Derry City's Down Syndrome Futsal Team stuns St Patrick's Athl. to win Cairdeas Cup G2 title Derry City's Down Syndrome Futsal Team defied the odds to lift the Group Two title at the League of Ireland's Cairdeas Cup in Dublin. The understrength Candy Stripes, with no substitutes, played every minute of their six games, including a dramatic 1-1 draw with Sligo Rovers that secured the trophy on goal difference.

What happened? Derry opened with five straight wins, including a victory over St Patrick's Athletic, before facing Sligo in a tournament-defining clash. Keigan Taylor's last-second wonder goal sealed a 1-1 draw, giving Derry the title with a 5-1-0 record and 27 goals scored.

Why it matters for St Patrick's Athl. St Patrick's Athletic, currently second in the Premier Division with 43 points (12W-7D-6L), will face Derry City again on August 2nd. The Saints are 7 points behind leaders Shamrock Rovers but have a strong recent form (1W-1D-0L).

What comes next? The Cairdeas Cup continues to grow, with 14 teams participating this year. Finn Harps retained the Group 1 title, setting up a north-west double. St Patrick's Athl. will look to build on their recent 1-1 draw with Dundalk as they prepare for the upcoming clash with Derry City.