Offaly quartet enjoy soccer success at Old Trafford

by Kevin O'Neill

It is not too often that Offaly men can don the colours of Manchester United FC and lift silverware at its famous Old Trafford home.

But that’s exactly what happened last weekend when four Offaly natives proudly represented their country at a charity football tournament organised by ex-United midfielder Darron Gibson and attended by former Red Devil Brian McClair.

The four players – all United supporters - were selected to join a Belfast-based Irish team invited to the tournament alongside teams from England, Wales, Scotland, Italy and Malta.

The Offaly players – Jason Guinan, Johnny Fleming and Aaron McDonagh (all Ferbane) and Michael Clear (Banagher) - played a major role in the Irish team winning the competition, as they defeated the Maltese representatives in the decider.

Indeed, McDonagh’s performances earned him the Player of the Tournament award, which was presented by Brian McClair, who won four Premier League medals during his Manchester United career.

Sean McNulty, who was heavily involved with the Belfast side and helped organise the event, said that he was hugely impressed with the performances of the Offaly quartet.

It is expected that much the same Irish representative side will return to Old Trafford next year to defend their title.

Speaking to the Offaly Independent, Aaron McDonagh said: “For any Manchester United supporter, the opportunity to play at Old Trafford is a dream come true.

“To not only play on one of football’s most iconic pitches, but also help the Ireland team lift the trophy, made the occasion even more special.”