Mayo boys go to Kilkenny in search of national glory

A talented bunch of Mayo boys will make the long trip to Evergreen FC, Kilkenny, tomorrow (Saturday, May 20) to play near neighbours Galway in the final of the SFAI Under 13 Inter-league Boys Cup. The game has a 1.45 p.m. kick-off time.

It has been a long but enjoyable season for this squad, who have been together since early September last season for the start of the inter-league competition.

Over 45 sessions later between training and games, they find themselves in the final game of the year.

Having already beaten Longford at home, Midlands away, Galway 2 at home, Wexford away and Cork at home, these fine young men look for one more push to claim the ultimate prize at this age group.

The coaches are immensely proud of what this group has achieved both on and off the pitch as they have grown in many different aspects.

Finally, huge kudos to all the parents who have also put in a huge effort with the team, travelling around the country and to midweek and weekend sessions in Solar 21 Park, Milebush, Castlebar, for the last nine months.

The final destination is Evergreen FC in Kilkenny tomorrow (Saturday). Best wishes to all involved.

The Mayo squad is as follows: Ryan Nolan, Sean Nolan, Ethan Duffy, Mattie Vahey, Tony Cunningham, James Heaney (all Manulla), Henry Noone (Claremorris), Kian Redmond, Ethan Kelly, Mattie Daly (all Castlebar Celtic), Mark Leonard, Conor Durkan, Thady Hoban (all Ballina Town), Josh O'Malley Rian Gavin (both Westport United), Conor Carey (Kilmurray), Robbie Ruane (Conn Rangers), John Mulroy (Ballyvary Blue Bombers), Cillian Reilly (Ballyheane).

The members of the coaching staff are Declan Leonard, Alan Mulchrone, Dave Bristow and Gabriel Downes.