St Brigid's 'devastated' after losing enthralling final to Dingle

Ben O’Carroll and Ronan Stack of St Brigid's dejected after the defeat to Dingle. Pic: ©INPHO/Dan Clohessy

With disappointment etched across his face, St Brigid’s manager Anthony Cunningham said all he could in his post-match press conference. The game was a thriller. They did so much right. It wasn’t enough.

The Roscommon champions suffered a second one point All-Ireland defeat in two years at Croke Park as Dingle prevailed after extra-time. St Brigid’s led by two as the clock ticked into the final two minutes but a late burst from Tom O’Sullivan paved the way for Mikey Geaney’s eventual winner.

“We are devastated,” said Cunningham.

“Can’t say any more, devastated for the players and the effort they put in. Devastated for our fans and the county, the work the club has done to get us here. It is really, really tough. Tough to lose in Croke Park but extra tough when you lose in extra-time and being in a winning position.

“With the way the game is gone now, you can never say never. A tremendous score from Ruaidhrí admittedly to draw the game. It was just one hell of a game, it seesawed all day. Hard luck that we finished up at the wrong end of it right at the death.”

St Brigid’s had 24 shots to Dingle’s 20 during normal time but missed several frees after Fallon’s second-half goal.

“We failed to convert a few scores after that. Look, we have had an incredible year. They have given us everything. Just so sorry for the players and supporters. They are young. They will learn. Our congratulations and hats off to An Daingean, a superb football team.” 

He continued: “It is so small margins. You play that game 101 times again in your mind, when you look at it back, what can you say? I can’t say a word to anyone really only thanks to all our players and supporters.” 

In 2024, Glen edged St Brigid's out by a point. Cunningham’s side are full of young talent. They have an excellent coaching ticket. The challenge now is scaling the mountain once more. After that previous loss, they were unable to advance out of a competitive county championship.

The likes of Fallon, Conor Hand, Shane Cunnane and Brian Stack demonstrated the ability that is in the group.

“We had great performances. Can’t say a word to any of them, to be honest. The lads are really disappointed. It was a brilliant club game, but finals are there to win. You don’t really care how good or bad the game was, as long as you win.”