Paul Durcan has admitted the last two months have been a struggle as he comes to terms with the mistake that cost Donegal so dearly in the All-Ireland final.

Yesterday, the goalkeeper spoke publicly for the first time about his mis-hit kick-out that went straight to Kieran Donaghy who fired to the net and, in doing so, put Kerry on the road to victory.

"I just kicked the ground," Durcan told reporters at the announcement that he is to take part in the Great Ethiopian Run on Sunday week in Addis Ababa while acting as ambassador and fundraiser with the Vincentian Lay Missionaries.

"I was trying to hit it out to the right slightly. I've watched it back myself again, and I just kicked the ground and the ball took off at the wrong angle.

"Myself and Michael (Boyle), the other 'keeper, were saying it's something we do every day and it's so simple, but it's just something that happened.

"I have to live with it and move on - try to enjoy playing football for whatever I've left in my career."

The quantity surveyor said he was grateful for the support of so many people after he blamed himself for the defeat.

"I've good support around me with the whole team, Jim (McGuinness), the backroom staff and my family," he continued.

"They made me realise what's important. I got back with the club and we got through the group stages and played a few championship games.

"It's nice to get a break. I'm going to take it, put the head down next year and see how it goes."

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