Setanta set to hit AFL milestone with 50th Carlton game

SETANTA O HAILPÍN will reach a major milestone in his AFL career when playing his 50th league game on Saturday. The Carlton utility player has experienced a number of highs and lows since joining the Blues more than five years ago, having burst onto the GAA scene with Cork when being named an All Star and young hurler of the year in 2003.

The former Na Piarsaigh star faced his biggest hurdle in February when it appeared that he was facing the sack after lashing out at team-mate Cameron Cloke in training.

O hAilpín was suspended and had to undergo anger management therapy, while local media were heavily critical. It has since emerged that he acted in retaliation. He has impressed coaching staff with the manner in which he accepted his punishment and knuckled down to try to nail down a place in the first team.

The 26-year-old, who has previously played in the full-back line and midfield area, has been amongst the goals recently and despite the return of three previously injured players to the lineout, retains his place in the half-forward division.

The Blues have had a reasonable start to the season, with five wins from 10 games leaving them in fifth with the top eight to qualify for the play-offs.