Dundalk outclassed Athlone on a tough night in Lissywoolen.
Athlone Town manager Adrian Carbury is emphasising the importance of protecting his younger players in the wake of their FAI Cup semi-final defeat to Dundalk.
The Louth side recorded the biggest ever win the competition's history in the 11-0 victory, setting up a repeat of last years final with Shamrock Rovers.
Athlone were left without three first-team regulars when goalkeeper Aaron Myles pulled out on the day, Tumelo Tlou and Taner Dogan missed out through suspension.
The midlanders finished the game with five teenagers on the pitch, including Myles' replacement between the sticks, Patrick Martyn.
Adrian Carbury says the positives are there for the future at Lissywoolen:
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