“While it is an amazing victory it is obviously bittersweet.”
Crossmolina defeated Ballinderry at Croke Park this afternoon in the final of the All-Ireland Intermediate Club Championship.
The score was 1-12 to 0-13, with Conor Loftus showing immense courage to slot home a penalty in what was essentially the last kick of the game.
The match had originally been scheduled for January 12, but was postponed due to the tragic death of Róisín Cryan, the fiancée of Loftus.
The Mayo player – who finished with 1-1 – was embraced by his teammates after the full-time whistle on what was a hugely emotional day.
During his victory speech, Crossmolina captain Mikie Loftus paid a touching tribute to Róisín.
He said: “While it is an amazing victory it is obviously bittersweet.
“Roisin Cryan was an amazing person and we as a team are lucky to have known her.
“Roisin was there celebrating after the good times last year and throughout the many bad times.
“I want to dedicate this victory to Roisin and I know she is looking down on us today.”
“I want to dedicate this victory to Róisín Cryan”
— The GAA (@officialgaa) January 26, 2025
Moving speech from Captain Mikie Loftus on the steps of the Hogan stand. pic.twitter.com/dL2cjlrF7j
