O'Rourke eager to continue

August 11, 2014

Monaghan manager Malachy O'Rourke. INPHO
Malachy O'Rourke wants to finish what he has started in Monaghan.

The Fermanagh native has made huge strides with the Farney County since becoming manager two years ago, guiding them to a first Ulster SFC title in 25 years last year, an Allianz League Division 2 title this year, as well as back-to-back All-Ireland quarter-final appearances.

"I don't even know what my term was, whether it's a two-year term, a three-year term, whatever else," he said after Saturday's 17-point defeat to Dublin.

"Look it, if I am wanted back it would be very hard to leave a group like that because I do feel we have made an awful lot of progress over the last two years.

"A lot of young boys have been introduced this year as well and I think that we can make further progress. I'd certainly like to be there to help them along."

Stressing that Monaghan's extra-time thriller with Kildare seven days earlier had taken a lot out of them, O'Rourke praised the Dubs for producing yet another ruthlessly efficient performance.

"Even if one of their marquee forwards is held, someone else who is equally good can come in," he noted.

"They have an embarrassment of riches whereas a county like Monaghan just doesn't have those resources. We felt we could beat Dublin, but that doesn't seem realistic at this stage. It's just very disappointing and frustrating to be beaten like that."

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