Gavin’s joy over Down win as Rossies bid for ultimate glory
Roscommon’s Patrick Gavin said there was an “an incredible sense of relief” when Adam McDermott’s goal clinched victory over Down in last Saturday evening’s All-Ireland U20 semi-final.
It was a moment that made an indelible mark in the minds of every Roscommon supporter watching. That few seconds from when the ball left Adam McDermott’s boot, to gently roll some 25 metres across the Kingspan Breffni Park surface before nestling gently in the Down net. It was the moment when everyone, on the field and off it, knew that Roscommon were headed for the All-Ireland football final, in which they will face Offaly tomorrow (Sunday, throw-in 1.30pm).
“When we got that goal, an incredible sense of relief just flew through everyone. We knew, the crowd knew, there was an electricity around the ground, the supporters knew,” said Clann na nGael defender Gavin, who had just put in a whirlwind of a performance, kicking two points from wing-back.
“It’s absolutely unbelievable, such a game for everyone to be part of, it’s incredible to be here now thinking about it. We had the legs and it kicked in near the end, so thanks to the management and the coaches for that, they’ve got us to this final and it means so much to everyone” he added.
“Especially for me, I’m emotional at the thought of it. I never won a county medal until this year, now I’ve won the Junior B, the Connacht, and hopefully an All-Ireland to come, it means everything.”
Another contender for the man of the match award, which was eventually given by TG4 to Daire Cregg, was Roscommon captain Colin Walsh, who was similarly overjoyed afterwards.
“What a feeling. The hard work paid off there in the final 15 minutes, but we know that there’s room for improvement. It’s great to be looking forward to a final. To us, it’s just the next game and that’s what we have to focus on,” said the Oran player.
“Down are a serious team and the pitch was in serious condition. It was just an unbelievable game to play in, and now we’ve another one coming. We think that we’re a good team, but Offaly are an unbelievable side. We’ve seen what they can do. We’re up against it but we’ll do our best.”
“It means everything to be in the final. People wouldn’t realise the amount of work we’ve put in. We’ve worked so hard as a panel and I’m just so proud of everyone involved,” he concluded.
- Kevin Egan