ROVER & OUT! GAFFNEY RUNS AWAY WITH NOVEMBER AWARD

Photo courtesy of Sportsfile

TUAM-born Rory Gaffney, who was such a huge influence in Shamrock Rovers clinching the double, has been named as the SSE Airtricity/Soccer Writers Ireland Player of the Month for November.

The 36-year-old striker netted both goals of Rovers’ 2-0 FAI Cup final win over relegated Cork City to confirm a first Hoops league and Cup double for 38 years.

The brace in front of 35,252 fans at the Aviva Stadium in early November was one of his many highlights. He finished ahead of team-mate Ed McGinty and third-placed James Clarke of Bohemians in the award ballot.

Gaffney was the hero as Stephen Bradley’s side sealed the double, having won the league five times in the last six years.

He is the third Rovers’ player this season to win a SSE Airtricity/SWI monthly gong, following in the footsteps of Graham Burke and Matt Healy.

“It’s hard to pick one moment after such a great season for the club, but for me, the personal highlight has got to be the Cup final and securing that elusive double,” said Gaffney, who away from football holds an accountancy degree.

“It’s the best season I have had in football and, especially, after last season and being injured for most of the time.

“I think I only played six or seven games at the start of the season and kept breaking down. It was problem after problem for me and I was questioning and wondering whether I’d ever get back to full fitness.”

“I am just grateful to be back playing again now.”

Photo Courtesy of Sportsfile

Gaffney joined Rovers in February, 2020 having played cross-channel with Cambridge United, Bristol Rovers, Salford City and Walsall and started his career with local Galway side, Mervue United, and Limerick. His 15 goals so far this season in all competitions have been integral to his team’s success.

The 2022 PFAI Player of the Year looks set to be rewarded for his contribution with a contract extension shortly.