Loftus is enjoying Castlebar Celtic’s quest for glory

by Caoimhín Rowland

ONE of Castlebar Celtic's star players, Jordan Loftus, gave us a glimpse into the excitement and determination surrounding the team as they prepare for the Connacht Junior Cup final.

As the final against Athenry draws near – it will be played at Solar 21 Park, Milebush, Castlebar, tomorrow at 3 p.m. – the county town's air is thick with anticipation.

Loftus is a player who has regained his love for the game after some difficult battles and is truly enjoying strutting his stuff under Celtic boss Stevie Gavin.

The game might make some players bullish – they’ll be playing in their own town, after all, and while it’s not exactly home turf, it is the next best thing. Like most things in life, Jordan sees it differently. There’s no room for sentimentality when it comes to a provincial decider.

“A lot of people are saying the same thing. That it’s a kind of home advantage. I don't really see it that way. I know it's in our own town. But at the end of the day, it's still a cup final – they’ll travel in numbers.”

As one of the more experienced members of this captivating Celtic side, Loftus knows they'll face fierce competition from the Galway outfit, whose fans brought great voice and colour to Sligo for Athenry’s semi-final win against Strand Celtic.

He is in no doubt that this occasion is colossal, particularly approaching the club's centenary year, and the Celtic marksman hopes to etch his own legend into the history of his hometown club.

TAP-IN

Castlebar Celtic's semi-final clash left many fans and pundits in awe after a resounding 4-0 victory against tough opponents, Mervue United.

Speaking about that feeling in Fahy’s Field when victory was certain and they could savour the game's final moments without the weight of uncertainty, Jordan said: “It's the best feeling ever. It's like scoring a tap-in as a striker, you know. The game was over and we were just seeing out the last half an hour. That euphoria in the dressing room...

“But also, at the same time, we know we haven't achieved anything yet. We haven't done anything yet, we haven't won the trophy and that's all that matters.”

Getting their hands on the cup, therein lies the sole focus. Not allowing the thumping of Mervue get to their heads. For sure someone of Loftus’s pedigree and under the guidance of the experienced gaffer Gavin would never allow that to happen.

Stevie Gavin has been a guiding force for Castlebar Celtic in his second stint as manager of the club. Loftus’s eyes light up when discussing Gavin's impact on the dressing room and on him personally. It's not just about his tactical acumen; it's seemingly the way he connects with the players.

“He's amazing on a personal level to myself, as well as his man-management – it is second to none. He's so, so good to me and attentive just with any knocks.”

When Jordan, a member of the staff of Doherty's Menswear, Main Street, Castlebar, faced a string of hamstring injuries, Stevie's unwavering support and calming presence helped him overcome doubts and regain his confidence.

Gavin's experience from playing in the League of Ireland, under the likes of current Ireland boss Stephen Kenny, adds a layer of wisdom to the team, while the collective knowledge and advice from past players nurture a strong bond between the club and the town.

REDEMPTION

Jordan's journey has been riddled with injury setbacks. Last year, doubts crept in when the 28-year-old faced three consecutive hamstring injuries. He even came close to calling it a day.

However, Gavin’s unwavering support and belief in his abilities rekindled Jordan's fire and verve for the game. This season, although far from injury-free, he remains resolute.

The upcoming final represents a chance for redemption in a tournament Celtic have faced several heartbreaks in recent times. Jordan is eagerly looking forward to stepping onto the pitch to seize the moment and make his mark.

“It's just the depth of the squad and the talent that we have and each player brings something different.”

On either wing to Loftus, Jason Hunt provides direct running and dynamism, looking to get in behind the defence with his pace. Being a part of the front three is a joy for Jordan.

The team's attacking prowess is exhilarating to watch as a fan and players like Paul Walsh, Dylan Edwards and Johnnie Cocozza add their unique flair to the mix, making the team a force to be reckoned with.

Jordan also acknowledges the defensive unit's excellence, hailing it as the strongest he has ever played with.

Overall, it is a team brimming with talent, but Celtic fans have seen skilful sides before. What marks the contemporary Hoops out from previous generations is their steeliness, a record in playing until the final whistle and never considering throwing in the white towel.

Under the tutelage of a top manager is a side blended with youthful arrogance and experienced poise.

Tomorrow afternoon at 3 p.m. in Milebush, Loftus and his Celtic team-mates will take to the field in a game not to be missed.