Dingle’s extraordinary season reached its perfect conclusion in Croke Park as the Kerry champions claimed their first-ever All-Ireland Club Senior Football title, edging St Brigid’s in a breathless extra-time thriller.
In a final that had everything, late drama, momentum swings and, moments of individual brilliance, it was Mikie Geaney who delivered the defining act, sneaking over the winning point deep into injury time of extra time to seal a 0-23 to 1-19 victory.
The scenes that followed said it all. Players collapsed to the turf. Supporters in the Hogan and Cusack stands erupted. And a club that had waited generations for this moment finally had its hands on the Andy Merrigan Cup.
Dingle looked to have let the moment slip away when St Brigid’s produced a stunning late rally in normal time, capped by a sensational two-pointer from Ruaidhrí Fallon that forced extra time and left the Kerry champions reeling.
But with legs tiring and nerves fraying, they found another gear. Three unanswered points in the closing stages proved decisive, with Mikie Geaney’s late winner the final act in a contest that swung relentlessly from end to end.
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Dylan Geaney, immense throughout, was named Man of the Match after another commanding display, while Paul Geaney captained the side with authority as Dingle completed one of the most remarkable campaigns in club football history.
Mark O’Connor Had Message For AFL Teammates Who Had A Ball At Dingle Win
O’Connor’s presence in red and white was far from guaranteed. The former Kerry minor has been based in Australia with AFL side Geelong Cats, and his return for the club season required understanding, and goodwill from the Cats.
I really want to pay tribute to Geelong.
I played a few years ago without permission and got into a small bit of trouble for it. But when I explained what the club meant to me, they said, ‘Why didn’t you just ask?’
They’ve been unbelievable ever since. I can say with full confidence I wouldn’t still be in Australia if it wasn’t for them. They’re just different. They care about what matters to you as a person.
That freedom allowed Mark O’Connor to be part of one of the most memorable club campaigns in recent memory.
From ending a 77-year wait for a Kerry title, to conquering Munster, and now standing atop the All-Ireland summit, Dingle’s rise has been relentless.
For Mark O’Connor, there was another surprise. AFL teammates Patrick Dangerfield, Mark Blicavs and Jack Henry made the trip over to support their teammate and the gesture wasn’t lost on Mark O’Connor.
It meant everything.
I made a special point of looking up into the crowd before games this year. Those are the moments you remember forever.
They travelled halfway around the world for this. I hope I can return the favour someday.
As the celebrations rolled on beneath the Hogan Stand, it was clear that the men from west Kerry are going to enjoy this one.
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SEE ALSO: Kerry’s Paul Geaney Showed His Class With Amazing Gesture After Dingle All-Ireland Win