O’Brien goes from bit parts to the starring role for Toomevara

HE’S played only bit parts in Toomevara’s run to this year’s Tipp final, missed out in their dramatic last-second semi-final win over Mullinahone, and for the two weeks since then has been an injury-doubt.

But there was no doubting John O’Brien’s contribution to this win. Man-of-the-match, 1-4 from play, the long-time Tipp senior star was immense. “I kinda knew during the week I’d make it, I felt good enough, but you never know ‘til the game starts how good you’re going to be.”

Having come back from seven points down to tie the game in the 42nd minute, Toomevara immediately conceded advantage to Nenagh Éire Óg again, two points in rapid succession. After the second, Toome keeper James McGrath sent a huge puck-out, caught by O’Brien on the Nenagh 45; he turned, saw a gap, took off.