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Rodney McAree hails Dungannon Swifts star as he leaves sickbed to become Irish Cup hero

A picture of Gael Bigirimana celebrating his goal
-Credit:INPHO/Jonathan Porter


Gael Bigirimana's spectacular early goal set Dungannon Swifts on the path to Irish Cup glory against Coleraine on Saturday.

The former Newcastle United midfielder's moment of magic on seven minutes was even more stunning given that he had climbed out of his sick bed to make the game.

Swifts boss Rodney McAree was full of praise for his experienced star after the game as his contribution helped them progress to a quarter-final meeting with Carrick Rangers.

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"I didn't think he had that in his locker, but he tries it occasionally," said McAree.

"Kealan Dillon scored a similar goal from the opposite side against Coleraine earlier in the season.

"It was a great strike and as soon as it left his foot I thought it was going in.

"Fair play to him, he's been in his bed the last few days. He came down here after 12 today and did a bit of a jog to see how he felt.

"He said he felt he could give us something and he ended up giving us 120 minutes and scored a great goal so fair play to him!"

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