In a final that will be remembered for years, Clare’s experienced players rose to the occasion, with Tony Kelly, Aidan McCarthy, and Mark Rodgers scoring crucial goals for the Banner County.
Kelly, who captained Clare to this All-Ireland title, scored vital points throughout the match to keep their dream alive.
Cork fought valiantly, with Patrick Horgan scoring 0-9 to become the all-time top scorer in the championship, and Robert Downey netting a spectacular goal.
Despite Cork’s efforts, Clare emerged victorious over their Munster rivals in a thrilling final.
Cork started strongly, leading 0-3 to 0-0 within minutes.
Although Clare responded, Cork struck first with a goal by Robert Downey, showcasing their ruthless attacking.
Clare found themselves in trouble but Aidan McCarthy’s 16th-minute goal narrowed the deficit to 1-08 to 1-05 for Cork.
Patrick Horgan’s three points in the first half saw him become the championship’s all-time top scorer.
Despite their struggles, Clare rallied with crucial points from Shane O’Donnell and David Reidy.
Clare took their first lead in the 32nd minute through McCarthy, but Darragh Fitzgibbon ensured the sides were level at halftime.
In the second half, Mark Rodgers’ goal put Clare ahead 2-14 to 1-16 after 39 minutes.
With 20 minutes remaining, the teams were tied at 2-15 to 1-18 after Horgan’s equaliser.
What a day! Comhghairdeas to @GaaClare and commiserations to @OfficialCorkGAA on an epic battle! pic.twitter.com/Qz84ZJPdMz
— Croke Park (@CrokePark) July 22, 2024
Moments later, Tony Kelly’s solo goal put Clare three points clear.
Cork fought back, equalizing in the 57th minute before David Fitzgerald put Clare back in front at 3-17 to 1-22.
Additional scores from Rodgers and Taylor extended Clare’s lead with 10 minutes to go.
Cork closed the gap to one point in the 70th minute, with Horgan’s free-kick levelling the score before Kelly restored Clare’s lead.
Horgan’s final-play free-kick sent the game into extra time.
In the first half of extra-time, both teams exchanged the lead, with Cork’s defence preventing a fourth Clare goal.
Mark Coleman and Shane Kingston scored crucial points for Cork, while Kelly kept Clare level at half-time.
With the sides tied in the second half of extra-time, Clare goalkeeper Eibhear Quilligan made a crucial save from Robbie O’Flynn.