Northern Ireland

First and deputy first ministers lead tributes to winning Tyrone GAA team

Tyrone players celebrate with the Sam Maguire following their win over Mayo in the All-Ireland SFC final at Croke Park. Picture by Seamus Loughran
Tyrone players celebrate with the Sam Maguire following their win over Mayo in the All-Ireland SFC final at Croke Park. Picture by Seamus Loughran Tyrone players celebrate with the Sam Maguire following their win over Mayo in the All-Ireland SFC final at Croke Park. Picture by Seamus Loughran

STORMONT'S first and deputy first ministers led the tributes to the winning Tyrone GAA team after they clinched the All-Ireland senior football title.

The squad secured Tyrone's fourth All-Ireland title on Saturday at Croke Park beating Mayo 2-14 to 0-15.

Following their victory, deputy first minister Michelle O'Neill took to Twitter to express her delight, telling followers that she was "absolutely over the moon".

"Sam is coming back to Tyrone after 13 years ... what a performance," said the Sinn Féin minister.

"You have brought so much joy to our county after a difficult year.

"Particularly delighted for my neighbour Padraic Hampsey, a fantastic captain."

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Ms O'Neill added: "In a time of uncertainty they gave the people of Tyrone hope, positivity and a cause for optimism.

"I am immensely proud of all the players, management and those who have played a part in this incredible result.

"This campaign has not been without its challenges but was fought with real determination, and brought the county together in support of the team.

"Commiserations to Mayo, it was the Red Hands' year and I hope the start of many more to come. Tyrone abu."

In a statement sent from the joint office, First Minister Paul Givan also added his congratulations to Tyrone.

"The passion and determination of the team on the pitch has been mirrored by their supporters right across Northern Ireland and beyond," said the DUP MLA.

"Well done to the players and all those associated in their success. They deserve their celebrations this evening.

"This is a significant achievement after what has been a very difficult period for elite sports. It is great to see our local sportspeople excel, and the Tyrone team has certainly done that."

Following the win, SDLP West Tyrone MLA Daniel McCrossan wrote on Twitter: "What a team! What a county! All Ireland champions!

"Sam is coming back to Tyrone. Well done lads! Amazing."

Nicola Brogan, Sinn Féin assembly member for the same constituency, also said: "Fantastic performance by all the Tyrone boys.

"Massive well done to Brian, Fergal, Padraig and the entire team. Lots of happy Tyrone faces in Croker".

SDLP leader Colum Eastwood took to Twitter saying: "What a game! Comhghairdeas Tyrone GAA".

UUP leader Doug Beattie said: "Congratulations Tyrone GAA - a great result", while his party colleague said: "Congratulations Tyrone GAA, fourth senior football championship was hard won".

Former DUP MP Emma Little-Pengelly also wrote on Twitter: "Lots of happy people up here tonight. Congrats."