Paul Moran- Leitrim GAA Podcast

Ballinamore forward Paul Moran describes his first year playing senior football and reflects back to his debut win over Dromahair last week in the Leitrim Connacht Gold Senior Championship.

Moran was selected in our Week 1 Team of the Week after impressing on the weekend, contributing 1-4 against Dromahair. However what made it all the better was the fact it was a debut performance with the current holders at senior grade. Paul looked back on the game on the recent episode of the Finalwhistle.ie Leitrim GAA Podcast.

“It was a great game and it was great to have a win on the debut. Dromahair were good, they set up very defensively but thankfully we broke it down after a while,” said Paul.

Having made a name for himself at minor level for both club and county, he flavours adult football in 2022, and as expected the transition has been challenging but enjoyable. “It was tough to get a spot on a championship winning team but it’s been great playing with inter-county footballers and progressing more than you would at underage,” he added.

“I’ve been water boy, helping out collecting balls for five or six years now so I’ve been there for a long time. So its not a huge shock to the system but actually being one of those players now is certainly different. It’s exciting and it’s been very enjoyable.”

He looked specifically at the differences involved with being involved with the adult team. “There’s a lot more interaction with the managers and you feel more involved. There’s more excitement through the weeks. You might have a sleepless night but its definitely better being involved than being on the side-line.”

Paul crossed the radar of many in the county during his recent involvement with Leitrim’s U20s. He described his experience on that panel as something that helped with the transition to Ballinamore’s senior team. He also looked back to a close defeat to Mayo where his impact off the bench helped close what was once a big gap in scores in the game.

“We ran them close and that game put us on the radar too. It was obviously disappointing not to start but you just have to make the best impact you can and be ready to come on whenever you’re called.”

It was an underwhelming league campaign in 2022 by Ballinamore standards as they failed to reach the final on the last day.

“It definitely matters. We move on from it and look forward to the championship but it certainly matters that we didn’t get to be in Carrick that weekend of the final. We take it on the chin but fair play to Mohill as well.”

Paul looked ahead to the weekend where Ballinamore host St. Mary’s in the next round. “They beat us in the league but we look forward to the challenge. We’ve a few lads coming back so its looking good and we’re excited for it.”

When asked if these returning players put pressure on his spot in the team, the youngster showed his professionalism. “Absolutely, but competition is great.” Especially with the games coming, the depth in the squad is key. It makes everyone improve so you can’t complain.”

A very grounded and talented player, Paul spoke of his delight to make our Week 1 Team of the Week, but also stated the importance of not looking into it too much and focusing on what is next.