Westmeath's Jonathan Lynam (right) in action against Galway's Johnny Heaney during last year’s Sam Maguire Cup game at TEG Cusack Park. Photo: John McCauley.

Westmeath select team for trip to Aughrim

Kieran Galvin

Published: Sat 17 Feb 2024, 1:03 PM

Last updated: Sat 17 Feb 2024, 8:10 PM

Westmeath manager Dessie Dolan has named an unchanged team for the Allianz Football League encounter against Wicklow in Aughrim tomorrow (Sunday).

Attacking ace John Heslin remains a conspicuous absentee from the match-day panel, while Caulry's Kevin Maguire is on the bench.

Jonathan Lynam, who played for UCD in their Sigerson Cup final defeat to Ulster University during the week, is selected in the half forward line. Garrycastle's James Dolan is the most experienced player in the starting line-up.

Although an unchanged team list has been released, there is considerable doubt over whether Luke Loughlin will be able to play. Matthew Whittaker and Robbie Forde would be two contenders to step into the breach if required.

Wicklow manager Oisín McConville won't be on the sideline for the game, having been given a four-week suspension for “abusive language towards a referee” after their defeat to Sligo at Markievicz Park.

Having lost to Down in their opening game, Wicklow are seeking their first win of the campaign. In contrast, Westmeath have two wins on the board though they enjoyed a large slice of good luck in the narrow win over Clare last time out.

The Division 3 match at Echelon Park, Aughrim is listed to start at 1pm. Tickets for the game can be purchased on https://www.gaa.ie/tickets

Westmeath team (vs Wicklow): Jason Daly; James Dolan, Charlie Drumm, Jamie Gonoud; Sam McCartan, Ronan Wallace, Conor Dillon; Ray Connellan, Andy McCormack; David Lynch, Ronan O'Toole, Jonathan Lynam; Luke Loughlin, Senan Baker, Lorcan Dolan. Subs: Trevor Martin, Sean Leech, Kieran Martin, Matthew Whittaker, Eoin Mulvihill, Nigel Harte, Robbie Forde, Shane Allen, Jack Smith, Daniel Scahill, Kevin Maguire.