'This is where every player wants to be'

Cork manager Ronan McCarthy. ©INPHO/Ken Sutton.

Cork boss Ronan McCarthy was looking forward to playing in the Super 8s following his side's demolition of Laois yesterday.

The rejuvenated Rebels face a daunting trip to Croke Park to take on All-Ireland champions Dublin next Saturday before facing further games against Tyrone and Roscommon.

"It isn't often you're that comfortable in a big game like that," McCarthy said in an interview with RTÉ.

"Elements of our play, particularly at the start of the second half, were scintillating. We were never in danger, but the message that we've giving the team throughout the year is that you keep doing the right things no matter what the score is.

"We got very sloppy, but we had enough of a cushion to see us home."

He added: "This is where every player wants to be, playing the All-Ireland champions above at Croke Park. What more could you want?

"If you don't want to be there, you shouldn't be here at all."