TO say that Cork GAA football fans expected St Nick's would beat Kiskeam in their first round championship encounter last Sunday would be definitely stretching things a little.

St Nick’s didn’t have the most impressive of records of late, particularly in the first round, or the league. However, any negativity around the city side’s chances was confined to outside the club as all those involved had a different point of view – and confidence in the younger generation of St Nick’s players.

Manager Robert Brosnan tried to convey just what it meant to all concerned to win last weekend.

“It is fantastic. You can see what it means to us, we have been building towards this moment at underage for the last four years. I was only saying a few weeks ago that if you look at the age profile with us it is about 22 years old so it is massive for our club to get that first round win so the lads can feel what it is like – and then hopefully we can push on from here now.”

While Brosnan was full of praise for Kiskeam he did feel that the final three point win wasn’t a fair reflection of his side’s dominance.

“I think the final score line flatters Kiskeam. We were six points up and the ref gave a ridiculous penalty when we didn’t get one five minutes before when a man clear through on goal was fouled – but look all that is for another day. We won’t worry about that now. The victory is in the bag and we will drive on.”

Like most managers Brosnan wasn’t trying to single out players however the contributions of Glen Kennefick and Liam Coughlan could hardly be ignored.

“They are fantastic, they are quick - and I have to give credit to Mallow for providing a solid pitch (when all others in Cork were closed) that would suit our lads and let them take on their men.

“We felt coming into this one that if we could use our pace and not give them targets to hit and keep the ball in transition we could take advantage and that really is what we did today.”

While the win in Mallow will go down as a seminal moment for all at St Nick’s the manager was positive that all the work behind the scenes will pay off.

“We want to be looking at quarter-finals, semi-finals not relegations and thank God that is a distant memory for this year at least.

When asked if Brosnan feels a final with Nemo Rangers is on the way a cheeky smile and some confident soundings emerged. 

“I know people will laugh at me but I come out every year and the target is to win the county. It might not be feasible but we all have our goals. Remember whoever we play now we will be playing with no pressure.”