Salthill Devon’s U18 squad finished the season on a high when they defeated near neighbours Mervue in the final of the Premier Cup.

The match played in ideal conditions in Mervue on Tuesday last, saw Salthill race into a three goal lead courtesy of goals from Brian Gaffney, Conor Murray and Eamon O’Donnell. Salthill certainly looked the sharper on the day and had dominant figures all over the field, with Murray and Brian Conlon lording the midfield exchanges throughout. Credit also to the centre back duo of Curran and Fadden who contained Pat Huban all evening.

But the real sparkle and invention came in the last third of the pitch where the close control, deft passing and all round creativity of the front six was a joy to behold. Special mention must go to the dribbling masters Gaffney and Horgan, they delighted the large crowd all evening with a display of old fashioned football –constantly taking on their makers and encouraging a simple give and go tempo to the rest the team.

Mervue replied late on but it was too little too late, with Conor Winn forced into two late saves too keep the score line respectable.