IT’S one thing the current generation’s ability to keep their top-end competitiveness burning, but arguably more important for Monaghan is continuing to inspire the next crop.
Stand-in Farney boss David McCague spoke of his pride at his side’s composure as they rallied to win a remarkable extra-time battle with Galway having been five points down heading into stoppage time at the end of normal time.
Victory secured an eighth consecutive year in the top flight. Only Dublin and Kerry have been there for a longer successive period.
“I think it’s significant for the players, they want to compete at the top level, but it’s maybe even more significant for the younger players around the county, kids who are watching their heroes on television today,” said McCague.
“That they have an opportunity to aspire to be the Jack McCarrons and Darren Hughes’ and Rory Beggans and Conor McManus’s.
“That’s what’s really significant and will give Paul O’Connor [Games Development Manager] and his team in Cloghan great energy to keep building on the progress that Monaghan have made, and promote those games. That’s the most significant part.
“It’s great to be testing yourself against the top teams but it’s great to be leaving the team where they can be role models.”
In a truly chaotic afternoon’s football that was settled by Jack McCarron’s 93rd minute winner, Monaghan kept their heads when the key moments arrived.
Their late goal for Darren Hughes in normal time, the even later equaliser by Conor McManus and the winner from McCarron were all brilliantly worked in the whitest of battle heat.
If anything showed that they’d been playing Division One football for the last seven years, that was it.
“I think if you look at the individuals involved in those big scores… Darren Hughes took the goal, he’s no stranger to being a key player in clutch moments and showing great leadership. Jack McCarron’s experienced at this level as well, and Conor McManus’ equaliser.
“I think you’re right, I think they trusted themselves. The occasion and the level of intensity the opposition brought in those moments didn’t phase them, so you’re probably right, that’s the benefit of playing in Division One.
“If we can produce more Darren Hughes’ and more Conor McManus’ and more Jack McCarrons, Monaghan football will be all the healthier for it.”
