Laois' Clodagh Dunne hoping past glories can be recaptured

Laois defender Clodagh Dunne had the privilege of being amongst a crowd of 21,000 at Croke Park as her county finally reached the promised land in September 2001

ON A JOURNEY: Clodagh Dunne, right, and Ellen Healy of Laois celebrate after the 2021 Lidl Ladies Football National League Division 3 final win over Kildare. Pic: Matt Browne/Sportsfile

While her memory of the on-field action is somewhat sketchy, Laois defender Clodagh Dunne had the privilege of being amongst a crowd of 21,000 at Croke Park as her county finally reached the promised land on September 30, 2001.

Following seven previous defeats - and a drawn encounter with Monaghan in 1996 - the O’Moore women eventually claimed the TG4 All-Ireland senior football championship crown courtesy of a dramatic win against reigning champions Mayo. On level terms with time almost up, Mary Kirwan knocked over a late free to ensure Laois secured a breakthrough Brendan Martin Cup success on a final score of 2-14 to 1-16.