Hampsey: We never threw in the towel

Tyrone’s Padraig Hampsey gave a valiant display in Sunday’s All-Ireland final defeat to Dublin

PADRAIG Hampsey was named Tyrone’s player of the match at their post-match banquet for a sterling display in their All-Ireland defeat to Dublin.

Like his teammates, he was emphasising his positives in the wake of their 2-17 to 1-14 defeat in a first All-Ireland appearance for the vast majority of Mickey Harte’s young squad.

“We had a great start, but I thought the penalty was a tough decision. Moments like that brought them back into the game.

“But we battled hard to the end and never gave up, which is a deadly thing about the lads. They never give up or throw in the towel. The boys that came off the bench really did their best to get us over the line, but the Dubs are a great team and they saw it through.”

“We showed great heart and belief and this is one to build on for next season.”

The full interview with Padraig Hampsey is in this week’s Gaelic Life, in shops now or available here.