New York and Roscommon shake hands at the end of their Minor Connacht Football Championship clash yesterday in Croke Park. (Photo courtesy of Coilin Duffy).
In a rather one sided affair at Croke Park yesterday, Roscommon minor footballers proved far too strong for the visitors from New York when strolling to a [32] 4-20 to [3] 0-0-3 victory in this Preliminary Round of the 2011 Connacht Minor Football Championship.
It had been all of 26 years since New York last played at headquarters and so it was a special day both for the young players and their mentors when they took to the field yesterday afternoon.
Unfortunately, the result would be similar to last year’s heavy defeat to Galway (who later reached AI semi-final) as Roscommon set the tone early bagging a goal on the two minute mark.
New York got on the board through a free in the 12th minute but shortly after, Roscommon well and truly cemeted their superiority when adding a further goal and three points.
New York, living off no real possession, hit their second score a free on 20 minutes, however, the Rossies added two more goals before the break leaving them in total control at half time, 4-12 to 0-02.
New York fared better in the second half gaining more possession around the middle of the field but were not able to convert their opportunities. Final score Roscommon 4-20, NY 0-03.
After the game GAA Minor Board Chairman of Greater New York, Dan McKenna felt that there was some positives to take away from the day.
“It was a thrill and a once in a lifetime experience for the players to play in Croke Park, as many a player never gets the chance to play here. It would be a huge incentive to be able to play in Croke Park each year and it would help with grass roots development, as well as keep players playing,” said McKenna.
Listen to the podcast report on the game.
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