G.A.A. FOCUS: Snippets from the Local and National Scene By Pat Harrington

Cork Hurling

There is a saying that one can learn more in defeat that in victory. One hopes that such is the case with Cork hurling following their defeat at the hands of Galway in the National league final.

Prior to the final the general opinion was that Cork were progressing in a very positive manner; victory being achieved in all but one league encounter. There appeared to be a more physical approach to the games, particularly against Tipperary and Kilkenny. Thirty seven players were given game time and the team seemed to be taking shape. The general consensus was that the side was more focused, and with no distractions through disputes the hunger was back.

Cork matched Galway in the opening half – even though some cracks did appear. No doubt Eoin Cadogan was a loss at full back. Cork did have a few goal chances but these were denied by the net minder.

In the second half the Cork team and management were asked a number of serious questions which they struggled to answer. The westerners were sharper on the breaking ball and they horsed The Rebels in the physical stakes. The Cork forward division struggled in the central sections and on the day Aisake Ó hAilpín just wasn’t at the races. Surprisingly the management team did not introduce more bodies from the bench when it was clear the game was lost. Cathal Naughton needs to be employed around the middle of the field for his pace; he is not a ball-winning half forward. Michael Cussen will be a major loss if he will be out as reported.

All is not lost but one would have to be concerned when looking at the form of some of the established players. There are some burning questions to be asked, e.g. who will man the full forward position? Can the half forwards win more ball? Will Aisake (if selected) be more influential? Can Cork hustle and bustle a Tipp team that is going for four-in-a-row? Half chances in front of goal need to be converted. All-in-all a big ask for The Rebels.

Talk on the Street

A Kerryman was heard to say that whatever hope Cork may have in football there is no hope for the hurlers. Bobby, my Tipperary friend recons that Cork must have trained hard before the final – Cork are playing mind games. A Tipperary colleague in our Limerick office is convinced that Tipp are a shoo-in for the Munster championship.

Foolish Comments

I was surprised and disappointed to read the comments of Seán Óg Ó hAilpín in De Paper regarding pay for play and I quote “I would like to see the day players get paid”. No disrespect for Mr. Ó hAilpín but I would imagine he has received his share of remuneration off the field when opening and promoting business premises, and the best of luck to him. One has no doubt Seán Óg has made huge sacrifices in furthering his career and has thrilled thousands of hurling followers with his fine displays over the years. I would like to remind him that equally there are thousands of people out there who have made huge sacrifices in making themselves available to coach, look after and drive players to matches all over the countryside.

While Seán Óg gets mileage what about the ordinary “Joe Soap” travels all over looking after players, and taking phone calls day and night. He may be one of a number of elite players but consider those who have given a lifetime of service and continue to do so.

I have serious issues when it comes to Play for Play. I consider Seán Óg’s comments over the top and not deserving of consideration. One wonders if Seán Óg is testing the water.

More next week,

Pat.