‘We pulled it out of the fire’

CANOVEE coach Mickey Ring was ecstatic after Canovee’s nail-biting victory over Kildorrery at Páirc Uí Chaoimh yesterday, admitting: “we pulled it out of the fire.”

“It was hearty commitment that won it for us and all 15 players gave it their all. We were under pressure in the early stages, but their heads never dropped. They kept plugging away and showed tremendous character.

“They really dug deep and I am absolutely thrilled for all of them. What a team this is. In other years Canovee in a situation like this would have folded, but not this team. They were resolute and determined to bring the cup back to their native place.

“Eamonn Lyons was outstanding in the middle of the field. The Cork senior selectors should look at him, but this was a great team performance and I am thrilled to have been associated with them,” said Lyons.

“It’s always sad to loose a Cork Co Junior Championship final, but it is much sadder when you literally kick it away.”

Those sentiments expressed by Kildorrery mentor Tom Monaghan summed up yesterday’s final which left Kildorrery in a crest-fallen state.

“We fought to the bitter end and the commitment of our players was exemplary. But, unfortunately, we did not achieve our ambition,” said Monaghan. “No doubt about it, this is a big heartbreak for us. The loss of Michael Monaghan with a broken leg was a huge loss, though we still had the chances to win. Unfortunately, we did not avail of them, this just was not our day.

“It is cruel but that is what sport is about. There’s got to be winners and losers. Unfortunately we came out on the wrong side on this occasion, but the lads did themselves proud.”