O’Connor claims they’re only following Micko’s lead as Kerry once again overcame mid-championship turmoil to lift another All-Ireland title, their fifth under Jack O’Connor’s management. What’s becoming a familiar script for Kerry stumble in the group stage, rise in the knockouts played out perfectly again, this time ending with a hard-earned win that silenced the doubters.
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Rising from Criticism to Champions
O’Connor looked ready to walk away from the job after another rollercoaster summer. His team had been heavily criticised after a shock loss to Meath, with questions swirling about their form. But instead of falling apart, Kerry rallied. O’Connor later admitted that the criticism, especially from former Kerry players, hit hard. “There was a lot of fallout from the Meath game,” he said, recalling a fiery press conference where he vented his frustration. “It wasn’t put on. I was genuinely upset.”
Team Pride and Personal Motivation
For players like Paudie Clifford, the idea that Kerry were a “one-man team” was especially frustrating. “To be called that when I see the work our lads put in every day—it’s personal,” he said. He named teammates like Joe O’Connor, Jason Foley, and Gavin White as examples of players who go unnoticed but do crucial work. The team has now reached three of the last four All-Ireland finals and won two of them.
A Complete Performance at Last
Clifford noted that this final was the first time Kerry had truly played a full 70-minute championship game. Even in their 2022 win, he said, they’d been patchy. But against Donegal, everything clicked. O’Connor credited their smart use of possession and patience in attack as the reason Donegal’s key runners like Mogan and McHugh had little impact.
Chasing Micko’s Legacy
O’Connor’s All-Ireland record now edges closer to the legendary Mick O’Dwyer, who won eight titles in 15 years. Though O’Dwyer held the role continuously, O’Connor’s five wins across three stints is remarkable. After the 2022 win, he even brought Sam Maguire to Micko’s home, sharing a meaningful moment with his idol. “We’re only trotting after him now,” he said.
Hints at a Final Chapter
As for his future, O’Connor hinted this may be the end. His wife snapped a photo of him leaving for the game, one he suspects will be framed as his “last hurrah.” Though he hasn’t confirmed anything officially, the tone suggests he may be ready to step aside, leaving behind a legacy firmly etched in Kerry GAA history.
