Stephen is a true warrior
PORTMARNOCK soccer star Stephen Ward was part of history at Euro 2016 - with family and friends descending on France to be part of his incredible journey.
Although it ended in bitter disappointment in Lyon against hosts France on Sunday, the memories will last a lifetime.
Proud dad, Sean, the Garda Chief Superintendent in Drogheda, said his son was overjoyed following last Wednesday’s stunning last gasp triumph over Italy - the highlight of the tournament for the Irish.
‘We got to speak to him briefly after the final whistle. He was delighted. The team were great on the night,’ he stated.
‘Wednesday was incredible, the place was electric. The players were great and stayed out with the crowd for 15 or 20 minutes after the final whistle.
‘ There is huge pride that Stephen was selected to wear the green jersey in one of the big world tournaments. The Italy game is something he’ll never forget.’
They all came down to earth on Sunday afternoon, but still looked back with a huge sense of achievement.
It was all a far cry from Stephen’s early days in Portmarnock, coming up through the ranks with his home town club, apart from a one season stint at Home Farm.
He went on to play with Bohs and then signed for Wolves. Stephen, who has made 35 appearances for his country, now plays with Burnley in the Premiership.