John Cleary: Munster minor win a boost for the whole Cork football community

Cork senior football manager John Cleary says Monday’s Munster minor title win has lifted spirits across the county, describing the extra time victory over Kerry as a result that should be “really lauded”.

The Rebels edged a tense Electric Ireland Munster MFC final on a scoreline of 1-13 to 0-14 at Páirc Uí Rinn, securing the county’s first title at the grade since 2022.

Speaking ahead of his own side’s All-Ireland SFC Round 1 clash with Meath this Saturday at the Boreenmanna Road stadium, Cleary said the manner of the minors’ win — in dreadful weather and in front of more than 2,000 supporters — made the achievement all the more significant.

“It was great for the young lads,” he says.

“It was a big game for them and it did take Cork a bit of time to get into it. They got the job done in the end.

“In extra time, Cork seemed to have all the ball and won the kick-outs and deservedly won in the end.

“I think it was 2022 the last time Cork won Munster at the minor grade. The conditions were very poor, but in fairness, Cork had to fight to the bitter end. It was a great victory for all concerned.” 

Despite the weather, Páirc Uí Rinn generated a lively atmosphere, something Cleary said played a real part in pushing the team over the line.

“There was a great atmosphere, particularly when the game was so close at the end of normal time,” he said.

“It was swinging one way and then the other. The Cork crowd really got behind the team.

“At times, either team could have got over the line at that stage. A draw was probably a fair result in normal time and then in extra time, Cork were the better team.” 

Cleary believes the win arrives at an important moment for Cork football, with the senior team preparing for a crucial championship week and the county eager to build momentum across all grades moving forward.

“Winning Munster hasn’t happened often enough for Cork in recent years at any grade,” the Castlehaven man states.

“Any one that is won is a great achievement and it has to be really lauded. As I said, it hasn’t happened that much over the last few years, so anyone associated with Cork football would have to be delighted with it.

“It will give the whole Cork football community a boost. When the trophy is won, everyone is happy you know.”