Hurt of Clonduff defeat spurred Burren to take down champions

Niall Toner of Burren celebrates his goal against Kilcoo ©INPHO/James Lawlor

Collie Holmes says Burren’s recent heavy defeat to Clonduff was the catalyst for their stunning Down SFC semi-final victory over Kilcoo.

Burren looked anything but Frank O’Hare Cup contenders in a 0-15 to 2-21 Division 2A loss, but they will now have the chance to avenge that on Sunday week after dethroning the seven-in-a-row champions.

“The Clonduff game, we just didn’t turn up in the third quarter. I don’t know how many times I’ve watched it now and reminded the boys of that,” the St Mary’s manager and three-time Tyrone All-Ireland SFC winner told Belfast Live.

“We had a really, really strong last 20 minutes (against Kilcoo). I thought our subs coming in were superb. They did their job. They had an impact. They did it very simple. And we just kept the ball moving. So, I'm just pleased with the effort. Pleased with the quality as well.

“They (Kilcoo) were very gracious in defeat, they all came up and wished us well. They carried the mantle long enough in Down, it’s somebody else’s turn now.”

Looking to the decider, Holmes added: “The next day, you have your classic 50-50 final and we just hope we get a great day and a good crowd."