We didn't want to go back to Intermediate - Aodh Ruadh's Diarmaid McInerney

For Aodh Ruadh veteran Diarmaid McInerney, this was one of Aodh Ruadh’s sweeter victories.

Too often, in the past, they played well for 40 or 50 minutes, but faded and were edged out of tight encounters.

But there is a bit of steel in the team this year after two great comebacks against Dungloe in a thrilling Division Two final, and also against Glenfin, where they just lost out after extra time.

Saturday’s match with St Naul’s was a real must-win affair, and Ballyshannon stood up for the full hour in their unflattering 2-17 to 1-8 victory.

“We haven’t had a full display since we played Convoy in the League,” McInerney told.

“We have played in 20 minute patches and against Glenfin and even against Gaoth Dobhair when we should have won it.

“But our all-round performance today, I am delighted for the older boys who have been soldiering for so long, the likes of David Dolan, Peter Boyle and Eamon McGrath.

“Boys who have been around the block, trying to keep this team where they are.

“We did not want to go back (to Intermediate), we want to stay up, and I know we did not go as far as we wanted to go.”

McInerney added that Aodh Ruadh can now begin rebuilding.

“If we can get the younger lads through, I have no doubt that Aodh Ruadh will be fine in the top tier.”

On the win, he agreed that the two goals were crucial in this big victory.

“The first goal was a very well worked score, and we had a second chance, and I should have taken it one myself, and it was the incorrect decision, I should have known better,” he said candidly.

“But the second goal was really vital too and we also tagged on some good points when we really needed them.

“David Dolan took his goal very well, and you can rely on experienced players like that.

“But it is all about keeping everyone together and not having lads going away.

“There are three or four lads to come into the panel and there is a lot of underage work going on.

“And if we get those lads through and a few lads who are playing reserves, but should be with the senior squad, then it will be a huge help.”

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And he paid tribute to younger stars Shane Delahunty and Matt Gillespie, who had fine games.

“Shane Delahunty has savage pace and he opens teams out and he leaves it easier for an older fellow like me. He pops out a good pass and you can score, but he can score as well.

“Matt Gillespie has a great attitude, and he had some game and is wholehearted and Eamon and Shane McGrath have played at a higher level and it shows and we are building a stronger panel for next year.”