Derry have been crowned Allianz NFL Division 1 champions for the first time since 2008, dramatically defeating Dublin on penalties in this afternoon's final at Croke Park.
It was a sensational game of football, one featuring the two best teams in the country at the moment.
There was some unbelievable play on both sides, with Derry centre back Eoin McEvoy providing two incredible goals over the course of the match.
What a finish from Derry's Eoin McEvoy against Dublin 🔥pic.twitter.com/8aH8VGyalQ
— Balls.ie (@ballsdotie) March 31, 2024
Derry probably would have felt that they should have won the game in normal time, only for Dublin to level things with a late free.
It was much the same story in extra-time.
The Ulster side were the better side for much of the additional periods, holding a three-point lead in the dying moments of the match.
However, Dublin would score a dramatic equalising goal. It came via Greg McEneaney, who finished well to make the most of a scramble in the opposition box.
92 nóim #DUBvDER@DubGAAOfficial 2-21@Doiregaa 3-18
Cúl do Bhaile Átha Cliath!!! A leithéid de dhráma anseo agus an cúl faighte ag Greg McEneaney! 🤩
Dublin find a goal with the last kick of the game and we go to penalties 🤯
BEO/LIVE AR @TG4TV 📺#AllianzLeagues #GAABEO pic.twitter.com/PesGABESHu— Spórt TG4 (@SportTG4) March 31, 2024
At that stage, it seemed clear that we were heading for penalties.
That proved to be the case, although Derry would finally manage to finish the job at this point, with the Dubs missing three of their four attempts from the spot.
Ciceanna Éirice #DUBvDER@DubGAAOfficial 2-21 (1)@Doiregaa 3-18 (3)
A leithéid de chluiche agus is iad Doire buaiteoirí na sraithe i mbliana 😍
Derry win the game after penalties and what a performance both teams put in today!
BEO/LIVE AR @TG4TV 📺#AllianzLeagues #GAABEO pic.twitter.com/AeKZXHNWZL— Spórt TG4 (@SportTG4) March 31, 2024
In the end, they ran out as deserved winners.
READ HERE: Derry’s Ascension - From Division 4 To Division 1 Final In Six Years
Joe Brolly went through it during Derry win over Dublin
Considering the dramatic nature of this game, it was fair to assume that Derry fans were put through the ringer over the course of the 90+ minutes of action at Croke Park.
That includes Joe Brolly, who gave updates on his condition throughout the match.
Early on, he was happy enough with how his home county were performing.
Derry playing at a very high level so far in a top class contest against the no.1 seeds. Murray and McGuigan absolutely comfortable in this company. Derry relaxed and unafraid.
— Joe Brolly (@JoeBrolly1993) March 31, 2024
However, that late Dublin free drew a predictable response.
Oh ffs
— Joe Brolly (@JoeBrolly1993) March 31, 2024
Fair.
As second goal from Eoin McEvoy was enough to lift his spirits got underway.
Woohooooo!!!! Brilliant again from young McEvoy
— Joe Brolly (@JoeBrolly1993) March 31, 2024
As we all know, there was still further drama to come.
Greg McEneaney's goal was a real hammer blow, although Brolly probably brought it on himself considering a comment he made just a few minutes prior.
Oh ffs has anyone a wooden stake and a sledgehammer
— Joe Brolly (@JoeBrolly1993) March 31, 2024
When Greg McEneaney came on I said to the lady beside me “hardly a household name.”
— Joe Brolly (@JoeBrolly1993) March 31, 2024
However, Derry would get there in the end.
Their victory over Dublin will be seen as a real statement of intent ahead of championship, with many believing that this group are now ready to compete for an All-Ireland.
That includes Joe Brolly, who sees this as a potential landmark moment for the county.
What a wonderful adventure of a game. A massive step for Derry in the crusade for Sam. McEvoy came of age, Murray too. The team knows now they are good enough. Training from this on in will be electrifying. Each man motivated to get better, to lock in on the biggest prize.
— Joe Brolly (@JoeBrolly1993) March 31, 2024
The most impressive thing was to have to win it three times and to do it. A matchless experience for the boys. A matchless confidence builder.
— Joe Brolly (@JoeBrolly1993) March 31, 2024
He won't be the only one in Derry to share those sentiments.
It only looks like it will be onwards and upwards for Mickey Harte's side from here.
SEE ALSO: Westmeath & Down Bosses Question 'Absolutely Ridiculous' Clare All-Ireland Advantage
