At left half back, number 7 - Pat Reynolds.

The last piece in the jigsaw as without doubt the Meath half backline of Collier, Cunningham and Pat Reynolds was the greatest in GAA history.

Pat first burst onto the inter county scene as a raw, 18 year old teenager in 1964. All fears for his inexperience rapidly faded as he took to championship action like a duck to water. 

Come Meath's exit at the hands of Galway in August the young Reynolds was a house hold name throughout Meath GAA circles.

Brave and strong, the dashing Pat was to remain a Meath senior for the next eleven years. He had already lined out in that familiar number 7 jersey in the 66 final, was there again for the 70 decider and climaxed a great career in the green and gold as an experienced, father like centre half back when a very young team downed the Dubs in the NFL decider of 75.

1970 was to see Pat Reynolds at his footballing peak and his semi final display against Galway was one of the greatest ever produced by a Meath player in Croke Park. 

He was Meath's first All Star in 71, the initial year of this popular selection. Of course he was handed the number 7 shirt. In 1978 he obtained a first Meath SFC medal with his beloved Walterstown.

Son Paddy was to emulate his father both as an All Ireland winner and as an All Star.

Pat Reynolds was later a key figure behind the scenes as a tried and trusted selector during the earlier years of Sean Boylan's reign and had a major role to play in the All Ireland wins of 87 and 88.

Years of outstanding service.

Tweet

Most Read Stories