Pictures capture wonderful occasion at a sell-out Showgrounds as ...

6 days ago

Sligo Champion

Sligo Rovers and Celtic fans at The Showgrounds on Wednesday night. Pic: Donal Hackett.

In what was a wonderful and special occasion, Sligo Rovers were beaten 3-2 by Celtic in a mid-season friendly at a sold-out Showgrounds on Wednesday evening.

The scoreline was irrelevant, but the Bit O’Red gave a good account of themselves against a Celtic side that was comprised of fringe first team players and B Team players.

Kailin Barlow and Simon Power were on the scoresheet for John Russell’s men, while Luis Palma scored a hat-trick for the visitors.

Celtic flew into Ireland West Airport Knock earlier on Wednesday, and flew out again later that night.

Earlier in the day, the Celtic FC Foundation and the community outreach team at Sligo Rovers launched the start of the Ability Counts project. This programme will offer sports participation and learning opportunities to people with Down Syndrome, Neuro-divergency and special physical and educational needs.

The launch took place at the Sean Fallon astro at the Showgrounds prior to the friendly between Sligo Rovers and Celtic FC with a session for the Sligo Rovers Down Syndrome Futsal team.

Chief Executive of Celtic FC Foundation Tony Hamilton and Sligo Rovers and Celtic legend Willie McStay were in attendance.

Members of the Celtic FC Foundation with Sligo Rovers' Down Syndrome team.

The Sligo Champion photographer Donal Hackett was there to capture all the excitement.

Sligo Rovers fans showing their support for their team.

Rovers fans enjoying the night.

Sligo Rovers players with mascots.

Benny The Bull meets fans.

A full main stand at The Showgrounds.

Colin Mooney and Luis Palma.

Young Rovers fans show their support.

Ballymote Celtic make a presentation to Willie McStay.

Young fans supporting their team.