ronan fagan
Westmeath senior footballers maintained an unbeaten start to their Allianz National League Division 3 campaign with a commendable victory over Clare in TEG Cusack Park Mullingar on Sunday afternoon.
All Star award nominee Ronan O’Toole proved the scoring hero on this occasion, his point scored six minutes into added time ensuring the hosts complemented their opening day victory over Offaly with further success before a sparsely attended venue.
A Conor Dillon goal a mere four minutes into this contest appeared to set the tone for Westmeath but Clare, playing with the aid of the elements were soon to the scoring fore and enjoyed a wholly merited six point lead at the interval.
A black card received by Lorcan Dolan moments into the second half seemed to halt the host’s momentum but six successive points for Dessie Dolan’s team courtesy of Robbie Forde, Kieran Martin, Ray Connellan, Ronan O’Toole and a brace from the impressive Sam McCartan ensured Westmeath held scoreboard sway as the game reached its conclusion.
Clare responded to level proceedings and appeared to have snatched a last gasp victory when substitute Cormac Murray palmed to the net but his green flag moment was ruled out for an alleged infringement.
Westmeath responded to this Clare setback and added to the visitor’s woes moments later when O’Toole pointed the final and winning score of this contest much to delight of the Lake County supporters in attendance.
Westmeath will hope to sustain league campaign momentum when they journey to Wicklow for their next round robin fixture to take place on Sunday, February 18, at 2pm.
