Gavin proud of Westmeath’s fighting spirit despite defeat

Though disappointed to lose Saturday's U20 final, Westmeath manager Damien Gavin refused to blame Cavan referee Maggie Farrelly for an error that denied his side what looked an obvious penalty at a vital stage.

"In tight games, small decisions like that are vital. We feel he was inside the square and it was a penalty; looking back at the video that's very clear. She did a great job, overall and we would have no complaints with the referee," he remarked.

Gavin felt Down took their goal chance and that was crucial in such a tight match, but he paid tribute to his players for the character they showed.

"Down got a goal chance and took it, whereas we hit the post at the other end with our opportunity. It was always going to be a tight game. There was never more than a point or two between the teams and it was a great game, played in the best spirit. It was very honest and I'm very proud of Westmeath. It would have been easy to throw in the towel but they didn't," he said.

He feels the Westmeath players will benefit from the fine run they enjoyed in the 'B' championship and said the system is good for developing players.

"People knock second tier competitions, but we had seven players starting today who are U20 next year and they will benefit from this. All of our subs who came on are underage again, so it's a young side. They responded very well after the Meath and Dublin defeats and put a huge effort in to go well in this. They almost got over the line today," he observed.

"It's a good Down team: they drew with Tyrone in Ulster and we knew they had some dangerous forwards. We did a good job on them, but we were hoping some things that went against us might go our way. We didn't give up and there are 30 players involved. They are very keen to play for Westmeath and that's great with the amount of things people have in their lives. Their effort has been outstanding."

Gavin thanked the Westmeath Gaels for their support and said it may be time for a new manager at U20 level after seven years in the position.

"The supporters travelled in good numbers on a busy weekend and we're grateful for that. You can't underestimate it. I have seven years done now and it might be time for someone else. I've had some good days and bad days, but I would do anything for Westmeath. All of us involved love our county and I would do anything for the county to be successful. Development is very important and this experience will certainly stand to the players as they move on to play senior football,” he said.