Minor Mission

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Minor mission

Sligo vs Mayo

Saturday 11th April, Enniscrone 5.30pm

Cathal Mullaney

Saturday brings about a somewhat unique opportunity for Sligo’s under-18 team – the chance to claim provincial silverware.

At a grade where Sligo has been starved of success over the years, a win over Mayo this Saturday wouldn’t make up for all the heartbreak in years gone by, but it would be a welcome change from a barren past which could now be about to transform into a bright future.

Aidan Rooney’s side meet Mayo in the final round of the Connacht Minor League knowing that a win will result in a first provincial title for a county minor team for some time. Having won three of their four games to date, Sligo come into the tie in good form, but will know that a win this weekend is all that will do.

Having recorded their highest total to date in the competition last weekend – 2-14 against Longford in Markievicz Park – Sligo know that, with potent forwards, along with an industrious midfield and a mean defence, they can compete with any team they come up against.

The seamless reintegration of the Summerhill College contingent into the fold following their Connacht Colleges exploits has further strengthened the panel, with a total of 24 players seeing game time throughout the campaign to date. Without question, this emphasises the strength-in-depth the squad now possesses.

While Mayo will prove to be a formidable challenge at Quiagbar, Sligo’s performance levels have improved with every game and they will expect to continue that trend with another strong display at the seaside venue.

Although the impending championship campaign has been long identified as the key competition for this side, any game in which silverware is on offer becomes important.

Silverware has been conspicuous by its absence for talented minor teams over the years – hopefully, Saturday can harbour a new era where silverware becomes the norm.

Sligeach abú.