Tributes paid to Cork hurlers’ efforts in ‘brilliant’ final

Tributes have been paid to Cork’s senior hurlers, despite the disappointing defeat in the pulsating All-Ireland final.

Tánaiste Micheál Martin had praise for the victors, but said Cork could be proud of their efforts.

“Congrats to Clare in a nail biting finish. Brilliant game of hurling.Both teams left it all on the field.

“Heartbreaking for Cork. The players can be proud of the joy they gave us all year.”

Sinn Féin TD Donnchadh Ó Laoghaire said Cork will be back.

Grateful

“That will take some getting over, but proud beyond words.

“To say they died with their boots on doesn’t even cover it.

“Grateful to this Cork team for all they have given us this year. Well done Clare, they were excellent.

“Corcaigh abú. We will rise again,” he added.

Former Lord Mayor Mick Finn said the Cork team had given fans great memories.

“They gave us a brilliant year, hard luck”, and added, “we will bounce back”.

Sinn Féin councillor Michelle Gould expressed her sadness for long serving members of the squad.

“Gutted for the team, especially Hoggie and Harnedy. Great servants for Cork hurling. Still the best game in the world, and proud to support the rebels win or lose.”

Great final

Taoiseach Simon Harris said it was a great final and congratulated Clare on their first win since 2013.

“Up the Banner! Congratulations on a stunning win.

“The Liam McCarthy is heading to Clare. That goal from Tony Kelly.

“Those points from Tony Kelly. Captain fantastic.

“Commiserations to the Rebels and the army of fans who travelled from Cork.

“Some battle, some final!”

Cork GAA thanked the players, coaching staff, and the supporters in what has been a year to remember for Cork hurling.

“Thank you to the Cork Senior Hurling team and management for giving us such an exciting, brilliant year of inter-county hurling. Thank you also to our fantastic supporters for following us in massive numbers all year.”