Cork manager Gerald McCarthy is hoping the "tremendous bond" between his players can inspire them to another famous victory in Sunday's All-Ireland hurling semi-final against Kilkenny. The Rebels have silenced their critics with two massive performances against Galway and Clare in recent weeks, and McCarthy has been taken aback by the determination and spirit they have shown to set up a meeting with the All-Ireland champions. "I was always a great admirer of the team over the last number of years," said McCarthy who took up the reins two years ago. "There are some fantastic individuals there, real leaders on the field a lot of them. I was still surprised by the bond that's still there between them, tremendous. "They are a magnificent bunch to work with and I think the bond will last long beyond their hurling lives. They are very honest and forthright. "As you get older, you want to win more before the legs give out. A lot of these players certainly want to win an All-Ireland again. "If Cork didn't really want to win an All-Ireland, they could lie down and die. They are refusing to do that." Tweet

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