Westport United took on Ballinasloe Town in the last 64 of the FAI Junior Cup in front of a large and vocal support that travelled from Westport.

In atrocious weather conditions, the lads were focused and prepared for the task ahead and the desire was pretty evident right from the off.

The first half was a tense, scrappy affair with few opportunities, the best fell to the home side with a header following a corner.

The second half saw United impose themselves more on the game and created some half chances while Ballinasloe replicated their best first half chance. United did take the lead when Jack Murphy’s free kick was whipped in and in the ensuing goalmouth scramble, the Ballinasloe goalkeeper pulled off a remarkable double save but Peter Corcoran was in the right place at the time to prod home from close range in the ensuing six yard box melee. United thought they had a second when David Hoban had a goal ruled out for offside. United were dominant and were creating a number of half chances but Ballinasloe did have one chance that whistled wide of the post and another that went across goal. Ballinasloe were awarded a penalty and it was hearts in mouths time for the Red and Black Army that congregated on the Stand side of the ground. The deceased members of the Supporters Bus, who were fondly remembered in Ballinasloe and on the bus must have been smiling down as the penalty cleared the crossbar. The miss gave United a new sense of belief to see the game out as the team worked hard to keep the hosts at bay and there was an almighty scare at the end as Ballinasloe had a late opportunity that whizzed past the post.

United held out for the win and it was an emotional victory as the players went across to the stand to applaud the travelling support, a unique bond that bind players and supporters together that makes Westport United so special in the hearts and minds of football followers throughout Ireland.