ROSS MUNNELLY’S EXCELLENT performance last weekend can be put down to a unique understanding he has developed with some of his fellow Irish attackers.

During his tenure as Fresher manager at DCU, the Laois forward has managed Irish captain Michael Murphy, Carlton’s latest rookie Ciarán Byrne, and won three All-Ireland titles.

Munnelly was one of the standout performers in the opening International Rules test, scoring two overs and being at the centre of all things good for the Irish attack in the opening half.

“As a player, I would have learnt quite a lot from watching those players,” Munnelly said.

“I’m 30 now and Ciarán is starting out his career, and Michael Murphy too, but these guys are top-class players.

For me I suppose it’s easy to get in and play with the two lads because I know their games so well. I’d be even more so familiar with Ciarán after coaching him last year.

Byrne, 18, was the standout player last February as DCU Freshers overcame rising Dublin star Jack McCaffrey and UCD in the championship final.

The young Louth forward recently signed for Australian side Carlton Blues on an International rookie contract which will commence in December and last for two seasons.

“Coaching Ciarán last year I got to know him very well and understand how good a footballer he was.

“Although very young he was very focused on his training and very committed. I could see all of the attributes that the Australians would be looking for in him.

©INPHO/Dan Sheridan

“He is extremely professional in the way he approaches his own training and his games.

We would of had quite a number of conversations throughout the year but Ciarán was always very focused on getting to Australia, and in DCU, we would have been fully supportive of him going, even if it was during the first year of his studies.

It’s a once in a life-time opportunity.

This year’s series is Munnelly’s first since 2005. It is just reward for an excellent season which finished with a total of 2-42 in the league and championship, yet he insists his game has not changed.

He is fully aware of the Australian threat, and his team will not be taking a second test victory for granted.

“Their hard running off the shoulder most definitely had us on the back foot at times. Even with the GAA getting to a new level, possibly we’re getting a little closer to the Australian’s fitness levels. But I think they’re professional athletes and they have that edge on us.”

“It’s a huge honor to play for Ireland. A lot of hard work has gone into it and hopefully we’ll see the rewards for that at the weekend.”

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