10/06/2026
The Maroon Train Rolls On
Some teams arrive quietly. Some teams make a bit of noise.
This Westmeath side seems to have decided that if they're going to travel the country this summer, they may as well bring fireworks with them.
As they prepare to take on Galway in Pearse Stadium this Sunday, one thing is certain, nobody can accuse the Lake County men of taking the scenic route through the championship.
A Summer to Remember
Back in the opening round of the Leinster Championship, Westmeath announced their intentions with a blistering victory over Longford, racking up an eye-watering 5-25.
For most teams, scoring five goals is a good day's work.
For Westmeath, it turned out to be just the warm-up act.
A quarter-final victory over Meath followed, then a hard-fought semi-final win over Kildare. Each challenge was met with the same blend of attacking flair, composure, and a refusal to read the script when things got difficult.
The Day the Maroon and White Stopped the Blue Machine
Then came Croke Park.
Then came Dublin.
Then came one of the greatest days in Westmeath football history.
When the dust settled after extra time, the scoreboard read:
Westmeath 2-28, Dublin 0-26
For generations, supporters dreamed of moments like this. The Leinster title returned to Westmeath for only the second time ever, and for anyone lucky enough to witness it, it was the kind of sporting occasion that will be talked about in clubhouses, kitchens, and dressing rooms for years to come.
Perhaps the most impressive statistic of all?
Thirteen different scorers.
That's not a team relying on one or two stars.
That's a squad.
That's belief.
That's everyone pulling in the same direction.
Extra Time? No Problem
One curious theme has emerged throughout this championship campaign.
Westmeath seem to have developed a strange habit of saving some of their best football for when everyone else is exhausted.
Three major championship victories have required extra time.
Most teams see extra time as a test.
Westmeath appear to see it as an invitation.
When the legs are heavy and the pressure is highest, they somehow keep finding another gear.
Against Dublin.
Against Cavan.
Against anyone standing in their way.
The Galway Challenge
Of course, Sunday presents another huge examination.
Galway are one of the most talented sides in the country and will have the backing of a passionate home crowd in Salthill.
But if this championship has taught us anything, it's that writing off Westmeath is a dangerous game.
This team has already overcome giants, silenced doubters, and created memories that will live long after the final whistle of 2026.
They have scored heavily, defended bravely, and shown the kind of resilience that simply cannot be coached.
You either have it, or you don't.
Westmeath have it in abundance.
From Everyone at Troy Meats
As the maroon and white jerseys make the journey west this Sunday, everyone at Troy Meats would like to wish the Westmeath Senior Football Team, management, and supporters the very best of luck.
Whatever happens in Pearse Stadium, you've already given the county a championship campaign to be proud of.
But knowing this group, they're not interested in what they've achieved so far.
They're focused on what comes next.
Safe travels, best of luck, and keep that maroon train rolling.
Westmeath v Galway
📅 Sunday, 14 June
🕑 Throw-In: 2:00pm
📍 Pearse Stadium, Salthill, Galway
Up Westmeath!
