Mickey Moran’s men had fought their way back from a preliminary round Ulster Championship exit against reigning All Ireland champions Tyrone to defeat Wicklow, Cavan, Wexford, Limerick and Westmeath on a memorable, against the odds run to the semi-final. The Oak Leafers were billed a huge underdogs against a star studded Kingdom line up including names like Cooper, O’Se and O’Sullivan and while the game eventually proved a bridge too far, the Derry fans still lit up Croke Park and, two decades on, we take a look back at a few memorable snaps from the day….
9. A section of the large crowd at Croke Park. (3108A31)
A section of the large crowd at Croke Park. (3108A31) Photo: Derry Journal
10. Fans cant believe the final result as Derry lost to Kerry in the All Ireland Footbal semi final. (3108A34)
Fans cant believe the final result as Derry lose out to Kerry in the All Ireland Senior Football semi final. (3108A34) Photo: Derry Journal
11. Smiles all round for the arrival of the Derry Team at Croke Park. (3108A32)
Smiles all round for the arrival of the Derry team into Croke Park for the 2004 All Ireland semi-final. (3108A32) Photo: Derry Journal
12. Derry fans in jubilant mood before Sunday's Semi Final. (3108A28)
Derry fans in jubilant mood before the 2004 All Ireland semi-final. (3108A28) Photo: Derry Journal