Proud Rebel boss Counihan hails his heroes

IT had been billed as the most challenging assignment of Conor Counihan’s managerial career, attempting to stymie the progress of Tyrone’s serial All-Ireland winners and their physical style of play.

Yet yesterday’s All-Ireland semi-final unfolded like a dream for the Cork manager, as he observed his players succeed where many sides have failed, dismantling Tyrone with a performance packed with power and intensity.

In the bowels of the Hogan Stand afterwards, Counihan spoke to the media about the character of his team, how they were looking forward to being pitted against the best and his pride in the level of display they produced.