Limerick's Andrew O'Shaughnessy and Declan O'Sullivan of Kerry have been honoured with the Opel Gaelic Player of the Month Awards for August in hurling and football respectively. Their selection is a fitting tribute to the achievement of Limerick and Kerry in reaching the 2007 All Ireland Finals. Andrew O'Shaughnessy's inspirational 2-7 in the All-Ireland semi-final against Waterford lead the Shannonsiders to their first All-Ireland final appearance since 1996 and also deservedly earned the Kilmallock clubman his first Opel Gaelic Player of the Month award for hurling. Hurling Committee Chairman Donal O'Grady, wasn't the least bit surprised by the decision. "Andrew has long been touted as an outstanding talent by hurling people in Limerick and this summer the rest of the country saw why he is so highly thought of on Shannonside," O'Grady stated. "His brilliant display against Waterford in the All-Ireland semi-final must go down as one of the performances of the year. His first goal that afternoon was all his own creation and was finished in the style of a natural poacher. The fact that he finished the day with a personal haul of two goals and seven points tells you all about his huge contribution to the Limerick cause." Kerry football captain and Dromid Pearses clubman, Declan O'Sullivan was in fantastic form in the All-Ireland semi-final against Dublin, scoring a hugely impressive 1-3 and helping Kerry reach their fourth All-Ireland final in a row. O'Sullivan's outstanding performances for Kerry have been a major factor in Kerry's march to the September decider according to former Kerry manager and chairman of the Football Selection Committee, Jack O'Connor: "I know Declan a long time and it is great when you see a young footballer realising his exciting potential," observed O'Sullivan's fellow clubmate. "He has been a massive influence for Kerry in the big games this summer, leading by example like all good captains should. His goal against Monaghan was the score that brought Kerry back into the game and he came up with the vital goal also against Dublin in the semi-final, as well as three points. For a half-forward to score 1-3 from play in a big match is nearly unheard of in the modern game." Dessie Farrell, Chief Executive of the GPA, said; "Andrew may have lost an All-Ireland final but he can reflect with no shortage of pride on his achievements this season, particularly his outstanding performance in the semi-final. His fellow players have now recognised this contribution. Declan O'Sullivan has been the key Kerry forward this summer and has been hugely instrumental in setting up his county's bid for back-to-back titles. He is a real leader and is a very deserving football winner for August." Commenting on the announcement, Dave Sheeran, Managing Director, Opel Ireland, said, "I am delighted to reward these two fantastic players with the Opel Gaelic Players Awards for August. I would like to congratulate both Andrew and Declan on their outstanding displays for their counties this month, which were instrumental in helping both Limerick and Kerry reach the 2007 All-Ireland finals. Their personal flair and the sense of excitement they create on the playing field embodies the spirit of the game, and I am delighted to be in a position to reward their achievements." Tweet

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