Home comforts boost Mayo FC as young guns impress

It was a largely positive weekend for Mayo FC across the underage ranks, with strong home form underpinning a series of encouraging performances.

On Friday evening Mayo FC Men's Under-17 side pulled off an unlikely 1-1 draw against Longford Town in a home fixture, goal from Samuel Roche after he was played in by Eoghan Powell helped the hosts to share the spoils.

At Umbro Park on Sunday, Mayo FC Women’s Under-19 side battled their way to a hard-earned scoreless draw against St Patrick’s Athletic in League B. Sophia McHale shone brightest on the day, taking home the Player of the Match honours for a standout display. The result nudges Mayo FC onto four points for the campaign, with a tricky away tie at Athlone Town looming this weekend.

There was no shortage of entertainment earlier that afternoon, where Mayo FC’s Under-14 side claimed a thrilling 6-4 win over Longford Town in League of Ireland Group C action. Cillian Keating was the star of the show, helping himself to a four-goal haul, while Zac Bristow and Mario Mahlangu also found the net to seal the points. Galway United visit next in what promises to be another lively encounter.

Saturday’s action also brought mixed fortunes. The Mayo FC Women’s Under-17s were left to rue a missed opportunity after they were held to a 1-1 draw by Longford Town. Emily Coleman opened the scoring for Ryan Merchant’s side, but a second-half equaliser meant the hosts had to settle for a share of the spoils. They’ll be back on familiar turf this Saturday, welcoming Sligo Rovers to Umbro Park.

Meanwhile, Mayo FC’s Under-15 side endured a frustrating trip to Bishopsgate, suffering a narrow 3-2 defeat to Longford Town despite playing against ten men for much of the second half. James O’Reilly and Kian Redmond were on target, and Jakub Stec’s efforts earned him the Player of the Match accolade. They’ll hope for better fortunes when they make the short hop to Eamonn Deacy Park to face Galway United next weekend.