The day Clann na nGael toppled Scotstown
The late Donie Shine was Clann na nGael manager when the Roscommon and Connacht champions played Scotstown in February 1990. Picture: INPHO
In their pomp, Clann na nGael saw off Scotstown by 1-8 to 0-6 in their All-Ireland semi-final, played in mid-February 1990 — the last time the Monaghan outfit played in the last four of the senior club championship.
According to reporter, Liam Sherlock, it was 14-man Clann’s “experience, skill and, above all, commitment” that enabled St. Brigid’s neighbours to reach their fifth All-Ireland final — this time against Baltinglass on St. Patrick’s Day — in front of approximately 4,500 supporters in Kiltoom.
Tom Lennon’s dismissal after five minutes was a blow to the Roscommon champions who were managed by the late Donie Shine.
Clann were only 0-2 to 0-1 ahead with a strong breeze at their backs after 23 minutes but Tony McManus’ goal, set up by Owen and Eamon McManus Snr., ignited a scoring blitz that left the Johnstown-based side nine points ahead at the break.
Led by Mike Keegan, Anthony McManus and Fran Nicholson, the Clann defence snuffed out Scotstown’s scoring threat that included the prolific duo of Ray McCarron and Gerry McCarville.
Brendan Beggan, father of current Scotstown goalkeeper, Rory, lined out at midfield.
Clann na nGael: Paul Naughton; Declan Rock, Mike Keegan, Fran Nicholson; Joey Connaughton, Jimmy McManus (0-1), Anthony McManus; Paul McManus, Eamon McManus Snr.; Owen McManus, Eamon McManus Jnr. (0-3), Emmet Durney (0-3); Padraig Naughton, Tom Lennon, Tony McManus (1-1). Sub used: Gerry Lennon for Padraig Naughton.
Scotstown: Brian Rice; Seán McKenna, Eugene Sherry, Fergus Caulfield; Damien Sterrit, Seán McCarville, Paddy Carroll; Gerry McCarville (0-2), Brendan Beggan; Declan McPhillips, Ray McCarron (0-3), Michael Caulfield (0-1); Gerard McGurk, Brian McNeill, Bernie Murray. Subs: Gerard Caulfield for McPhillips, Brendan Lillis for McKenna, Seamus McCarville for Murray.
Referee: Paddy Collins (Westmeath).
