Keane helps Ireland to overcome Aussies and makes Opel GPA team

ROSEMOUNT"s John Keane capped a remarkable year by playing an integral role in Ireland"s exciting defeat of Australia in last Friday"s second test of the 2008 International Rules series in Melbourne. Ireland went into last Friday"s second test with a 45-44 advantage from the opening game in Perth. And Ireland"s Gaelic football stars fired four goals to the Australian net, as they recaptured the Cormac McAnallen Cup in thrilling fashion with a 57-52 second test victory in Melbourne, leaving the aggregate score 102-97 in favour of Sean Boylan"s side. Almost 43,000 spectators braved the rain showers and blustery winds at Melbourne"s MCG to watch Ireland triumph and level the all-time series record at seven each. Benny Coulter (2), Kieran Donaghy and Enda McGinley slammed home Ireland"s decisive goals, although a late six-pointer from Drew Petrie did jangle Irish nerves. St Aloysius College vice-principal, Gearóid Ó Conámha, was also out in Australia as part of the umpire team for the series.The Irish contingent, including Ardnagrath NS teacher Keane, are due to arrive back in the country later this week. Westmeath star John Keane started each game in this year"s series and his solid input into both matches rounds off a fantastic last couple of months for the 28 year-old. Keane recently picked up his second All-Star award for his contribution to Westmeath"s 2008 campaign. And just last Thursday, Keane was also chosen for the Opel Gaelic Team of the Year, the winners of which were selected by Gaelic Players Association members, seeing off Kerry"s Marc Ó Sé and Monaghan"s Dessie Mone for the right corner-back position. Unfortunately, Westmeath team-mates Gary Connaughton and Michael Ennis missed out on selection despite being short-listed in their positions. Tubberclair"s Connaughton, of course, also received an All-Star award this year. As a reward, Keane will receive an Opel vehicle for getting selected to the 2008 Opel Gaelic Team of the Year. Opel Gaelic Team of the Year: Anthony Masterson (Wexford); John Keane (Westmeath), Justin McMahon (Tyrone), Conor Gormley (Tyrone); Davy Harte (Tyrone); Philip Jordan (Tyrone), Ryan McMenamin (Tyrone); Darragh Ó Sé (Kerry), Enda McGinley (Tyrone); Brian Dooher (Tyrone), Declan O"Sullivan (Kerry), Joe McMahon (Tyrone); Colm Cooper (Kerry); Seán Cavanagh (Tyrone); Michael Meehan (Galway).