Kingdom blue Donegal away

OFirst half blitz sets up 39th title at Croke Park | Coach O'Connor quits after fifth football triumph

- BY PAT FLANAGAN

KERRY swept away a brave Donegal side in a thrilling All-Ireland final to take Sam Maguire back to the Kingdom for the 39th time.

Their supporters were in green and gold heaven after Jack O'Connor's men never really looked in danger against the Ulster men who never gave up but a late Joe O'Connor goal killed off any hope of a comeback.

Croke Park was bathed in the the colours of both teams as over 83,300 fans packed into the stadium for what was the 99th game of the championship.

From the sound levels it appeared that Donegal had the greater numbers but it still wasn't enough to urge their heroes on to victory.

A blistering performance in the first quarter by Kerry left their opponents shellshocked and from then on they were chasing the game.

There was more drama off the pitch after the final whistle when Jack O'Connor announced on RTE Radio that he is to step down after sealing his fifth All-Ireland.

He also said a double score by David Clifford on the stroke of half-time was a crucial moment in the victory.

He said: "The two-pointer just before halftime by David was a massive score. That put us seven up." Yesterday's final was a historic occasion as it was the first since the new playing rules were introduced and this encounter was an excellent showcase for their effectiveness.