAC kick go over,. He then saved the
third and the crucial fourth, making it a 3-1 win that sparked wild
celebrations.

“I’m so happy for the club,” said Grigan.

“It’s been a long 18 years since they won this trophy and it was well
deserved. Lots of hard work went into things behind the scenes from the
likes of Paddy Geraghty and many others. We couldn’t have done it without
Sean Mc Mullan or John Riordan either. There was tremendous support
yesterday both at the game and also via text and email. The penalty shoot
out was even streamed live in some bars around Queens. It’s been a lot of
hard work over the last three years and we have come a long way. It’s great
to have silverware to show for it. We don’t pay players at this club but we
give them something way more valuable and that’s a family.”

The John Kilby Cup will be make an appearance at this Saturday’s
End-of-Season Awards Banquet where the Guest of Honor will be Joe Behan.

“After all of the hard work and dedication that has been put in from the
members, coaching staff, players, and supporters we earned the right to put
Shamrocks back on the cup,” said skipper Gosse.

“This season has had its periods of ups and downs, including the loss of my
father and role model, Dr. Gerry Gosse, 2 weeks ago.  But similar to Dr. G,
who was a major believer in the power of teamwork and perseverance our
squad found a way to remain unified and earn the silverware.  I must admit,
I consider myself lucky to be a captain at a club that truly values
family.  The support from our members both past and present helps reinforce
that we are all part of something very special.  Up the Rocks!”