Clarke's Promotion to All Stars Following His Exclusion from All-Ireland Squad
2016 All-Ireland Football Final Replay: A Turning Point for Mayo
The 2016 All-Ireland Football Final replay was a game filled with unexpected twists and turns, and one of the most notable changes was the substitution of Robbie Hennelly by David Clarke in the goalkeeping position. Hennelly was injured during the first match, forcing Clarke to take over as the starting goalkeeper for the replay. This change was noted as a key factor in Mayo's approach in the replay.
The repercussions of this substitution were felt in the All Star team selection, with David Clarke being named on the 2016 GAA/GPA Opel All Star team, despite being dropped for the All-Ireland final replay. Clarke, a goalkeeper from Ballina, joined the likes of Lee Keegan and Colm Boyle, from Mayo, who were selected as half-backs in the team.
The 2016 All Star team was a mix of veterans and newcomers. Eight first-time All Stars were included in the selection, including Jonny Cooper and Philly McMahon from Dublin, Brendan Harrison from Mayo, Ryan McHugh from Donegal, Michael Quinlivan, Paul Geaney, and Peter Haour from Tyrone. Haour was a new addition to this group, making him a first-time All Star.
Ryan McHugh, who was selected as a left wing-back in the team, is a notable figure due to his unique family history. He is the only player, along with the Brogans from Dublin, to have a father and two sons named as All-Stars.
The nominees for Footballer of the Year were Fenton, Keegan, and Kilkenny. Kevin McManamon, who was previously a favourite for Player of the Year before the final, did not make the All Star team after being taken off in the game against Mayo. Diarmuid Connolly and Ciaran Kilkenny will stand side-by-side at the All Star ceremony.
The All Star hurling team and the Hurler and Young Hurler of the Year will be revealed at the ceremony in Dublin's convention centre on Friday night. The winner of Footballer of the Year and Young Footballer of the Year for 2016 will be announced tomorrow night.
In addition to the newcomers and the veterans, the 2015 team members McMahon, Keegan, Fenton, Donnelly, and Kilkenny were honoured again in the 2016 All Star team. Brian Fenton and Mattie Donnelly form the midfield partnership in the team. Dean Rock, Michael Quinlivan, and Paul Geaney are also part of the 2016 All Star football team.
The 2016 All Star team selection reflects the exciting and unpredictable nature of GAA football, with a blend of experienced players and fresh talent. The All Star ceremony promises to be an exciting event, with the reveal of the hurling team and the announcement of the Footballer and Young Footballer of the Year.
The substitute of Robbie Hennelly by David Clarke in the goalkeeping position for the 2016 All-Ireland Football Final replay proved crucial in Mayo's strategy, considering the unexpected twists in the game. Later, Clarke's stellar performance led to his recognition as a member of the 2016 GAA/GPA Opel All Star team, showcasing the unpredictable and exciting nature of GAA football.
