Dineen the hero for Ardfert

Ardfert………1-8
Erin’s Own…0-10

Darren Dineen is the toast of Ardfert after his late penalty save ensured the Kerry side of victory over Erin’s Own of Cork in a thrilling Munster junior club football final at Knocknagree.

Erin’s Own corner forward Mark O’Connor opted to go for goal from the spot-kick, rather than take the point which would have sent the final into extra-time. But his effort was brilliantly saved by Dineen and when Shane Murphy failed to convert the resultant ’45’, there were unbelievable scenes as Ardfert celebrated a historic victory.

The Kerry side dominated the opening 20 minutes and were not flattered by their 0-6 to 0-3 interval lead. But with Cork hurlers Kieran Murphy and Cian O’Connor finally settling into the game, Erin’s Own fought back to level by the 46th minute.

But Ardfert were back in the driving seat three minutes later when substitute Brian Moloney pounced for the only goal. Cian and Mark O’Connor replied with points, however, to reduce the deficit to the minimum before the late drama unfolded.