Fantastic win for Fermanagh but more to do !

Malachy O'Rourke beamed from ear to ear in the tunnel of Healy Park. The Fermanagh manager had been ushered away by the television people for interviews as soon as the final whistle shrilled in the cold Omagh air on Saturday night.

With the interviews over he greeted each one of his players as they fought their way through the crowds and towards the dressing room. A bear hug was given to each of his warriors and a look exchanged that indicated that the job had been done, but that there was more to do.

Finally catching his breath he talked to the Fermanagh Herald about what was a truly momentous game.

"It's just fantastic to get the win,' Malachy explained looking out onto the sea of green that had engulfed the pitch, "It means so much to the people of Fermanagh."

Asked about his sides poor start Malachy revealed that he was delighted with how the players responded.

"Obviously the start we got was not ideal but the boys did not panic, which was important. They stuck to the task and kept playing away and we were able to get back into it. And of course Ronan's penalty save was important in getting us back on track."

One facet of Fermanagh's victory which stood out was the fitness of the players and Malachy held his hands up and explained that this aspect had nothing to do with him.

"Leo McBride is a man who does not get enough credit. The boys showed what great shape they are in out there today and it's a credit to Leo and the work that he has done with them."

Malachy went on to speak about the tremendous team spirit that is evident in this Fermanagh team and was at pains to point out that this is truly a squad effort.

"The work the boys have put in all year has been immense. There is 37 players in our squad and each one is as valuable as the next. Everyone is in this together and that is very important to us."

So what about his tactical masterclass bringing Barry Owens on.

"You always hope that you're substitutions work," the Derrylin native said with a distinct twinkle in his eye, "but a goal with you're first touch, that's just unbelievable."

Continuing he paid tribute to Owens.

"It's great for Barry and it is great for us that we were able to use him today. We have been very careful with him this year but what a man he is to bring on. To score with his first touch just shows what he is capable of."

Now it is on to the Ulster Final for Malachy and his players and a date with either Down or Armagh.

"We would have no preference at all. Both are great teams with a great tradition and either will be tough opponents in the final. We just have to work hard and make sure we prepare as well as we can and go out and give it all we can."

And even in the midst of the emotion following Saturday's evenings game the Fermanagh manager was clear in his message that as good as Saturday was it will count for nothing if his team fail to perform in the final.

"We are only in a final and have won nothing yet. Of course it is great for all the Fermanagh supporters but we will have to keep our feet on the ground now and make sure that we do everything that we can to make sure that we perform again in the final."

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