Westmeath football final replay set for next Sunday

By Kieran Galvin After the drama-packed draw yesterday (Sunday), the Westmeath SFC final replay between Garrycastle and Mullingar Shamrocks will take place at Cusack Park next Sunday (throw-in: 2.30pm). Ballynacargy's Damien Maher has been appointed as referee for the replay. Sean Carroll of The Downs refereed the drawn decider but, as has become normal GAA practice, a different official will take charge of the replay. Garrycastle came very close to losing their Westmeath and Leinster crowns last Sunday, despite leading by nine points at one stage. Conor Cosgrove's second goal, a very soft score from Shamrocks' perspective, gave Garrycastle a 3-7 to 1-4 lead early in the second half. However, the Mullingar side fought back in determined fashion - and it was Garrycastle who were relieved to escape with a draw at the death on a 3-9 apiece scoreline. Lorcan Smyth, son of team manager Ray, inspired Shamrocks' comeback, and he scored a total of 2-5 (2-4 from play) over the course of the game. Ironically, Smyth missed a late free which could have won the game for the challengers. Next Sunday's replay will be their five county final meeting in three years - Garrycastle won last year's final after a replay, and are now seeking their fourth title in a row. Meanwhile, last Sunday was a memorable day for Moate All Whites, who defeated Athlone in the Westmeath Minor Club FC Division 1 final. With wing-forward John Corbally outstanding for Moate, goals from Dylan Fitzpatrick and Eoghan Kelly proved the difference between the teams. Moate ran out deserving winners on a 2-9 to 0-9 scoreline. Sunday's SFC final replay will be preceded by the Westmeath U-16 Club FC Division 1 final between Athlone and Coralstown/Kinnegad (12.45pm). Having lost last Sunday's minor final against Moate All Whites, Athlone will be hoping to make amends in the U16 decider next weekend.