As the weekend battle for the Sam Maguire trophy edges nearer Co Down has undergone a makeover.
Ahead of the All-Ireland football final in opposition to Cork on Sunday pubs, homes - and even farm animals - have been painted crimson and black in support of the Mournemen.
And it’s all moderately ironic, as it’s the opposition who can be sporting crimson when the teams run out at Dublin’s Croke Park.
Due to a colour conflict, the Down players will now be carrying gold shirts for the massive decider.
Nevertheless it’s traditional colored flags that are flying from homes, automobiles and headwear, and although Down go in to the final as underdogs, fans heading to see their footballing heroes in motion are scrambling to get their palms on as much GAA merchandise as they can.
McCartan Sports activities in Downpatrick has been packed filled with fans for days, and something with a Down crest is flying out the door.
Supervisor Ciaran McCartan mentioned: “It’s all go on the moment. After I obtained back last night time from a gathering with the O’Neill’s rep there was a queue outdoors midway up the street.
Sixty mini-kits for kids had been offered out in less than an hour. Shirts, automotive flags and anything in any respect linked to Down isn’t lasting lengthy on the shelves.”
The All-Eire remaining is after all the highlight of the Gaelic football calendar and whether fans are watching from the stadium, at residence or within the pub they are going to all be decked out in county colours.
It should actually be a family affair for Fiona McGourty from Finaghy, as she heads down with St Galls, the hurling and football teams her sons Ciaran, Conor and Kevin play for.
“St Galls are enjoying within the sevens event on Saturday, so we are making a weekend of it,” Mrs McGourty said.
“I have been heading to the All-Ireland for the last 35 years. I love Down’s assured style, so it is going to be a particular deal with to see them in motion this year.”
Of the eighty three,000 seats, round thirteen,000 tickets are break up between the forty eight clubs in Co Down, whereas Cork will likely be allotted round 19,000.
“It is 50 years since Down first captured the Sam Maguire and tickets are like gold dust, with one fan claiming: “It’s simpler to get a ticket to see the Pope than it is to see Down!”