Ronan Murphy and all of Sars proud of Pat Ryan and backing him to bring Liam McCarthy back home on Sunday

The former Sarsfields ace Ronan Murphy soldiered with the Cork coach Pat Ryan for many years, both on and off the pitch as he reflected on some of their many memorable moments.

“I was fortunate to play with Pat when Sars finally made the breakthrough in 2008 winning our first senior county since 1957,” said Murphy.

The importance of Pat helping the club end a 51 year drought proved pivotal.

“Pat was the major driving force on the field and was an incredible player for Sars for many years and it’s hard to describe how influential he was in the 2008 win.

“When the chips were down Pat Ryan always stood up as he filled everyone around him with confidence, not just by his words but by how he played himself.” added Ronan.

The loyalty of Pat Ryan was epitomised in his contribution to his beloved club.

“After he retiring he launched himself straight into managing us in 2012 and 2014 as he’s a genius at getting the best out of everyone he works with.” 

Having being lifelong friends with Pat he does have a good idea in how he ticks.

“Obviously, he has a huge hurling knowledge but I think it’s the way he deals with and speaks to players, is what sets him apart.” 

There is a great buzz around the community since Cork beat Limerick in the Munster championship and that win under so much pressure set the tone for the remainder of the campaign.

“Glanmire and Cork people have really rallied in behind the team since and with Pat as manager, Jack O'Connor and Cathal McCarthy involved on the panel and Paul O’Sullivan a key man in Pats backroom team its huge for the club and the area.

“The lads would be very popular around the place, and everyone is hoping they can get over the final challenge on Sunday as It would just be massive for the club, the entire Glanmire community as this Cork hurling journey has given everybody a huge lift.” 

Ronan is part of the Emporium group that own the Castle Bar frequented by many sportspeople and he is working diligently to ensure everything is in place for Super Sunday.

The buzz around the bar all weekend after the Limerick win has being electric, the atmosphere was amazing during all games and the hype for the final started the second the final whistle went.

The Monday club were not disappointed when they visited the Castle the day after the memorable semi-final win over Limerick.

“There was a great crowd in on Monday evening to watch the semi- final again as we have many hurling fanatics that frequent the bar. 

“This Cork team have really captured the public imagination with the way they are performing and you can see the support they have had for all their games this season.

“Hurling is a way of life in Cork and some of the games this season would take your breath away and now it’s a case of getting the job done in our final hurdle.” 

Preparation are full steam ahead at the Castle Bar as people that were not lucky enough to secure a ticket for Croke Park will likely visit the Riverstown venue.

“We are busy getting The Castle ready now for the final, the monster big screen has been installed in our Yard.

“The flags and bunting are up and the capacity attendance will be ready to cheer on the Rebels.” 

The facility at the Castle is second to none and is possibly one of the best venues to view a game in this city and for Pat Ryan’s lifelong friend and former teammate Ronan Murphy and his father Bertie Og will be praying that the title will be coming back to Leeside.

“On a final note, I think every Cork person at Croke Park and beyond will be thinking of our former great Teddy McCarthy who would have loved to have experienced the performances of this Cork side this season.

“Teddy just like Pat loved both club and county and it’s so sad he was taken from us at such an early stage of his life but I am sure he will be looking down giving the lads inspiration.

“Best of luck to Pat and everyone involved and I have no doubt we will all be celebrating come Sunday.”