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John Grainger previews the All-Ireland Final
We spoke to UCC GAA Development Officer, John Grainger, to preview the All-Ireland final and to ask him for tickets...
What is UCC's connection to the All-Ireland hurling final?
There is a huge connection between college and this year’s All Ireland final as there are many students and graduates on both sides taking part. In all Cork provide 26 players who have worn the skull and bones jersey on their squad while Tipperary have another 5.
Second year in a row in the final, surely this is Cork's year?
It doesn’t work that way, but Cork have been very impressive this year, already beating Tipp in the League Final and in the Munster championship. After a slow start Tipp have found their groove and the way they accounted for Kilkenny showed a team that did not panic and have huge confidence in their ability. Cork have also shown their confidence and their Munster Final win over Limerick was a huge turning point for them. Both teams will believe that this is their year, and the traditional Cork/Tipp rivalry makes this a nearly impossible game to call
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Vc7au4UZJmQ&t=3s
Which players should we watch out for?
Both teams have lethal full forward lines. The Hayes, Connolly, Horgan Cork line is matched by the Forde, McGrath, McCarthy Tipperary line. All these guys have been hitting the net and the team who can do this again on Sunday will carry a huge advantage. The free taking by Patrick Horgan and Darragh McCarthy will be such a vital part of Sunday’s match, and any bit of a wind will make it difficult for them so the guy who nails the most gives his team the edge. Tipperary and Cork have defenders who are top performers and scores will be hard won but I feel that midfield will be the crucial area and whoever wins here will win the game.
What needs to be done to support the game of hurling?
Hurling is in good shape. Recent wins by Offaly and Waterford at underage level has been critical in getting these counties back at the level they should be at. Kildare are slowly coming of age with their performances, but it would be great to see Derry and Down back challenging Antrim in the North.
Any tickets?
Ask me on Monday July 21st
Pictured: Shane Kingston and Darragh Fitzgibbon
\Video: UCCTV- Ruben Tapia
Published by: Eoin Hahessy