CORK HURLING CHIEF Jimmy Barry-Murphy has paid tribute to Ben O’Connor, who called time on his intercounty career last night.
The Newtownshandrum man won three All-Ireland titles with the Rebels — including one as skipper in 2004 — and follows twin Jerry into retirement.
“Ben has been an outstanding servant to Cork GAA, and while we are very disappointed to lose his services, we respect his decision and wish him well,” Cork manager Jimmy Barry-Murphy told the county board website.
Former team-mates too praised the All-Star forward with Douglas dual star, Eoin Cadogan tweeting: ”Best wishes to Ben O’Connor. A legend of the game ,a great character and a good friend who will be missed.”
Cloyne man Diarmuid O’Sullivan added: “Ben O’Connor,skill full,class act,top man and a lovely little nasty streak.owes cork hurling nothing.enjoy retirement,will be missed.”
A huge loss to hurling. Best if luck to him.