I WANT DOUBLE PLACED IN CART
Peamount United v Cork City Tomorrow 3.15
HAVING lost her sense of taste after contracting Covid- 19, Peamount United’s Lucy Mccartan has a hunger for FAI Cup success tomorrow.
James O’callaghan’s side can complete the league and cup double if they overcome Cork City at Tallaght Stadium.
Tomorrow’s decider will be the first of two finals in eight days for the 22- year- old - who is fighting fit after recovering from the virus.
She will also represent Westmeath ( below) in Sunday week’s GAA Intermediate final against Meath at Croke Park.
Mccartan has already claimed a league medal with Peamount but is eyeing more silverware at the end of a challenging year.
“I’m a medical student and was working part- time in a nursing home during the pandemic,” she said.
“Back in March, there had been nothing said about the loss of taste and smell.
“I love my food and realised there was no taste. I didn’t know what was going on and mentioned it to my
Mam, who is a doctor, and she said I should get tested.
“It was a stressful time. It took almost three weeks to get the result because I think my test was in the batch that went to Germany.
“You feel dirtier than others, keeping away from people for fear they’ll get the virus off you. Thankfully, none of my family did.
“I’m just grateful we can play matches now.
“It probably feels like the government is being stricter on sport compared to other aspects of life by not allowing supporters and families into grounds.
“But at least we’re getting to play games and they can still watch the matches on TV or live streams.”
She added: “The pressure has eased since we beat Shelbourne to win the league.
“Cork won the Cup three years ago and will be gunning for us, so we’ll have to be on our game to win the first Cup for many years.”
Balancing college exams with her dual sporting commitments is a skill in itself, one that she’s content to master.
Mccartan added: “It’s a hectic time, but I’m enjoying it. Somebody asked me the other day if I’ve any hobbies and I said “no”.
“I train most nights but the management at Peamount looks after me if things get too much or I’m carrying a niggling injury.
“From talking to team- mates, some are stuck at home all day. You really appreciate it having so much on.”