THEIR SUCCESS IS A BIT GALLING

RAYMOND GALLIGAN admits the Cavan players have been “envious” of Monaghan’s success ahead of today’s Ulster Championship clash. While Monaghan have won two Ulster titles in 2013 and 2015 and managed to stay in Division One for seven seasons in a row, Cavan are just coming off back-to-back relegations.

While form doesn’t always matter in local derbies like today’s preliminary round clash at Clones, Monaghan have earned the right to be hot favourites.

“The Cavan players have respect for Monaghan and are a small bit envious of them because they have been very successful,” admitted Cavan skipper Galligan.

However the goalkeeper is not bothered how he fares in a head-tohead against Monaghan’s All-star

No1, Rory Beggan.

“My stats only become relevant depending on how the result pans out, I have to do my best for the team and focus on my team,” said Galligan.

“Be it kickout percentage or saving shots, I have to concentrate on myself and I’m sure Rory is the same.”

Beggan’s booming kickouts and ability to nail monster frees makes him one of Monaghan’s key attacking weapons.

He also loves soloing out the pitch to set up attacks, and Galligan (above) added: “He is crucial to their game plan.

“He picked up an All-star and is a constant All-star nominee, he is a fabulous goalkeeper and shown that for many years.

“He has an array of kickouts he can pull out at any time and is massive to their attack so you’d have to compliment him.”