Tribute to Sophie as clubs come together

“That was the best afternoon’s craic I had in ages,” said one supporter who came to watch the Cavan Rovers v Ballyjamesduff Celtic (plus anyone else who wanted to join in) Sophie Carty Memorial match at Cavan Astro Park on Easter Monday.
The match had been arranged by Cavan Rovers and Ballyjamesduff to commemorate Sophie who died tragically just over one month ago. As her father Jeremy is a soccer player it was thought right and fitting that this would be an appropriate way to help the family.
The two team captains for the day were Sophie’s brother Caolán and her cousin Cormac who plays for Rovers. A minute’s silence was observed by all prior to the game commencing and the two lads released two balloons to the bright afternoon sky.
The game was played in a spirit of friendship and fun from the start with young and old enjoying their day. Indeed whether it was Cavan’s answer to Packie Bonner - Duster McDermott, who came out of retirement to stun all with his prowess in goal - or the hat-trick by youngster Joshua, or the four ladies who joined the fray near the end, it was all great entertainment for the large crowd in attendance.
Cavan Rovers Secretary Tanya Brady said afterwards that she was delighted with the turnout and thanked all concerned for making it a success. Mrs Brady said: “We would especially like to thank all the players from other teams who contributed to the day, Ballyjamesduff Celtic in particular, but also players from Cavan Celtic, Cavan Shamrocks and Clones Town who took part in the game.
“We would also like to thank the referee Peter Burns, George Harrison and Cavan County Council for the use of the Astro park and Mr Ronan O’Brien for his sponsorship of the after match refreshments. To anyone who contributed in any way to the success if today we say a sincere thank you.”