3 September 1997
Achill stand on verge of historic
breakthrough
Tom Kelly reports
Achill Rovers stand on the verge of an historic Mayo League Premier Division breakthrough.
They will be champions in everything but name if they succeed in defeating Ballyglass in Sunday's critical confrontation at Ballyglass (k.o. 2.30 p.m.)
Assuming Ballyglass overcome Manulla in an outstanding match on Thursday which is not a formality by any means, an Achill win on Sunday would give them a nine-points lead over the defending champions with three rounds of matches remaining. The most likely result is a draw, however, with Rovers sealing their first ever league championship triumph later in the month.
Patrick Francis Gallagher, one of the men behind the islander's push for glory, said: "We appear to be in a good position, but you cannot take anything for granted in this league.
"Every match is a tough one and when you are at the top of the table everybody wants to knock you down. I think last weekend's result against Lacken showed we had still a lot of work to do. "We will go into the match against Ballyglass with confidence. But, to be truthful, I would settle for a draw. That's not saying we will not be going for the win."
Rovers will be without star midfielder Ray McNamara who is on holidays in America for two weeks. McNamara, back in action this season following a long term leg injury, has been a key figure for the side this season, contributing a number of vital goals throughout the campaign.
Kieran Gallagher, who missed last Saturday's draw against Lacken because of work commitments, will be back in action, although there is an injury doubt hanging over Fergal Kilbane.
Ballyglass will be without Paul Connolly and Kenny Staunton because of suspensions, but John Noonan and Michael Kelly will return after serving two and one match bans, respectively.
Kevin Connolly, the league's top scorer, will not be available because he is away on holidays. His loss will be significant in a game of such importance.
Ballyglass will be fighting for their lives and may well win the match. But the title is destined for Achill island. . .barring a complete disaster of Rovers's own making.
Championship run-in
Achill Rovers: v Ballyglass (away, Sunday next); v Ballyheane (home, Sunday, September 14th); v Castlebar United (away, September 21st); v Manulla (away, September 28th). Ballyglass: v Manulla (away, Thursday evening); v Achill Rovers (home, Sunday next); v Urlaur (home, Thursday, September 11th); v Westport United (home, September 14th); v Castlebar United (away, September 21st); v Claremorris (home, September 28th).
