Galway lose injured Mannion

Galway manager John O'Mahony was yesterday resigned to losing one of his most important defensive links, confirming that 1998 All Star Tomas Mannion has failed in his efforts to shake off a back strain which has haunted him for a considerable time.

The Monivea Abbey defender lined out for a club game 10 days ago but was forced to quit prematurely after his back problem flared up again. "The reality is that Tomas won't be with us for this season," said O'Mahony last evening.

"He has been suffering from this problem for some time but we were hopeful that he would come good after a few club games. Instead, he has aggravated it once more. It is very unfortunate."

Mannion was quietly brilliant at corner back throughout Galway's 1998 march to the All-Ireland title and was considered by many observers to be the player of that particular season. He has played 28 championship games for the county since making his debut against Mayo in 1989. He won his first provincial medal six years later. His unavailability comes in the wake of the long-term injury suffered by rising Tuam Stars defender Karl Donlon, who had been given a number of league runs this season. "While Tomas had not been with us for the league, we had hoped that once the championship got into full swing he would be able to participate. Tomas has been a great servant to Galway football and his absence will be felt," said O'Mahony.

Mannion did play in Galway's last championship match last year, against Mayo in the Connacht final, when he shadowed Maurice Sheridan.

In replacing him, there are a number of defensive options open to the selectors, with as Meehan either Richard Fahy or Damien Mitchell likely to be promoted having accumulated notable experience during O'Mahony's tenure.

Another pivotal Galway star encountering injury trouble is midfielder Kevin Walsh, who also broke down during a recent club game, but his prognosis is not so grim, despite rumours to the contrary.

"He has had some difficulties but we are hopeful that he will be available for selection ahead of the championship," O'Mahony explained. Also an All Star in 1998, Walsh has long been recognised as one of the most influential midfielders in the country. During his league absences earlier this season, under-21 star Joe Bergin was the preferred partner for Micheal O Domhnaill.

This year's Feile na nOg will be held in Dublin from Friday June 30th to Monday July 3rd. The under-14 football competition, which was started in 1982, will feature boys and girls from clubs all around the country. Clubs from overseas units have also been invited. Each Dublin club will host a visiting team.

A parade down O'Connell Street on the Friday will begin the Feile. The President, Mary McAleese, ??????????an na hEireann, the Taoiseach, Bertie Ahern, and the Lord Mayor of Dublin, Mary Frehill, will be invited to review the parade.

A promotional tour of primary schools in Dublin will also be undertaken by Sean McCague, the GAA president, and former president Jack Boothman.