All 447 people from the mighty parish of Mullinalaghta are set for a celebratory Christmas after they were crowned Leinster champions with a 1-08 to 1-06 victory over Kilmacud Crokes.
The huge outsiders were full value for their victory and Mickey Graham's side will deservedly enjoy it after coming from behind to shock the Dublin champions late in the game. 3,510 people watched on at Bord na Mona O'Connor Park as Gary Rogers kicked a late penalty to give the Longford club the lead and a few minutes later the final whistle rang out to instigate joyous scenes.
Mullinalaghta St. Columba's are Leinster Club Football Champions!!! pic.twitter.com/eQmci3oMCr
— The GAA (@officialgaa) December 9, 2018
Speaking after the game, Graham explained just how much it meant to the club:
The whole of Mullinalaghta is out there now. It just shows you that small teams, if they have the panel of players willing to make the sacrifices, this can be achieved. This gives every little club throughout the country some hope that the underdog still has a chance.
Jaysus, the emotion, I just can't put it into words at the moment. It's unbelievable. I'm lost for words.
It will no doubt be a hugely enjoyable few weeks in Longford, with the scenes in the dressing room a timely reminder of that.
What dreams are made of!!! #LeinsterChamps @TheLaurelsM representing @OfficialLDGAA in the @AIB_GAA Leinster final! #ClubIsFamily ??? pic.twitter.com/fZliyPXZbp
— Bláithín Brady (@BlaithinBrady1) December 9, 2018
