Kerry Minors Andrew Barry and Jack Morgan. Photo by Gavin O’Connor.
THIS Sunday Kerry will look to banish 20 years of hurt when the minor team take to the field in Croke Park.
Traleetoday.ie spoke to two minor players who are taking it all in their stride ahead of the All-Ireland Minor Final showdown against Donegal.
Andrew Barry and Jack Morgan will don the green and gold this Sunday and get a chance to banish that All-Ireland drought for the Kerry minor team.
There is a chance for Andrew Barry to make history for his club Na Gaeil by becoming the first player from the club to win an All-Ireland Final in Croke Park.
“There’s not been many players who have played in Croke Park for Na Gaeil so to add an All-Ireland medal to that would be great for us,” said Andrew Barry.
Andrew who lined out at centre-back in the semi-final against Mayo has started for Kerry in the championship for each game this year, except the Munster Final victory against Cork.
“There have been plenty of people wishing me well for the final. It’s great to be here, people have kept their distance a bit looking for tickets which helps as well,” said Barry.
Jack Morgan, who plays his club football with Austin Stacks, had this to say about the week leading up to the final.
“The week has been pretty good so far. Being back at school has been a help because it allows us a bit of time to take our mind off the game,” said Morgan.
As far as Donegal football goes, the apple doesn’t fall far from the tree with their minors just like the seniors adopting a ruthless defensive game plan.
“We’re ready for it, but we’re also ready to play our own game, we have our own style we want to play as well,” said Morgan.
“It’s a great feeling knowing you’re facing into your first All-Ireland. Hopefully I’ll have a few more to come!” said Morgan.
Hailing from the Rock club, Jack Morgan had plenty of players, past and present, to draw upon for advice on how to deal with an All-Ireland fianl.
“Kieran Donaghy spoke to me during the week, he told me to go out and enjoy the day and try to soak it all up,” said Jack.
The Kerry minor game throws-in at 1.15pm and will be shown live on TG4.
