By Peter McGrath jnr
DOWN Masters will face Laois in the Spirit Cup final on 19 September. Run by the Gaelic Masters Association, Masters football has gained huge traction in recent times and there are 26 competing teams in total.
Down’s run to the Spirit Cup final has included recent victories over Leitrim/Longford and then Kildare in the semi-final.
A total of 16 clubs are represented on the Down panel indicating the broad appeal the Masters football has across the county with the team currently under the managerial tutelage of Ross Carr and Mickey Doyle.
Down’s last two victories have seen them post scoring totals of 0-15 and 0-17 so they will hope to find a goalscoring touch ahead of the decider.
Defensively, the side have been exceptionally solid of late and that has provided a huge springboard for the last two victories.
While Masters football emphasises the importance of staying active and participating in sport beyond the age of 40 moreso than prioritising success, Down would love to cap their season with a trophy that would be a deserved reward for the efforts and endeavours of the panel, their supporters and sponsors.
