Walsh hails Cork Con’s battling spirit

IF possession and field position counted for everything, St Mary’s College would today be still celebrating their second AIB All-Ireland League title.

But a lot more is required to win big matches and Cork Constitution showed that at Dubarry Park, Athlone on Saturday when a truly heroic defensive display combined with the virtues of commitment and opportunism enabled them to claim the coveted title for the fourth time and also complete the cup-league double.

It was always going to be a close affair between the two best teams in the tournament but few could have foreseen the drama and excitement that would captivate and fascinate the crowd before the issue was resolved.