Rathnew Success Catches Imagination of the Entire County

By Tony Murphy


Festive season spirit is taking a back seat to some degree in the county this week-end as even the most tenuous of G.A.A. followers are focussing on Sunday's Leinster Club Football championship final replay between Rathnew and Dublin champions Na Fianna.

`There has'nt been a Christmas pudding or cake baked in the village this year as yet and there is unlikely to be now seeing as the game is so close to Christmas Day. But we don't mind because we are so proud of the lads and everything going well, we will bring home the cup on Sunday', said local publican Marian Murphy whose husband Harry is team manager.

While football euphoria would be expected in Rathnew as they rally behind their local heroes, Sunday's game is also catching the imagination of the entire county as the street credibility of the team and club has risen beyond all expectations.

Good luck posters dedicated to the team from other clubs have been erected on various routes from the county to Newbridge where Sunday's game will take place. Club members and players have been inundated with cards and telephone calls wishing them well.

Throughout this campaign, the team has shown massive spirit by rising from the ashes in a number of games, coming from behind in the last ten minutes to force a draw. They were somewhat disappointed at not taking the title in the drawn game last Sunday when Na Fianna's backs were against the wall.

However, they are going out on Sunday full of confidence, spirit and skill and will be hoping for the best Christmas gift ever, the Leinster Club Championship title.