Ulster award for Owens

Fermanagh's 2004 All-Star full-back Barry Owens has scooped the Tennent's Ulster GAA Writers' Monthly Merit award for February.

The Ernesiders' vice-captain, who turned 24 last weekend, had a big influence in helping them to morale-boosting National Football League wins over Monaghan and Tyrone last month.

Owens, an electrician by trade, said: "It was certainly an exciting month but I never expected to win this Writers' award. To be regarded as one of the best players during the month is brilliant."

The Teemore Shamrocks clubman also won an All-Ireland Inter-firms championship with the Quinn Group last month - Owens chipped in with a point in the 1-09 to 1-08 final win over the Dublin Garda side on February 18.

Owens' prize includes a Tennent's Sports Voucher, an engraved Belleek China Vase, training gear from Pro*Star Sports, specially designed cuff links from Omeath jeweller Gareth Mallon and two tickets, plus overnight accommodation, to the GAA Writers' banquet next November.