Tuesday, 18 September 2012 13:00

Colm Boyle

Although he has made an enormous effort to regain full fitness following a virus that rule him out of the penultimate round win over Dublin, he is not ready to regain his place on the half back line.

According to informed sources, doubts remain in regard to whether his fitness levels of the Davitts star will stand up to the intensity of a 70 minute encounter.

It represents a major setback to Mayo as Boyle fitted brilliantly into manager James Horan’s style of combative play.

The indications are that Belmullet’s Chris Barrett will replace Boyle in the left half back berth, although Castlebar ace Richie Feeney is also in strong contention for the No. 7 jersey.

Barrett was the surprise replacement for Boyle in the semi-final but rose to the occasion and did a fine job. Feeney was called upon as early as the 15^th minute to replace the another wing back. Lee Keegan, as a blood substitute. Keegan was hospitalised with a dislocated finger after the game.

Tuesday, 18 September 2012 12:59

There is nothing unique or mysterious about his approach and that, in itself, explains his philosophy. The essential ingredient, first and foremost, is selecting the right players in the right positions and giving them defined roles within a team unit.

Unlike Mayo teams of the past, there are no stars or prima donnas. Consequently, team spirit is never in danger of being sacrificed on the altar of egotism.

If Horan’s charges don’t win the All-Ireland senior football championship title against Donegal at Croke Park next Sunday, it’s only a matter of time before they do win it.

What Horan and his backroom team have created is crafted for the long haul and specifically designed to end one of the longest famines in the history of Irish sport.

From the outset, it required enormous levels of self-belief and energy by Horan to even start turning a poisoned chalice into a potential cup of dreams.

Tuesday, 11 September 2012 11:51

Micheal O'Muircheartaigh

Down through the years his match commentaries have been listened to by millions all over the world. He is also one of the most recognised faces. But above all else he is one of the most sincere and genuine people one could wish to meet. He is truly a legend in his own lifetime.

While his vast knowledge of all sports is unparalleled being a Kerryman it is little wonder Gaelic games is his greatest number one love.

Born in Dingle, Micheal who now resides in Dublin with his family, did his final commententary as national broadcaster with RTÉ radio after the All-Ireland football final in 2010 and the International Rules series between Ireland and Australia. However, it was not before, having made made his debut behind the microphone on St. Partick's day in 1949, that he did live commententary on 60 plus All-Ireland finals.

So, when a man with such vast experience of Gaelic football and especially All-Ireland finals gives his thoughts on the likely outcome of the Mayo versus Donegal final, one should listen and listen carefully.