THERE is more than one prodigal son in the Down camp. Peter Withnell's return to the fold produced such a roar of approval from red and black bedecked fans that a sip or two of TCP was probably required afterwards to soothe vocal cords.

But it was the contribution of John Shorty Treanor which, arguably, had greater significance in the scheme of things and, in the Down dressing-room afterwards, his fan club contained manager and playing colleagues alike.

Down manager Pete McGrath, with a twinkle in his eye, said: "He's a very experienced player. Shorty has done exceptionally well in the two games he has played in so far in the championship this year. He is back after a long absence from the team, and it is good to see him playing so well."

When Down last lifted the Sam Maguire, in 1994, D J Kane climbed the steps of the Hogan Stand to clasp the piece of silverware. Kane, too, acknowledged Treanor's contribution and also welcomed back another old hero, Ross Carr.

"It is good to see Ross still has an old head on his shoulders," said Kane.

Treanor, for his part, is just laid to be back, and to be given an important part to play. "I must say it's a little strange to see Greg (Blaney) inside at corner forward, but I'm enjoying the freedom that I have at centre half forward."

McGrath, however, is aware that the team has still to reach its best. "Monaghan were certainly the better team for the first 15 minutes," he said. "We were struggling to get our fluency but, when the time came to show our character and resilience, we did so."

Next up is Cavan. And McGrath said: "I saw Cavan play last week and they looked a very capable team. I feel we need to improve a little further before we face them."

Monaghan boss Mick McCormack said: "Down were very strong, physically stronger. We had four or five players who weren't as fit as we would have liked, and that told against us a bit too. However, they are a very good team and their power was impressive.

But the Monaghan manager wasn't too taken by some of referee Jim Curran's decisions. "I'm not a man who normally criticises referees, but I thought Peter Duffy took a lot of punishment. Players of his quality have to be protected."