There was an outpouring of emotion at the Showgrounds in the aftermath of Sligo Rovers’ title success this afternoon and it seems as if it was a little bit overwhelming for Pascal Millien.
The Bit O’Red knew going into today’s encounter against St. Pat’s that a win would be enough to secure the title and although they got it in the end, they did it the hard way having given up a two-goal lead earned through Raffaele Cretaro’s first half brace.
Christy Fagan and Chris Forrester pulled goals back for the visitors, who looked the more likely side to come out on top as the game progressed towards the finish.
In what was a cracking game throughout, there was always likely to be high drama towards the finish and so it proved as Conor Kenna was controversially adjudged to have handled inside the penalty area, allowing Mark Quigley to step up and nervelessly convert the spot-kick into the top corner.
There was an unfortunate flashpoint before the finish which ended in the dismissal of Sligo’s Danny Ventre and Seanie O’Connor from St. Pat’s but Sligo held onto their lead until the whistle, which was greeted with sheer elation from the large home support.
The title was just rewards for a Sligo side that have been the best in the domestic league this season and the scenes of celebration afterwards were both heartwarming and emotional, as was evident in this brilliant picture of Rovers player Pascal Millien taken shortly after the final whistle.
Pic via Twitter/Stephen Healy
They haven’t stopped celebrating yet, of course, and probably won’t for a few days yet.
If you’re looking for a good night out tonight head to the north-west folks, Sligo will be hopping until all hours.
Hat-tip to Stephen Healy for the brilliant picture.
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