KERRY GOALKEEPER David Moloney emerged as his side's hero by saving a last-minute penalty in a dramatic Munster under-21 football championship final replay at Pairc Ui Rinn last night.

The Munster and All-Ireland champions were awarded the penalty in the closing seconds when Philip Clifford was dragged down feet from the Kerry goal. However, Alan O'Regan's shot went too close to Moloney who dropped smartly to his right to deflect the ball around the post for a 45.

Kerry, who were winning their 22nd provincial title and their third in a row, were more than justified in their decision to fly the 6 ft 3 in Kenneth Dillon home from Scotland. Dillon dominated midfield in the second half, completely blotting out Cork's main threat, Nicholas Murphy.

The teams were level, 1-6 to 0-9, entering the final quarter, when Kerry produced their best spell. It coincided with the introduction of Noel Kennelly, son of former Kerry great Tim. Young Kennelly's first act was to drive over a glorious point with his first touch, sandwiched between Liam Brosnan and James O'Shea scores.