This article is from page 85 of the 2011-09-27 edition of The Clare People. OCR mistakes are to be expected so download the original SWF or the rendered page 85 JPG
JOHN Carmody’s name has become synonymous with Kilmaley successes in recent years.
He was manager when they captured only their second ever county title in 2004 and after being part of the backroom team under Patsy Fahey that got to the semi-final two years ago, he took the reins once more last year to lead his side to a nine match unbeaten run that culminated in Sunday’s two point victory over Clonlara.
“The players have put in a huge commitment since the 15th of January so I think it was just rewards for what they have put into it.”
In a tense final quarter, a replay appeared to be on the cards until Kilmaley showed their character late on
“Our experienced players stood up and in fairness to our fitness coach David O’Brien, the team is in good shape.
“In the last couple of matches, we have finished strongly and hopefully we will continue in that vein.”
The Blues will now face county champions Crusheen in the last four and after drawing on the opening day of the championship, Carmody’s men won’t fear the holders.
“Being in a county semi-final, it’s a huge prize to get to a county final. No more than any club that starts out the championship, we want to be there on county final day and we will prepare well for the two weeks.
“We are going in to win, we are certainly not going in to make up the numbers.”
With Carmody’s record, you wouldn’t doubt him for a second.