Cork Push Dublin to the Limit in Brave Croke Park Exit
Cork’s 2025 season came to a valiant end at Croke Park, but not without pushing Dublin to the wire in a game where the Rebels led for long spells and matched their opponents stride for stride.
John Cleary’s men were level with just over ten minutes to go, but Dublin’s late burst — four of the final five points — saw the game slip from Cork’s grasp, 1-18 to 1-15.
This was a spirited and tactically sharp Cork performance, built on courage, precision, and a superb collective effort, even if ultimately it wasn’t enough to reach the quarter-finals.
Chris Óg Jones delivered a star turn in Croke Park, finishing with 1-4 including a clinical 12th-minute goal that saw Cork take a deserved lead. The goal came from a cleverly worked sideline: Ian Maguire picked out Jones who finished coolly, drilling across Stephen Cluxton into the far corner.
That green flag was part of an impressive 1-3 unanswered burst for Cork during the first half, with Brian Hurley notching two stylish points and goalkeeper Micheál Aodh Martin driving over a 45 following another Jones effort.
Cork took a 1-8 to 0-9 lead into half-time, and looked full value for it.
Dublin hit back with a goal from Brian Howard in the 45th minute, but Cork weren’t rattled. Points from Colm O’Callaghan, Jones again, and Mark Cronin saw them level the game at 1-12 apiece, before Sean Walsh nudged them ahead once more.
That phase was Cork’s finest — four points in a row that showed belief, structure and cutting edge.
A turning point came midway through the second half when Cleary’s frustration at a sideline decision saw the ball moved forward for a Dublin free. Cormac Costello missed the two-point attempt — a let-off — but the Dubs kept coming.
Despite Cork’s heroic efforts in defence — with Daniel O’Mahony, Maurice Shanley, and Sean Brady standing firm — the weight of Dublin’s bench and big-game experience told in the closing minutes.
There will be disappointment, but this performance underlined Cork’s upward trajectory. The Rebels stood toe-to-toe with one of Gaelic football’s great teams, and left nothing behind on the pitch.
John Cleary’s side exit the championship with pride, having won hearts and shown real development, especially from younger players like Jones, Cronin, and O’Callaghan.
Scorers for Cork
Chris Óg Jones 1-4, Mark Cronin 0-4 (2fs), Brian Hurley 0-2, Colm O’Callaghan 0-2, Ian Maguire, Micheál Aodh Martin (45), Sean Walsh, Cathail O’Mahony 0-1 each
Cork Team
Cork: Micheal Aodh Martin; Daniel O’Mahony, Maurice Shanley, Neil Lordan; Brian O’Driscoll, Sean Brady, Matty Taylor; Ian Maguire, Colm O’Callaghan; Paul Walsh, Sean Walsh, Sean McDonnell; Brian Hurley, Mark Cronin, Chris Og Jones.
Subs: Eoghan McSweeney for Paul Walsh 48, Conor Cahalane for McDonnell 49-58 blood, Cathail O’Mahony for Hurley 55, Sean Powter for Taylor 58, Luke Fahy for Lordan 63.
Cork Push Dublin to the Limit in Brave Croke Park Exit
Cork Push Dublin to the Limit in Brave Croke Park Exit
Cork’s 2025 season came to a valiant end at Croke Park, but not without pushing Dublin to the wire in a game where the Rebels led for long spells and matched their opponents stride for stride.
John Cleary’s men were level with just over ten minutes to go, but Dublin’s late burst — four of the final five points — saw the game slip from Cork’s grasp, 1-18 to 1-15.
This was a spirited and tactically sharp Cork performance, built on courage, precision, and a superb collective effort, even if ultimately it wasn’t enough to reach the quarter-finals.
Chris Óg Jones delivered a star turn in Croke Park, finishing with 1-4 including a clinical 12th-minute goal that saw Cork take a deserved lead. The goal came from a cleverly worked sideline: Ian Maguire picked out Jones who finished coolly, drilling across Stephen Cluxton into the far corner.
That green flag was part of an impressive 1-3 unanswered burst for Cork during the first half, with Brian Hurley notching two stylish points and goalkeeper Micheál Aodh Martin driving over a 45 following another Jones effort.
Cork took a 1-8 to 0-9 lead into half-time, and looked full value for it.
Dublin hit back with a goal from Brian Howard in the 45th minute, but Cork weren’t rattled. Points from Colm O’Callaghan, Jones again, and Mark Cronin saw them level the game at 1-12 apiece, before Sean Walsh nudged them ahead once more.
That phase was Cork’s finest — four points in a row that showed belief, structure and cutting edge.
A turning point came midway through the second half when Cleary’s frustration at a sideline decision saw the ball moved forward for a Dublin free. Cormac Costello missed the two-point attempt — a let-off — but the Dubs kept coming.
Despite Cork’s heroic efforts in defence — with Daniel O’Mahony, Maurice Shanley, and Sean Brady standing firm — the weight of Dublin’s bench and big-game experience told in the closing minutes.
There will be disappointment, but this performance underlined Cork’s upward trajectory. The Rebels stood toe-to-toe with one of Gaelic football’s great teams, and left nothing behind on the pitch.
John Cleary’s side exit the championship with pride, having won hearts and shown real development, especially from younger players like Jones, Cronin, and O’Callaghan.
Scorers for Cork
Chris Óg Jones 1-4, Mark Cronin 0-4 (2fs), Brian Hurley 0-2, Colm O’Callaghan 0-2, Ian Maguire, Micheál Aodh Martin (45), Sean Walsh, Cathail O’Mahony 0-1 each
Cork Team
Cork: Micheal Aodh Martin; Daniel O’Mahony, Maurice Shanley, Neil Lordan; Brian O’Driscoll, Sean Brady, Matty Taylor; Ian Maguire, Colm O’Callaghan; Paul Walsh, Sean Walsh, Sean McDonnell; Brian Hurley, Mark Cronin, Chris Og Jones.
Subs: Eoghan McSweeney for Paul Walsh 48, Conor Cahalane for McDonnell 49-58 blood, Cathail O’Mahony for Hurley 55, Sean Powter for Taylor 58, Luke Fahy for Lordan 63.
Game Day Information | Cork vs Dublin
Game Day : Cork vs Dublin –
Saturday, 21st June 2025 | Throw-In: 6:15 PM | Venue: Croke Park, Dublin
The big day is finally here as Cork prepares to face Dublin at Croke Park this Saturday, 21st June. With the throw-in set for 6:15pm, anticipation is running high among players, management, and supporters alike.
This clash promises to be a thrilling encounter as both teams bring their best to the field. Cork’s squad has been training hard, determined to showcase skill, grit, and teamwork on Ireland’s most iconic stage.
We urge all supporters attending to arrive early, plan their journey carefully, and cheer our team on with pride and respect. Whether you’re watching from the stands or following online, your support fuels our players every step of the way.
Ticket Information
All tickets should be purchased in advance from official outlets.
Bring your ticket (digital or print) for entry; no ticket sales at the gate.
Gates open from 2.30pm
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📺 Live Broadcast: GAA+
Venue Access & Entry Points
Entry is via the main gates on Jones Road and Clonliffe Road.
Please arrive early to avoid queues.
Follow steward instructions for a smooth entry.
Travel & Parking
Public transport is strongly recommended:
Luas Red Line: Alight at Jervis or Abbey Street stops, both within walking distance.
Dublin Bus: Routes 4, 7, 9, 11, 13, 16, 33, and 41 serve the area.
DART: Connolly Station is a 15-minute walk away.
Limited parking available near Croke Park — park & ride options advised where possible.
Travel Safety Tips: Plan your journey ahead, allow extra time, follow stewards’ directions, and be patient.
Weather Forecast & Sun Safety
Expect mostly sunny conditions with a high of 22°C.
Light showers possible in the evening; bring a light rain jacket and dress in layers.
Be Sun Smart: Apply sunscreen before and during the day, wear a hat, and bring sunglasses.
Stay hydrated — bring plenty of water or purchase inside the stadium.
Stadium Facilities
Food and beverage outlets available inside the stadium
First aid stations are located at multiple points throughout the venue.
Buy Your Match Tickets | Cork vs Dublin
Buy Your Match Tickets Early – Avoid Last-Minute Hassles!
Excited for the upcoming match? Make sure you secure your tickets before game day to guarantee your spot and avoid any disappointment.
Where to Buy:
Purchase your tickets easily and securely online via Ticketmaster.
Important:
Once you have your tickets, please download them to your mobile wallet (such as Apple Wallet or Google Pay) or print them out before heading to the venue.
Screenshots or photos of tickets may not be accepted at entry points, so having a proper downloaded or printed ticket ensures a smooth entry without delays.
Don’t wait until the last minute—get your tickets today and enjoy the match stress-free!
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Cork Camogie vs Clare – Match Day & Stadium Information
Cork Camogie vs Clare – Match Day & Stadium Information
The Rebels, in fine form all season, host Clare tomorrow at SuperValu Páirc Uí Chaoimh in the Glen Dimplex Camogie Championship. A win will secure Cork top spot in the group, sending them straight to the semi-finals and helping them avoid the quarter-final stage.
Stadium Information:
Gates open 60 minutes before throw-in
Only the South Stand Lower will be open to spectators
Please Note: Match tickets must be purchased in advance – no tickets will be sold at the venue
Come early and get behind the Rebels as they aim to keep their winning streak alive and secure a semi-final place!
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The Cork Senior Football team to play Dublin in the Preliminary Quarter Final of the All-Ireland championship has been announced;
The Cork Senior Football team to play Dublin in the Preliminary Quarter Final of the All-Ireland Championship at Croke Park on Saturday 21st June at 6.15pm has been announced;