WEEKEND PREVIEWS

 

SFC semi-final
Sunday August 23rd


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

©2008 Lynn Publications