The build-up to Roscommon’s last game in Dublin was full of hope and excitement as a small army of fans descended on Croke Park for the Allianz League semi-final against Kerry.
There was a great buzz around the county in the week leading up to the game following an impressive league campaign. Unfortunately, Roscommon were beaten by a very good Kerry team on the day but the occasion left plenty of memories for Rossies yuoung and old.
This Saturday, there are two big matches involving Roscommon teams along the Rocky Road to Dublin. Scoil Mhuire play an All-Ireland Final, while the Rossies take the field against the All-Ireland champions later in the evening.
It’s certainly a day that will live long in the memory of those fans, both young and old, making the trip.
Speaking of memories, reading Seamus Duke’s recap of the 1990 league quarter-final between Roscommon and Dublin, the name Noel McCaffrey stood out. Noel, who was an All Star in 1988, had a torrid time against Tony McManus that day with Tony scoring 2-5 from play.
In the current Dublin team, Noel’s son Jack McCaffrey is a former player of the year and has looked sharp following his return to inter-county action.
Of course, Tony’s son John is now part of the current Roscommon set-up and both men, along with several other former stars’ sons, will be hoping to create new memories for Roscommon and Dublin fans over the 70 minutes.
