GAA legend Lee Keegan singles out 'stellar' Mayo forward for early-season praise

Lee Keegan's comments come after the National Football League Division One game between Galway and Mayo in Pearse Stadium, Salthill. Pic: Sportsfileplaceholder image
Lee Keegan's comments come after the National Football League Division One game between Galway and Mayo in Pearse Stadium, Salthill. Pic: Sportsfile

The Green and Red legend was full of praise for multiple facets of Andy Moran's National League opener

Mayo GAA legend Lee Keegan has offered plenty of praise to Andy Moran's side following their opening day win in the National Football League.

The North Mayo side, who were absent from the 2025 edition of the race for the Pete McDonnell Cup, are also set to enter a side in the restructured versions of the club leagues.placeholder image
The North Mayo side, who were absent from the 2025 edition of the race for the Pete McDonnell Cup, are also set to enter a side in the restructured versions of the club leagues.

Those sentiments were echoed by five-time All-Star Keegan, as he offered his musings in his RTÉ column.

In his opinion, the three-point win 'justified the tentative optimism' which has been brewing in the county.

The returning Robbie Hennelly, whose impact was described as 'Beggan-like', as well as Ryan O'Donoghue and Tommy Conroy, were all described in glowing terms by the Mayo icon.

However, one flame-haired forward came in for particular rave reviews.

"19-year-old Darragh Beirne made a stellar league debut," Keegan said.

"I've watched Beirne for the Mayo Under-20s, and for Claremorris when they played our club in the Mayo Under-20 final. He's a really good footballer, a smart footballer.

"And, crucially, he's a left-footed forward, which we've been badly stuck for in the last few years."

The Westport clubman went on to discuss some concerns from the Round One clash, such as the goal chances which came to the fore.

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