Promising signs for Morgan despite painful Down defeat

AN AGONISING defeat ultimately ended the hopes of the Tyrone U-20 hurlers in the last moments of the All-Ireland B final, but their performance against fancied opponents has raised real hope for the future of the players whose display received deserved plaudits.

There was no doubting the pain of defeat by 1-22 to 4-11 against Down for the young Red Hands last Saturday at Breffni Park. They entered the final dreaming of success and produced what must amount to one of the best displays of hurling by a Tyrone team in the past decade.

It was an effort which highlights the talents of players whose skills and commitment are clear. Their efforts are also reflecting the coaching structures which are now beginning to yield dividends both at club and county level.

Now, the hope will be that the experience of this final appearance will be built upon in 2026 and beyond. Nine of the starting 15 are eligible in the grade again next year, while many others are currently gaining experience as part of the county’s seniors.

Team manager, Collie Morgan,was understandably bitterly disappointed at the final whistle. He praised the players and believes that they are more than capable of building on the progress, determination and commitment display in the high-scoring final and throughout this year’s campaign.

“This was a fantastic performance from the boys in both halves. We got into a bit of a lead in the first half, but we probably would have wanted a few more points then to have a bigger gap because we knew that Down had a few big strikers and would come at us hard in the second half which they did,” said the Naomh Colmcille clubman.

“Our boys were brilliant in the second half. They left a lot of scores in the first 30 and a few in the second half. With a bit more luck and if a few more decisions had gone our way then things might have been different.

“Down are a well-travelled side, they’ve played in Division One of Antrim this year. But our lads died with their boots on, they did really well and I’m so proud of the efforts that they’ve put in. There was very little in it agaist seasoned opponents.”

Any number of the Tyrone players seem destined for bright futures at inter-county level. Shea Munroe, Aidan Woods, Francie Hurson, Ronan Molloy, Liam Griffiths, Fionn Corry and Corey Bell are among those preparing to establish themselves in the senior grade both in 2026 and beyond.

Senior manager, Stephen McGarry, was at Breffni Park to watch the U-20s in their brave bid for glory. He has spoken about the need to ensure players become accustomed to playing at a high level, and what happened on Saturday certainly provides grounds for optimism.

“Down were always going to be favourites with their tradition. But within the group we were confident of giving them a game and we really did. But that doesn’t take away from the disappointment because this was an opportunity for silverware and we’re bitterly disappointed to have missed out,” added Collie Morgan.

“This display is a fantastic boost to Tyrone hurling. There’s a lot of good work going on within all the development teams, the U-17s had a good season last year, some of this team are already in the senior panel.

“The hurling community in Tyrone is small, but we’re fanatical about the game. You’d hope that they’ll equip themselves equally next year and with a bit more luck get to another final.

“The players have been a credit all year, they’re totally dedicated to their hurling. They will still take immense pride from this performance, and I have nothing but good things to say about them. Hopefully, they will have good seasons with their clubs over the summer and come back at this next year.”