The man behind when it comes down to the wire

Trainer Pat Flanagan feels a repeat of the high-octane performance against Cork will seal All-Ireland glory for Kerry. He spoke to Jim O'Sullivan.

CORK HURLING manager John Allen has repeatedly praised the vital role played by his team trainers in their All-Ireland victories over the past two years. Likewise with Kerry coach Jack O'Connor, who always mentions Pat Flanagan, the team's Waterford-born trainer.

A former champion sprinter and graduate of Thomond College, he first came to prominence with IT Tralee's Sigerson Cup-winning teams which were coached by Val Andrews. And the pair worked together with Cavan for a spell before Flanagan got involved with his local team in Kerry, Milltown-Castlemaine.