My Set of Six: with Salford forward Tyrone McCarthy featuring Craven Park & representing Ireland

Ireland international and Salford forward Tyrone McCarthy is our latest guest on My Set of Six.

We’re asking you, the fans, plus players, coaches and other rugby league personalities to give us their answers to our set of six questions.

Favourite away ground?

That’s a tough one. The DW is where I made my Super League debut and where we (Salford) secured our spot for the Grand Final last year but I haven’t won many games there to be honest.

I think I would have to go with Craven Park. I used to hate it – the travel, the small changing rooms and the crowd being on top of you but after playing there as a KR player I loved it. Even returning to play there as an away player, the atmosphere is right up there and it has a good mix of the feeling of an old traditional ground with the new.

Favourite player?

I loved Allan Langer in the short time he was at Warrington. As I got a bit older I used to watch Andy Farrell and Paul Sculthorpe hoping one day that I could be like them and lead a team.

Favourite memory?

It is so hard to pick one out. Scoring at Wembley is right up there along with playing for Ireland. I’d say my favourite season playing was with Northern Pride in the Queensland Cup. It was such a special year for me.

Worst memory?

The 50-0 drubbing at Wembley by Leeds when I was at Hull KR. Being captain that day I will always feel hugely responsible for that day.

Best match you’ve seen?

Two spring to mind. The semi-final of the World Cup between England and New Zealand at Wembley – it had everything in that game – and the 2015 NRL Grand Final between North Queensland Cowboys and Brisbane Broncos. Only a few games can match that for a dramatic finish.

Your wish for the future of rugby league?

I would love to see clearer pathways for our young players and the re-introduction of schoolboys representative teams. Looking back, I think it played a huge part in my development, not only as a player but as a person too. Additionally, I’d love to see the international game flourish. I think it will help the domestic game significantly in terms of the game’s development, commercially and attracting new fans. I can’t wait for the 2021 Rugby League World Cup.

If you want to be featured on My Set of Six, send an email to drew@loverugbyleague.com

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