20-years-ago to the day, the 29th September 1996, Meath overcame the challenge of Mayo in an All-Ireland final that will forever be remembered for the massive brawl that took place.

The Royals were fortunate enough to earn a draw the first day out when the Mayo defence allowed Colm Coyle's long range effort bounce over the bar for the equalising point. It finished Meath 0-12 Mayo 1-9. Trevor Giles hit six points for Meath that day in mid September.

It was back to Croke Park two weeks late in what was to become known as the day of the 'Big Fight'. The game was only five minutes on when a massive brawl broke out at the Meath goal under Hill 16.

Referee Pat McEnaney could have sent off a number of players but decided to send off a man from each side. He initially picked on opposing midfielders Liam McHale and John McDermott but famously changed his mind on the advice of one of his upmires who said: 'You have to send Coyle off, he's after decking four or five of them.' So Colm Coyle joined Liam McHale on the sideline.

Mayo played with the aid of a strong wind in the opening half at the end of which they led 1-6 to 1-2. Mayo played their best football in the second period and held a two point lead with ten minutes to go.

A quick free kick found Tommy Dowd and despite slipping the captain managed to find the back of the Mayo net. James Horan levelled for Mayo and extra time looked to be on the cards until Brendan Reilly sent over a magnificent point with his left boot from out under Hill 16. 

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