Athlone Town boss Ciaran Kilduff steps down after heavy Women's FAI Cup final defeat to Shelbourne

Ciaran Kilduff has stepped down as Athlone Town's women's team after the 6-1 defeat to Shelbourne in the FAI Cup final on Sunday.

A League winner in his own right as a player with Dundalk and Shamrock Rovers, Kilduff took over 18 months following Tommy Hewitt's departure and guided the midlanders to FAI Cup glory last season with a final victory on penalties over Shels.

The 36-year-old then led Athlone to first-ever League title success this season before Shels ended their dreams of achieving the double in the one-sided Cup final.

READ MORE:Shels' Cup final mission explained: 'In a million years that Cup was not going back to Athlone'

READ MORE: Shelbourne torment Athlone Town in shock and awe Women's FAI Cup final

Kilduff found himself in a spat with Ireland team boss Eileen Gleeson in the lead-in to the final, when he complained that there was a disconnect between young players in the League and the international set-up and said that Gleeson had never contacted him about his League-winning players.

Gleeson hit back on Thursday at her squad selection for the Euro 2025 qualifying play-off double header against Georgia.

“It has been an absolute honour to work with such talented players and dedicated staff," said Kilduff. "Winning the Premier Division title with this team is something I will cherish forever.

"However, after much reflection, I feel this is the right moment for me to step away.

"I informed the club of my decision after the game, I am extremely proud of what we have achieved, and I would like to thank the club, players, and supporters for their incredible support throughout my time here.”

A statement from the club read: "Athlone Town AFC would like to express its gratitude to Ciarán in helping deliver a historic Premier Division title to the club.

"We wish him every success in his future endeavours. The club will begin the search for a new head coach in the coming weeks."

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