Kerry 5-14 0-15 Clare.
Paudie and David Clifford combined to score the most poignant goal against Clare in the Munster final, just one day after their mother passed away.
There was some doubt that the Clifford brothers would be available to play in today’s final, given the tragedy that they are currently enduring.
However, they both decided that they wanted to play, and not only started, but played staring roles as The Kingdom won the Munster championship again.
Goals from Tony Brosnan and Dara Moynihan gave The Kingdom a strong lead early in the game, while David, had kicked four points himself.
Then with not long left until half time, Paudie was in possession, and was cool enough to even motion with his hand the run that he wants his brother before floating the ball beautifully to his younger sibling.
The Kerry captain bravely caught the ball while under pressure from the Clare goalkeeper, checked himself back so he could kick with his left foot, and then slotted it home.
Paudie and David Clifford combine for Kerry's third goal
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If goals could tell stories then this tells the one of two young men, who are going through unthinkable sadness, and still coming together to perform for their county.
The second half saw David pick up where he left of, scoring his second, and Kerry’s fourth goal, to really finish off the opposition.
However, there was still more than 20 minutes to go on the clock, meaning that Clare had a long and difficult period of football to play.
Paudie managed to raise the green flag himself, showing real strength and guile to find the net for the fifth time for Jack O’Conner’s team.
Some were critical of Kerry’s performances in the league, but the summer break has clearly done them the world of good as they looked unbelievably sharp.
They will no doubt have bigger tasks ahead, but they will believe that they have the depth, talent and drive to win back to back All-Ireland finals.
Related links:
- Ellen Clifford, mother of David and Paudie, passes away
- “He looked disinterested” – Colm Cooper critical of Shane Walsh performance
- Padraic Joyce hooks Shane Walsh as Galway cruise past Sligo
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