Fossa have finally broken through in the Kerry intermediate championship, and sports Ireland has another memorable Clifford brothers story to savour. Inspired by a remarkable 15-point display from David Clifford, Fossa defeated Kilcummin 0-26 to 0-22 to claim the first intermediate title in the club’s history.
The victory also secures Fossa’s promotion to Kerry senior football for 2027, marking a remarkable rise for a club that was competing at novice level only a decade ago.
David Clifford leads Fossa to historic success
Fossa entered the final determined to make their third appearance at this stage count after suffering two previous defeats in intermediate finals. Kilcummin began with greater authority and held the lead for much of the opening half.
Despite that pressure, Fossa stayed within range and went into the interval just two points behind. The breeze offered encouragement, and the Fossa performance improved significantly after the restart.
David Clifford then produced the moment that shifted the contest. His two-point score put Fossa in front, and another followed soon afterwards. From there, the winners controlled the scoreboard while Kilcummin battled to remain in contention.
- Fossa won the Kerry intermediate final by 0-26 to 0-22.
- David Clifford finished with 0-15, including several two-point scores.
- Fossa will compete in the Kerry senior ranks in 2027.
- The club now has a Munster campaign to look forward to.
Clifford’s range and accuracy were central to the result. One of his most eye-catching efforts came when he moved away from goal before firing over from distance. It was the kind of score that reflected both his confidence and his ability to punish even the smallest defensive opening.
Fossa’s rise is about more than one star
Although David Clifford supplied the headline numbers, Fossa’s achievement was built on a collective effort. Other players contributed important scores in the closing stages, ensuring Kilcummin could not turn sustained pressure into a late comeback.
Kilcummin had chances to narrow the gap, but a number of late decisions and missed opportunities went against them. Fossa remained composed, protecting their advantage until the final whistle.
The result is especially significant because of the club’s recent progress. The arrival and development of David and Paudie Clifford have helped raise Fossa’s profile, but their success also reflects the work of the wider playing group and club community.
Paudie’s instructions prompt a typical Clifford response
The family connection added a lighter moment after the final whistle. Paudie Clifford had encouraged David to take a one-point free late in the game to keep the scoreboard moving.
Asked afterwards who gives him more instructions, Paudie or Kerry manager Jack O’Connor, David delivered a playful answer. He suggested that Paudie “does tend to call the shots” and joked that ignoring his older brother does not usually go down well.
It was an entertaining exchange after an emotionally important win, but it also captured the close bond between the brothers. Their influence has been central to Fossa’s climb through the Kerry club football system.
What comes next for Fossa?
Fossa now move into the Kerry senior ranks for the first time in 2027. Before then, attention will turn to their Munster campaign, where the newly crowned county champions will test themselves against the best clubs from across the province.
With David Clifford in outstanding form and Paudie providing experience and leadership, Fossa will attract plenty of attention in the coming weeks. Their achievement is already one of the standout stories in Irish sports and county GAA this season.
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Key takeaway
Fossa’s Kerry intermediate triumph is a landmark moment for the club, powered by David Clifford’s extraordinary 0-15 and backed by a determined team performance. The next test is already on the horizon: a Munster campaign before Fossa begin life among Kerry’s senior clubs in 2027.
Article/Image Courtesy: Balls.ie
