3 ladies game talking points

TIGHT MARKING Mayo’s Rachel Kearns tries to get away from Westmeath’s Fiona Coyle during last Sunday’s National League clash at St Loman’s in Mullingar. Pic: Thomas Gibbons


Michael Gallagher

1 Louisburgh twins hit the net
SUNDAY was a memorable day for Louisburgh LGFA. Two of their own, twin sisters, Tara and Ciara Needham, not only played senior football for Mayo, but they also kicked a goal apiece.
Tara started the match at centre-half-forward and played with great dynamism and desire while the equally impressive Ciara was introduced in the second half.
Their adventurous, ambitious style of play was rewarded either side of half-time. First, Tara got on the end of a flowing move to boot home a goal as Mayo dominated matters before Ciara came on and made her own impression, intercepting a Westmeath kick-out before racing through and finishing to the net.

2 Moyles keeps Mayo moving
MAYO’S versatility was underlined in Mullingar on Sunday as Michael Moyles continued his efforts to introduce fluidity to the squad.
Maria Reilly, who had previously lined out in the full-forward line was stationed at centre-half-back; Kathryn Sullivan who was in the half-forward line the previous week was wing-back in Mullingar and renowned attacker Fiona Doherty filled the corner-back spot.
Clodagh McManamon continued to develop her game at full-back and when one throws in the fact that both midfielders, Tamara O’Connor and Ciara Whyte were previously known as half-backs one can see how strong the emphasis on movement and inter-changeability is.  

3 Lucy’s Hollymount links
WESTMEATH were overpowered on Sunday, but the style and skill of Lucy McCartan shone like a beacon. The St Loman’s woman was a constant threat to the Mayo backs until she had to leave the field injured during the third quarter. Her grandfather was a native of Hollymount, and that fact was a hot topic for discussion on Sunday as Lucy’s father PJ welcomed everyone to Mullingar.
Lucy is also a hugely talented soccer star, having won the league and cup double with Peamount United last season. She’s the current Westmeath Sportsperson of the Year and also gets time to continue her medical studies in UCD.