DINGLE BELLS RING

Stunning comeback seals All-Ireland Final spot

- BY STEPHEN BARRY

AN INCREDIBLE day of extra-time drama ended in double glory for the footballers of the Slea Head as Dingle ground out a barnstorming comeback win over Ballyboden St Enda's at Páirc Uí Chaoimh.

Their captain Paul Geaney wasn't fit enough to start but showed incredible leadership after coming off the bench at halftime.

He kicked 0-8, including the two-pointer to force extra-time and the two-point free to give Dingle their first lead in the 77th minute.

They trailed by 10 points early in the second half, but Geaney's introduction and six points from Kingdom defender Tom O'Sullivan hauled them back from the brink.

Mark O'Connor, the Aussie rules star released by Geelong for this All-Ireland semifinal, kicked the insurance score.

He will have to seek an extension as Dingle become the first Kerry club to make the final since Dr Crokes in 2019.

Scotstown or St Brigid's will be their opponents at Croke Park on Sunday, January 18.

Dublin side Ballyboden had a star turn from Ryan O'Dwyer (0-7), but the favourites will rue Colm Basquel's missed free to win the game with the last kick of normal time.