Minor star McAnespie gaining inspiration from his famous brother

AN All-Ireland Quarter Final clash now beckons for the Tyrone Minors after their brilliant win over Cavan at Enniskillen last week earned them the provincial title for the first time since 2022, and takes them another step towards the ultimate goal of Thomas Markham Cup glory.

It’s now 15 years since the Red Hands last clinched the All-Ireland title at this level. Although the county did win the U-17 title in 2017, you have to go right back to 2010 and the talented team of that year which defeated Cork in the Croke Park decider.

Now the Rebel county, who lost the Munster Final against Kerry last week, present the opposition for Tyrone in the last eight. That will be another occasion to relish for the young Tyrone side, who have completed the Ulster League and Championship double under team manager, Gerard Donnelly.

Their emphatic 2-11 to 1-8 win over Cavan at Brewster Park at the weekend was testament to the efforts put in by both the clubs and county management. Among those enjoying the journey this year is Darren McAnespie from Aghaloo who is looking forward to the challenges ahead.

“It’s a class feeling to be at this stage of the year and to have won the Ulster title. We knew that Cavan were going to be tough, and they showed that in the first half,” he said.

“We’d met them two times previously and they were very good as well. It was important for us not to take anything for granted here.

“Our season has been going well. The backroom team with the likes of Gerry Donnelly and Sean Murphy are very good. They have great experience, they’re always ready to give us advice and the whole thing is beneficial for all the players.”

Now the stage is set for that clash against Cork at O’Moore Park in Portlaoise on Saturday week. It’s a brilliant chance for the team to make progress on the All-Ireland scene, and reach the semi-final for the first time since 2021.

“We played Cork earlier on this year in a challenge match and they’re a very good side. It’s going to be another tough game, but then that’s the type of matches that you want to be playing in,” added the young Aghaloo player.

He is a brother of Monaghan senior player, Ryan, and as the youngest in the house ended up playing for Tyrone.

“Ryan is someone that I can look up to. He’s an inspiration for me with how he has done with Monaghan. Hopefully, we can do well against Cork and keep going for another while after that.”