St Michael’s GAA club was formed in 1956, and they have had some proud days in the past 52 years. However, few, if any, would have surpassed their achievement last Sunday when they collected their first provincial title in great style.
The manner of their victory was hugely impressive with some outstanding individual displays. Pat Regan at midfield was a powerhouse all through, and considering that Kilbride had the likes of Roscommon senior Seamie O’Neill in that sector, Regan and Eddie Hoare were once again the dominant pairing.
At the back Damo Walsh was tigerish and won some great possession alongside Alan Glynn, while Jamie Downes also stood out. Kilbride had a highly talented forward line with all the three Lohans - Gerry, Eddie, and Stephen - all having played with Roscommon at senior level in the Connacht championship in the past decade, while Conor Devaney was a star with the all-conquering Roscommon minors three years ago.
To hold such a forward line to 1-08 reflects very well on the work rate and attitude of the St Michael’s rearguard, but also their hard working forwards who fought hard to stop Kilbride creating too many dangerous overlaps.
As I mentioned here last week, it was fantastic to see Maigh Cuilinn win the All-Ireland Intermediate Championship last February in Croke Park, and now Paddy Regan’s charges are in the last four and they have something tangible to focus on over the next few months.
It was great to meet Paddy and Sean O’Dowd in the St Brigid’s clubhouse after their success and the sense of satisfaction and drive emanating from both men indicated that they are not going to leave any stone unturned in their quest to try to take another step or two on this journey.
