On this day 19 years ago, 18th August 1996, Meath demolished run away favourites Tyrone in the All Ireland senior football semi-final at Croke Park.

Sean Boylan's charges put on an exhibition of football to defeat the Ulster champions 2-15 to 0-12.

John McDermott and Jimmy McGuinness totally dominated the midfield area. Graham Geraghty proved that he was one of the best footballers in the country. The Senechalstown clubman hit 1-4 in an outstanding performance.

Brendan Reilly and Barry Callaghan shone in attack while Mark O'Reilly, Darren Fay and Martin O'Connell totally dominated in defence.

Tyrone picked up injuries to Brain Dooher, Peter Canavan and Ciaran McBride and in the aftermath Meath were strongly criticised by the media for been 'over physical'. On the day they were just another typical Meath team in their prime. In an interview Sean Boylan stated that it was wrong to label Meath as the hard men of Gaelic football. He stressed that it was high time that his team were given credit for their achievements.

The Meath scorers that day were Graham Geraghty 1-4, Barry Callaghan 1-3, Brendan Reilly 0-5, Trevor Giles 0-3.

Meath: Conor Martin, Mark O'Reilly, Darren Fay, Martin O'Connell, Colm Coyle, Enda McManus, Paddy Reynolds, Jimmy McGuinness, John McDermott, Trevor Giles, Tommy Dowd, Graham Geraghty, Evan Kelly, Brendan Reilly, Barry Callaghan. Subs: Colm Brady and Jody Devine.

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