U-16 County League Final (Tuesday 9-July-96)

Lahardane.......................2-14
Mayo Gaels.......................3-7

What the English soccer team failed to do since 1966, Lahardane have finally a major trophy to its credit since being reformed in 1966-’67.

Having won several North Mayo titles in recent years at all levels, the final hurdle of winning the county title had always eluded them until this victory.

It was a fitting reward for the hard work put in by all the panel under the guidance of J.P. Leonard and co-selectors Frankie Gibbons and Patrick Leonard.

However had Mayo Gaels played with the same enthusiasm in the second period as they did in the first half they might have the team celebrating on leaving Breaffy grounds.

Indeed it was Mayo Gaels who went into a 1-1 lead in a flash, but Lahardane responded with five of the next six points.

Inspired by the performance of their midfielder and centre-half forward, Mayo Gaels again returned to the driving seat to record a further 1-3 with reply to leave them 2-6 to 0-7 ahead at the break.

On the restart Lahardane were the dominant force but little did anyone among the large attendance even dream that the Nephinsiders would score a further 1-5 before Mayo Gaels opened their second half account.

A goal by Brian Rowland had brought Lahardane on level terms before Michael Lynn sealed victory with another goal.

Lahardane: Dara Nolan, Aidan McDonnell, Ray McDermott, Ciaran Coughlan, Mervyn Marley, Sean Harte, Kenneth Burke, Brian Rowland (1-3); Declan Garrett (0-3); Seamus Coleman (0-1); Paul Jordan (0-3); Cormac Rowland (0-3); Michael Lynn (1-1). Sub: John McAndrew (for Sean Harte).