Write a commentThe very first Willie Maley Soccer Tournament was won at the weekend by Windmill Stars in a clash that went all the way to extra time with Newington FC. Final Score Windmill Stars 3 Newington 2
Speaking at the event Mayor Daire Hughes said "It gives me great pleasure to present the Willie Maley Perpetual Cup at the inaugural year of this event to the winning team of the tournament. .
"I would also wish to put on record my sincere thanks to all the teams who supported the event, Lurgan Celtic FC (No 1), Bessbrook Utd FC, Windmill Stars FC, Killeavy Utd FC, Newry Celtic FC, Ballybot FC, Newington FC and Keady FC. I understand that the local team Ballybot FC in particular put up a valiant display beaten only in penalties by Lurgan Cetlic FC. I would also want to acknowledge the invaluable contribution of our voluntary partners in this sporting event, Newry Celtic FC and I hope that the Willie Maley Perpetual Cup grows in its size over the coming years. I would also commend Newry Celtic FC for collecting on a nightly basis for the worthy cause of Newry Gateway Club.
"From my own perspective I would wish to commend my colleagues Newry Town Councillors for supporting this even and ensuring the resources required were included in this year’s rates estimates. I would also wish to thank the relevant Council Offices including Mr Dermot Russell and his team, Mr Paddy Duffy, Events Officer and essential administrative support from Ms Rita Lewis and Ms Tracie McLoughlin.
"I would also wish to acknowledge the input from other Council Departments in particular the Council’s Maintenance Department and the work undertaken by Connor Haughey and his workers in the pitch preparation and setting up on a nightly basis.
"The success of this type of tournament is all about collaborations and in addition to the voluntary input from Newry Celtic FC, I would wish to thank the proprietors and management of Nan Rices; Mr Ros McArdle and Mr Pauric McArdle for providing the entertainment and hospitality over the week.
In conclusion the Mayor added "I hope this tournament raises the profile of the legacy of Willie Maley in the city of Newry and that this can be a catalyst which will lead to the provision of a suitable statue or memorial to the memory of Willie Maley. Again congratulations to you Chairman of Newry Celtic FC for working with my Council in this Soccer Tournament and I wish you every success in the future."
