Celtic footballer Liam Scales has strong ties with Kilmaine

LIAM Scales, the current Glasgow Celtic player, has strong ties with Kilmaine. His grandmother was formerly Maureen Macken from Rausakeera, Kilmaine, and she still maintains strong links with her home parish.

Maureen, who is a retired member of the teaching profession, married Michael Doyle from Wicklow and they raised a large family in the Garden County. One of their daughters, Mary, is mother of Liam who has been carving out his own niche in soccer circles.

He started off with Arklow Town before signing for UCD in 2015. He joined Shamrock Rovers in 2020 and was a member of the team that landed the FAI Premiership title that season.

Liam (26) has made a few appearances with the Irish soccer team and scored his first international goal in their recent game against Finland that they won on a scoreline of 2-1.

Maureen was down in Kilmaine two weeks ago for the third anniversary Mass of her brother, Davy Macken, and retains a remarkable interest in the Kilmaine region. Meeting her many relations and former neighbours and reminiscing about former times has always been close to her heart.

Her late husband, Michael, had a great fondness for Knock Shrine and they made numerous visits from Wicklow to Mayo all down the years.

Kilmaine is not the only Mayo connection with Liam Scales. His uncle, Joe Doyle, has resided in Westport for many years and is closely associated with Westport GAA Club. Liam can be assured of an extra special welcome on his next visit to the county!