Leeside legend JBM hoping to bring Midas touch once more

The day Cork held their press evening, Jimmy Barry-Murphy enjoyed a birthday, his 59th.

He doesn’t look it or move like a man approaching his 60s. In fact, watching him hurry across the pitch and you’re reminded of all those years he seemed to glide through defences in both hurling and football, leaving defenders in his wake.

When his team play, you’re reminded of Jimmy Barry-Murphy as well. As was the fashion of the period, shaven-headed, long togs, in 1973 Jimmy was only turned 19 when he played his first All-Ireland senior final, albeit in football. Nerves? Not a bit of it, two nonchalant goals scored in the 3-17 to 2-13 win over Galway. It was actually easier as a youngster.