2021 Clare senior football winning manager Paul Madden feels his sides success was built on a solid defensive performance throughout the campaign.
The Townies claimed the title for the first time since 2006 with a 1-11 to 0-9 win over Kilmurry Ibrickane, meaning Nathan Murray’s goal remained intact for entire championship run.
Across their six championship games, Eire Óg conceded an average of just 7 points per game, with the only double figure concession coming in their second round 0-14 to 1-10 loss against Clondegad.
Madden says while their goal lived a charmed life at times in yesterday’s final, their defensive effort was key in getting over the line.
Meanwhile one of the men who led that defensive charge feels it was a surreal moment to hear the final whistle confirm their championship success.
Aaron Fitzgerald was a key figure in their victory, capping a man of the match display with a diving save to clear Daniel Walsh’s goalbound effort off the line just before the half time break.
He says the victory has been a long time coming for many of the squad.
