Cork Hurlers Secure Victory Over Kilkenny in Tough Conditions
Nowlan Park witnessed a hard-fought victory for Cork over Kilkenny on Sunday, with a final score of 3-12 to 1-15. Cork manager Ben O’Connor expressed satisfaction with his team’s performance despite challenging conditions.
Strong Performance and Depth of Squad
O’Connor lauded the effort of every player who started, as well as the impact of those who came off the bench.
Tough conditions out there. Got a massive performance out of every fella who started, and the subs came on and made a difference as well. We’re delighted, it’s another day out and another win under our belt.
Competition Fuels Success
Despite the win, O’Connor emphasized that complacency is not an option. He highlighted the intense competition for places within the 37-man panel, noting that several players were unavailable due to injury.
Competition’s hot. We’ve 37 on our panel. So that means there’s 11 fellas – now we’ve a few injuries – but that means 11 fellas weren’t even togged out today.
O’Connor explained that only five players could be substituted onto the field from the 26 selected, underscoring the necessitate for players to consistently perform at a high level.
We can only put on five from the 26 today. So, that’s what it’s all about. And fellas are after buying into it. If they’re getting game time or not getting game time, they have something to offer and keep driving fellas on.
He stressed the importance of dedication and hard work, stating,
If you were above at training next Tuesday night, you’d see the competition. Any fella that puts the handbrake on is going to be left behind. That’s just the way it is. We’re not minding ourselves. We’re driving on full belt.
Strong Fan Support
O’Connor also acknowledged the unwavering support of Cork fans, noting their significant presence at both home and away games.
Our support is unreal. When we went up to Galway, there was over half the crowd Cork. And here again today there’s half the crowd Cork. We’d 31,000 three weeks ago in Cork. We’d 21,000 for the Waterford game.
He added,
We don’t want to let anyone down. If we came out there without putting on a performance, and people travelling down, spending the money to get down this far, it would have been a shame, but in fairness to the boys they dug it out.
New 30-Meter Free Rule Endorsed
O’Connor also gave his endorsement to the upcoming rule change regarding 30-meter frees, stating,
No issues with it at all. Referees have a hard enough job, not to mind fellas roaring and shouting at them. They’ll make mistakes, we’ll make mistakes, so why not?
Kilkenny’s Perspective
Kilkenny manager Derek Lyng acknowledged his team’s character in fighting until the finish, despite the loss.
Really pleased with the character that we showed, fought right to the end. And look, that is it. We have to dust ourselves off now, and we can’t feel sorry for ourselves and get ready for next weekend (v Galway).
FAQ
- What was the final score of the match? 3-12 to 1-15 in favor of Cork.
- Who is the current Cork Senior Hurling Manager? Ben O’Connor.
- What did Ben O’Connor say about the competition within the squad? He emphasized the fierce competition for places and the need for players to consistently perform.
Cork’s victory demonstrates their strength and depth as they continue their campaign. The team’s commitment to competition and unwavering fan support position them well for future challenges.