There are three certainties in life: death taxes, and Jarlath Burns giving a memorable trophy presentation speech.
Another exceptional post-match speech occurred once again tonight after Monaghan defeated Roscommon 1-26 to 0-19 to win the Division 2 title in Croke Park.
Before handing over the trophy, the GAA President reminded the Rossies that Armagh was in the same position as them last year after they lost to Donegal in the decider, and look what they ended up achieving.
“To Roscommon, I would like to say this to you,” Burns said.
“You achieved what you set out to do at the beginning of the year and that was come straight back up to Division 1 I will remind you that the team standing there in your place went on to win the All-Ireland final back in September
I will also say, if you don’t mind me mentioning one person here today on your team, Diarmuid Murtagh, who is now your top scorer and has taken over from a legend in Dermot Early, you are certainly among the legends Diarmuid.”
Then Burns turned his attention to Monaghan and was classy as always as he mentioned the passing of former player Brendan Og Duffy, who tragically passed in 2021 in a car accident.
“But tonight belongs to Monaghan,” he said.
“I know in your happiness tonight, but will you accept that I mention two great Monaghan people? The first player who should have been here tonight but tragically lost his life in July 2021 was the great Brendan Og Duffy. He should be here tonight, and we think of his family tonight.
We will also think of John Connelly today, and I appreciate the fact that you all offered him a moment of silence before the game tonight. He was a great Gael, and we know he is here tonight in spirit. We're thinking of John and his family here tonight.
This was an outstanding performance from Monaghan tonight. You have certainly set a marker for the Ulster Championship. We will all be watching for you.”
Monaghan will undoubtedly be put to the test as they await the winners of Donegal and Derry. For Roscommon, since the change in the goalkeeper rule, their form has taken a dive. They play London, which could set up a clash against Galway if the Tribesmen can get past New York.
