Fans praise Kerry superstar David Clifford over humble act of sportsmanship amid Championship exit
The Kerry superstar is now looking at a long awaited rest with his club
David Clifford is capable of superhuman feats on the GAA field but this wasn't his day. His East Kerry team bowed out of the Kerry senior football Championship at the semi-final stage after extra-time against Dingle.
With regulation time about to end and the sides level, Clifford's team won a penalty kick. The Fossa man, a five-time All Star by the age of 25, stepped up and rifled his spot-kick to the left side of the goal.
Dingle goalkeeper Gavan Curran guessed correctly and pushed Clifford's penalty away at full stretch.
Read next: GAA President blasts wasted opportunity for Belfast over Casement Park decision
With another kerry forward star Paul Geaney on fire, and Dingle fresher and fitter in extra time, Dingle managed to knock out the Cliffords and East Kerry, winning 2-16 to 1-14.
Missing a last minute penalty is enough to floor some people for weeks, but within seconds Clifford walked in to shake the hand of the goalkeeper and acknowledge his brilliant save.
The commentators on Clubber remarked on the 'act of sportsmanship' when things were not going Clifford's way and fans online were quick to agree.
"Deep into injury time in a County Semi final, David Clifford has a penalty to put his team ahead. Magnificent save by Gavan H Curran and he's congratulated by his team mates. But David has the respect and sportsmanship to acknowledge the save too," posted John C O'Shea on X.
Craig de Paor added: "Great to see. Clifford superster but humble."
"Sound that he went over and congratulated the Keeper. Genuinely nice Lads," stated another GAA fan.
"Great save and a touch of class by David Clifford," said Pat O'Shea in response.
Some fans were quick to point out that Clifford should have gone for a point to take the lead but the Kerry star hasn't become the most feared forward in the game by taking easy points.
That brings his East Kerry season to an end which may be a good thing for defenders all over the country and for Kerry GAA in time.
After a number of never-ending seasons with club, college and county, Clifford and his brother Paudie can put their feet up somewhat for the winter and rest for a couple of months before the 2025 League starts in late January.
Get the latest sports headlines straight to your inbox by signing up for free email alerts.
Related
Share this page
Guest Posts by Easy Branches
