Silverware will give Rathmore confidence, says delighted boss O’Mahony

The Kerry legend was relieved to see his side get over the line in the Kerry club decider.

Kerry Senior Football Championship Final, Fitzgerald Stadium, Killarney 20/9/2026

If Rathmore didn’t fully appreciate their maiden Kerry club success of 2011, there is no fear of a repeat now that their roll of honour count has doubled to two.

A team that had developed a reputation for semi-final exits take with them into the upcoming county championship silverware, confidence, and the invaluable knowledge of being able to see the job through on concluding Sundays.

“It is huge,” began winning Rathmore boss Aidan O’Mahony.

“I was there in 2011 when we got over Laune Rangers. They hit the crossbar at the finish of the game, and we won by two points. We didn't realise back then the importance of it.

“I just think now it is a lot more important because, forget about the county championship and forget about representing Kerry, it is bringing in a Cup with the young lads coming through. Five U20s started today. That's great experience for them, playing in a big final against Dr Crokes. It gives you confidence.

“I've been on the wrong end of games with Crokes more times than on the right end, and I showed it at the end. I must apologise to Dr Crokes, I was jumping around there like a lunatic. I was like a boy of 20 and that is not the right way to conduct yourself, but the emotions got the better of me.

“I said it to the lads, I've failed several times with this club. Quarter-finals, semi-finals, finals; didn't get over the line. This is probably the best group I've been involved with attitude-wise, no egos, and the energy levels. There have been no issues all year. I am just delighted for the players.” 

Shane Ryan, such is his absolute proven pedigree, will always be the outstanding goalkeeper associated with Rathmore, even if he is rarely utilised in that position by the club.

But as the 2025 All-Star No.1 continues to work himself back to full fitness after a 2026 season so far torpedoed by injury, O’Mahony has made the bold prediction that the club could have two goalkeepers inside in the Kerry dressing-room next year.

William Casey was outstanding here, producing three massively important saves.

“William is a brilliant guy. He was out injured for three months, but he just comes back and goes about his business. I definitely think he's someone that'll be on Jack O'Connor's radar because he's a brilliant shot-stopper.

“For someone like him that's a bit rough around the edges, all you can do is coach him and he'll get better and better.

“Look, missing Shane Ryan today, I'm not saying he'd be in goals or he'd be out the field, but it's great to get over the line when you're missing your big leader.”