Minor footballers honoured for major wins

It was a year to remember for the Cork minor footballers as they brought joy to the county at this level for the first time since 2019.

It started with an unforgettable boost for Cork football as they edged past rivals Kerry by two points after extra time in the Electric Ireland Munster MFC final at a rain-soaked Páirc Uí Rinn.

The Rebels won by 1-13 to 0-14, and it was their first provincial title at this grade since 2022, stopping the Kingdom from completing four-in-a-row.

But if that was a dramatic win, it was nothing compared to what happened a few weeks later. They went on to reach the All-Ireland final, where they faced a fancied Tyrone side.

But it turned out to be a magical day for Cork football as the minors claimed All-Ireland glory with a magnificent come-from-behind victory over holders Tyrone at Cedral St Conleth’s Park in Newbridge.

Eoghan Ahern’s late goal in injury time proved decisive as the Leesiders finished with a flourish. They had been in huge trouble earlier, trailing by nine points at one stage in the second half.

For the winners, Aaron O’Sullivan was excellent in defence alongside Éanna Lynch, while Kieran O’Shea was outstanding in midfield as usual. There were crucial contributions throughout, notably from Ahern, captain Joe Miskella, and Tom Whooley.

Late on, it was anyone’s match as another Ahern free levelled matters.

Tyrone nudged ahead, 1-16 to 1-15, as the game approached added time and it wasn’t looking good for the Rebels.

Then came the moment. Ahern drove forward and popped up with the crucial goal. Whooley added a point to put three between the sides, and Cork stood firm in the dying embers to see it out by 2-16 to 1-16, to make it a day to remember for the players, their management, and the county.

Special mention must also be made of the acceptance speech delivered entirely as Gaeilge by the winning Cork minor football captain Joe Miskella.

Chairman of Rebel Óg, Peter Watson, congratulated the team on their success and said it was great to see both the All-Ireland and Munster cups back on Leeside.