Inishowen U19's win The Philip Lafferty Memorial Shield 2013
Inishowen U19 soccer squad beat Derry City U19’s to win the fourth annual Philip Lafferty Memorial Shield last night in Redcastle. This annual tournament has been running now since 2010. Philip died in November 2009 and was an avid footie fan. His local team Redcastle FC have dedicated this shield in his memory.
The proceeds from the tournament go towards the Foyle Hospice. As in previous years this has been a success and all monies raised are very much appreciated. This year the four teams involved were Derry City U19, Finn Harps U19, Inishowen U19 and Redcastle U19’s.
The first game saw DerryCity beat Finn Harps in a penalty shoot out after a full time scoreless draw. Following this Inishowen beat Redcastle. Last night saw a great match in the final between Derry and Inishowen. The teams were very well matched and after a full time score of 1.1 a penalty shoot out ensued. Inishowen came out winners after a great night’s football.
Philip was a supporter of Inishowen throughout his footballing career and I recall him sponsoring my eldest son on a regular basis while he raised money for the annual Foyle Cup.
Many thanks must surely go to Redcastle FC for their dedicated work in the organisation of the tournament. They never fail to deliver a great few nights football. Thanks must also go to The Bayview Bar in Redcastle for the fabulous food prepared for the players and the Lafferty family last night after the game.
It was with great pride that Philip’s young son Joshua Lafferty presented the shield to Inishowen U19 manager Shane Byrne. Joshua himself plays for Inishowen U 16’s. And like his father he is proving to be a skilful player on the pitch!
Philip Lafferty is not just the name on a shield to me as he was my Uncle. Someone I knew very well and always had the utmost respect for. Philip was a great advocate of the footballing world and encouraged youth to pursue the sport. His legacy lives on and thanks to this tournament it won’t be forgotten.