The (new) boys of summer

This has been a remarkable championship campaign for the minors of Longford. Their progress to the Leinster title and through the All-Ireland series has captivated the entire county. Mark Gallagher reports.

THEY ARE not used to these days in Longford. Sundays are for the likes of Kerry, Galway and yes, Dublin and Armagh. All Ireland semi-finals are just a television event, perking nothing more than a passing interest. However, there have been exceptions. A few years back, the north of the county was enraptured as neighbours Cavan took on the might of Kerry.

That’s how most All-Ireland semi-final days are recalled in these parts. Occasionally, the county has been gripped by the presence of a neighbour, be it Cavan, Leitrim or Roscommon.