Newport Town up for the cup

Newport go in search of silverware


Preview
Kevin Moran

NEWPORT TOWN will be looking to secure their first cup triumph since the club reformed three years ago when they meet Manulla B in the McDonnell Cup Final on Sunday.
Manulla will have plenty of incentive themselves, having gone six years since their last cup win – which was the Tuohy Cup in 2007.
Newport recorded victories over Straide & Foxford United and Ballyvary on their way to the final after receiving a bye in the second round. Meanwhile, Manulla beat Crossmolina, Castlebar Celtic C and Knock/Kiltimagh United, all away from home.
Throughout the campaign, Newport midfielders Kieran O’Connell and Padraig McManamon have been hugely impressive. Centre-half Keith Davitt has been strong at the back and could play an important role in the final.
The Manulla management team of Robert Fletcher and Des Gibbons will be looking to striker Kevin Mannion to fire their team to victory – while Joe Monaghan and Conor Walsh have been particularly influential in midfield.
Speaking to The Mayo News, Manulla player John Hennelly said: “Newport are a big strong side, but in cup matches it always comes down to what happens on the day.”
Since Newport’s reformation three years ago, there has been a renewed focus in the club with the addition of some new signings, as well as new coach Charlie O’Donnell – the well-travelled and very experienced former Glenhest and Mulranny star,
At the moment Newport are playing all of their games away from home but are hoping to have a local pitch in the near future. Management and players have been travelling to Celtic Park in Castlebar for their home fixtures as well as some training sessions during the year.
After their unbeaten start to the league campaign, Newport will be quietly confident coming into the game – they are currently top of the Welcome Inn Hotel League 2, having recorded six wins out of a possible eight.
Manulla are also showing promise in the league and now sit in third place. Newport will be hot favourites after their recent league win over Manulla but neither team will be taking their opponents for granted.
“We’re looking forward to having a good game of football, we’re expecting a tough game but if everyone’s fit we have a good chance,” said Newport Town chairman, Andy Davitt.

Fixture
McDonnell Cup Final
Manulla v Newport Town

Sunday, July 7 at 3pm
Milebush Park, Castlebar