Ryan Burke reflects on brilliant 12 months after Kildare's Tailteann Cup win

Ryan Burke was perhaps one of the surprise inclusions in Kildare’s Tailteann Cup starting lineup with recent mainstay Mark Dempsey making way for the Caragh defender.

Speaking after The Lilies got over the line in Croke Park, he said: “I have been in and out of the panel during the year and wasn’t sure where I stood, but Flanno had a chat with me during the week and I knew I was in then. It was a bit of a shock, but I'm thankful for it.”

Marching behind the Artane Band, Burke was taking time appreciate the scenery as The Lilies circled the Croke Park pitch.

He added, “I was doing my best to look at the crowd, take it in, and feel the atmosphere and wave to any kids. There were obviously nerves, but once the ball is thrown in those nerves go out the window.

“(On the game itself) It was touch and go. We came through it and that is all that matters. I couldn’t tell you the last time Kildare won two games in a row in Croke Park so even to hold that accolade now is strong going into next year. It is not going to be an easy year next year by any means, but thankfully we got through today and that is all that matters. We can celebrate in the dressing room now.”

It has been an incredible 12 months for Burke who, alongside clubmate Darragh Swords, has won the Kildare and Leinster Intermediate Football Championships with Caragh before achieving promotion to Division 2 and now Tailteann Cup glory with their county.

Burke concluded, “Listen, it's fantastic. The club helps a lot, especially before Christmas when I was with them for a six-month spell. Then coming back in with the Kildare lads and Flanno, I knew ambitions were always going to be high with Brian at the wheel and thankfully we have got that win today.”

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