Knocknagree though to All-Ireland final - but injured Cooper is out
INJURY has ruled out former Knocknagree captain Danny Cooper from playing in next week’s All Ireland Club JAFC Final in Croke Park.
The inspirational midfield leader was hauled off at half-time in the semi-final win over Naomh Colmcille with a knee injury. Indeed Knocknagree have been left counting the cost of injuries picked up, key attacker Eoghan McSweeney now in a race to be fit for the All Ireland showdown against Multyfarnham of Westmeath.
Being without any established players going into the club’s biggest day is a set back yet Knocknagree are sure to be hardened in their resolve towards landing the All Ireland prize. Cooper emerged a dynamic figure for Knocknagree on guiding his side to back to back Duhallow JAFC titles in 2015/16.
Always a bundle of energy around midfield and in the thick of action, Cooper combined defensive duties with dynamic forward thrusts. A liking for big days manifested itself time and again, evident last Saturday, Cooper and colleague Padraig Collins pitted against Naomh Colmcille and Donegal U-21 panelists from last season Daniel Clarke and Michael Lynch.
Straight from the off, Knocknagree dominated to provide an attacking platform, Cooper picking up an injury midway during the opening half that required treatment and a relocation to full forward before being substituted at half time. A follow up prognosis revealed a broken bone much to the disappointment for player, club and supporters.
Knocknagree hold a number of options to alleviate the problem, one is to start Cooper’s younger brother Tomás in the centre. Meanwhile Knocknagree will be keeping their fingers crossed that exciting talent Eoghan McSweeney can play after picking up a late injury in the All Ireland semi final.
As an 16-year old, McSweeney burst onto the Knocknagree junior team in 2014, a wonderful kicker from distance was highlighted against Naomh Colmcille on posting two all important points in the opening half.
Knocknagree bid to bridge a ten year gap since Cork’s last outright victory in the grade when Canovee sampled All Ireland honours in 2008. On Saturday week, Knocknagree face Multyfarnham, the Westmeath side ended the hopes of the John Maughan managed Lahardane MacHales(Mayo) in their bid to reach Croke Park.