GAA Awards:David Kelly (Sligo) and Damien Hayes (Galway) were named respective football and hurling GPA Players of the Month for June today.
Sligo forward Kelly put in a fine performance during their win over Mayo in the Connacht Championship at the start of June. He continued that form into the semi-final clash against Galway before the county advanced from a replay and will now take on Roscommon in the final.
Hayes and Galway advanced to their first Leinster SHC final after a tough semi-final win over Offaly. The full forward scored the opening goal and ended the game with a personal tally of two goals and three points. They went on to lose last weekend’s final against All-Ireland champions Kilkenny.
“David has been outstanding for Sligo through the league and championship- and his brilliantly-taken goal against Galway underlines that he has become one of the best corner forwards in the country,” said Martin McHugh, Chairman GPA Football Selection Committee.
“Damien delivered a very tenacious performance in the Leinster semi-final replay and his tally of 2-3, all from play, helped Galway overcome a tough challenge from a determined Offaly,” added Donal O’Grady, Chairman GPA Hurling Selection Committee.
“It was an outstanding return for the Portumna man and the award shows that his display impressed his fellow players.”