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*Mark McCarthy returned to action for Kilmurry Ibrickane. Photograph: Gerard O’Neill
Kilmurry Ibrickane have passed all challenges put in their path so far in this year’s Clare SFC.
By Peter O’Connell
In their most recent outing, the reigning senior champions survived a stern test from Cooraclare to prevail by a single point.
Receiving such a battle was always expected, Kilmurry Ibrickane manager Aiden Moloney said. “We didn’t expect anything less than a battle with our close neighbours in Cooraclare. They came prepared for a battle and fair play to them, they hung in there until the end. We were happy enough to get out with the win. I knew they are in relegation trouble but I was very impressed with them today. Their fitness levels are good and they were sharp in front of goals, especially in the first half.
“At half-time we said that this was a challenge for us. We were two points down and we asked them, were they up for the challenge? We saw it out for a finish and we probably deserved it overall. If we learned something from today, turning up with a good attitude is as important as anything”.
For Cooraclare while they face St Josephs Miltown this coming weekend will have one eye on the relegation play-off where they will fight for their status alongside Clondegad and Kilrush Shamrocks.
Milesians boss, Michael Garry spoke of their disappointment at falling short to the county champions. “We went after the game, we knew we had to. We were up against Kilmurry Ibrickane who are a very experienced side and who know how to win games. For us, it was disappointing because our lads pushed on and worked very hard. They never gave up. We have to let them settle now and get ready for the relegation play-off”.
