‘We’re where we want to be’ says McCarthy before Kerry test

such was the feeble nature of Limerick’s challenge.

Still, their earlier win over Tipp, who, along with Kerry and Cork, would have been ranked as genuine contenders for provincial honours, suggests that the team isn’t without potential, and selector Donal McCarthy is satisfied they can make a bold bid to bring home the bacon next Sunday.

“I think home advantage is a big thing at minor level, and it will probably be worth a few points to Kerry, who’ll have much more support than us, especially with their seniors involved in the Munster final as well.

“They are bound to be strong, because, from what I can gather, they will have 20 players from last year’s extended panel available. We’d like to think we’ll be there or thereabouts if we perform to our full potential, but we know we are going to be up against it, and there’s no point in pretending otherwise.

“At the same time, we are ready to give it our best shot, and, as is the case with a lot of games at minor level, it could all come down to form on the day, so we’d be hopeful enough we can get the win,” he said.

Apart from goalkeeper Mark White (Clonakilty) and centre back Nathan Walsh (Douglas), none of the Cork players featured in last year’s championship.

But, in Damien Gore (Kilmacabea), Mark Buckley (Dohenys) and Sean O’Sullivan (Mitchelstown) up front, Sean Minhane (Ilen Rovers) at midfield, and Walsh, Tadgh Corkery (Kilnamartya) and Alan McCarthy (St Finbarr’s) at the back, Cork have the nucleus of a side that could well have what it takes to bring the Munster crown to Leeside for the first time since 2010.

Verdict: Cork