Tyrone joy not shared by all

Fair play to Tyrone, who showed they have just what it takes to win the All-Ireland in Croke Park on Sunday last. Armagh proved themselves worthy champions and took their defeat with immense dignity.

As one of the most inspirational and inspired players of his generation, Peter Canavan has at last attained the pinnacle of his sport and this will warm the hearts of Gaels throughout the world.

The elation on Canavan's face as he swung the trophy above his head reflected the pleasure of Tyrone fans everywhere and joy for a county that has not had too much to celebrate over the last 35 years.

Sadly, however, the unionists refused to attend the party.

In an extraordinary outburst, the UUP's Derek Hussey, former West Tyrone Assembly member, accused Tyrone fans of "hysteria" and saw their build up to the final as the "current outburst as an outward exhibition of a Cultural/Political Supremacy Movement".

Hussey, just one of many unionists to raise this particular red herring, also complained that the display of Tyrone and Armagh flags and banners throughout both counties and the other displays of support for the finalists was a form of intimidation against the unionist population.

Of particular concern to Hussey was the way Tyrone fans in Strabane decorated three 15-foot statues in the Tyrone colours.

The award winning sculptures are titled 'Let The Dance Begin'. That, it seems, is the message that should go out to Mr Hussey.