Westmeath host Sligo in a crucial Allianz Football League Division Three clash at TEG Cusack Park on Sunday afternoon.
Colin Kelly’s team have claimed two victories against Derry and Wexford either side of a defeat to Armagh, so the midlanders are well placed to launch a bid for promotion. It means the upcoming encounter with Cathal Corey’s Sligo is a significant match, and Kelly is hopeful that Westmeath can produce.
“It is a tough division,” Kelly stated in an interview with GAA.ie “I suppose when you look at it you have three northern teams in it, they are always very difficult to beat. Armagh are a really good squad, they proved that in last year’s championship. Fermanagh are decent, they have done well under Rory (Gallagher ), and Derry can be a quality side.
“Then you have teams around Leinster with a lot of neighbouring derbies there. It is a tough environment to be playing and the results can be unpredictable and Sligo always bring something to the mix. They can be a difficult side to beat and they proved so when I was Louth manager. I don’t expect anything different going forward.”
Kelly was satisfied with how Westmeath responded in Wexford following the Armagh defeat.
“So far it has been working, it didn’t against Armagh, that is acceptable, that is football, that is life,” Kelly admitted.
“We re-assess and go on. It could have been a sticky wicket going down to Wexford, travelling to a county, who would be well coached under Paul McLoughlin. I know Paul, I’ve worked with him in the past, so I know the qualities he brings to it.
“Our lads just went out and did their business, they were very professional with the way they approached it. They showed excellent intensity. Even though we didn’t have our best day ever in front of goals they did enough to win the game. It is about securing points. Next Sunday is again about getting two points on the board; that is what we are after.”
