Town and stadium showcased before national audience (and Connacht Council)
Even before a ball was kicked on Sunday, one thing was obvious: Hyde Park had ‘scrubbed up well’ for the big day!
The stadium, focus of much attention in recent weeks, was looking superb on Sunday, a tribute to Roscommon County Board (and foot soldiers), the Hyde Park Committee and to the countless volunteers – from all walks of life –who assisted in preparing the ground.
Under threat of not getting the final at all, then granted the game but with various conditions attached, Roscommon GAA ‘and friends’ responded by ensuring that the home of Roscommon football was looking its best, a timely reminder perhaps to the Connacht Council and the national audience of the Hyde’s suitability as a big match venue.
The pitch was in fabulous condition and the stadium and associated infrastructure/facilities all looked impressive for an event that was well organised and well run. Indeed this was an organisational triumph, not least from the point of view of seemless parking/traffic access.
When the destination of the Nestor Cup was very much in the balance midway (and later) through a pulsating second half, it was reminiscent of days gone by in the Hyde, a throwback to great finals of the 1970s, ‘80s and ‘90s, not forgetting that dramatic decider in 2001.
The old stand was rocking, the atmosphere terrific, as Roscommon and Galway fans cheered the teams on. It was Galway who prevailed in the end, winning by 0-16 to 2-6. Roscommon, superb in the first half, had looked on course for a successful defence of the title which they had won in such style last year. However, Galway were a more formidable threat after the break and Roscommon – already hit by the loss to injury of influential midfielder Cathal Compton –paid the ultimate price for a series of uncharacteristic misses.
It was Galway’s day, and it was a great day at the Hyde too, a day which showcased why this venue ought to remain synonymous with Connacht finals in the future.
As for the Roscommon team, they did us proud and came so close – and they have every reason to remain positive ahead of their next game and that all-important quest to make the Super 8s.
