Sligo defeat Westmeath in Celtic Challenge

SLIGO 1-8 WESTMEATH 0-10

SLIGO’S u17 Celtic Challenge team came out on top in this hotly contested game on Saturday in Mullingar. The game was played on the AstroTurf at St. Loman’s Park in dry, but very windy conditions which favoured Sligo in the opening half.

Westmeath had a goal chance but the shot was blocked by full back, Alan O’Brien.

Sligo registered the first score on the board with a point from the industrious Oisín Deehan. This was followed by a Luke Tuffy free and a point from play by Michael McDonagh. Westmeath’s full forward got his side off the mark with a point from play. Sligo had a couple of frees in the next period of play but failed to capitalise. Westmeath, however took the lead with another three unanswered points, 0-4 to 0-1.

A goal chance ensued for Sligo with a fine shot in from Oisín Deehan in front of goal but Luke Tuffy couldn’t quite connect.

Another goal chance was had by Rory Tuffy , the resultant free was sent over the bar by Luke Tuffy. Sligo finished the half brightly with three more points, a ‘65 from Michael McDonagh followed by two frees from Luke Tuffy. At half time the score read Sligo 0-7, Westmeath 0-4.

After the break, Sligo came under intense pressure from Westmeath as they tried to make use of the wind advantage. Fiachra Haughey and Alan O’Brien ably assisted by the half back line worked tirelessly to prevent the attack. Westmeath did however score four consecutive points, two from frees and two from play to take the lead 0-8 ,0-7 at the twenty two minute mark.

A long puck from Adam Roberts in midfield found Luke Tuffy who blasted the sliotar to the back of the net to the delight of Sligo’s supporters. Westmeath, quickly levelled matters with two points. The final minutes were a scramble as both sides tried to find the winning score. Westmeath had a chance with a free but it was waved wide.

A foul on Luke Tuffy in the dying moments was converted by Ryan O’Donnell.

This was to prove the winner. The side will play Mayo on Saturday next in Markievicz Park.