In a unique year for the GAA, one extra All-Ireland football title is on offer, and it’s no surprise that Tyrone are in hot pursuit.
Minor football won’t be consigned to history until the end of this season, but already the new U17 grade is bedding in.
This evening’s semi-final at Kingspan Breffni sees the Red Hands take on Meath.
Under the guidance of treble Sam Maguire Cup winner Collie Holmes, Tyrone coasted to the Ulster title with some sparkling performances, and despite a lengthy lay-off, are hoping to carry their provincial form into the All-Ireland series.
They face a Royal outfit with momentum on its side following the recent Leinster final win over Dublin, and in this context, both sides will appreciate the importance of a strong start to the match.
Tyrone’s attacking class was showcased in their comprehensive win over Cavan in the Ulster decider at Clones, where Darragh Canavan, Cormac Donaghy and Thomas Hoy revelled in a 3-14 to 0-6 success.
They’re strong in defence as well, with Antoin Fox, Matthew McCusker and skipper Cormac Munroe developing into a tight, reliable unit, while Matthew Murnaghan has established himself as one for the future at midfield.
And they will have to be on top of their game to curtail a talented Meath attack led by Matthew Costello, who helped himself to a 2-3 haul as they took out the fancied Dubs.
The Leinster champions, managed by Ronan Kearns, with former Meath star Martin O’Connell by his side, also have skilful performers in Jordan Morris and Shane Walsh, who have been consistent throughout the campaign.
They worked their way back via the Qualifier route following a first round defeat to Dublin, carving out a semi-final victory over Kildare, before meeting the Dubs for a second time in the provincial decider.
Tyrone will be without the injured Nathan Connolly and Michael Conroy, but the strength in depth of their squad should ensure they are not appreciably weakened.
“That’s a chance for somebody else in the panel,” said manager Holmes.
He’s not concerned about his players’ unfamiliarity with the style of football they will encounter this evening.
“Most teams are playing the same way now. It’s just that you don’t know the opposition as well. In Ulster, you would know players through schools or clubs, and you would know the top three or four men on any side.
“It’s just about identifying the Meath lads. The spine of their team is massively strong, physically, but also footballing-wise, and they’re playing a very simple but effective game plan.”
Holmes wants his players to seize their opportunity, for they won’t get a second chance as teenagers to win an All-Ireland title, due to the decision by Congress to discontinue the Minor grade.
“We keep saying to the lads, this is their chance,” he said.
