Garda team win Mongan Shield
THE inaugural Martin Mongan Memorial Shield took place in the Showgrounds with the Sligo Traveller Support Group ( STSG) taking on the Garda Station Sligo ( GSS) on Wednesday evening.
Both sides met in wet conditions on Wednesday evening at the Showgrounds.
The game was organised in memory of Martin who died tragically in a road accident on October 30th 2014.
Martin was the Men’s Development Worker with the Sligo Traveller Support Group and also worked voluntarily in Loughan House prison.
In a competitive and exciting game, it was GSS that created the most chances and had the STSG defence under constant pressure for the first 15 minutes.
After the early pressure the inevitable happened when GSS took the lead and added three more in quick succession to lead 4- 0 at half time.
In the second half, STSG made a number of changes and created a number of chances of their own.
With five minutes to go, they had pulled the score back to 4- 2.
In a tense finish, STSG had a chance to make the score 4- 3 from the penalty spot.
The keeper saved and the rebound hit the cross- bar. At the finish it was GSS who were winners by 4- 2.
STSG manager Bernadette Maughan presented the winning GSS captain with the shield while some much needed teas/ coffees were had courtesy of Sligo Rovers.
Jamie Murphy, STSG Men’s Development worker, said the inaugural tournament went well.
He added: “It was a very successful evening and a fitting tribute to Martin.
“Thanks must go to the teams, referee, supporters and Sligo Rovers astro for helping make the game happen. The result didn’t go our way this time hopefully next year we can get the shield back,” he added.
Jamie said that Martin’s death was a tragic loss not only for his loved ones but also for both the Traveller population and all those he worked with.
“The game took place during National Traveller Pride Week and in the year that Traveller ethnicity was recognised by the Irish State, this is very fitting.
“Martin was very proud of his Traveller identity and heritage and it makes the game all the more important.
“Martin is someone who is missed by us all everyday and we think this is another good way to help keep his memory alive,” Jamie added.