O'Connell's Clare side "knew they had more in them and K2 was the All-Ireland"

The etching of K2 (the second highest mountain on earth) on the back of Brian O'Connell's hand summed up perfectly what this Clare team is about. After all, they have got the better of six hurling strongholds.

26 YEAR WAIT: Clare minor hurling manager Brian O’Connell had to overcome a vomiting bug on Saturday before making it pitchside to oversee proceedings in FBD Semple Stadium on Sunday afternoon. Pic:INPHO/Tom Maher

Clare minor hurling manager Brian O’Connell had to overcome a vomiting bug on Saturday before making it pitchside to oversee proceedings in FBD Semple Stadium on Sunday afternoon. He was thrilled to be there to witness the Banner County bridge the 26-year gap since their one and only victory.

“I’m glad this has come to fruition and we have lifted the trophy. It will mean belief for the group coming behind us. Everything that is being done is going to lead to more days like this. Our style is belief. It is a simple game. When you have the ball you use it well, when you don’t you get it back. That is pretty much the message from us. Everybody buys into it.