By Mike Rafferty

DESPITE having dominated the local game for a number of years, the Connacht Junior Cup has not exactly proved to be rewarding for Salthill Devon. Having won the title in 2020 when defeating Westport United in the final, they have not returned to such a stage since.

Of course, there were a couple of blank years when Covid intervened, while losses to Athenry and Castlebar Celtic ended their campaigns in subsequent seasons. However, on Sunday last in Sligo, they fell at the first hurdle when exiting the competition by 7-6 on penalties after their contest against Cartron United finished scoreless after extra time.

It was a game they dominated in terms of possession and opportunities, but Salthill Devon struggled to break down an impressive home rearguard who got numbers back and defended deeply.

With only one win from four Premier League games, the season to date has not exactly run smoothly for Renmore, but on Sunday last they produced an impressive display when also on a trip to Sligo as they saw off Merville United by 6-1.

In command from the opening exchanges, Paddy McKernon struck for a hat trick, while Conor Murray scored twice, before skipper Keith Fitzgerald slotted home a penalty to seal a confidence boosting win for Stuart Donoghue’s charges.

For two other City sides, there were contrasting disappointments. Galway Bohs were always up against it when travelling to face Boyle Celtic and a 3-0 defeat confirmed the gulf between the sides.

Meanwhile, Knocknacarra made the journey to Ballyheane and with the two teams ready to play, the match was called off by the referee who deemed the pitch unplayable. The fixture will now revert to Cappagh Park with Knocknacarra getting the home game.

Looking back on the list of winners of the Connacht Cup over the past two decades, Athenry was a name that featured on a regular basis, but on this occasion, they were dismissed in the opening round by Colga who emerged 6-1 winners with Tom Daly and Callum Browne both scoring twice. Neil Greaney and an own goal completed their tally. Just Adam Molloy found the net for an Athenry side who are not at the level they were.

Pictured: Keane Griffin of Mervue United is challenged by East Galway United’s Mark Kilkenny, during the clubs’ Connacht Shield tie at Fahy’s Field on Sunday. Photo: Iain McDonald