Westport United looking to end trophy drought

By Stuart Tynan

THREE years without silverware for many clubs would not be out of the ordinary. But there is nothing ordinary about Westport United.

They are used to success. Not just at home but further beyond, with Connaught Cup and FAI Junior Cup wins on their roll of honour (they remain the only Mayo side to win the Junior Cup).

They are the only Mayo side left in the T.P. Brennan Connaught Cup, with convincing wins over Merville United, Cliffoney Celtic, Tuam Celtic and Ballinasloe Town ensuring a safe passage to the semi-finals and putting them in prime contention for provincial silverware once again, as well as a Calor Gas Super Cup semi-final also to look forward to domestically.

With new signings including Cian McAllister, James McGrath, Shane Nallen and Danny O'Toole as well as the successful integration of some excellent young players coming through like Caoimhin O'Toole, it can be argued that no team has a deeper pool of talent to choose from than United. And their electric start since the return to play sees many observers placing United as favourites for the league already.

Putting things right

They got off to a flyer last year but back-to-back defeats midway through the season (away to Manulla and Ballina Town) and a home defeat a couple of weeks later to eventual champions Celtic left them with too much to do.

Despite a late turn of form, they were unable to reel in Celtic and captain Gary Cunningham is eager to put things right this year.

“We actually probably had the best start (last season) but there was a two-week spell there when we lost three games. Celtic had games in hand and won them. They were winning games they maybe could have drawn but that's what it takes to win the league. Fair play to them, they deserved it last year. They were the best team over 18 games.

“We were a bit disappointed because we did bring it back towards the end, we beat them in Celtic Park and brought it to the last few games. Hopefully this year we'll be able to kick on a but more and maybe they'll be chasing us this year.”

They will be hoping the chase begins from this evening at 6 p.m. as they travel to Pat Quigley Park to face Ballyheane.

Pictured is Westport United's Gary Cunningham. PHOTO: MICHAEL DONNELLY