Clon back in the mix with savage work-rate, defensive platform and scoring balance

Clonakilty got off to a successful start in the 2026 McCarthy Insurance Group Cork PSFC following a statement 1-18 to 0-13 victory over Knocknagree on Saturday evening.

The reaction said it all at full-time from the Clon players and management about how significant they saw this win.

During what was a solid collective performance, Kerry native Dara Ó Sé illustrated why he is such an asset for this side. There is plenty of talent and flair in the Clon ranks including Dylan Harrington, Conor Daly and Darragh Gough.

The work-rate off the ball and defending from Clonakilty played a crucial role in this win, with leaders such as Thomas Clancy and David Lowney standing tall. Clon goalkeeper Mark White showcased why he is one of the top netminders in Cork.

Clonakilty are a side with plenty of untapped potential. If they can deliver further positive performances and results, there could be a very exciting few months ahead in the 2026 PSFC.

Clonakilty selector Eoin Ryan cut a very satisfied man at the performance and result his side produced.

“We knew it wasn’t going to be easy and we knew what we were up against. We knew we really had to step on it.

In form

“We are delighted with the win. A lot of people had written us off before this game at all, that Knocknagree were coming up and they were the form team. 

“We had one bad game last year against Carrigaline and the Barrs beat us by a point in the first game. 

"We were very good against Carbery Rangers in the last game last year. People judge us very harshly at times I think.”

 Despite the best Knocknagree efforts, Clonakilty had the right answers every time when it was required.

With Clon in what is widely considered to be the Group of Death alongside Castlehaven and Ballincollig, there is even greater significance to the victory over Knocknagree.

There is no doubt about it, if we didn’t perform here Knocknagree would have beaten us.

“We were completely focused on this game. In the league we were trying fellas out and it didn’t matter if we got to a league final. 

"Last year we focused on getting to the league final and we wanted to this and that.

“This year it was all about today and this match against Knocknagree. I think that worked out alright for us. 

"Winning in the first round in this means a lot. It means you can look up instead of looking down.

“The pressure that comes on if you lose your first game is unreal.” 

Ahead of the start of this contest in Carrigadrohid, much of the pre-match chatter was about what impact Knocknagree could make at the top level as they ride the wave of momentum. But Martin O’Brien’s Clon side had other ideas and delivered a performance and a result which they will hope is the catalyst for a promising few months ahead. 

Next up for Clon is a very tasty West Cork derby clash with Castlehaven.