Michael Commins
FOR one of Kiltimagh’s best-known sporting families, last week brought a double they could have done without. The sight of an ambulance arriving at a pitch for an injured player is always a worry for parents and friends. But when it happens two evenings in a row, and in two different codes, it can test the endurance of the most loyal family.
Liam Lydon was on duty for the Kiltimagh team in the Under 21 county championship against Ballaghaderreen on Wednesday evening when he sustained a broken collarbone during the first half. He was playing at wing forward. An ambulance ferried him to Mayo General Hospital in Castlebar.
Liam is one of five brothers that line out with the Kiltimagh seniors, who are currently competing in the Intermediate championship. The injury means he will be out of action for the rest of the season.
On Thursday evening, his 16-year-old sister, Catherine, was assisting Kiltimagh-Knock United in the semi-final of the Mary Walsh Memorial Cup against Manulla in Castlebar, when she broke her shin bone. She was removed from the pitch and taken by ambulance to the nearby hospital. She was discharged on Sunday evening and is also out of football for the rest of the year.
With Liam sporting a sling and Catherine on crutches, their summer sporting season has suddenly ground to a halt. But knowing the Lydon family, they’ll be back for more football as soon as the bones have mended and healed. Parents Johnny and Teresa would have it no other way. Sport is a way of life for the Lydons of Canbrack.
