Mayo man leads Australian club to Senior Championship title

Breaffy native Michael Hall has redeemed himself after last year's Mayo Senior Football Final loss by captaining Cormac McAnallens to the New South Wales Senior Football Championship in Sydney on Sunday.

The side named in honour of the former Tyrone footballer are celebrating their 20th anniversary this year, and skippered by Hall took silverware following a strong second half performance with a 1-11 to 1-10 win over Penrith Gaels.

Reflecting on his unexpected journey, Hall said, "I kind of left home being unsure whether I was going to play out here or what I was going to do. But when Paddy McTigue from the Neale (Vice-Chairman), who knew a few people from Mayo, gave me a call, I decided to join Cormac McAnallens."

Hall moved to Sydney at the start of the year, arriving just in time for New Year's. Despite his initial uncertainties, Hall quickly integrated into the Irish community. "I've been here about eight or nine months now, and I've met some of my best mates through playing football over here," he shared.

The past year has seen a remarkable turnaround for Hall. After leading Breaffy to the Mayo final, where they fell short against Ballina, he travelled to Asia, before landing in Oz and taking on the challenge of captaining Cormac McAnallens. The team has had a successful season, winning both the league and the championship. In Sunday’s Championship final, they came from behind, overcoming a four-point half-time deficit to take victory over Penrith Gaels. 

"We've kind of been a second-half team all year," Hall noted, highlighting their resilience and determination. Playing for a club named after the late Cormac McAnallen added a sense of honour to Hall's experience. "It's nice to remember someone who was one of the best footballers in the country. Playing for a club that honours his memory is special," he said.

As Hall prepares to return to Ireland for a brief visit, he looks back on his time in Sydney so far with fondness. "It’s been a great experience, and not something I expected, but it's been good fun," the 29-year old concluded.