Some cracking memories of the old dump of a ground.
Sat - and I use that word generously - in the old open stand for the Cork game in 2001. Big fat lump directly behind me, back was in bits as he was kneeing be constantly all game but all was forgiven when Barry Foley fired over the sideline to win it. Cregan giving it the big 'un in the immediate post match interview, calling out the Cork Examiner. Great times.
Was up in the city terrace for the semi final against Waterford a few weeks later. Something like 2-05 to 0-01 down before Ollie and Big Brian Begley led the comeback. Loved that jersey too, my all time favourite kit. Still have it at home buried somewhere.
Losing the football final to Cork there in 2008 or 2009 (that bollix Rory Hickey) was probably the worst I’ve ever felt after a match. The walk back to town after seemed to take about two hours. A violent hangover made it all the worse.
Was at another match as a young fella too with my father. Can’t even remember who was playing. We were typically late anyway. Rushing through the tunnel under the stand which was claustrophobic at the best of times when one of the teams (may have been Tipp) came charging out. Was mowed down by a few of the cunts and carried half way out on to the pitch before the auld fella picked me up by the collar and dragged me up to the seats which suited anyone with a build similar to Tyrion Lannister. Savage craic as a young lad.
I’ll miss that old shit hole.
