The U14 west Mayo final between Achill and Tourmakeady was played in breezy conditions in St. Brendan’s Sports Park, Kilmeena, on Thursday evening, August 15th. Tourmakeady had booked their final place courtesy of a semifinal defeat of Islandeady, while Achill had to come back from 5 points down in each of their quarter final and semi-final matches against Burrishoole and Louisburgh respectively, to advance to the final.

Achill played with the aid of a strong breeze in the first half, and nobody needed telling that the most would have to be made of this scoring wise. A determined Achill side kicked the majority of their scores in the opening half, mostly through Seán McNamara and Dylan Guthrie. Tourmakeady struggled to establish any kind of attack as the Achill full back line of Diarmuid Cooney, Finn Bellew and Ethan McDonnell proved almost impenetrable in the first 30 minutes. Coupled with this outstanding back line performance, were majestic runs down field from the Herculean Calum Doolan-Lynch, Seán Gallagher and Conor Gralton. Their persistent industry was the catalyst for the majority of Achill’s first half scores. Midfielder Jamie McGinty making a fine contribution to the play also. Tourmakeady scored two points as the half drew to a close and there was no denying the uphill battle they would face in the second half, the one positive for them being that the wind would be in their favour. Half time score CLG Acla 6-11 CLG Thuar Mhic Éadaigh 0-2.

The second half started brightly for Tourmakeady as they kicked 3 unanswered points in quick succession. However, a further goal from Seán McNamara put a huge dent in any thoughts of a comeback and when Micheál McNamara came off the bench and added a second, the writing was on the wall. Achill finished up minus two of their men, following the issue of two yellows and arguably, a harsh straight red during the second half. Despite the scoring deficit, the lads of Tourmakeady must be commended for their never-say-die attitude. They played with heart and determination in a very sporting fashion as the game entered its final stages. Their efforts were rewarded late on with a further point and a goal, but thanks to optimum use of the breeze in the first half, it was not enough to trouble the Achill effort as they were crowned west Mayo champions in Kilmeena.

Ollie Dillon from the west board presented the winners’ trophy to Achill captain Oisín Grealis, following which the panel, their parents and supporters headed west where refreshments were enjoyed at the clubhouse in Polranny. Thanks to Cathal and the staff of Ostán Oileán Acla for the delicious food they provided for everyone, and thanks to those who helped with serving it.

Thanks to the players and their parents for their commitment to the club and to the coaches David Campbell and Micheál McNamara for their unfailing dedication to the lads. A word of thanks to Rory Lavelle for the recording and photographs. Thanks also to the supporters who travelled in large numbers to support the lads during the year, after disappointment earlier this season, it is great to see them end their Under 14 campaign on a high. Maith sibh uilig!

CLG Acla: Keith Gallagher, Diarmuid Cooney, Finn Bellew, Ethan Mc Donnell, Seán Gallagher, Conor Gralton, Calum Doolan-Lynch, Seán Russell, Jamie McGinty (0-1), Colm Campbell (0-2, 0-1f), Oisín Grealis (0-1), Dylan Guthrie (2-1), Seán McNamara (Paul) (5-8, 0-5 f, 1-0 pen)

Subs used: Stephen Corrigan, Elliott McNea, Micheál Mc Namara (1-0), Fionn English.