Kingdom back on throne in landmark year

THOUGH Cork failed to build on a dominant opening quarter in Croke Park yesterday and blew whatever chance they had of winning through their wastage of scoring chances in the second half, you have to acknowledge the appropriateness of gaelic football’s aristocrats annexing the All-Ireland title in the association’s 125th year.

Just as Kerry had claimed the Sam Maguire in Centenary Year, Jack O’Connor’s well-drilled team made it title number 36 through the tried and trusted method of imposing themselves on the opposition and succeeding through the combination of individual and team excellence.

And, a victory all the sweeter for players and supporters because of the Rebels having the favourites tag, was highlighted by a number of notable achievements. Apart from becoming only the third county to contest six finals in a row, London-born Darran O’Sullivan created his own bit of history as the winning captain. Additionally, in realising his dream to come home from Australia and win a medal, Tadhg Kennelly’s form over the course of the campaign proved a significant boost for the team – just as Mike McCarthy’s unexpected decision to come out of retirement did.