Captain McMenamin urges Ederney to see it through

By Mark McGoldrick

EDERNEY are just 60 minutes away from Ulster glory, but captain Dearbhaile McMenamin knows there is still one massive hurdle to overcome.

The Fermanagh champions face Sperrin Óg in Saturday’s Ulster Junior Championship Final, with the prize of a provincial title within touching distance.

For Ederney, the occasion is a special one and McMenamin says the opportunity to bring silverware back to the St Joseph’s club would mean everything to the players, their families and the wider community.

“When that final whistle blew it was just a mixture of relief and pure emotion,” McMenamin said.

“The whole team was absolutely ecstatic. As a small club in Fermanagh, we know that these opportunities don’t come around too often, so this is even sweeter.

“We are all absolutely delighted that we are competing now for an Ulster title.”

Ederney’s provincial journey has been built on the foundations of a strong finish to the league campaign and an impressive championship run.

Getting over the line in Fermanagh was a significant moment for the club, but the group have carried that momentum into Ulster, with each victory adding to their belief.

“I always knew that this group of girls had the potential to do wonderful things,” said the St Joseph’s captain.

“The last few games in the league and then our championship run boosted the group. Each win in Ulster has only solidified what we all knew deep down.”

Now comes the final hurdle in the shape of Tyrone side Sperrin Óg, with McMenamin fully aware that another tough test awaits.

“Any team that reaches an Ulster final deserves to be there, so we know it’s not going to be easy,” she said.

“For us, we just keep the heads down over the next week and focus on the challenge ahead.”

As captain, McMenamin has been central to the journey and considers it a privilege to lead the group.

She has been impressed by the commitment of her teammates and believes their collective attitude has helped bring them to the brink of provincial success.

“It has been an honour to lead these girls over the last number of years, while representing our club,” McMenamin said

“They make my job easy. Every single one of them puts their best foot forward for our club. It’s something I will never forget.”

For several members of the squad, success has been hard-earned over years of playing football.

An Ulster medal would represent the culmination of that commitment, while giving their supporters something special to celebrate.

“It would mean absolutely everything,” added McMenamin. “Several of us on the team have been playing football for years and haven’t seen much success.

“It’s also not only us as a team, but the club, community and supporters. They make it special.

“This is definitely my biggest achievement to date, so let’s hope we can get over the line and make everyone proud.”