The Irish News - your county's top 15 players ever

[Maguire01]

Unfortunately, this will be the last day that I am able to post the IN lists. I would like to make it clear that I would not have posted the Fermanagh list. I would have cut and pasted the bit about Peter McGinnity, but as with Monaghan, no one else from the Erne county has achieved greatness.

So Donegal, who won their first Ulster title in 1972 and their last in 1992 (a total of 5) get listed? Fair enough, Donegal have an All-Ireland - Fermanagh or Monaghan don't - but they're a long way off the most successful counties. (I'm not arguing that Donegal haven't had some great players by the way, but Monaghan have beaten plenty of Donegal teams - with many of the players on that list - over the years.)

But surely that's not the basis for selecting the best 125 Ulster players anyway?

There are plenty of great players who weren't on successful teams all around the country. Equally there are many relatively average players with All-Ireland medals to their name because they played on a great team.

[whiskeysteve]

Dick Clerkin
SON of the legendary Hugo, Dick has developed into a similar role as a hard-grafting midfielder.
Strong on the ball and fearless in the tackle, Clerkin has now established himself among the top midfielders in the country, winning a Railway Cup medal in 2007.

It appears the Irish News has acquired the services of Steven Wonder

[FermGael]

Unfortunately, this will be the last day that I am able to post the IN lists. I would like to make it clear that I would not have posted the Fermanagh list. I would have cut and pasted the bit about Peter McGinnity, but as with Monaghan, no one else from the Erne county has achieved greatness.

SaffronSam that is fairly harsh.
Mick Brewster is just one other example out of many that i can name.  Won countless interpro's with Ulster and is a legend in Queen's Sigerson circles. 
From men who i know who witnessed him play, he was the equal of McGinnity. 

[ONeill]

Every now and again, the oul hands play a blinder. SS, I kneel at your throne.

[ardmhachaabu]

Tom McCreesh
Paddy Mo
Kieran McGeeney
Paul McGrane
Aidan O'Rourke
Colm McKinstry
Joe Kernan
Jarlath Burns
Houlie
Andy Mallon
Jimmy Smyth
Oisin McConville
Ronan Clarke
Brian McAlinden
Mark Grimley

I left out anyone I never saw in action myself so I have only considered men who had played for Armagh at IC level since 1974 (approximately)

[tierworker blue]

Here's the Cavan list, for anyone who has'nt seen it. I'll have to agree with the lads who posted previously...there are a few players towards the end who have a long way to go before making any 'great' lists.

Memories are aplenty from best of Breffni
Celebrating 125
By Kevin Carney

Louis Blessing

Part of the all-conquering Cavan Slashers' teams of 1922 '24 '25 '27 '30 and '31 and starred in Cavan's 1935 All-Ireland SFC final success as an archetypal full-forward target-man. His strength and height made him an intimidating figure.

Jim Smith

Arguably Cavan's greatest footballer from the early '20s to late '30s. A man of great physique and determination with elegant fielding and long kicking skills.

Holder of 13 Ulster championship medals, he captained Cavan to their first senior All-Ireland title in 1933.

Patsy Lynch

From the Bailieboro club, the teak-tough defender captained the county to a first ever All-Ireland title in 1927 when playing centre-back on the triumphant junior side.

Hughie O'Reilly

The Cootehill clubman featured on the 1927 All-Ireland-winning junior team and was man-of-the-match in the 1935 All-Ireland SFC semi-final win over Tipperary. Captained the '35 final-winning side from midfield and showed the sort of intelligence on the field of play that he later demonstrated as an All-Ireland-winning manager.

Barney Cully

From Arva, he won an All-Ireland minor medal in 1937 and went on to represent Cavan and

Ulster for many years. Considered way ahead of his time as an attacking defender. Represented Ulster also.



Willie Young

Was a 'keeper of great athleticism and concentration, both traits helping him to All-Ireland-winning medals in 1933 and '35. Won seven Cavan SFC medals with Cornafean.

Pakie Phair

Considered the dynamo of the Sam Maguire Cup-winning 1933 team which downed Kerry in the final and was Mr Consistency in the county's odyssey to the '35 crown.

Simon Deignan

A gifted half-back who had his finest hour against Kerry in the 1947 All-Ireland SFC final. Was again one of the Breffni county's stars in the '48 double success of League and Championship.

Peter Donohoe

One of the county's best ever free-takers. He gave an exhibition of place-kicking and was the star in Cavan's famous All-Ireland SFC win in the Polo Grounds in 1947, scoring eight points against Kerry. Also starred in the county's All-Ireland SFC triumphs in '48 and '52.

Des Benson

Considered to be one of the most underrated players of Cavan's glorious '40s period, when the Blues scooped the Sam Maguire Cup in '47 and '48. One particularly memorable save against Kerry helped the Blues achieve their first NFL title in 1948.

Tony Tighe

Likened to a gazelle when in full flight, Tighe was an attacker of speed, elusiveness and vision who had arguably his greatest game in the 1947 All-Ireland triumph at the Polo Grounds. Was on hand again in '48 and '52 All-Ireland wins.

Mick Higgins

Considered the brains behind Cavan's All-Ireland wins of '47 and '48 and captained the 1952 Sam Maguire Cup-winning crew. Brave, an opportunistic goalscorer and a born leader, he played for Cavan from 1942 to 1953.

PJ DukeA fantastic half-back who died at the premature age of 25. Won All-Ireland SFC medals in 1947 and '48 and in 1952 (when he scored seven points) and collected a Railway Cup medal with Ulster. Won three Sigerson medals with UCD, but it was with his native county that he achieved most fame and is ranked as one of Cavan's best ever defenders.

John Joe O'Reilly

The 'gallant' John Joe was described by Antrim star Kevin Armstrong as "the finest all-round footballer of his generation."

Captained Cavan to victory in the All-Ireland SFC finals of 1947 and '48 and was a regular on the Ulster teams of the '40s.

'Big' Tom O'Reilly

Brother of John Joe, but a star in his own right. Shone in Cavan's historic 1947 win in New York having captained his county for a couple of years beforehand. A man-mountain at the back for both Cavan and his club, Cornafean.

Jim McDonnell

Was man-of-the-match in the 1955 All-Ireland SFC semi-final defeat to Kerry as a marauding half-back-cum -midfielder and is considered by many to have been Cavan's finest player of the 1950s.

Phil 'Gunner' Brady

A veritable collossus for his club Mullahoran and was a regular for Cavan in the 1940s. His strength, bravery and inspirational qualities were legendary and he remains one of the county's true football legends.

Johnny Cusack (below)

Considered to have been the most potent forward in Cavan club football in the 1950s and got his due recognition when he was part of the county's All-Ireland SFC-winning troupe of 1952.

Gabriel Kelly

Arguably Cavan's outstanding defender of the 1960s, during which time he picked up a number of senior provincial medals. The Cavan Gaels clubman was a regular also with Ulster, with his power of recovery and his anticipation two key elements of his game.

Charlie Gallagher

One of Ireland's greatest gaelic footballers, the Cootehill Celtic clubman was an iconic figure in the 1960s and regularly topped the nation's scoring charts. Captain of Cavan's 1969 Anglo-Celt Cup-winning team.

Andy McCabe

One of Crosserlough's principal engineers of their record-breaking seven-in-a-row of Cavan SFC titles (1966-72). A no-nonsense defender who made up for his lack of pace by sheer determination and will-to-win. A long-time member of the Cavan full-back line during the 1960s.

Gene Cusack

A goal-getter supreme whose balance and creativity plus expert finishing made him a household name in Cavan for over 10 years straddling the '60s and '70s. One of the stars of the great Crosserlough teams and was honoured at inter-provincial level on occasions.

Ray CarolanA Cavan and Ulster midfielder par excellence during the '60s, his fielding, honest endeavour and inspirational qualities helped haul Cavan to the top in Ulster on several occasions.

Enda McGowan

A glue-like defender who was an unsung hero on many Cavan sides, although had his finest hour in the victorious 1969 Ulster SFC final. Represented Ulster and was the bulwark for Ballyhaise through many lean years.

Ollie Brady

Cavan's first Allstar (1978). The Redhills collossus led by example from his centre-back berth, but was desperately unfortunate not to win an Ulster SFC medal. Strong, fast and good at pushing forward.

Sean Leddy

A member of St Pat's College's All-Ireland-winning Hogan Cup crew of 1972, the

Butlersbridge native was a very reliable

defender whose forays forward were the stuff of legend. Unlucky to have played in relatively weak Cavan sides, he finished up with an Ulster JFC medal in 1984.

Ollie Leddy

Brother of Sean, the towering midfielder held the middle for Cavan for the guts of a eight years during the 70s and had a great pair of hands and enormous strength on the ball.

Paddy McNamee

One of the few Cavan players during the '80s to get a look in at Railway Cup level. The Ramor Utd attacker made his Championship debut against Down in Castleblayney on the same day he played for the county minors.

Ray Cullivan

Arguably one of Cavan's finest playmakers, the Laragh Utd ace was blessed with great vision, control and his ability to bring players into the game set him apart. A terrific engine.

Joe Dillon

Despite being relatively small in stature, could jump with the tallest of them and couldn't be parted from the ball when in possession. Drove Kingscourt to numerous county titles in the '80s.

Jim Reilly

Represented Cavan, Ulster and Ireland with distinction. A gem of a half-back who was equally at home joining in with the attack, 'Captain Fantastic' invariably got on the scoresheet, irrespective of the opposition.

Adge King

Was a stalwart in the engine room for Cavan seniors from 1974 to '84. His consistency, workrate and passion made him a fans' favourite, but he was unlucky to have played on struggling Cavan teams.

Fintan Cahill (below)

Lit up the Cavan forward line in full-flight and caught the eye of the Railway Cup think-tank as a 19-year-old. The Cuchullain's forward was adept either drawing a free or invariably scoring himself.

Dermot McCabe

Cavan's second Allstar and still the county's talisman. First came to prominence when starring for the county U21 team that reached the All-Ireland final in 1996. His versatility has also seen him used to great effect on the edge of the square.

Stephen King

Captained Cavan to the county's last Anglo-Celt Cup success in 1997.

Represented Ulster and Ireland too. His fetching ability and powerful runs into enemy territory made him an inspiration and someone team-mates looked to.

Ronan Carolan (below)

Cavan's best-ever free-taker? Consistently topped the scoring charts in Ulster over the course of the '80s and '90s despite Cavan's travails then. Deservedly won an Ulster SFC medal in '97. His ability to carry the ball at pace was another key weapon.

Derek McDonnell

One of Cavan's most potent attackers

during the '80s. His ability to side-step an opponent and his eye for goal made him a textbook match-winner. A sterling servant of Ramor Utd, he topped the provincial goalscoring charts in 1983 when Cavan reached the Ulster SFC final.

Tommy Smyth

When Cavan were at their lowest ebb in the early '90s, the Denn stalwart was at the coalface in defence. One of the most consistent club players over the course of almost 20 years.

Philip Smith

Invariably employed in defence or midfield during a long inter-county career (1987-2001). The Crosserlough clubman always showed the heart of a lion and has been one of the county's most outstanding club footballers of modern times.

Damien O'Reilly

A top full-back for Mullahoran and Cavan. Was part of the Cavan U21 team that reached the 1988 All-Ireland final. His speed off the mark and the quality of his foot-passing were invaluable as Cavan stormed to Anglo-Celt Cup success in '97.

Jason O'Reilly

One of the finest goal-poachers ever

produced by Cavan Football Inc. One of the stars of Cavan's 1997 provincial championship triumph and still going strong.

Caught the eye when featuring for Cavan U21s in '96 when the provincial title was scooped.

Bernard Morris

An inspiring figure for Cavan and Ulster. Much underrated on his own doorstep, but feared and respected in equal measure by opponents countrywide. The Gowna stalwart formed the hub of many Cavan rearguards during the Ulster SFC-winning run of '97.

James Reilly

An Allstar nominee in 2004, the 26-year-old has represented Ulster with distinction and could be Cavan's number one 'keeper of all time. A tremendous kick-out allied to cat-like agility complement his physique.

Larry Reilly

Still part of the Cavan set-up, the Knockbride ace has represented Ulster and Ireland in his time. A livewire, he is just as fast carrying the ball as running without it. A sweet left foot with a jink to match. Starred in Cavan's 1997 heroics.

Peter Reilly

Brother of Larry and another sensational performer for Cavan for the guts of 10 years. Now a selector with the senior county team, the attacker-cum-defender captained Cavan too and could always be relied upon to give 100 per cent.

Paul O'Dowd

Brought leadership qualities and a great joie de vivre to the table in 1997. His excellence between the sticks was his forte, his shot-stopping ability second to none in the country. A technically-minded 'keeper.

Anthony Forde

Cavan and Ulster are all the better for being able to call on the speed, adaptability and workrate of the Cavan Gaels ace. Has been his county's most consistent defender for almost 10 years now, but has lost none of his passion and zest for the fray.

Sean Johnston

Cavan's most prolific scorer over the past couple of years, the Cavan Gaels ace gained Railway Cup recognition in 2008 and got a trial for Ireland. Two great feet, can turn on a sixpence and plays with a swagger.

Micheal Lyng

Has suffered from the effects of injury in the last couple of years, but the former Ulster Railway Cup player still ranks as maybe Cavan's best playmaker at present.

Gerald Pierson

He has represented Cavan and Ulster with

distinction and has top-scored for his club Gowna since making his senior debut almost seven years ago. Coming to the boil after a long-term injury.

Ronan Flanagan

One of the Breffni county's major hopes

for the future. Already recognised at

interprovincial level, the Castlerahan star is equally at home in defence or attack such is the vision, skill and pace he possesses.

[Donagh]

Brian McAlinden
Colm McKinstry	Denis Stevenson	Tidsy McKerr
Aaron Kernan	Kieran McGeeney	Tony McEntee
Neil Smyth	Paul McGrane
Cathal O'Rourke	Diarmaid Marsden	Jimmy Smyth (c)
Ger Houlahan	Ronan Clarke	Stevie Mc

Oisin for Houlie with 25 to go if he hasn't produced
Other subs:

Bill McCorry
Johnny Corvan
John McEntee
Francie
Andy Mallon 
Aidan O'Rourke

[ONeill]

Antrim short-list today. Only really Kelly and Quinn of the modern era.

[maddog]

Brian McAlinden
Colm McKinstry	Denis Stevenson	Tidsy McKerr
Aaron Kernan	Kieran McGeeney	Tony McEntee
Neil Smyth	Paul McGrane
Cathal O'Rourke	Diarmaid Marsden	Jimmy Smyth (c)
Ger Houlahan	Ronan Clarke	Stevie Mc

Oisin for Houlie with 25 to go if he hasn't produced
Other subs:

Bill McCorry
Johnny Corvan
John McEntee
Francie
Andy Mallon 
Aidan O'Rourke

neil smyth in front of Mark Grimley or Jarlath Burns ? Ive witnessed them clash at club level and the difference was night and day. That said the bawn man was a good footballer.

[Uladh]

Brian McAlinden
Colm McKinstry	Denis Stevenson	Tidsy McKerr
Aaron Kernan	Kieran McGeeney	Tony McEntee
Neil Smyth	Paul McGrane
Cathal O'Rourke	Diarmaid Marsden	Jimmy Smyth (c)
Ger Houlahan	Ronan Clarke	Stevie Mc

Oisin for Houlie with 25 to go if he hasn't produced
Other subs:

Bill McCorry
Johnny Corvan
John McEntee
Francie
Andy Mallon 
Aidan O'Rourke

neil smyth in front of Mark Grimley or Jarlath Burns ? Ive witnessed them clash at club level and the difference was night and day. That said the bawn man was a good footballer.

Am i right in saying that the idea is not to actually pick a team but to make a list of 15?

I'd have smyth before big mark too for oerall contribution. smyth wouldn't have fetched the ball mark would but he was a fabulous footballer.
wouldn't have houly either, nor McKerr. Tony McEntee? no chance - he only commanded a starting place for armagh for one season and was overratted by association with john, who was one of the best footballers to ever wear an armagh jersey. You haven't john Mc on?

I'm a great man for picking holes...

[ardmhachaabu]

That's the way I took it to mean Uladh

[corn02]

Andy McCann was one of the best wing backs we ever had in my time. Mr consistency.

[Mid Down Gael]

Brian McAlinden
Colm McKinstry	Denis Stevenson	Tidsy McKerr
Aaron Kernan	Kieran McGeeney	Tony McEntee
Neil Smyth	Paul McGrane
Cathal O'Rourke	Diarmaid Marsden	Jimmy Smyth (c)
Ger Houlahan	Ronan Clarke	Stevie Mc

Oisin for Houlie with 25 to go if he hasn't produced
Other subs:

Bill McCorry
Johnny Corvan
John McEntee
Francie
Andy Mallon 
Aidan O'Rourke

neil smyth in front of Mark Grimley or Jarlath Burns ? Ive witnessed them clash at club level and the difference was night and day. That said the bawn man was a good footballer.

No Oisin or John Mac or Big joe?

[bennydorano]

Few notable absentees from the Down effort by Matt Fitzpatrick today:  Ambrose Rogers sr, Liam Austin, Shorty Treanor.

[5 Sams]

Few notable absentees from the Down effort by Matt Fitzpatrick today:  Ambrose Rogers sr, Liam Austin, Shorty Treanor.

He certainly made sure the pre 60s Down teams were well represented...no Tommy McGovern either.....


I thought I knew a wee bit about Down football but I have never heard of Paddy Savage and Matt has him down as one of his all time greats