Shine returns as rossies ring changes for london clash

 

Donie Shine has returned to the Roscommon starting line-up for this Sunday’s Connacht SFC clash against London.

The Clann na nGael man was introduced as a substitute in last month’s Allianz Football League Division 2 final win over Down.

Seán McDermott also returns to the team, having missed the Down game through suspension after receiving a red card in the League game against Westmeath.

Mark Healy of Roscommon Gaels has been selected to make his make his Championship debut at midfield, replacing the injured Kevin Higgins. Healy will be partnered by Cathal Shine, who was very impressive in the win over Down.

In total, there are six changes in personnel from the win over Down. David Murray loses out due to the return of McDermott, while another Padraig Pearses player, Conor Daly, is replaced by Donal Ward.

In the half forward line, the return of Donie Shine and Enda Smith means there is no place for Donie Smith and Ronan Stack. As expected, Diarmuid Murtagh is included in attack, despite Cian Connolly’s fine showing against Down. Murtagh is joined in a formidable full forward line by Senan Kilbride – the GAA/GPA Player of the Month for April - and Cathal Cregg.

Sunday’s game in Ruislip throws in at 3pm, and Roscommon are strongly fancied to set up a semi-final meeting with Sligo.

Ironically, London are managed by Roscommon native Paul Coggins, who has a number of injury worries on his plate, with Westmeath’s Creg Crowley among those causing concern.

 

Roscommon SF Team v London

1. Darren O'Malley (Michael Glaveys)

2. Seán McDermott (Western Gaels)
3. Niall Carty (capt.) (Padraig Pearses)
4. Neil Collins (Castlerea St Kevin’s)

5. Donal Ward (Kilmacud Crokes)
6. Niall Daly (Padraig Pearses)
7. Ciarán Cafferky (Western Gaels)

8. Mark Healy (Roscommon Gaels)
9. Cathal Shine (Clann na nGael)

10. Enda Smith (Boyle)
11. Donie Shine (Clann na nGael)
12. Ciaráin Murtagh (St Faithleach’s)

13. Diarmuid Murtagh (St Faithleach’s)
14. Senan Kilbride (St Brigid’s)
15. Cathal Cregg (Western Gaels)