East Kerry progressed to the semi-finals of the Kerry Senior Football Championship after a three-point victory over Kenmare Shamrocks at Fitzgerald Stadium in Killarney on Sunday.
Unsurprisingly, David Clifford was key to the East Kerry victory, scoring seven points, with three coming from frees in the 0-13 to 1-7 win.
"We were probably very lucky to get out of there, to be honest," Clifford told TG4.
"They had a shot off the post there [at the end to draw it]. We were slow to get going, but it's great to get over the line. We have a lot of improving to do.
"Kenmare have been renowned for their tough defence. They're an unbelievable club team over the last few years.
"We were a bit unlucky with the goal early on. (Kieran) Fitzgibbon made a great save from Paudie (Clifford), and then we had a square ball. If you get one of them, maybe it gives you a cushion.
"Overall, we'd be happy to get through but maybe not too happy with our performance."
9 October 2022; Sean O'Shea of Kenmare Shamrocks in action against Paul Murphy of East Kerry during the Kerry County Senior Club Football Championship quarter-final match between East Kerry and Kenmare Shamrocks at Fitzgerald Stadium in Killarney, Kerry. Photo by Brendan Moran/Sportsfile
East Kerry had trailed Kenmare by a point at the break.
East Kerry manager had 'choice words' at half-time
"We know we're better than that," said Clifford.
"We would have played Spa here a few weeks ago in a group game, and we made a lot of the same mistakes so that's kind of frustrating. [Our manager Jerry O'Sullivan] had a few choice words.
"We just turned over way too much ball, didn't take our scoring chances, and from those turnovers, we're leaving our backs totally exposed. They don't really stand a chance in those situations. We were probably lucky to only be a point down at half-time Kenmare missed a bit in the first half."
East Kerry will play Dingle in the semi-finals, while Feale Rangers will meet Mid Kerry.
"It's great to be back playing football," said Clifford.
"I had a small knock early on in this championship, but I wouldn't say I've been quiet [since the All-Ireland final], I've played a lot of games with Fossa as well. It's been great to get back out on the pitch."
Lán Ama
“It's great to get over the line but we've a lot of improving to do”
Is é David Clifford Laoch na hImeartha inniu!
Comhghairdeas leat David! 👏👏
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— Spórt TG4 (@SportTG4) October 9, 2022
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