Tailteann Cup Team of the Year announced

October 10, 2024

Down's captain Pierce Laverty lifts the Tailteann Cup ©INPHO/James Crombie

Champions Down have been rewarded with five slots on the 2024 Tailteann Cup Team of the Year which has been announced today.

Conor Laverty’s Mourne men followed up their Allianz League Division 3 promotion with a Tailteann Cup triumph when outgunning Laois in the final and have defenders Pierce Laverty, Ryan McEvoy and Daniel McGuinness included, alongside midfielder Odhran Murdock and inside forward Pat Havern.

Laois are represented by sharp shooting goalkeeper Killian Roche who amassed 0-13 in the campaign, as well as half back Brian Byrne, and key forwards Mark Barry and Evan O’Carroll.

There are six counties represented on the Team of the Year in what was the third year of the Tailteann Cup football championship.

Rising Antrim star Kavan Keelan, Limerick midfielder Emmet Rigter and Naas and Kildare star forward Darragh Kirwan join the impressive Sligo contingent of Evan Lyons, Seán Carrabine and Niall Murphy.

GAA President Jarlath Burns said: “In just three years we have seen the Tailteann Cup establish itself in our calendar as a fantastic competition which gives competitive championship football to its competing counties.

“Reaching the semi-final showdown at Croke Park is a realistic goal for the many and not the few, and the entertainment value of those games and that of the Tailteann Cup final between Down and Laois was exceptional.

“Congratulations to all of those who have been selected as having played an integral part in making the Tailteann Cup stand out and I know it is an honour that will be proudly shared by your families and clubs.”

The Tailteann Cup Team of the Year was decided by a selection committee chaired by Pat Daly. The winners will be presented with their awards tomorrow night at a special black-tie event at Croke Park where they will be guests of honour alongside the Champion 15 and Joe McDonagh Team of the Year members. The event will be streamed live by the GAA on YouTube form 7pm.

Tailteann Cup 2024 Team of the Year

1. Killian Roche (Laois)

2. Pierce Laverty (Down)

3. Ryan McEvoy (Down)

4. Kavan Keenan (Antrim)

5. Daniel Guinness (Down)

6. Brian Byrne (Laois)

7. Evan Lyons (Sligo)

8.  Emmet Rigter (Limerick)

9. Odhran Murdock (Down)

10. Mark Barry (Laois)

11. Darragh Kirwan (Kildare)

12. Sean Carrabine (Sligo)

13. Niall Murphy (Sligo)

14. Evan O’Carroll (Laois)

15. Pat Havern (Down)


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