Victory for Traveller Support Group
SLIGO TRAVELLER SUPPORT GROUP 3 GARDA SÍOCHÁNA 2
IN an exciting end to end game it was STSG who emerged victorious in the second annual Martin Mongan Memorial Shield game defeating their opponents Garda Síochana by three goals to two.
Prior to the game a minute’s silence was held in memory of Ross McCarrick who sadly died recently.
Having lost the same fixture last year comprehensively to the Garda team STSG were determined not to let the same happen again and led by a goal to nil at half time courtesy of Gerard Murphy.
STSG captain Charlie Ward doubled the advantage in the second half before the Garda pulled a goal back.
Murphy made it 3-1 to STSG before their opponents pulled it back to 3-2 setting up a tense finish.
STSG were able to withhold late pressure and won by a final score of 3-2 to win the shield for the first time.
Jamie Murphy of STSG said that it was an exciting game of football played in good spirits.
He said: “We are delighted with how the game went this evening. It was exciting with some great football and fantastic goals and played in good spirit.
“It’s a fitting tribute to Martin, and STSG winning the shield really topped off what was a great event. Many thanks to both team, referee Dave Cummins and Sligo Rovers for their after match hospitality.
“We are already looking forward to next year’s game,” Jamie added.
The memorial shield is held in memory of Martin Mongan who sadly lost his life in a road accident in 2014.
Martin’s role in STSG was that of Men’s Development worker and he volunteered in Loughan House prison.
His death was a tragic loss not only for his loved ones but also for both the Trav- eller population and all those he worked with. The game took place during National Men’s Health week which was very appropriate as Martin did enormous work trying to improve the lives of Travellers in county Sligo and further afield.
For more information on STSP contact 071 9145780.