The victory is all the more meritorious given that the East Cork side had to come from nine points down early in the second half, before finally getting home in a welter of excitement. Difficult underfoot conditions made good football impossible, but nevertheless both sides served up a most entertaining game. With the strong wind to their hacks in the opening half, Knocknagree turned over 1-7 to 0-3 in front.

Castlemartyr’s task was made that bit more difficult when Knocknagree goaled from a penalty early in the second half to open up a commanding nine point lead, but gradually the East Cork side began to whittle away the lead, and were just the minimum in arrears with time almost up.

The very accurate John Morgan was given the ‘chance to tie the scores when Castlemartyr were awarded a 13-metre free out near the touchline, but his effort fell short and they looked to have blown their chance.

Fortunately for Morgan, his effort was gathered by Fr. Martin Conroy who became his side’s hero when he kicked the equaliser and send the game into extra time.

With both sides showing signs of weariness, the East Cork side, aided by the wind were just two points in front at the end of the opening period of extra-time and it didn’t appear to be enough.

However, Knocknagree were unable to take full advantage and the sides shared six points in a tremendously second period of extra time. Amid tremendous scenes of jubilation, Co. Board PRO Brian Barrett presented the cup to the winning captain.