Westmeath u21 footballers take on Longford under lights in Pairc Tailteann, Navan next Wednesday night in the semi-final of the Leinster u21 championship. Longford had been granted home advantage but with no suitable venue under lights have opted to play in Navan. I’m sure most Longford supporters would have been happier to see the game played in St Loman’s or Athlone rather than having to make the long trip to Navan midweek. Another example of common sense GAA style.
Whatever about the venue the result is all that will matter. There is no doubt that this is a potential banana skin for Westmeath. A lot of football folk are already talking as if the Leinster title is a given for this hugely talented Westmeath side. Longford will be well aware of that and will do all in their power to cause an upset. They got the better of Meath after extra time in their last outing and were crowned minor champions three years ago so there is no reason why we should underestimate them.
With the likes of Dublin, Meath, and Kildare all out of the equation this is a great opportunity to collect a provincial title. To do so every hurdle must be jumped.
Westmeath got the job done against Offaly in their last outing but will need to improve if they are to make it to the provincial decider. John Heslin’s return will be a big boost and if the team plays to its ability then I expect them to see off the Longford challenge. I can’t help feeling it’s going to be very close though.
