There was nothing straightforward about Bruree’s South Intermediate triumph in October 1991. It took two bruising encounters with Blackrock, and a late surge in the replay that still stands out all these years later.

The opening game finished level at Bruree 1-8, Blackrock 1-8, and it was a fair reflection of a tight, hard-fought contest. Scores were at a premium throughout, with both sides fully committed from the throw-in.

At the back, Bruree were well served by Mike O’Brien in goal, with Aidan Frawley, John Potter and Kieran Regan forming a solid full-back line. Across the half-back line, Stephen McDonogh, Dick Sheehan and Peter Finn worked tirelessly to limit Blackrock’s chances.

Further out the field, Pat Potter and Danny Deady drove the effort around midfield, while the forwards had to work hard for every opening. Edward Potter led the scoring with 0-5 (0-2f), consistently taking his chances when they came. Ger Mullane struck for the game’s only goal with a penalty, while Pat Potter, Mike Mullane and John Lyons each added a point.

It was honest, uncompromising hurling, and neither side could find the edge needed to win it on the day.

The replay would demand even more. Bruree lined out with much the same defensive structure, but there were changes up front as they looked for a breakthrough. However, for long stretches, it didn’t come. Blackrock built a lead, and as the game entered its closing stages, Bruree trailed by six points, 2-9 to 1-6, and were struggling to find momentum.

Their only earlier goal had come from Donal Mullane, who would finish with 2-1, but it seemed it might not be enough.

Still, there was no panic. The defence held firm, with Richard Sheehan anchoring the centre and McDonogh and Finn continuing to drive the ball out under pressure. When O’Regan was forced off through injury, John Lyons slotted back in seamlessly, and Bruree stayed in touch.

Then the game turned. Mullane struck again — his second goal — cutting the gap and reigniting belief. From there, the tempo shifted completely. Moments later, Stephen McDonogh surged forward from half-back and crashed home a decisive goal, bringing Bruree level in a passage of play that transformed the match.

Now it came down to composure. Danny Deady, who finished with 0-3 (all frees), stepped up under pressure and edged Bruree in front with a vital late free.

Blackrock pressed, but Bruree held firm. O’Brien remained steady in goal, and the defence in front of him stood up to the final push.

The whistle confirmed it: Bruree 3-7, Blackrock 2-9. A one-point win — but one built on resilience, late courage, and a refusal to give in. After a draw the first day and a six-point deficit late in the replay, Bruree found a way. Not perfect hurling — but powerful, direct, and decisive when it mattered most.

⸻

16. Ger Mullane (1-0, 1-0pen)

17. Ger Mullane

18. John Lyons