Meath Sports Awards... Emma Duggan enhances burgeoning reputation further
On the big stage the big players shine. That certainly is the case as far as Emma Duggan is concerned. The Dunboyne player proved conclusively she had the temperament for the big occasion when she played a leading role in helping Meath defeat Dublin in the Ladies All-Ireland SFC final at Croke Park last September.
Earmarked as a player with special qualities from a very young age, Duggan propelled herself into the limelight big time when scoring a sensational goal that helped Meath achieve a famous 1-11 to 0-12 victory over Dublin in that final. The goal underlined Duggan's nerveless, unwavering temperament in the heat of battle. Such calmness, such coolness belied the fact that she is still only a teenager.
Winning the ball from a Dublin kick-out Duggan floated the ball over the head of Dublin goalkeeper Ciara Trant and into the back of the net in one of those momentous moments from a unforgettable game.
In the semi-final against Cork, Duggan had also stepped up to the plate firing home a last-gasp goal that helped Meath seal a sensational draw after the team had trailed by seven points with normal time almost up. Meath, of course, went on to win after extra-time and secure their place in the final.
Yet it wasn't just the dramatic, eye-catching goals that ensured Duggan became a household name in 2021. It was also her general contribution from play with her ability to create and take scores vital. She drove Meath on with her storming runs; they were major features of the team's journey. In 2021 also Duggan helped Meath claim the NFL Div 2 crown and she was a big factor in ensuring Dunboyne won the Meath and Leinster Club SFC titles.