A bitterly disappointed Neil McManus says he “should’ve taken his own advice” after missing a late chance to force extra-time in yesterday’s All-Ireland Club SHC semi-final.

The recently-retired Antrim sharpshooter’s shot flew inches wide as Cushendall were edged out 1-16 to 1-17 by O’Loughlin Gaels at Páirc Tailteann. It was O’Loughlin’s second successive one-point victory as they set up an All-Ireland final showdown with St Thomas’ in the New Year.

"I got the hard one and missed the easy one," McManus ruefully reflected in an interview with TG4.

"Ryan McCambridge played me a beautiful ball up the line and I knew when it was coming to me that I was going to shimmy one way and then shoot the other.

"I should've taken an extra step into it and drove it over the bar like I've been telling all the young lads in training every night. I should've taken my own advice really."

McManus vowed that Ruairi Óg would come back stronger next year.

"We've a great culture in the club that's the long and the short of it. We've limited numbers but we always try, always put in the effort,” he continued.

"The Glens is a beautiful seaside resort which means house prices are very dear and it's hard for young people to raise families so we're working with limited numbers but we're trying to address that.

"I think while the standards stay where they are in our club, we'll be okay."

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