Whilst David Beckham bemoaned the heat in Frankfurt for England’s opening World Cup match, the players at Malahide United’s Mini League Tournament at Gannon Park revelled in it producing some excellent football.

Approximately 250 players making up 23 teams in three different age groups played a total of 85 matches over six days. All the games were played in the right spirit with the emphasis on fun and I am delighted to report that the behaviour of the players was exemplary both on & off the field.

“Whether it’s the senior team, the Republic of Ireland or the Mini Leagues I won’t drop my standards” said grounds-man Tony (Dicey) Reilly. True to his word the pitches were immaculate encouraging free flowing attacking football. Such was the standard that all games were very closely contested, teams winning or losing by the odd goal with a few games settled by penalty shoot outs, always sure to attract the crowd and generate tension & excitement.

The finals took place on Saturday 10th. and after a light shower of rain early on, the clouds parted to produce another glorious day. Every team from each age group played on the final day and having received a medal or trophy got to enjoy a burger, chips and drink as part of the occasion. There were bouncing castles for our younger visitors and a packet or two of cheese and onion crisps kindly donated by Mr. John O’Connor from Tayto. Much nicer, I hasten to add, than those foreign crisps Gary Lineker advertises. Also a big thank you to our main sponsor for the tournament, ‘Kevin Flanigan Estates’.

On a personal note I would like to thank Paul Furey for all his help. When I inherited this task there was one man I knew I had to get on board and that was Paul. Also thanks to Ronnie Feeney who took full responsibility for the under 7/8 age group and Joe Cashin for the under 11’s, to Peter Furey, Ken O’Connor, John Murphy and Sean Gain for their help. Also thanks to Fran Reynolds & the School Boy/Girl Committee for their backing & support. The success & smooth running of this event was not down to one or two people but a collective effort from club personnel & parents.

Johnny Watson, our official referee for the finals, stated that he was very impressed by the overall standard. High praise indeed.

In conclusion I’d like to congratulate all the participants & look forward to another festival of football in the sun next year.

Bob Redmond.