Kildare became AirNav All-Ireland U16 ‘A’ champions on a sun-kissed Wednesday evening in Athlone. The Lilies ran out 1-10 to 0-9 winners after a thrilling back and forth encounter with Cavan.
A second half goal from Sarsfields’ Anna Dillon was followed by incredible Kildare nerve down the home stretch as they closed out for a historic victory to be crowned the best team in the country in their age group.
9. Sarah Crowe of Cavan shoots at goal, under pressure from Kildare players Amber Blake, left, and goalkeeper Sadie Burke, during the 2026 AirNav Ireland All-Ireland U-16 A Championship final match between Cavan and Kildare at Páirc Chiarain in Westmeath. Photo by Seb Daly/Sportsfile
Sarah Crowe of Cavan shoots at goal, under pressure from Kildare players Amber Blake, left, and goalkeeper Sadie Burke, during the 2026 AirNav Ireland All-Ireland U-16 A Championship final match between Cavan and Kildare at Páirc Chiarain in Westmeath. Photo by Seb Daly/Sportsfile | SPORTSFILE
10. Sarah Crowe of Cavan in action against Kayla Mooney of Kildare during the 2026 AirNav Ireland All-Ireland U-16 A Championship final match between Cavan and Kildare at Páirc Chiarain in Westmeath. Photo by Seb Daly/Sportsfile
Sarah Crowe of Cavan in action against Kayla Mooney of Kildare during the 2026 AirNav Ireland All-Ireland U-16 A Championship final match between Cavan and Kildare at Páirc Chiarain in Westmeath. Photo by Seb Daly/Sportsfile | SPORTSFILE
11. Spectators during the 2026 AirNav Ireland All-Ireland U-16 A Championship final match between Cavan and Kildare at Páirc Chiarain in Westmeath. Photo by Seb Daly/Sportsfile
Spectators during the 2026 AirNav Ireland All-Ireland U-16 A Championship final match between Cavan and Kildare at Páirc Chiarain in Westmeath. Photo by Seb Daly/Sportsfile | SPORTSFILE
12. Amber Blake of Kildare and teammates during the 2026 AirNav Ireland All-Ireland U-16 A Championship final match between Cavan and Kildare at Páirc Chiarain in Westmeath. Photo by Seb Daly/Sportsfile
Amber Blake of Kildare and teammates during the 2026 AirNav Ireland All-Ireland U-16 A Championship final match between Cavan and Kildare at Páirc Chiarain in Westmeath. Photo by Seb Daly/Sportsfile | SPORTSFILE