The late Darragh King was foremost in Keith Ricken’s thoughts after Cork’s Munster MFC Phase 2 victory over Clare in Clarecastle on Monday evening.

Earlier in the day, the Cork minor manager had attended the funeral of the 24-year-old, who was a star player for Carrigaline and MTU Cork, and whose sudden passing last Wednesday had shocked the entire community.

“Young fellas give you their heart and soul,” Ricken told The Echo.

“And when something like this happens in terms of Darragh King, it puts everything in perspective. You’re reminded very quickly what really matters. This win pales into insignificance really. 

“These minors are still only young men. They’re learning about football, but they’re also learning about life. A tragedy like this… it hits everyone. All you can do is support each other.

“I was at the funeral today. Everyone has really come together as a community — Carrigaline GAA, MTU Cork, Darragh’s friends, classmates and so on. I knew him well, an outstanding person.

“Playing Kerry, Munster finals… no matter what you think, it doesn’t really matter when something like this happens. My thoughts right now are with Darragh’s family.” 

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