THE GAME IN 60 SECONDS

TALKING POINT

Clarification on Covid level 5 restrictions has put upcoming inter-county underage games thus the Munster MHC in limbo for now. Last weekend to meet level 3 regulations, no spectators were present bar a parent representing each player with social distancing clearly evident. As a template to the start of the Munster championships, protocols were conducted in an impeccable manner following all the necessary guidelines.

TOP SCORE

Kanturk’s Colin Walsh showed alertness to challenge a short puck out from Clare ‘keeper Aaron Shanahan. The physical strong Walsh stood his ground to ward off a shoulder challenge and made no mistake with a clinical finish to the net.

KEY POINT

Far superior in the skills and pace of the game, Cork’s physical strength, better accuracy from distance, superior bench and composure under pressure provided an impressive package to get their delayed campaign off to a winning start.

MAIN MAN

The Cork half-back line featuring magnificent team captain Eoin Downey made a telling statement to dominate a key sector and impose a massive influence. In every aspect to Downey’s game, there was leadership values provided by the Glen Rovers clubman that rubbed onto his colleagues.

NEXT UP

New level 5 has halted progress. With the intended round robin series shelved, a straight knockout operates right up to the All Ireland Final. A perfect start for Cork had set up a semi-final meeting against Limerick, that was scheduled on a return to Thurles on Friday week, the same date Tipperary were to play Waterford at Páirc Uí Rinn in the second semi.