Victorious Stradbally manager Martin Murphy believes his team upset reigning champions Portloaise in the Laois SFC County final by playing the game in the right way.
A stunning goal from Jody Dillon with almost the last kick of the game denied Portlaoise 10-in-a-row in O’Moore Park and earned the underdogs their first title since 2005, the last time the club kingpins failed to claim the County title.
Murphy, who was also in charge of the team for their last success, paid tribute to the character of his team and the commitment to positive football.
“If ever there was a way to win a County final, this was it,” he told RTÉ Sport.
“It was tremendous, we never said die and we gave it our best throughout the game.
“We didn’t go ultra-defensive like all teams have this year. We played Portloaise at their own game, we played football.”
After Portlaiose edged two points ahead with time running out, the result felt almost inevitable.
"It’s fantastic to come back here and lead Stradbally to a County final 11 years later"
Murphy admitted that the favourites were “totally dominant” in the closing stages before Collins struck for the spectacular finish.
“It was brilliant. Jody in fairness didn’t have one of his better days today, but by Jesus, he pulled it out of the fire for us in the end.
“A fabulous goal, I suppose against the run of play.
“We were wondering where we were going to win this game from. It was pure doggedness and determination.”
Murphy admitted that Stradbally’s 16th title was even sweeter than their last success in 2005 which he masterminded.
“The first one was brilliant by all manner and means, beating Portlaoise who were All-Ireland runners-up the year before, but it’s fantastic to come back here and lead Stradbally to a County final 11 years later.”
