Four Mayo players involved in national soccer triumph for Connacht

Westport United player crowned player of the tournament

CONNACHT won the FAI Under 18 Interprovincials in Leinster at the weekend, with four Mayo players - Westport United’s Noah Massey and Fionn O’Hora and Straide & Foxford United’s Dylan Coleman and Colm McHale - playing a huge part in their success.

They played Ulster on Friday night and won 2-1 in game they were in full control of. Leinster were the opposition on Saturday, with McHale playing at centre-back and Noah Massey and Fionn O’Hora also in action. After going one-nil down with 25 minutes to go, McHale equalised through a set-piece before Connacht scored a winner late on to put them in a strong position.

Munster were the opposition in the final game on Sunday. McHale, Massey and Coleman all started while O’Hora was unavailable due to a prior commitment, and Connacht got the draw they needed to top the group and win the tournament.

“We are proud beyond words today and always for these two gentlemen,” said Straide & Foxford United on their social media page of Coleman and McHale’s involvement.

“They give it all for their club, their county and now their province, their loyalty and dedication is second to none.

“From Under 10s at Green Road to the Provincial Champions in the AUL in Dublin. Boys, we truly could not be happier or prouder of you both. Enjoy the celebrations from us all at your proud home club.”

Westport United’s Noah Massey won Player of the Tournament for his performances and the club lauded Massey and O’Hora for their displays.

“Many congratulations to our own Noah Massey and Fionn O'Hora on their exploits in helping Connacht win the FAI Under 18 Interprovincials in Dublin.

“It's a huge honour for our club to have our players representing our province, and both lads have represented our club, our town, their school, and families with distinction.

“Winning Player of the Tournament is a brilliant individual accolade to achieve but for a player from our own club to be honoured at the FAI Under 18 Interprovincials this weekend for three excellent performances in each of his games for his province is special and something we take great pride in.

“Well done, Noah Massey, on your award. You have an excellent future in the club, and you can inspire other young players to reach for the stars at Westport United FC!”