We never give up, declares jubilant O’Brien

Peter O’Brien yesterday assured his place in Kildorrery GAA history.

O’Brien produced a man-of-the-match performance which was crucial in propelling his side to victory in this Cork JAHC final replay over Brian Dillon’s.

And the magnitude of the achievement wasn’t lost on the young star.

O’Brien admitted: “This will rank as one of the best moments in my sporting life. There were times when I thought it was gone but I knew the character of this team and that they never give up.

“Another team might have thrown in the towel after falling three points behind late in the game but we found ourselves in similar situations this year and came through.

“We have lost many county finals over the years and we made a pact among ourselves that we were not coming off the field without the cup. Thankfully that is the way it turned out.

“Losing Tom Monaghan (to a broken leg) who is a legend in Kildorrery was the spur we needed. He has been playing with the club for over 15 years and we wanted to do it for him.”

Kildorrery mentor Pat Fenton never doubted his side’s resolve, even when they trailed by three points entering the final 10 minutes.

“We fell three points behind with as many minutes to go. We levelled it before hitting the front at the right time and eventually hung on for the victory.

“When Dillon’s rattled over those three late points, I thought the game was slipping away but I knew in my heart and soul that our lads would keep going to the final whistle.

“The only downer is the unfortunate injury sustained by Tom Monaghan. He has a broken leg and will miss the remainder of the campaign.”

Brian Dillon’s manager Kieran O’Mahony hopes the pain of defeat will motivate his men in 2013. “We had our chances and didn’t take them and have paid the ultimate price. It’s a horrible feeling losing a county final, but hopefully it will make the lads stronger and more determined to come back next season and finish the job.”