Cavan Masters eye All-Ireland Shield glory this Saturday

Masters football

Damien Donohoe

The Cavan Masters footballers will bid to add more silverware to the county’s proud tradition when they contest the All-Ireland shield final this Saturday at Kingspan Breffni (1pm). Managed by Lavey man Terry Smith, the side have enjoyed an impressive campaign and now stand just 60 minutes away from national honours.

Smith, speaking ahead of the decider, said the squad were eager for the challenge.

“There’s very little between the top eight or nine Masters teams at the minute,” he explained. “We were a little unlucky to miss out on the top tier, but we’ve a strong opposition on Saturday and we’re really looking forward to it.”

Cavan’s season began in style with a rare and memorable win over Tyrone in early May. That result set the tone for a consistent campaign. “Over the years we’ve been on the wrong side of some hefty results against Tyrone,” Smith admitted. “It was nice to get one over them for a change.”

Confidence grew with further wins against Louth, Down and Monaghan, a draw with Roscommon and a setback away to London. The Breffni men ultimately finished just outside the top four, leaving them in the Shield semi-final where they overcame Mayo to book their place in this weekend’s final.

The manager is full of praise for his players. “We’ve a good mix of lads who’ve been there a number of years and new faces this season. Everyone has put their shoulder to the wheel. It’s the kind of game where you’ll rely on the whole squad, not just the starting fifteen.”

Former county stars Mark McKeever(Gowna) and Tomás Corr (Denn) have added experience, while Meath native Joe Sheridan has also bolstered the panel. Smith highlights the strength throughout the team, from goalkeeper Brian Clarke (Killinkere)to centre-back Padraig Cahill (Killygarry) and a scoring forward unit.

There is no shortage of club pedigree either, with Drumgoon’s Keith Fannin and Kildallan’s Fergal Maguire still producing the goods at championship level.

“Keith’s still a handful at both club and Masters level,” Smith said. “Fergal’s playing a different role with Kildallan this year, inside on the square, and he’s been coming away with plenty of scores.”

Smith is assisted on the line by Declan Beard (Ballinagh), Cormac Nelligan (Cavan Gaels) and Barry McGovern(Killygarry). Padraig Cahill captains the side, with Shane McAnarney (Ramor Utd) serving as vice-captain.

Their opponents, Antrim, have also narrowly missed out on the top tier and will bring serious quality. But with home advantage and strong momentum, Cavan will be hopeful of delivering another All-Ireland title for the county.

The cup final will also take place in Kingspan Breffni on Saturday between Tyrone and Donegal with throw-in at 3pm.

Cavan panel: Brian Clarke, Anthony Brady (Killinkere); Padraig Cahill (Captain), Michael McGovern, Tomás Leonard, Stephen McGovern, John Conroy, John Andrews, Barry McGovern (Killygarry); Paul Brady, Rory Geoghegan (Cornafean); Daithi Neary, Fergal Maguire (Kildallan); Pearse West (Redhills); Ray Keogh, Mark McKeever (Gowna); Tomas Corr (Denn); Keith Fannin, Shane McGorry (Drumgoon); Shane McAnarney (Vice Captain) (Clann na nGael); Colm Reilly, Barry Reilly (Ballyhaise); Joe Sheridan (Seneschalstown); Gareth Corrigan (Drumlane); Sean Brady, Damian Smith, Paul Farrelly (Castlerahan); Stephen Tighe, Paddy McNamee, Gary McNamee, Michael Doherty (Ramor); Shane Mulligan (Aghabog); Derek Hand (Laragh); Philip Monaghan (Drung); Gary Arkins, Barry Balfe (Gaeil Colmcille); Peter Clarke (Cuchulainns); Cormac Neligan (Cavan Gaels); Declan Beard (Ballinagh); Garret Bannon (Templeport); Patrick Mulligan (Arva); Seanie Farrelly (Kingscourt).

Management: Terry Smith, Declan Beard, Cormac Neligan, Barry McGovern