Dungannon Swifts midfielder Gael Bigirimana was all smiles after his team triumphed in a penalty shootout to secure a spot in the Irish Cup final. However, he confessed that Cliftonville’s late equalizer, which sent the match to penalties, “was hard to take.”
The reigning champions appeared to be in control when Kealon Dillon put them ahead during the first period of extra time after a goalless 90 minutes, but the North Belfast side managed to equalize at the death.
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Despite the late setback, Dungannon regrouped, demonstrating their composure and keeping their dreams of back-to-back Irish Cup victories alive.
“I’m an optimistic person, but that goal affected me,” Bigirimana shared with BBC Sport NI.
“It felt like, ‘maybe this isn’t going to be our day,’ especially after we had created opportunities and then conceded like that.”
“Our manager called us together for a huddle and reminded us of the bigger picture beyond football—how valuable life is. We wanted to win not just for ourselves but for our families, our kids, and the community.”
“Sometimes, after achieving something significant, it’s challenging to maintain the mentality, determination, and discipline to push further. But we’ve put ourselves in another final.”
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While Dungannon started the season slowly, they have managed to secure a top-half finish in the league and are just 90 minutes away from another Irish Cup victory.
“We certainly don’t make things easy for ourselves,” Bigirimana added.
“This season has been tough for a part-time club. We were thrilled to have the experience in the Conference [League], but the campaign didn’t kick off well due to injuries, players leaving, and new ones joining.”
“To have navigated the season we’ve had is a source of pride for the club.”