Round 1 of the All-Ireland Championship made history in Mullingar this Saturday. It was the first time in our county’s history, that we won 5 championship games in a row; it was also only the 2nd time ever that TEG Cusack Park was sold out!
After the draw was done a number of weeks ago, we knew we faced Cavan at home. Preparations began organising what was going to be an ‘in-demand’ fixture in our home ground.
Neither side gave the impression they were going to lie down, with both teams battling for every possession and score.
At the hooter, it was Westmeath 0-22 and Cavan 2-16. Extra loomed again for our side, their 3rd game in a row, however this didn’t phase management or the team as they have been in this position before and came out triumphant.
By half time of extra time, we trailed by 6 but with the wind to be in our favour for the final 10.. 2 pointers from Senan Baker, Ronan Wallace and Brandon Kelly’s 6th point from play meant victory was back within our grasp. The Downs Kevin O’Sullivan, managed to pick up a loose ball and fire a stormer into the back of the net! Heslin stepped up and kicked 2 free’s to seal the win for his side.
Mark McHugh’s reaction at the end of the game proves just how much this means to him, our team and county.
Draw for Round 2 will be held tomorrow morning, Tuesday 2nd June.
