The return of Ruairí Keating and Seán Maguire in the summer of 2024 ignited a buzz among the Rebel Army faithful. Now, the dynamic duo are proving their worth, both finding the net in last Friday night’s victory over Bohemians at Turner’s Cross.
Bringing them back was no small feat, with Dermot Usher investing heavily to secure their signatures.
Understandably so – Maguire arrived from League One, while Keating left title contenders St. Pat’s to drop into the First Division. Yet, their willingness to return speaks volumes. Keating has long called Cork his “home,” and for Maguire, the move made perfect sense, especially with his partner Claudia recently giving birth – the couple wanted their child to grow up in Cork.
Their passion for the club was clear last season as well. Despite playing in the First Division, a league neither player envisioned themselves in, they never let standards drop. Both stepped up as leaders, putting in solid shifts and netting key goals when it mattered most. Their commitment to the cause played a huge role in helping City push for promotion.
Off the pitch, their dedication continues. Together, they launched SR Elite Academy last October, aiming to develop young Cork footballers both as players and as people.
Some questioned how well they’d gel on the pitch, but Friday night silenced any doubters. Maguire picked up the ball on the halfway line before slipping through City’s No. 9, who slotted home the winner. Their passion for the club was on full display, not just in their link-up play but in their celebrations. Keating’s fist pumps, Maguire’s roar to the Shed End – it was a moment that summed up what Cork City means to them.
This partnership is only getting started, and the Rebel Army will be hoping it leads them to even greater heights.
Credit: KBD Photos