Mullane and Lacey pick up GPA awards

Waterford scoring ace John Mullane and Donegal defender Karl Lacey have been honoured with the OPEL/GPA Hurler and Footballer of the Month awards respectively for July, following some outstanding Championship displays.

Mullane scoring a last-gasp point for the Deise against Galway in the All-Ireland quarter-final, which helped his side qualify for last Sunday's semi-final showdown against Kilkenny.

The 28-year-old forward was also the winner of the OPEL/GPA Hurler of the Month gong for June.

It has been a successful couple of months for Waterford's hurlers with Michael 'Brick' Walsh receiving the GAA Vodafone Hurler of the Month honour for July, while Mullane was honoured with the same accolade for June.

Chairman of the hurling selection committee, Donal O'Grady, said: "John Mullane's popularity as a player within the hurling community has been proven yet again with his selection as Opel Hurler of the Month for the second successive month.

"His brave, passionate display in the Munster final was followed by his heroic never-say-die attitude against Galway which earned his side an All-Ireland semi-final appearance.

"It is the first time under this scheme that a player has won back-to-back monthly awards and it reflects John's fantastic contribution to Waterford's season."

Meanwhile, Donegal's in-form back Lacey was honoured on the back of some fine displays via the All-Ireland qualifier route, which culminated in an All-Ireland quarter-final appearance against Cork at Croke Park.

Chairman of the football selection committee, Martin McHugh, said: "While some will consider me a biased Donegal man, I can honestly say Karl Lacey is one of the best defenders around.

"In an era when corner-backs are a precious commodity, Karl's tenacity in the tackle, tremendous discipline and uncanny ability to read a game make him a match for any of the country's top marksmen.

"While his season may have ended in disappointment, he has earned the recognition of his fellow players for his excellent displays in July."