Daly impressed with Roscommon’s start to league campaign

Niall Daly has credited Roscommon’s pace and energy for their strong start to this year’s Division One league campaign.

The Pádraig Pearses clubman feels the younger players have taken their chance to impress against Kerry and Monaghan.

“I am definitely feeling like there is huge pace in the team. The younger lads are absolutely flying, and it is great to see. Seeing the likes of Paddy Gavin the corner. Seeing these lads step up and play senior level is massive. The pace of Darragh Heneghan, the crowd getting excited when he gets the ball.

“It is probably taken the pressure off Diarmuid (Murtagh) and Enda (Smith) a bit. Enda was the one where every time he got the ball, he was having to take the man on. Now he has the likes of Darragh Heneghan, Senan Lambe, who has made a few driving runs forward. They are attracting attention and Enda is picking up the pieces.

“There was a lovely score in the second half against Monaghan. Niall Higgins flew by Enda, Enda gave him the ball and then Enda came off him and had loads of time to kick it over the bar. I am liking the pace in transition. Both Kerry and Monaghan have struggled big time with it. 

“There are lads who are stepping up into it. The likes of Senan Lambe and Paddy Gavin have got time. Senan and Paddy have served their apprenticeships, and they are starting to drive into it. Caelim Keogh has stepped up while Aaron Brady has taken his chance too which is what you want to see.

“There is a buzz around the place. Roscommon have really unearthed some good young talent."

*To read the full, extended interview with Niall about his inter county career, pick up a copy of next Tuesday’s Roscommon Herald.*