In any other era, David Clarke would be regarded as the greatest goalkeeper all. Strong under the high ball - he caught a fair few point attempts over his crossbar during his time with Mayo - and an imperious shot-stopper.
But there was something about the aftermath to Ballina Stephenites' recent county final win over Knockmore that stopped them in their tracks.
"They're exceptional. There are lads training to be doctors, lads in Trinity. They could be doing other things. They could be playing rugby in Ballina, soccer is strong in Ballina, but we are lucky that they decided to throw their lot in." In any other era, Clarke would be regarded as the greatest of them all. Strong under the high ball - he caught a fair few point attempts over his crossbar during his time with Mayo - and an imperious shot-stopper.
Goalkeepers who were playmakers - short and long - off the tee, and who could initiate attacks by roaming forward, in the case of the Ulster pair. Cluxton will be remembered as a serial winner, but he didn't get his hands on Sam Maguire until his 11th season with Dublin - enduring a serious amount of frustration year after year up to then.
Mayo GAA All Ireland Club Football Championship
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