Gavan Reilly: 'It’s a long, long time since a young Meath player was such a poster boy for the national game'

A rare non-political interlude this week, given I’m still buzzing about Meath’s excellent start to the Division 2 campaign in the National Football League. It feels like donkey’s years since the last time Meath won a televised League game (Division 2 doesn’t often attract the TV cameras, in fairness), so what’s rare is wonderful.

Even more uplifting was the manner of the victory – full of composure and guile, playing the odds (and the clock) before Jack Flynn launched his staggering two-pointer to turn a one-point deficit into a one-point lead. No better man than Jordan Morris to capitalise on a rushed kick-out to grab the insurance point and put a thrilling game beyond doubt.

Jordan has his own Cavan connections, lining out with Kingscourt Gaels, but it was exceptionally heartening to see so many kids in both blue and green jerseys lining up for his autograph after the final hooter, understanding that greatness was in their midst. No doubt a few of them saw the clip of his astonishing curled two-pointer for TUD in the Sigerson Cup last midweek, reminiscent of Roberto Carlos’s famous free kick against France.

Without meaning any disrespect to the valiant men who have lined out in green and gold for decades: It’s a long, long time since a young Meath player was such a poster boy for the national game. Long may it last, and long may this undefeated streak continue.

- See Gavan's full Column in this week's paper!