Former Crokes boss O’Neill tips Cross for glory

Former Dr Crokes manager Harry O’Neill is satisfied a line has been drawn under the controversy that erupted before their All-Ireland club semi-final with Crossmaglen Rangers last month and tipped the Armagh champions to take honours in tomorrow’s national decider in Croke Park.

Crossmaglen Rangers defender Aaron Kernan has spoken of the tributes that were paid to their club in the dressing room in Portlaoise after that game by Dr Crokes representatives and O’Neill believes there is respect rather than animosity between the two clubs.

“I think it was unfortunate that those comments were misinterpreted,” said O’Neill.

“There were headlines about it but it was dealt with. Anyone who was at the game in Portlaoise would have seen two passionate football clubs in action. But there no animosity between them and I think there’s great respect there between the two clubs. A line has been drawn under it and we move on.

“Crossmaglen are obviously the team to roll ahead of the final. They are the benchmark for every club in the country. People can go on about northern style football but I think Crossmaglen play a fantastic brand.

“They play it direct to their full-forward line and get scores as quickly as they can. They are also very good at playing on the edge and they’ve a real togetherness as well. I’ve been impressed with Garrycastle but I think the experience of Cross more than anything will get them over the line.”