Sunday 23rd August
All-Ireland SFC semi final
Kerry v. Cork
These two Munster sides have had a rivalry dating back to the start of the
last century and on Sunday they will meet once again for a place in the
2008 All-Ireland football final and how Cork would love to put a stop to
their oldest rivals bid for a three-in-a-row. Another motivational factor
for the rebels is to erase the memory of the hammering they suffered in
last year’s decider at the hands of Pat O’Shea’s charges.
Cork looked very impressive during the early stages of the win over Kildare,
while their second half performance against Kerry was one of their best
displays in many years. However, it remains to be seen if they can sustain
that level for 70 minutes as this is something that they have failed to
do throughout this campaign. If they are to beat the Kingdom than a performance
for the full match is needed. The full forward line of John Hayes, Michael
Cussen and James Masters will cause problems for the Kerry defence and this
has been a problem area for the defending champions. The introduction of
Daniel Bohane against Galway steadied the full back line and he will be
pushing hard for a starting place with possibly Tom O’Sullivan losing
out. Kerry’s performance against the Connacht side was nothing short
of breathtaking, to score 1-21 in any match is good going, but to do it
in the terrible conditions that the players were subjected too, is extraordinary.
Not only are they strong all over, but they have a bench that is the envy
of the country. The likes of Eoin Brosnan, Darren O’Sullivan and Tommy
Griffin would walk onto any team in the country. This all paints a glum
picture for Cork’s chances and it’s just difficult to see them
beating Kerry. Nonetheless, Tyrone proved at the weekend that the underdog
always has a chance and Conor Counihan has instilled a belief in the side
that maybe they were lacking last season. This semi final could well be
closer than many people think, but Kerry’s strength in depth to see
them through.
Verdict: Kerry
|