O'Shea and Kelly scoop Player of the Month awards

Mayo footballer Aidan O'Shea and Clare hurler Tony Kelly have won the GAA/GPA Player of the Month awards for August.

The awards presented to the young duo were in recognition of their outstanding contributions to their counties last month, as Mayo made it through to a second successive All-Ireland SFC final and Clare had a thrilling passage through to the hurling decider.

Midfield powerhouse O'Shea grabbed the headlines with his outstanding man-of-the-match performance in his county's quarter-final win over Donegal. The Breaffy clubman also excelled in his team's semi-final victory over Tyrone.

Up-and-coming Clare star Kelly inspired his team to victory over Limerick, as the Banner men set up their first All-Ireland SHC final appearance since 2002.

The Ballyea ace finished with four points from play as his side ran out 1-22 to 0-18 winners over their Munster rivals in Croke Park.

Commenting on the announcement, GAA President Liam Ó Néill said: "Aidan and Tony have helped to light up what has been a fantastic summer.

"Aidan has been a towering presence for Mayo in their march to a second consecutive final and Tony has emerged as a player of real quality belying his young years. I wish both players well with the remainder of their respective campaigns and remind them that their peers have singled them out for special commendation with these awards."

GPA Chief Executive Dessie Farrell commented: "It is no surprise that the players have chosen to honour Aidan and Tony for their respective performances with Mayo and Clare in August. Both players have lit up the Championships and have been pivotal figures in their counties' progress to the All-Ireland finals.

"I would like to congratulate them both on behalf of the GPA and thank the many players who voted last week.

"Thanks also to our sponsors Opel for their loyal and continued support and we look forward to the annual All-Stars team and individual selections next month at the end of a wonderful Championship season."