Antrim to the fore in Joe McDonagh Team of the Year

The Antrim hurlers are the dominant presence in the Joe McDonagh Team of the Year with the reigning champions claiming seven slots in the XV.

The Saffrons are represented in every sector of the field with goalkeeper Ryan Elliott joined by defenders Joe Maskey, Gerard Walsh and Eoghan Campbell, Keelan Molloy named in midfield, and Conal Cunning and Ciarán Clarke headlining the attack.

Beaten finalists Kerry are led by star defender Fionan Mackessy who is honoured for the third year in a row, and is joined by Eoin Ross, Mikey Boyle and full-forward Pádraig Boyle, who scored 3-64 in six matches.

Mount Leinster Rangers and Carlow star Chris Nolan gets into the team for the third consecutive season and is flanked by teammate Martin Kavanagh, who scored 2-49 in five matches.

Offaly dynamo David Nally gets the nod in centerfield with Down goal scoring star Daithí Sands collecting an award to go with the honour he scooped in 2019.

"There was no shortage of impressive displays throughout the campaign, which is reflected in the spread of five counties featuring here," said GAA President Larry McCarthy.

"It is a great honour for all of those who have been singled out as being worthy of special praise and I know it is an accolade that will be warmly welcomed by your families, clubs and supporters in your county."

The awards will be presented at a gala black-tie function in Croke Park this Friday night.

The celebration will also feature the awards for the Ring, Rackard and Meagher Team of the Year, the Tailteann Cup Team of the Year as well as the presentation of the overall Players of the Year in the three championships.

Joe McDonagh Team of the Year

1 Ryan Elliot (Antrim)

2 Joe Maskey (Antrim), 3 Gerard Walsh (Antrim), 4 Eoin Ross (Kerry)

5 Fi