Cork’s Allianz Division 2 Football League campaign began in style with a significant victory over Meath at SuperValu Páirc Uí Chaoimh on Saturday evening. This marks Cork’s first opening-round league success since 2020, back when they competed in Division 3.
Promotion is the goal for John Cleary’s team this season, and securing two vital points in the first round was the perfect way to start. Playing under the new rules, the Rebels showed composure and quality in a highly entertaining encounter.
Brian O’Driscoll shone at wing-forward, guiding his side with leadership and poise. A decisive burst midway through the second half, which included two crucial goals, proved to be the difference. Cork demonstrated resilience and sharp finishing to ensure the win in front of an enthusiastic home crowd.
This result is a promising start to Cork’s Division 2 campaign as they aim to build momentum and challenge for promotion.
Cork began their Allianz Hurling League campaign with an impressive win over Wexford at Chadwicks Wexford Park. Despite difficult weather conditions that hindered fluid play, the Rebels delivered a commanding team performance, laying down an early-season marker.
Key players Brian Hayes, Niall O’Leary, Padraig Power, and Cormac O’Brien led the charge, ensuring Cork stayed in control throughout the match. The team showed excellent cohesion and determination, setting a solid foundation for the season ahead.
The game wasn’t without its challenges, however. Declan Dalton received a straight red card in the second half, ruling him out of Cork’s clash with Limerick next Saturday night. His absence will be a blow, but the team’s collective effort and depth provide hope for a strong showing in the upcoming fixture.
C Byrne 0-7 f, C Dunbar, R O’Connor, D Codd, C McGuckin, J Redmond 0-1 each.
D Dalton 1-5 (1-0 pen, 0-2 f, 0-1 sl), P Power 1-4, B Hayes, D Fitzgibbon (0-2 f) 0-4 each, E Twomey 0-2, S Kingston, S Harnedy 0-1 each.
M Fanning; N Murphy, S Donohoe, E Ryan; C McGuckin, C Foley, D Carley; C Hearne, D Codd; C Dunbar, R O’Connor, C Byrne Dunbar; K Foley S Casey, C Byrne.
S Rowley for D Carley (22), R Lawlor for K Foley (34), J Redmond for S Rowley (35 inj), T Kinsella for C Byrne Dunbar (54), C Flood for S Casey (66).
P Collins; N O’Leary, G Millerick, S O’Donoghue; T O’Mahony, R Downey, C O’Brien; L Meade, D Fitzgibbon; D Dalton, S Barrett, B Roche; B Hayes, P Power, S Kingston.
D Cahalane for S O’Donoghue (33 inj), E Twomey for R Downey (47 inj), S Harnedy for B Roche (56), R Cotter for S Barrett (64), C Lehane for S Kingston (68).
Michael Kennedy, Tipperary.
Cork hurlers are hitting the road for the opening round of the Allianz Hurling League, where they’ll face Wexford in what promises to be an electrifying clash at Chadwicks Wexford Park.
Date: Saturday, 25th January 2025
Throw-in: 5 PM
Advance purchase is advised to avoid queues and ensure entry.
Join us in Wexford to cheer on the Rebels as they launch their 2025 league campaign.
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