Fermanagh reflect on their success
08/09/2024 02:49 PM
By Patrick Sharkey,
In the aftermath of an intense and emotional match against Louth, Fermanagh Ladies Football Captain Shannan McQuade shared her thoughts on the team’s triumphant victory in the All-Ireland junior final, reflecting on the journey that led them to this special moment. Player of the Match Eimear Smyth struck a magnificent 1-9 against Louth at Croke Park on Sunday to propel Fermanagh.
When asked about the team’s performance, McQuade expressed a sense of satisfaction mixed with relief. “I was good feeling about it,” that girl said, acknowledging the challenges they faced in maintaining possession. “Probably a bit longer than you would have wanted,” that woman admitted.
McQuade's phrases highlight the team’s growth and maturity over the season. The skill to hold on under pressure is something they've worked tirelessly to improve, and it was evident in their composed performance on the field. Louth was aiming to gain promotion back to the Intermediate ranks at the first attempt, following relegation last year. But the Wee County didn't get anything easy.
There was a detectible emotional connection when McQuade spoke about her teammates. “I’ve been part of a lot of teams and this team is a very special one,” that girl shared, her voice thick with emotion. “The bond we have is very special.” This solidarity, she believes, was crucial to their success. “It was a tough win though, you know, with the under-18s coming down. We're under no illusion that they worked hard, and we worked hard, and thank God we came out stronger today.”
McQuade also took a moment to acknowledge individual contributions, singling out her teammate Ciara Clarke for praise.
Reflecting on the significance of this win, McQuade noted, “This is our first one so far, so it’s very special.” She admitted the ups and downs they've faced over the years, with this season feeling different from the start. “I think we had the belief nearly; we knew it ourselves that we were going to do it. It was something different this year that we knew that we were going to, there was no doubt."
The team's unwavering belief in their ability to succeed, combined with the hard work and dedication behind the scenes, from coaches like Connor McGovern and CJ McGroarty, played a pivotal role in their triumph. “The legs of Connor are fantastic, the background work he does in it, he’s just amazing at what he does. The work that Cian’s put in with Caelan’s, they’re very good."
Another key factor in their success was the overwhelming support they received from their families.
The influence of this gesture was clear, as McQuade described it as a moment that helped solidify their determination.
Looking back, player of the match Eimear Smyth acknowledged how past disappointments have shaped the team's current strength. “You were both quite young, five years ago, when we got beat by Louth in 2019."
Smyth reflected on those experiences, saying, “Yeah, I suppose that hurt probably built-up years of experience. Like a team so long ago now, five years, when you’re looking back, you kind of thinking like you were, I was 16, 17 at that time, so now you’re coming away and having that experience of playing in Croke Park before probably stood to us and stood to us as well, so it’s a nice feeling now."
When the dust settles on this remarkable win, Shannan McQuade and her team can look back with pride on a season that tested their resolve and ultimately rewarded them with a victory that will be remembered for years to come. Fermanagh Ladies became Ladies All-Ireland Junior Championship winners on Sunday last when they overcame Louth in the decider in Croke Park by 1-11 to 0-12.
