Seamus Darby returns to Offaly training as Dublin claim '4 in a row'

Post date: Sep 02, 2018 8:12:10 PM

By Niveked.....

Former Offaly footballer and Kerry dream killer Seamus Darby has handed new Offaly boss John Maughan a welcome boost after dusting off his boots and returning to training. The three time All Ireland winner confirmed the news on Sunday evening after Jim Gavin's Dublin side beat Tyrone to collect their fourth All-Ireland in a row.

Darby (67) is best remembered for breaking Kerry hearts in 1982 as Mick O'Dwyer's men came up short in their bid for 'Five in a row' when he was introduced as a late substitute and with his first and only touch he lobbed Charlie Nelligan and sent the ball to the roof of the net with just seconds remaining.

The news of Darby's return will send shivers down the spine of Jim Gavin and his Dublin side as he plots his assault on next years championship. A spokesman for the Dublin GAA supporters club spoke to our reporter earlier this evening and confirmed the news has sent shockwaves through the Dublin team and management.

"Ah jasus isn't it bleeding shocking" the spokesman said. "Sure what bleeding hope have we got of winning the bleeding Leinster next year never mind the bleeding All-Ireland now that Darby is back. It's bleeding terrible. We're gonna have to ask the GAA for a couple more millions to try and improve our panel" the spokesman stated.

The spokesman also confirmed that upon hearing the news of Darby's return, Jim Gavin has cancelled the banquet in 'The Gibson' hotel and brought the players to Parnell Park for a training session.

Darby, a Dowling cup winner with Rhode in 1975, also played and managed Edenderry in 1989 and ironically marked his brother Stephen in the 1989 semi final. His return to the Offaly squad has been well received and it's expected that he will carpool to training with county stars Seán Pender and Cian Farrell. As it is to late in the year to get a club transfer it is expected that Darby will join up with Peter Brady's panel on Tuesday night for training and is expected to be available for the quarter final clash with Tullamore in two weeks time.