Homecoming kings soak up fans’ adoration

THE god-like status of victorious Cork hurling captain Seán Óg Ó hAilpín could be put into perspective next year if the Rebels win three-in-a-row.

Bishop of Cork John Buckley last night promised the 50,000 revellers gathered to welcome the Cork hurlers home he would invite Pope Benedict to Leeside should there be a repeat performance next year.

However, papal visits were the last thing on the minds of fans who thronged Parnell Place and the South Mall and painted the town red last night to salute their heroes.

Backstage, the players mingled with a handful of fans lucky enough to get close to their heroes.

Seán Óg, John Gardiner, Brian Corcoran, Joe Deane and Jerry O’Connor all signed autographs for Paddy, Cliona, Aislinn and Eabha Hegarty from Rochestown, and for Leona Kelliher.

St Finbarr’s man Dave Dowling, from The Lough, was there with his children Dave, 10, and Myra, 7.

Dad Dave said a t-shirt he wore when Cork won the three-in-a-row in 1978 was being dusted down ahead of next year.

The Dulea family of six from Barryroe, who watched the homecoming from the South Mall, said they had an incredible night.

Meanwhile, Clonakilty man Jim O’Callaghan was there with his son Kevin, seven, who’s already been to four All-Ireland finals.

“You read about all these fellas who haven’t missed a final since the ‘60s, and Kevin has now been to four,” said Jim.

“I want him to grow up with an appreciation for Cork hurling. Nights like this, with all the colour and seeing the players up close, can only help that.”

The good vibrations from the fans who thronged the streets spread even to the neutrals, including Sorcha Kennedy from Hollywood in Wicklow, who has come to Cork to study in UCC.

“I have to admit I was shouting for Galway yesterday, having studied there for four years, but Cork deserved to win,” admitted Sorcha. “The celebrations have been great - I really feel at home in Cork, everyone’s so nice.”

The team and officials partied last night at the Imperial Hotel.