Mayo wing back Lee Keegan says they players do not mind that there is a mixed response among GAA fans to the International rules series.
The Westport man who made his debut for Ireland last year says they are enjoying the experience of being full-time athletes and are proud top represent their county against the best the AFL has to offer. After training at the Patterson Subiaco Oval in Perth the 23-year-old two time All Star spoke to me about being on tour and the hopes of Mayo in 2015.
Tyrone's Niall Morgan is one of two goalkeepers in the Irish squad for Saturday's International rules test in Perth against the best players the AFL has to offer.
Morgan who plays outfield for his club will make his debut in the Patterson Subiaco Oval although he has got stiff competition for the position in the shape of Meath's Paddy O'Rourke who also plays outfield at times! The 23-year-old who turned his back on the Irish League to play Gaelic football chatted to me about Saturday's test and Tyrones hope for 2015.
Tony Scullion won an All Ireland with Derry but the Ireland International rules assistant coach says winning a series against the Australians in 1990 was just as big an achievement to him. The passionate Derry man told me what the series means to him.
Peirce Hanley is the only Australia based player in the Irish squad. The Mayo man has appeared in four previous tests and has played 96 AFL games since joining the Brisbane Lions in 2008. Hanley spoke to me about how his experience might benefit the Irish squad and his younger brother Pierce who has joined him in Oz following glittering minor career with Mayo.
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