Homecoming Gallery: ‘It’s class to see so many out to meet us’

The fans rolled into Pairc Tailteann in big numbers on Monday evening but for once there was no football or hurling to watch. Instead they were at the Brews Hill venue to welcome back the Meath players - and others - who were involved in the Tailteann Cup victory over Down on Saturday.

It wasn't like the feverish homecomings granted to teams from the past who ended up back at the Fair Green in Navan with the Sam Maguire but it was still a rousing reception nonetheless. Heartfelt. "This is a great event for the county," was how one observer put it.

The hundreds of young and not so young, fans waited on the pitch in front of the stand. They cheered and clapped as the players were brought out through the tunnel and up to the presentation area while MC for the evening Brendan Cummins introduced each of them. There was an extra roar of appreciation as captain Donal Keogan emerged holding the trophy.

One of the fans who showed up was Breda Roche from Rathkenny. She was in the Pairc with her grandson Darragh. She spoke how manager Colm O'Rourke had given the players confidence. "He brought them around the right way. He really encouraged them and got the best out of them. Young lads like Jack Flynn and Jack O'Connor were great, they were all great."

Another supporter, Kathleen Dolan from Bohermeen spoke to the Meath Chronicle about how she watched Saturday's final at home. "I was sitting in my armchair roaring at the telly," she said expressing the desire of so many Meath supporters to see this young, newly-constructed team get across the line.

When he spoke to the crowd manager O'Rourke said that there was some talk Donal Keogan might retire but he certainly wanted him to stay. On the issue of the Rathkenny player going or not, O'Rourke shouted: "Navan says NO."

Selectors Barry Callaghan, Sean Boylan and Paul Garrigan were also introduced to the fans. There was, understandably a special cheer for former manager Boylan. The other selector, Stephen Bray, was not in attendance. Members of the backroom team too were praised for their efforts.

Conor Gray was one of the players who was in big demand to autograph jerseys, footballs and stand in for selfies. "It's class to see so many people out to meet us, it just shows how a string of wins brings the whole county together. It's brilliant to see everyone out and in such good spirits," the Maynooth University business student said.

The young Dunshaughlin midfielder spoke about how the Tailteann Cup success can be a springboard to further success. Manager O'Rourke also touched on the same theme in his speech. "We are going to have plenty of good days to come," he said.

The delighted fans who should up on Monday night will certainly hope he's right.