As Kilmacud Crokes claimed their second Dublin senior football championship in a row, one player that was a huge part of their success was Shane Walsh.
Fresh off helping his county to an All-Ireland final, Shane Walsh has been crucial to the Dublin ide since his transfer.
The Galway forward scored four points as they defeated Na Fiana 0-11 to 0-10 on Sunday, as the south Dublin side look to go one better after last year’s All-Ireland final heartbreak.
READ HERE: Bandaged Shane Walsh Received A Raucous Welcome In Kilmacud Clubhouse
Walsh showed his toughness after picking up an early injury that saw him have to be temporarily replaced an receive treatment, but he rallied and came back on to help his side for victory.
The great Kilmacud Crokes community welcoming Shane Walsh back to Glenalbyn after his late night treatment! pic.twitter.com/PJgUdKElqy
— Kilmacud Crokes GAA (@KCrokesGAAClub) October 16, 2022
It has been quite the few months for the Shane Walsh, who seems to always be in the headlines for his talents, no matter who it is for.
His transfer from Kilkerrin-Clonberne was of much controversy. In August he made the move due to the fact he is now studying and living in Dublin.
He’s far from the first player to transfer clubs but is one of the most high profile players to make a club transfer. Kilmacud Crokes wouldn’t have won on Sunday without him, and it’s clear his performances are appreciated by those in the club.
A "Battered" Shane Walsh scores 4 points from play to lead Kilmacud Crokes to victory.
Bhí ról lárnach ag Shane Walsh i gcluiche ceannais Bhaile Átha Cliath inné🏆 @KCrokesGAAClub | @DubGAAOfficial #GAApic.twitter.com/kUlBgrKv2F— Spórt TG4 (@SportTG4) October 17, 2022
However, amongst all the celebrations, there has been a sense of bitterness towards Walsh’s success on social media.
The bitterness out there towards Shane Walsh is shocking. #GAA
— John Egan (@JohnEgan1111) October 17, 2022
While it may not be a fairy tale story of a player coming through the ranks winning the title, many would have done what Walsh did, and have before to make their life off the pitch easier.
This is hugely common in Dublin, where players often move from other counties due to financial and education reasons.
Given the tough times financially the whole country is suffering, the idea of a player travelling from one end of the country to the next to play with his local club every weekend is not an option for everyone
When a club loses Paul Mannion through injury and someone the calibre of Shane Walsh can step up, it’s a gift to have, and one that any clubs around the country may be jealous of. However, Shane Walsh, or any player for that matter, can do nothing about the quality of players available to each club.
SEE ALSO: 'Battered' Shane Walsh Crucial As Kilmacud Crokes Win Dublin Title
