Video: Declan Dalton drives Fr O’Neill’s to Intermediate title

Fr O’Neill’s 1-18 Kildorrery 1-14: Driven on by a man-of-the-match display from Declan Dalton, Fr O’Neill’s were crowned Cork IHC champions in Páirc Uí Rinn yesterday.

The number 14 led the way with an outstanding 1-8 – his goal from a free on the brink of half-time was priceless as it cut the deficit to one point. The Imokilly men proceeded to dominate the second 30 minutes of this replayed final, and towards the end they had the ability to withstand late Kildorrery pressure.

Fr O’Neill’s were the last club from their division to win the Paddy Walsh Cup in 2007, and while there wasn’t much between the sides in the early stages – they were level four times – make no mistake about it this team is here to stay. It was a marvellous performance, and the contribution of their U21 players was significant. And with a county Premier U21 semi-final looming, this was a timely boost.