Tim McCann recalls Irish League legend 'putting me in the gravel'

Gareth Fullerton
·2-min read
Photo showing Former Glentoran winger Tim McCann
Former Glentoran winger Tim McCann -Credit:Darren Kidd/Presseye


Former Glentoran hero Tim McCann has recalled how one Irish League legend 'put me in the gravel' more than once during their time playing against each other.

The Oval icon was part of BBC Sportsound's coverage on Saturday as the race for points continued in the Premiership and Championship.

Portadown went into the day knowing victory against Dundela would secure them the Championship title, and promotion back to the top flight.

Read more: League of Ireland match halted after child picks up flare thrown onto pitch

One of the Beeb's other guests was Portadown legend Keith O'Hara who spent almost two decades at Shamrock Park.

The pair were brought on air together to chat about their duels in the Irish League.

O'Hara started by recalling his league debut for the Ports, which came against McCann and the Glens.

He said: "I was up against Tim McCann at the Oval, and I think Tim scored at the back post twice in a 5-3 game. And I remember saying at the time, 'I will never let that happen again'."

Photo showing Former Portadown captain Keith O'Hara
Former Portadown captain Keith O'Hara -Credit:Tony Hendron/Presseye

McCann joked: "I think I scored two headers that day. That's how rare that was."

Asked if O'Hara became a tougher opponent as the years went on, McCann said: "Well, he definitely did. There were a few cuts and bruises (playing against him).

"I remember him putting me on the gravel at Shamrock Park a couple of times. Keith came in at such a young age, and he played in that Irish Cup final against us in 2000 when he was still learning the trade."

McCann provided the cross for Ian Gilzean's winner in that cup final at Windsor Park, and he joked: "The only reason I got that assist is because that was the only time I got past Keith all day!"

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