MAYO LGFA: Westport blaze past Knockmore in meeting of the top two

MAYO LGFA LEAGUE DIVISION 1

Westport 1-22

Knockmore 1-10

In Westport

THIS was a serious statement of intent by Westport. Both teams were missing their county players and there will be very little between them later in the season, but Westport's style of play hinted at their approach to the campaign and also showed the rest of the county the depth of talent the women in blue have at their disposal.

Knockmore were game and gallant opponents, but found the going tough against a home side who defended superbly and attacked with great pace. That was immediately obvious from the throw-in with impressive midfielder Larissa Kelly kicking two points in the first 27 seconds.

Knockmore hit back with a goal courtesy of deadly attacker Amy O'Connor, but that was as good as it got for the guests. Westport took charge. Their flying winger Fionnuala McLaughlin used her searing pace brilliantly, Katie Chambers worked hard on the other wing while Saoírse Ludden and Christina MacEvilly were hard to handle.

Nina McVann and Róisín Flynn were prominent for the North Mayo women but Westport were well clear at the break, 0-13 to 1-4.

That lead grew impressively after the resumption. Laura Moran, McLaughlin and MacEvilly kicked points before Moran found the net after fine play from the home side. That left the Blue and Navy out of sight, but Knockmore refused to fade away.

Lara Sweeney and Sarah Mulvihill raised white flags but Westport's hugely impressive defensive play and structure ensured there was little or no room for the guests to thrive.

O'Connor tried to ignite the Knockmore challenge and sought out goal chances when she got possession. She forced Róisín Scott into a great save after 57 minutes and hit the butt of the post a few minutes later, before forcing sub-goalie Lauren Cusack into another great stop as time ticked away.

However, Westport never panicked and late points from Lisa Scahill and Moran brought the curtain down on a fine morning in the shadow of The Reek.