Where would Offaly football be without this legend, he has the heart of a lion and he never stops trying to win. Parnell Park in the League, we were all but beaten until Mac comes up with a hatrick and nearly a winner. That is typical of the man, sheer determination. Ireland's most capped International Rules player. Many other examples could be outlined but theres really no need.
The question remains however, what will happen to Offaly football when he hangs up his boots, or will Mac do a Claffey or Brady and play till he's nearly 40?
I have berated him in the past, but I now realise what an important player he is and I shall end by proposing a question. How have Offaly fans regarded him and what do ye think he means to the team?
Mac
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Lone Shark
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Most Offaly fans would have nothing but pure respect for the guy. He has good days and bad days, but to be honest I wouldn't say there's a more committed footballer in Ireland. Certainly he's held us together on days when everything has gone badly.
I wouldn't say retirement will be anytime soon for him though. Since he's stopped trying to do everything, he's actually been twice as impressive. I can honestly say that this year he was very good from start to finish, and even five or six years ago he'd mix in some very poor displays with some amazing ones. I expect him to drop back to centre back in a year or two and have another few good years back there - much like McGeeney now.
In saying that, Offaly football will move on after him just like we've moved on from losing Cullen, Claffey, and countless others. That's the way of it.
I wouldn't say retirement will be anytime soon for him though. Since he's stopped trying to do everything, he's actually been twice as impressive. I can honestly say that this year he was very good from start to finish, and even five or six years ago he'd mix in some very poor displays with some amazing ones. I expect him to drop back to centre back in a year or two and have another few good years back there - much like McGeeney now.
In saying that, Offaly football will move on after him just like we've moved on from losing Cullen, Claffey, and countless others. That's the way of it.
some man, some player
To be honest i have been one of mac's biggest critics. My criticism comes from sheer frustration watching him. I have often screamed at him to put down the ball when i'd see him running up to take a free then the mad hoor would square the shoulders and slap it over the black mark no bother at all , turn to face the crowd and stick a fist into the air. (PRIDE)good days, bad days, really bad days and then a perfomance like last sunday when all around him was crumbling, yet he stood tall and gave it everything till the final whistle( not the first time hes done this)
Credit where credit is due we are lucky to have such a commited man as Mac. Pure dedication to Offaly football is what he gives. Whether he plays good or bad. I've seen days where the man has had terrible games yet youd still never doubt the big fella would die for the jersey.
Hopefully Ciaran can add some silverware to his cabinet before he hangs up the boots as there isnt another player in Offaly or even the country that deserves it more.
Ciaran Mcmanus Ya big F***in Ape " we love Ya"
Allez les Faithful!
Credit where credit is due we are lucky to have such a commited man as Mac. Pure dedication to Offaly football is what he gives. Whether he plays good or bad. I've seen days where the man has had terrible games yet youd still never doubt the big fella would die for the jersey.
Hopefully Ciaran can add some silverware to his cabinet before he hangs up the boots as there isnt another player in Offaly or even the country that deserves it more.
Ciaran Mcmanus Ya big F***in Ape " we love Ya"
Allez les Faithful!
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the bare biffo
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Theres nothing I'd love to see more than Ciarán Mac get a celtic cross. He warrants it for enthusiasm and commitment alone.
And now that the dust of disappointment has settled on the carnage of Portlaoise, a degree of contentment and more importantly, hope has arisen in it's place. If Evans and Mooney return at their best and some strategy can be devised to win more possession around the middle, this team can progress further. Looking at some of the teams left now, it's hard not to believe that with the right setup, an AI semi is within this teams capability. And Ciarán will be there. Charging on for his deserved September date in the sun.
Ride on cowboy, ride on.
And now that the dust of disappointment has settled on the carnage of Portlaoise, a degree of contentment and more importantly, hope has arisen in it's place. If Evans and Mooney return at their best and some strategy can be devised to win more possession around the middle, this team can progress further. Looking at some of the teams left now, it's hard not to believe that with the right setup, an AI semi is within this teams capability. And Ciarán will be there. Charging on for his deserved September date in the sun.
Ride on cowboy, ride on.
"The ball may pass, but the man, never."