Kearns: Games have build a real unity in the panel

DUHALLOW’S epic journey can reach a satisfactory conclusion provided they can produce a top performance on facing up St. Finbarrs in Sunday’s County SFC Final at Pairc Uí Chaoimh.

That’s the view of Duhallow team manager Padraig Kearns, who is delighted with the manner on their victory over Castlehaven, but with little time to refocus ahead of the next challenge.

“To be honest, the ‘Barrs will be gunning for this one, having been so close last season to lose in a replay to Nemo Rangers, they enter the final fresh and hungry, three weeks to run the mill on us. Its fair to say, they are in an ideal situation, most people will view that aspect as giving them the edge,” he said.

Kearns is thrilled with the strength of character of the Duhallow side emerging best from competitive games against St. Nicks, Valley Rovers and Castlehaven.

“We have exceptional players, mixed in are those with inter county experience and some from smaller clubs where they can put their talents forward on the SFC stage. Those games over recent weeks have build up a bond in the side, a real unity has developed in the panel,” he said.

Everybody is aware, the three games against Castlehaven caught the imagination, Duhallow should had won chapter 1, requiring goals at key stages in the replay to remain involved but very much in command for the second replay.

“The goals in the third game were crucial, we enjoyed a bit of luck, important scores coming at the most appropriate of times, they were three intense games, different players stood out in all three, Kevin Crowley picked up a black card, John McLoughlin entered the game with an injury yet our defence was surperb,” said Kearns on recalling the third instalment.

“For us all this week it’s all about recovery, rectifying the knocks and bruises ahead of facing a powerful Barrs outfit. It’s probable we will be tested in a manner not previously encountered, at this stage, our players have the potential and the hunger to work their way through whatever difficulties presented,” he said.

This current Duhallow side attempts to emulate previous successes, back to back wins from 1990/1991 enjoyed at the hands of the Barrs yet Kearns is not getting too carried away.

“That’s all history, its in the past, 2018 is all about next Sunday, getting focused and primed for the major task ahead. Finals can take on a life of their own, St. Finbarrs can hurt opposition all over the field, they are viewed as hot favourites, all involved with us have to adapt to situations as they arise,” said Kearns.

With two contrasting schedules for both finalists, Kearns is unsure whether Duhallow’s marathon run or St. Finbarrs three week wait will benefit most.

“Nobody knows what will happen, if we win, it will be put down to momentum, otherwise tiredness and a lack of freshness will be a reason. Hopefully, those three games against Castlehaven will stand to us in good stead,” he said.