MINOR FOOTBALL CHAMPIONS 1980.
Austin Stacks 2-9; Killarney 0-4.
We have had some brilliant Minor Football teams during the last 40 years, right up to this very day, but it’s an indication of how dominant the District Board teams have been, and continue to be, at this level, that we have won just two MF Championships in our history – the first in 1969 and the second in 1980 – forty years ago on this day (Sunday, 12th October 1980).
This game was played in Killorglin against a much-fancied Killarney Divisional side but we came away with the trophy after a very comprehensive display. We were totally in control from the start and after an almost perfect performance we led by 1-6 to 0-1 at half time. Full back Michael Crowley gave a man-of-the-match performance with Michael Counihan not far behind. Mike Rohan in goals made at least three brilliant saves. Kieran O’Callaghan and Richard Campbell dominated the centre while upfront all six forwards combined well with four getting on the score sheet.
The team captain that day was Michael Counihan and six years later Couney went on to captain our Senior team to another Co. Championship title. And just three weeks before Couney, together with Michael Crowley and Liam Kearns, collected All Ireland medals when Kerry beat Derry in the All Ireland MF Final.
Team: Mike Rohan, Brian Perfect, Mike Crowley, Mike Carroll, Paul Carroll, Richard Prendeville, Michael Counihan (Capt), Kieran O’Callaghan (0-3 frees), Richard Campbell, Liam Kearns (0-2), David Charles, Dermot Sugrue (0-3), Damien Dowling (1-0), Paul Mullins (1-1), Kevin Barry.
Sub used: Pa Carey.
Rest of Panel: John Browne, Peter Kearns, Timmy McAuliffe, Joe McMahon, John O’Riordan, John O’Shea.
