Michael Murphy with his award.
MICHAEL Murphy has been named as the GAA/GPA Open Player of the Month for May.
The Donegal captain was immense for Donegal in their Ulster quarter-final win over Derry at Celtic Park. The highlight of his contribution was a point from a sideline kick on the 45 that has been compared to a score by the Kerry legend Maurice Fitzgerald. Murphy’s influence was all over the win.
It was from his fetch that Frank McGlynn gained possession to set up Leo McLoone for Donegal’s goal.
“Michael Murphy is one of the great talents in football and once again played a leading role in his county’s hard-fought victory over Derry,” GPA CEO Dessie Farrell said.
“His wonderful second half score from a sideline kick shows the depth of his talent.”
Murphy led the Donegal comeback after Derry went in ahead at the break. The winning of the game came in the third quarter, when Donegal really stamped their authority on the contest.
GAA President Liam O’Neill has praised the Glenswilly man’s performance.
“Michael Murphy has long been a leader for Donegal despite his relative youth and his latest offering against Derry was in keeping with his leadership qualities,” he said.
Laois hurler Stephen Maher was presented with the hurling award. Maher and his Laois teammates almost pulled off a massive upset in the Leinster SHC clash against Galway. Despite losing the match by a two-point margin, Maher scored 0-3 on the day, and was instrumental in driving his county’s spirited performance against the Tribesmen.
Dave Sheeran, Managing Director, Opel Ireland, added: “We would like to congratulate Michael and Stephen on their outstanding performances during the month of May. They are both deserving winners of the GAA GPA Players of the Month for May, proudly sponsored by Opel.”
The selections, chosen by the inter-county playing body, recognise the individual contributions made by both players for their respective counties during the month.
Each month, between May and October, a Footballer and a Hurler are awarded for their performances in the Provincial and All-Ireland Championships. Players are short-listed by members of the All-Stars Steering Committee and the winners selected by the county playing body.
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