Crossmolina Deel Rovers have dedicated their All-Ireland Intermediate Football Championship triumph to the late Róisín Cryan, fiancée of player Conor Loftus, who sadly passed away recently.
The Croke Park decider was initially scheduled for January 12th but was postponed following the tragic death of Róisín from Attyrory, Carrick-on-Shannon who died just the day before, on January 11th.
A last-minute penalty from Conor Loftus made the difference to the final scoreboard and sparked emotional celebrations.
The Mayo men surrounded Conor at the final whistle, having come from behind to defeat Derry Champions Ballinderry on Sunday in Croke Park.
“This victory is obviously bittersweet,” said captain Mikie Loftus.
“Róisín Cryan was an amazing person and we as a team are lucky to have known her.
“Róisín was there celebrating after the good times last year, and throughout the many bad times.
“Róisín would hate this attention, but I want to dedicate this victory to Róisín Cryan. I know she’s looking down on us smiling today.
“Crossmolina is a small, proud town, and it’s been overwhelming to see how the community can come together in the good times and the bad times.”
Conor Loftus headed straight for the tunnel when the final whistle sounded but manager Brian Benson paid tribute to his centre-back.
“While we’re all excited and delighted, our thoughts have to go to them, to Conor Loftus and the Cryans. It’s obviously really difficult for him – to see him bolt down the tunnel after winning an All-Ireland in Croke Park… It says a lot, the fact that he could come out and play for us today,” the manager stated.
