Westmeath bask in final glory

The chairperson of Westmeath GAA has described as "absolutely marvellous" the county's Leinster Senior Football Championship victory and the subsequent celebrations.

Thousands of fans gathered in Mullingar yesterday evening to greet the victorious Westmeath team with celebrations going on into the night across the county.

Westmeath defeated Dublin on a scoreline of 2-28 to 0-26 after extra time at Croke Park to win the county’s second-ever senior men’s provincial title, bridging a 22-year gap to the county’s maiden triumph.

Watch: 'It means everything' - Westmeath fans celebrate Leinster final victory

Chairperson Paddy Wallace said the victory and celebrations are "great for our county".

He noted that the county are Leinster champions in both women's and men's football, with the Westmeath ladies football team defeating Wexford on Saturday to win the intermediate title.

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Mr Wallace said that everyone was feeling fantastic today and thanked the crowds who came out last night and yesterday in support.

"Coming home with the cup was absolutely fantastic.

"It's absolutely marvellous, a great occasion for Westmeath and on to better things moving forward."

By better things, he means the "huge game" on Sunday week against Cavan in the All-Ireland Senior Football Championship.

"I would encourage all the supporters to get out behind us again.

"Who knows where it’s going to end," he added.

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