By Alan Rodgers

FERGAL McCann, who coached Tyrone to their All-Ireland Senior title successes in 2005 and 2008, has died after a battle with illness.

Mr McCann, who was 47 and a married father of two children, was a member of the Augher, St Macartan’s club. He was also one of the county’s most renowned coaches.

After finishing his playing career, he went on to manage and coach a number of top clubs in the county, including Killyclogher and Carrickmore.

But he will be best remembered in Gaelic games for his role with Tyrone’s Sam Maguire Cup triumphs under Mickey Harte. Alongside his club colleague, Tony Donnelly, they were instrumental in the runs to the two Croke Park victories over Kerry.