Brian Hayes Scores Hat-Trick, Leads St Finbarr’s to Munster Final

Brian Hayes showcased his remarkable football skills by scoring a stunning hat-trick, leading St Finbarr’s to a decisive victory over Éire Óg Ennis in the Munster championship. With a tally of 3-3, Hayes helped secure a spot in the final against Dingle, a team that recently triumphed over Mungret St Paul’s with an impressive score of 2-15 to 0-2.

This achievement marks Hayes as the fourth footballer from a Cork club to net a championship hat-trick, a feat not accomplished since Padraigh Griffin of Clonakilty in 1996. The record is notable, with John Allen, a clubmate, having achieved a similar milestone in 1983. Hayes’s performance on Sunday was particularly impressive, considering he could have scored even more. One of his attempts was deflected over the bar, while another narrowly missed the target.

Reflecting on his performance, Hayes displayed humility, admitting that his first goal was initially intended as a point attempt. “It’s not really a hat-trick to be writing home about with the first goal. I was obviously going for a point, but I’ll definitely take the goal when it comes,” he remarked.

Versatile Positioning and Team Dynamics

Unlike his usual position as a corner-forward in hurling, Hayes played in midfield for the Barrs on Sunday. He often drifted into the full-forward line to capitalize on scoring opportunities. “The lads are great that way, giving us that bit of flexibility,” he said. “With the new rules, everything’s so fast now. If you’re out in the middle for a kick-out and you end up in the full-forward line, it’s very flexible that way.”

Hayes emphasized the importance of communication and adaptability within the team. “If someone runs forward, someone’s going to go back and cover them. That’s a sign of any good team that we just communicate that and filter in and out of positions.” He credited coach Brian Roche for fostering this teamwork, making it a fundamental aspect of their training.

The Barrs previously won the Munster title in 2021, but fell to eventual champions Kilcoo in the All-Ireland semi-final after an intense extra-time battle. Hayes understands the value of these championship opportunities. “Steven (Sherlock) was only talking to us during the week. They are once-in-a-lifetime opportunities,” he noted. “There’s only eight teams left in the whole thing. The margins are so small, and the games are always so tight.”

He reflected on the thrilling journey that led them to play against Kilcoo in 2021. “If you told us we’d be going up to play Kilcoo at the start of 2021, we wouldn’t have believed you that we’d get to extra-time with them. Then, when it comes, you’re devastated to lose out by a kick of a ball.”

Preparation for the Munster Final

Looking ahead to the final against Dingle, Hayes acknowledges the challenge they face. “I didn’t see the result, but we’re under no illusions,” he stated. “I’m sure Dingle will be complete favourites there, as any Kerry team would.” He recalls facing a similar underdog situation four years ago and remains optimistic about the upcoming match.

“Going up to Thurles that time, we were underdogs as well. That’s something we’ll relish. It might not work out, but we’re happy enough to give it a go.”

Hayes’s enthusiasm for the game is palpable as he prepares for this significant event. “There’s literally nothing better to be doing. It’s probably one of the great feelings that I’ve had playing GAA is going training into December with your club.” As St Finbarr’s looks to make their mark in the upcoming final, all eyes will be on Hayes and his teammates to deliver another memorable performance.