The Echo Sport Podcast

The pressure was on Cork to secure promotion to Division 1 for the first time since 2016 and they rose to the challenge in Omagh.A great start meant they were up by a point having played into the strong breeze and, after a nervy spell midway through the second half they kicked on, helped by the introduction of Brian Hurley.Hurley, Ruairí Deane, Ian Maguire and Brian O'Driscoll were in action when the Rebels last competed at the top grade and have stayed the course. Going up is a massive boost before the Munster championship and a great achievement by John Cleary and his management team, who were heavily questioned in recent seasons.Can they now beat Meath in Croke Park to add a bit of silverware? Hopefully but it doesn't matter, because the hard work has been done in coming out of a very competitive division and gives Cork football a platform next season and beyond.The Cork ladies football are also into a league final. With a game to spare to boot.On the hurling front, we wondered if Cork would experiment at the weekend given Offaly were already relegated. Instead, they picked a championship-level line-up and smashed the visitors for six goals. Barry Walsh, despite the U20 game coming up away to Tipp this week, was given a half and raised a green flag while the return of Padraig Power from injury to rifle two points was a boost. Ciarán Joyce was redeployed at full-back as we predicted but hardly tested. Eoin Downey continues to look the part at wing-back though and Mark Coleman was full of energy on the other flank.There wasn't a lot learned from a facile victory but the crowd of nearly 20,000 is a testament to the incredible backing the hurlers have. They'll pack out TUS Gaelic Grounds for the league final in what will be a belter with a Limerick side who looked terrific at times against Galway but also could have been caught late on.There's also a round-up of the latest league action with Charleville grabbing their second victory in a row as they look to build on an impressive championship in 2025.Now in its fourth season, every week Éamonn Murphy is joined by The Echo team, including Barry O’Mahony, Denis Hurley, Rory Noonan, Jack McKay, John Horgan and more to discuss all the latest Cork GAA news on and off the field. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The Cork footballers' destiny is in their own hands after their nine-point victory over Kildare combined with Louth's defeat of Derry.Division 1 is beckoning for the Rebels who are guaranteed to go up if they get a draw or a win away to Tyrone. They could actually go up even if they lose if Cavan, who are battling relegation, upset the odds against Derry, combined with a Meath win over Offaly, as Cork have the head-to-head against Louth.The Echo Podcast crew go through the permutations heading into the last round of Division 2 fixtures, as well as breaking down the performance in Páirc Uí Rinn where the groundwork was laid in a blistering first half. John Cleary's side nailed eight two-pointers with the wind but ended up surviving a nervy fourth quarter.A black card for Patrick Doyle and a penalty heaped the pressure but Micheál Aodh Martin appeared from the bench to not only save the spotter but also pull off a series of super stops. Up front, Chris Óg Jone and Steven Sherlock landed 1-19 between them but it was a strong collective effort. The return of Mark Cronin, Tommy Walsh, Ian Maguire, Seán Brady and Brian O'Driscoll made a difference from the Derry hammering, while Luke Fahy and Colm O'Callaghan continue to deliver stand-out displays.The only concern is how Cork have faded in a few of their outings but it's a huge positive that they've put themselves in a position to make a first top-flight return for the first time in a decade. There's a feelgood factor about Leeside football for the first time in a while.The hurlers are back from their warm-weather training camp for what should be a guaranteed win over Offaly in SuperValu Páirc Uí Chaoimh on Saturday night which would put them into a league final. The winner of Limerick and Galway would join them in what would be a cracking league decider on Easter Sunday.It'll be interesting to see how experimental Ben O'Connor and his selectors go with their line-up.On the local front, we look at the club football action where a number of Cork squad players, including Brian Hurley, togged out for the second round of fixtures. David Buckley showed his potential with a clinical showing for NewcestownNow in its fourth season, every week Éamonn Murphy is joined by The Echo team, including Barry O’Mahony, Denis Hurley, Rory Noonan, Jack McKay, John Horgan and more to discuss all the latest Cork GAA news on and off the field. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

All the nonsense talk about the Cork hurlers as the leading contenders for Liam MacCarthy that has been spouted by pundits and supporters from outside the county bounds can be put to bed for now.Limerick, who after a sluggish opener when losing to Waterford picked up a head of steam in the league, were worthy eight-point winners over the Rebels in TUS Gaelic Grounds last weekend.Granted, Ben O'Connor and his selectors mixed it up with their team selection while the Treaty, who were shorn of Darragh O'Donovan, Peter Casey and Dan Morrissey through injury, were far closer to full strength. However they showed just why they're the team to beat for championship with their classic blend of power, pace and support play.Cork actually battled very well for three quarters of the contest, especially as Shane O'Brien raised an early green flag. Their work-rate was decent and while every score was hard-earned they went toe-to-toe with the hosts for long spells.There were plenty of positives, including Tommy O'Connell's snarling efforts at midfield and U20 forward Barry Walsh's energy on the wing.Eoin Downey slotted into centre-back effectively and was strong in the air while the management were able to look at Shane Barrett as a roving corner-forward, Ciarán Joyce at midfield and Tim O'Mahony in the 11 geansaí.There were a few concerns.Limerick stuck three goals, even if the penalty call on an Aaron Gillane-Seán O'Donoghue tangle was as dubious as the championship decision in 2023. Cork's full-back line looks unsettled despite Dáire O'Leary doing well across the campaign.At the other end, there weren't any clear-cut goals chances.Even after bringing on experienced heads like Darragh Fitzgibbon, O'Donoghue and Seamus Harnedy, a blast of 2-5 without reply sunk Cork.Plenty of work on at warm-weather training this week before a likely league final rematch with Limerick at the start of April.Also on the podcast this week there's a look at the league action over the weekend and a preview of a huge Cork-Kildare Division 2 football joust at Páirc Uí Rinn.Now in its fourth season, every week Éamonn Murphy is joined by The Echo team, including Barry O’Mahony, Denis Hurley, Rory Noonan, Jack McKay, John Horgan and more to discuss all the latest Cork GAA news on and off the field. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The Cork hurlers secured only their second league win at Nowlan Park since 1987 after an impressive showing in desperate conditions.In what was arguably the Rebels' most impressive performance and result this spring, they returned from a mid-league game with the right attitude and a serious goal threat. The three green flags raised by Brian Hayes and rookies Barry Walsh and Alan Walsh (no relation!) were decisive and Cork could afford a missed penalty by Alan Connoly and another handful of chances wasted.The new faces included goalkeeper Paudie O'Sullivan and Hugh O'Connor, in his first start, but the likes of Seán O'Donoghue, Tim O'Mahony, Ciarán Joyce and Tommy O'Connell were powerful in an arm-wrestle on Noreside.Cork were short a host of regulars, including Shane Barrett, Seamus Harnedy, Diarmuid Healy, Mark Coleman, Declan Dalton and Rob Downey, but competition for places is clearly starting to intensify.They're off to Limerick on Saturday night but the chances are the rivals will collide in the league final and before their April Munster championship showdown at SuperValu Páirc Uí Chaoimh. Don't expect either side to give too much away next weekend at the Gaelic Grounds!Unfortunately, the footballers' trip to Derry ended in a disastrous 20-point hammering. It means Cork, Meath and Derry are now deadlocked in the Divison 1 promotion race but the Rebels' scoring difference is far worse.If they beat Kildare and Tyrone in the last two games they could still go up but it's all to play for again now. We look at what went wrong in Celtic. At least they have a warm-weather training camp to reset before they return to action at Páirc Uí Rinn.Thankfully, the ladies footballers kept their league final drive on track with a one-point win over Waterford. Katie Quirke again came up with the big scores, including the late winner, for Joe Carroll's unbeaten charges.We also look at the start of the local leagues and break down the major decisions taken at GAA Congress and how they'll impact Cork teams.Now in its fourth season, every week Éamonn Murphy is joined by The Echo team, including Barry O’Mahony, Denis Hurley, Rory Noonan, Jack McKay, John Horgan and more to discuss all the latest Cork GAA news on and off the field. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The good times keep on rolling for the Rebels, after a brilliant and nail-biting victory over Meath at Páirc Uí Rinn on Sunday.It means John Cleary's side are in pole position for promotion from Division 2, 10 years after falling out of the top flight. It was the footballers' fourth win on the bounce and against one of their rivals to go up, which could prove crucial if head-to-head standings come into play.Most importantly, it was a game in which Cork coped with the weight of expectation, in front of a crowd of over 6,000, and despite losing captain Ian Maguire to a red card in the last quarter.Now they needed a few last-ditch tackles, from Daniel O'Mahony, Seán Meehan and Luke Fahy, in the last play, to deny Meath a match-winning goal.Chris Óg Jones hit the net and led the scoring but rookie Dara Sheedy, Mark Cronin, Seán McDonnell and Steven Sherlock all chipped in as well. The Cork forward line is looking the most balanced it has for quite some time, especially when you consider Brian Hurley was injured.Cork's mettle will be fully tested up in Derry next Sunday though, as the Ulster side have been on song since a surprise loss in their opening game. They still have Kildare at home before finishing the campaign away to Tyrone and just one win could be enough to secure a top-two finish.The big thing is Cork now have genuine momentum and got the public behind them. That could be significant come championship.On the ladies football front, Cork are also unbeaten. They beat Kerry on the road and take on Waterford next weekend in a battle of the table-toppers. Emma Cleary is captaining Joe Carroll's side, who have adapted well on their return to Division 1.The hurlers had a couple of weekends off but return with a bang to start March, as Ben O'Connor's charge are away to Kilkenny and then six days later go to Limerick, who blew Tipp away in Thurles.A victory in Nowlan Park would near guarantee a league final appearance, given Cork have Offaly at home to come. It looks like Cork and Limerick are on a collision course.Now in its fourth season, every week Éamonn Murphy is joined by The Echo team, including Barry O’Mahony, Denis Hurley, Rory Noonan, Jack McKay, John Horgan and more to discuss all the latest Cork GAA news on and off the field. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The only way is up for the Cork footballers... The Echo Podcast looks at the Rebels' terrific start to the league after a third successive league victory leaves them in a strong position to gain promotion back to Division 1, bridging an 11-year gap.John Cleary's side were heavy favourites in Tullamore but haven't always handled that tag well, which allied to their inconsistency in recent years, meant the trip to Offaly was loaded with danger.A brilliant first half was crucial to the result, with Cork leading by nine points at the break, thanks in no small part to a Colm O'Callaghan brace of goals from midfield.A third green flag raised by Mark Cronin in the third quarter effectively sealed it but the hosts, despite being against the wind in the second half, battled until the end and had the gap down to five points at the finish.Ultimately, the result was all that mattered and it was never in doubt.Cork are at home to Meath in Páirc Uí Rinn next where a victory would be huge given the Royals are also unbeaten with three wins on the board.With genuine momentum, having won the McGrath Cup on Kerry turf in January, it's time for the supporters to get out in force for the Meath clash. The footballers deserve and need their backing.There's also a look back at the Sigerson Cup final where missed goal chances cost UCC though a handful of Leesiders in UL colours did collect the cup at Croke Park.On the hurling front, with the hurlers off until March 1, the podcast crew discuss the trends from the first three games, who from the extended squad deserves a go in the remaining matches and whether Ben O'Connor will continue to go all-in at every interview.His fiery approach is delighting the national media while also taking the heat off the Cork players who are still trying to escape the shadow of last year's All-Ireland final nightmare.Plus, after an excellent showing for UL in the Fitzgibbon Cup final where he was in contention for Man of the Match, is Jack Leahy hard done by not to be in the Cork hurling squad?Now in its fourth season, every week Éamonn Murphy is joined by The Echo team, including Barry O’Mahony, Denis Hurley, Rory Noonan, Jack McKay, John Horgan and more to discuss all the latest Cork GAA news on and off the field. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

There were no shortage of talking points on the Echo Podcast after an early-season All-Ireland final rematch.Cork were deserved winners in a game that, as captain Darragh Fitzgibbon told RTÉ when collecting his Man of the Match prize after, the home side needed to win more. Tipp have the Liam MacCarthy Cup tucked away for now, so won't lose any sleep about this result, especially when the priority is mid-April when the rivals collide in the opening round of the Munster series.The first half was pretty lively in front of a record Páirc crowd of 30,910 as Cork, with a stronger starting 15 selected, had the edge. There was a bit of needle, and a harsh black card that led to a Declan Dalton penalty which Rhys Shelley saved, before a massive scrap coming up to half-time.It kicked off when Willie Connors and Alan Connolly collided off the ball and when it was over, Shane Barrett and Jason Forde paid the price for getting involved by seeing red. Linesman Johnny Murphy had a big say in Liam Gordon's decision and Barrett and Forde were unlucky to be singled out.Ben O'Connor reckoned it was nothing but a bit of pushing and shoving and refs are under too much pressure from accessors to flash cards. Does he make a strong case? Whether or which, the sting was taken out of the second half and while Tipp didn't seem too bothered about the result, they still brought in some high-calibre subs to stay in the hunt.Eoghan Connolly landed some boomers from distance. Darragh McCarthy came on to a chorus of boos from Cork fans and whatever about his slow free-taking style, it was totally unfair on the gifted Tipp tyro.Fitzgibon and Alan Connolly are on the placed balls for Cork ahead of Dalton but the jury is out in terms of their reliability in comparison to the retired Patrick Horgan.Cork have three wins on the bounce but there are still plenty of places up for grabs. William Buckley is looking lively in attack while Eoin Downey is settling at wing-back but is Daire O'Leary the answer in the number three geansaí? And where does Ciarán Joyce slot in?The half-forwards are shooting the lights out under O'Connor but Cork do have less of a goal threat. They drew a blank on Saturday night having raised at least one green flag per game for the previous 18 competitive fixtures.There's also a discussion on the idea being pushed by the national media that Cork are now a 'nasty team' under O'Connor's watch. It's pure nonsense argue the Echo Podcast crew.There's also plenty on football, with Cork away to Offaly next Sunday and UCC in Croke Park for the Sigerson Cup final as they look to emulate their camogie side that captured the Ashbourne Cup for the first time since 2003.Now in its fourth season, every week Éamonn Murphy is joined by The Echo team, including Barry O’Mahony, Denis Hurley, Rory Noonan, Jack McKay, John Horgan and more to discuss all the latest Cork GAA news on and off the field. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Two from two again as the hurlers survived a snarling battle with Galway in Salthill while the footballers beat the Leinster champions Louth on the road.The Echo Sport Podcast crew reflect on a brilliant weekend for the Rebels, particularly the footballers who made it back to back wins in their opening two Division 2 games for the first time. They'd lost twice in recent years in the league in Louth, along with an All-Ireland qualifier exit, so this was a significant result which puts John Cleary's side in a strong position for promotion.Having Steven Sherlock up front along with Brian Hurley, Mark Cronin and goal-scorer Chris Óg Jones gives Cork a balanced scoring threat up front and storming into an eight-point lead at half-time put the visitors in control.They've now got a weekend off before visiting Offaly and they're at home to Meath at the end of the month. If they can build on this momentum they'll be well set before trips to Derry and Tyrone in March.Most importantly they'll get the Cork public back behind them if they can put a winning streak together and we saw how crucial the crowd was to their late rally in the opening round victory over Cavan in the Páirc.The hurlers up against a fired-up Galway who made all the early running on Saturday night. Down seven points and way well the mark in terms of intensity, Cork showed a lot of experience and character to turn it around at Pearse Stadium.They hurled on the edge at times but were far more clinical than the Tribe and were able to get through for goal chances in the second half with Brian Hayes finishing two of them. The introduction of Hayes and Tim O'Mahony added heft but also showed how seriously Ben O'Connor and his management team are taking the league.They'll certainly be fully tuned in on Saturday night in front of 25,000 at SuperValu Páirc Uí Chaoimh for an All-Ireland final rematch against Tipp, who have also won their first two league matches. It'll be the Rebels' third game in 13 days and while the mid-April Munster championship meeting is the priority, Cork won't want to give any quarter here.With a gap of three weeks until an away game with Kilkenny, victory this weekend would put defending champions Cork in a strong position to return to the league final.Now in its fourth season, every week Éamonn Murphy is joined by The Echo team, including Barry O’Mahony, Denis Hurley, Rory Noonan, Jack McKay, John Horgan and more to discuss all the latest Cork GAA news on and off the field. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Two from two at a cold but sunny Páirc, Cork fans can't have too many complaints after the opening round of the league and the Echo Podcast crew review the action.The Ben O’Connor era got off to an ideal start as the Cork hurlers eased to a 3-25 to 1-17 victory over Waterford.In front of a bumper crowd of 20,464 at SuperValu Páirc Uí Chaoimh, the Rebels were in clinical form against an inexperienced Déise in the opening quarter as they led 0-11 to 0-3.Alan Connolly and Declan Dalton raised first-half green flags, and newcomer William Buckley added a third goal in the second half before picking up the TG4 Man of the Match. Buckley was a star underage attacker for Cork and showed his potential at the top level, as his touch, movement and accuracy stood out.The more experienced crew of Seán O'Donoghue, Niall O'Leary and Mark Coleman didn't put a foot wrong while Rob Downey and Shane Barrett were terrific in the first half and Tommy O'Connell had a stormer in the second.Still, it's only the league, Waterford were understrength and there's the matter of a free-taker, post-Patrick Horgan.In the footballers’ league opener, they rallied from seven points down to squeeze out Cavan 0-24 to 2-17 with Steven Sherlock nailing the crucial injury-time two-pointer.What a boost it is to have him back in situ.Mark Cronin, Chris Óg Jones, and Seán McDonnell clipped the scores to set up the grandstand finish. There were a few standout performers, and with Derry losing and Tyrone drawing their opening league games, Cork are in a strong position heading to Louth.However, questions will be asked about coughing up two goals on home turf even if it did set the stage for the comeback.In ladies football, Katie Quirke’s late free gave Cork a 1-10 to 2-7 draw against Kildare at MTU, while Rochestown College made a disappointing exit in the Corn Uí Mhuirí semi-final.At third level, UCC are in Fitzgibbon Cup and Sigerson action on the road while MTU Cork will be eager to make home advantage count in their Fitz quarter-final.Now in its fourth season, every week Éamonn Murphy is joined by The Echo team, including Barry O’Mahony, Denis Hurley, Rory Noonan, Jack McKay, John Horgan and more to discuss all the latest Cork GAA news on and off the field. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The Echo Podcast crew return just in time for the throw-in of the national hurling and football leagues.Cork footballers take on Cavan before the hurlers host Waterford in an attractive double-header in SuperValu Páirc Uí Chaoimh, where both teams need a winning start to the campaign.John Cleary's charges got a boost with a first competitive victory in Killarney since 1995 over Kerry, albeit in the McGrath Cup final, which won't be causing the old enemy to lose any sleep.Still, late points from Brian Hurley and Chris Óg Jones gave the Rebels the narrowest of victories in a game where the contentious new rules that lead to frees being advanced 50 metres worked in their favour.Cork have been in the lower leagues since 2016 and haven't really looked like returning, largely down to slow starts to the season. With four away games, they'll need to pick up points on home turf.Clearly and his management team are vastly experienced at this stage but the vibes are more positive at this stage than they were last year, with a decent blend of youth and experience.The hurlers won't be prioritising the secondary competition after ending a 27-year wait for silverware last term but Ben O'Connor will be eager to get wins on the board early to allow them to look at their options in the coming weeks. The new bainisteoir has already stated there won't be radical change but tactically there will be tweaks from the long-ball style of last year.It's a hectic time of year, with UCC and MTU Cork, who have impressed to date, busy with the Fitzgibbon Cup.There's a look at the form of both Cork teams in preseason, as well as a breakdown of the recent Fitzgibbon and Sigerson action and the Corn Uí Mhuirí and Harty matches.There's a discussion of the appointment of Ian Maguire and Darragh Fitzgibbon as Cork captains, replacing Brian Hurley and Rob Downey. Plus they flag up the young players to watch in the coming weeks and examine the prospects of the rookies who are on the hurling and football squads.Now in its fourth season, every week Éamonn Murphy is joined by The Echo team, including Barry O’Mahony, Denis Hurley, Rory Noonan, Jack McKay, John Horgan and more to discuss all the latest Cork GAA news on and off the field. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The Echo Podcast crew wrap up on the Cork GAA season with a look back on the highs and lows of 2025.The focus is on club action, with the Reardens All-Star teams announced in ladies football, camogie, hurling and football. They break down the 15 picks in each code and reveal some of the players who were very lucky not to make the cut.The county champions, St Finbarr's, in camogie and football, Éire Óg in ladies football and Sarsfields in hurling, are understandably to the fore in the All-Star line-ups.A big effort was made to take in those who performed impressively without lifting silverware as well, even if their teams didn't get past the quarter-final stages or even ended up in relegation battles.As has been the case since the first Reardens All-Stars in 2012, there is a blend of marquee inter-county players and unsung club heroes in the teams.A weekend washout impacted the local matches and saw the Tom Creedon Cup final and U21 games postponed but the All-Ireland camogie final double bill in Croke Park went ahead.Ballincollig couldn't build on a strong run midway through the first half and a Leah Hannigan goal in their intermediate decider against Camross. The Laois said had that bit more in the second half to win by four points.The Collig didn't have any major complaints after and while they missed out on an All-Ireland, they laid down a marker by being the first team in the club to reach that stage.St Finbarr's were left more frustrated as, though they'll have another chance in the January replay, they were in a superb position coming down the stretch in the senior final against Athenry. After performing so well for so long, they conceded 1-3 without reply.The Barrs had twice needed extra, extra time on their journey to Croker, so they appreciate the fine margins at this level.They simply have to dust themselves down and go again after Christmas.What was definitely a huge plus from the action on Jones Road was the quality of both finals, which reflected very well on Cork camogieNow in its third season, every week Éamonn Murphy is joined by The Echo team, including Barry O’Mahony, Denis Hurley, Rory Noonan, Jack McKay, John Horgan and more to discuss all the latest Cork GAA news on and off the field. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The Echo Podcast crew discuss the main issues impacting Cork GAA fans after a packed weekend of action for December, which included three Munster finals, two schools finals in the Páirc and a pair of U21 hurling semis.The major talking point was St Finbarr's loss to Dingle at Semple Stadium where a very harsh call by the ref saw a decision on a free go against Ian Maguire and then the ball advanced by 50 metres because Dylan Quinn picked it up as the whistle sounded.The result was a monster two-point free as time elapsed to see the Barrs beaten the minimum.While Brian Roche's side know they should have been more clinical in the last quarter, as they only scored one point after the 40th minute, they were still aggrieved with how the game was decided. It won't be any consolation for them but it was one of the most enthralling Munster club football finals of all time, lit up by an incredible 16-point haul from Steven Sherlock.In the other provincial finals, Buttevant and Aghabullogue were well beaten by their Kerry opponents, confirming the Kingdom's utter dominance of the intermediate and junior grades.Clonakilty Community School produced an excellent display on Friday night to defeat Coláiste Choilm and capture their first Simcox Cup while Gaelcholáiste Mhuire AG retained the Dr O'Callaghan Cup after a belter with Christians. A brilliant decision by the Cork County Board to stage the games on the big stage in SuperValu Páirc Uí Chaoimh.Midleton and Shandrum will contest the U21 A hurling final after their victories on the 4G and while the Magpies will be favourites.For hurling fans, the spotlight this week was on the new senior management after coach Niall O'Halloran departed Ben O'Connor's set-up in preseason. Cork are training extremely hard since their return but it was very unusual to see a chance in the backroom at this stage.There's also a preview of the All-Ireland camogie club finals coming up at Croke Park, with St Finbarr's and Ballincollig in their first national finals on Jones Road.Now in its third season, every week Éamonn Murphy is joined by The Echo team, including Barry O’Mahony, Denis Hurley, Rory Noonan, Jack McKay, John Horgan and more to discuss all the latest Cork GAA news on and off the field. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

As we enter the home stretch of the Cork GAA season, the Echo Podcast crew look at the major action at club, schools and third level.There was Junior A joy for the hurlers of Kilshannig and the footballers of Kilmacabea. In a double-header at SuperValu Páirc Uí Chaoimh, the two clubs with that bit more experience got the job done and will move up to Premier Junior for 2026.There was an extra incentive for Kilshannig as they paid tribute to jockey and former player Michael O'Sullivan, who tragically lost his life following a racecourse fall. Wing-back Kieran Twomey was Man of the Match in the decider but it was a collective effort as they dominated a Ballinora outfit bidding to complete the double.Kilmac pushed for home in the last quarter of their clash with a youthful Donoughmore unit, turning their West Cork dominance into county glory after a series of disappointments in recent seasons.At Munster level, Kilbrittain are closing in on a trip to Croke Park after an emphatic Munster Junior Hurling final showing. In camogie, St Finbarr's and Ballincollig secured their All-Ireland final trips with terrific semi-final showings up the country, the Barrs prevailing after extra, extra time for the second time in recent weeks.Closer to home, Midleton outgunned the Collig in one U21 A quarter-final but the Valley Rovers hurlers pulled off a massive shock in the other by defeating a Glen Rovers unit that looked the part in the City Division.It's now Midleton v Newcestown and Valleys-Shandrum in the last four, with the Magpies aiming to retain the county.We preview the Munster football finals, as Buttevant, Aghabullogue and St Finbarr's can on the best sides from Kerry, eager to improve on Cork's recent record in the competition, especially in the junior and intermediate grades.The knockout stages of the Corn Uí Mhuirí are set while Coláiste Choilm and Clonakilty collide in the Simcox Cup final. In the Dr O'Callaghan Cup decider there's a Harty Cup group stage rematch when Gaelcholáiste Mhuire AG face Christians.Now in its third season, every week Éamonn Murphy is joined by The Echo team, including Barry O’Mahony, Denis Hurley, Rory Noonan, Jack McKay, John Horgan and more to discuss all the latest Cork GAA news on and off the field. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The Echo Podcast crew review the Cork GAA action and look at the major issues impacting clubs and supporters.All three Cork football clubs got the job done in their Munster semi-final, with Buttevant, Aghabullogue and St Finbarr's meeting Kerry opposition next month.The Leeside winners lived up to their billing as favourites, though Aghabullogue, perhaps understandably, a week after a hurling county final, needed to dig deep in the last quarter of their game.Once again, Matthew Bradley was in deadly scoring form, even though he'd been in soccer action 24 hours earlier.Now they'll take on An Ghaeltacht for Munster silverware. A daunting prospect with Cork powerhouse Aidan Walsh a serious addition for the Kerry kingpins.Brian Hayes grabbed a headline-worthy hat-trick for the Barrs in their semi-final. There's huge depth in the Togher squad, with a host of strong bench options, and they'll need those if they are to defeat Dingle in what will be a cracking Munster showdown.Buttevant will take on Ballymacelligott in the junior final and with an eye for goal and the ability to range orange flags will be confident of lifting the trophy.They also look at the major talking points in Cork GAA, including the new rules regarding amalgamations between clubs at underage level.Ibane Gaels fell just short against a powerful Douglas team, spearheaded by Sean Coakley, in the U21 A football final at the weekend.The combination of Barryroe and Argideen Rangers has been very successful in recent years, competing in the top tiers at minor in both codes, but the Cork County Board have stricter rules now in place.The aim is to encourage clubs to field separate teams in lower grades to protect their identity but is it the right move given rural depopulation?Ballinora continue their double bid after making the Junior A hurling final and Donoughmore and Kilmacabea are into the JAFC decider.There are still five game left in the U21 A Hurling grade, with Midleton and the Collig retaining their divisional crowns over the weekend.Now in its third season, every week Éamonn Murphy is joined by The Echo team, including Barry O’Mahony, Denis Hurley, Rory Noonan, Jack McKay, John Horgan and more to discuss all the latest Cork GAA news on and off the field. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

We're deep into November and despite the biblical rain, but a host of huge games still took place on the Cork GAA front.Ballinora secured their first Intermediate Football title after an absolutely epic showdown with Ilen Rovers. They couldn't be separated in their first meeting and it took extra time in the rematch, Kevin Werner's goal eventually deciding a pulsating battle where Ilen rallied from eight points down.Soaring two-pointers and brilliant goals mean the IAFC final was a showcase for the best of the new rules.Ballinora are still in with a shout for a double, with Kilshannig in the Junior A final after Éanna Hanlon's goal saw off Newmarket, while the Muskerry champions meet Cobh next weekend.Aghabullogue secured their second double in three seasons, a staggering achievement, when Matthew Bradley landed another county final winner, this time after an IAHC classic with Bandon. The West Cork side were underdogs but came very close to pulling off an upset, powered by former Cork hurler Michael Cahalane.In Munster action, Sarsfields failed to fire in their loss to Ballygunner. The Waterford side were in ruthless form and despite a wonder goal from Daniel Hogan, Sars never look like coming away from Walsh Park with a win. Cork's wait for a first All-Ireland club winner at senior level since Newtownshandrum in 2004 goes on.At intermediate, Ballinhassig couldn't replicate their brilliance from the PIHC when going down to Tipp's Upperchurch Drombane. The Tipp team grabbed two goals while keeping a clean sheet, which was critical.The one bright spark for Cork hurling was Kilbrittain's victory over Knockaderry in the junior semi-final. Luke Griffin's goal and Mark Hickey's haul of 0-12 kept the favourites in control. Next up are Waterford’s Kilrossanty in the provincial decider.The Echo Podcast crew also preview the weekend action, including the U21 football decider where Douglas will face Ibane Gaels, who are contesting their first final at that level, a reflection of the great underage work going on in Barryroe and Argideen Rangers.Now in its third season, every week Éamonn Murphy is joined by The Echo team, including Barry O’Mahony, Denis Hurley, Rory Noonan, Jack McKay, John Horgan and more to discuss all the latest Cork GAA news on and off the field. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The All-Stars were dished out on Friday night with Darragh Fitzgibbon earning his third, and Brian Hayes, Ciarán Joyce and Seán O'Donoghue their first each.That haul was a fair reflection of how the season panned out for the Rebels, the league and Munster titles secured but Liam MacCarthy wrestled from their grasp at Croke Park by Tipp.It could have been very different if Cork had landed the big prize, Mark Coleman, Patrick Collins, Alan Connolly and Tim O'Mahony all looked set to be honoured until that second half.The Echo Podcast crew look at how Cork have fared at the awards in recent years and which hurlers have picked up the most All-Stars overall, with John Fenton, Jimmy Barry Murphy and Tony O'Sullivan leading the way on five each.The new hurling management is headed up by Ben O'Connor, who collected two All-Stars, and Ronan Curran, who has three.Also on this week's podcast, there's a review of the weekend action, which included Munster football victories for Aghabullogue and Buttevant, junior quarter-final wins for the Ballinora hurlers and Charleville footballers, and an U21 semi-final success for Douglas.Aghabullogue and Buttevant laid down impressive markers but the Mid Cork side have a hurling final with Bandon to negotiate next Sunday before they turn their focus back to the big ball.Premier Senior champions St Finbarr's are in Munster action next weekend, facing a tough trip to Clonmel Commercials, while it doesn't get harder for Sars than an away game against Ballygunner, who are on a revenge mission.Kilbrittain and Ballinhassig fly the Cork hurling flag and, after a decent break since their county final successes, they should be in a strong position to deliver in the province.All the games are previewed, as well as the Intermediate A Football final replay between Ilen Rovers and Ballinora.The Junior A Championships are down to the last four. Nemo's third team meet Donoughmore and it's Charleville against Kilmacabea in football and on the hurling front, Cobh take on Ballinora while Kilshanning face Newmarket.Now in its third season, every week Éamonn Murphy is joined by The Echo team, including Barry O’Mahony, Denis Hurley, Rory Noonan, Jack McKay, John Horgan and more to discuss all the latest Cork GAA news on and off the field. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The clocks have gone back and the countdown to Christmas has begun but the big games keep coming on the Cork club scene.The Echo Podcast crew reflect in this week's episode on the Premier Intermediate and Intermediate A Football finals and the Senior A Hurling decider, along with the divisional and U21 action.All the marquee matches ended in a welter of excitment, with Ballinora grabbing a draw against Ilen Rovers when Neil Lordan held his nerve to bomb over a two-point free. While Ballinora were hugely relieved to force a replay, they had some standout performers, including former All-Ireland winning Cork U20 hurler Shane Kingson who was named as Man of the Match after kicking 0-4 from defence.Ilen, led by Dermot Hegarty at midfield, raised two green flags and appeared to be heading to glory coming down the stretch in their first adult county since 2008. Instead they'll meet again in two weeks.Agabullogue and Uibh Laoire looked to be heading to a rematch as well in the PIFC final until Matthew Bradley landed the late winner. The Mid Cork side atoned for their loss last season and have a busy few weeks ahead with a Munster campaign and the delayed Intermediate A Hurling clash with Bandon. They're now favourites for a second double in three seasons.After a dour draw, Bride Rovers and Castlelyons served up a classic in the Senior A Hurling final, only decided in additional time when David Barry's point capped off a run of 1-3 without replay for Bride. There no shortage of excellent individual displays and a fascinating duel between Cork hurlers Brian Roche and Niall O'Leary but Cillian Tobin offered a reminder of his underage pedigree in Rebel red with a magnificent showing from centre-back.At divisional level, Donoughmore lifted the Mid Cork crown for the first time since 2011 after a late burst of 2-2 to deny Aghinagh, young gun Seán O'Hanlon grabbing both goals.There was county action at U21 and Junior A, with Douglas' U21 footballers beating Ballincollig and Ibane Gaels surviving a penalty shootout to defeat Kinsale. Nemo's third team and Kilmacbea are into the JAFC semis alongside Donoughmore, while the hurlers of Cobh, Newmarket and Kilshanning are also through to the last four. Now in its third season, every week Éamonn Murphy is joined by The Echo team, including Barry O’Mahony, Denis Hurley, Rory Noonan, Jack McKay, John Horgan and more to discuss all the latest Cork GAA news on and off the field.You can listen to the Echo Sport Podcast every week wherever you get your podcasts or on www.echolive.ie/podcast. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Another bumper weekend of action saw football silverware handed out at Premier Senior, Senior A and Premier Junior level though the Senior A hurling decider will have to be replayed and the Echo Podcast crew reviews the action.Buttevant ended 99 years of hurt to collect an adult county title with a terrific display that left underdogs St Nicks too much to do in the Premier Junior final. The Avondhu outfit had been favourites for glory before a ball was thrown in but it was still admirable how slick they were in the Páirc.Their ability to nail two-pointers, clipping four, was a crucial difference while Conor Hanlon and Mark Lenahan nailed the big scores and former All-Ireland winning Cork minor Michael O'Neill grabbed the goal.Knocknagree completed their remarkable rise from Junior A in 2017 to the top tier as their blistering start left Cill na Martra with too much to do. Defeat in two previous Senior A deciders no doubt had John Fintan Daly's charges tuned in from the off.In the marquee match on Sunday afternoon, St Finbarr's recovered from the concession of a first-half goal to end their county final hoodoo against Nemo, with Brian Hayes' green flag vital to their cause. Hayes offered another reminder of what a loss he is to Cork football by collecting Man of the Match.The finish was nail-biting. Conor Horgan landed a boomer to level, sub Cillian Meyers Murray clipped the lead score and only the post denied Horgan, condemning Nemo to a third defeat in a row when it looked like a replay was on the cards.In the SAHC final, Bride Rovers and Castlelyons will meet again next Saturday night after a tense 0-14 apiece stalemate.Also on the hurling front, Ben O'Connor and his management team have been reshaping their training panel, with the likes of Luke Meade and Conor Lehane, who is injured anyway, making way for some fresh blood in Jack Leahy, Daire O'Leary, Hugh O'Connor, Brian O'Sullivan and more..The Echo Podcast crew also look at how the action is progressing at divisional level.There's a bit to run in terms of county finals as well, with another busy schedule of games coming up as we head into November.Now in its third season, every week Éamonn Murphy is joined by The Echo team, including Barry O’Mahony, Denis Hurley, Rory Noonan, Jack McKay, John Horgan and more to discuss all the latest Cork GAA news on and off the field.You can listen to the Echo Sport Podcast every week wherever you get your podcasts or on www.echolive.ie/podcast. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Three trophies were handed out on Leeside over the weekend while torrential rain forced the postponement of the Intermediate A and Senior A deciders.Kilbrittain got the sliotar rolling with a gritty win over Glen Rovers, whose second team represented the club superbly in the Premier Junior decider.Just a point separated the sides at full-time, with Kilbrittain lifting the cup on the same day Oisín Gillain would have turned 19. The gifted youngster died tragically and his team-mates honoured him in fitting fashion under Friday night lights.Mark Hickey was picked as Man of the Match with Ronan Crowley and Philip Wall also nailing big scores.Saturday's double-header was put back at short notice due to the orange weather warning but Sunday's two games went ahead.Ballinhassig were outstanding in the Premier Intermediate final against a Ballincollig team that came in with huge momentum after winning four games on the bounce. Hassig took over midway through the second half when the sides were level at 0-16 apiece, ramming in two goals and finishing six points in front, the same margin they defeated Collig by in the opening round.Patrick Collins' nous in goal, Ger Collins' deadly free-taking, the poise of Darragh O'Sullivan and impact of second-half sub Evan Cullinane were critical factors. Ballincollig were allowed hit full stride though Brian Keating landed some sensational points from play.John O'Sullivan's side will be strong contenders for Munster success now, especially if they can get their injured hurlers fully firing.Senior Munster champions Sars lived up to their billing as favourites against Midleton in what was a disappointing Premier Senior final. The loss of Conor Lehane and Eoin Moloney to injury was too much for the Magpies to bear, with James Sweeney raising two white flags and Jack O'Connor selected as Man of the Match.Incredibly, Sars veterans Craig Leahy, Daniel and William Kearney and Conor O'Sullivan captured the Seán Óg Murphy Cup for the sixth time since their breakthrough in 2008. The aim now for Johnny Crowley and Diarmuid O'Sullivan's charges is to return to the All-Ireland stage in January, having lost last season's final.The Echo Podcast crew also break down the action at divisional level, with a number of Junior A finals across the weekend.They preview the five county finals next weekend, a mix of hurling and football, headlined by a classic St Finbarr's v Nemo Rangers showdown on Sunday.Now in its third season, every week Éamonn Murphy is joined by The Echo team, including Barry O’Mahony, Denis Hurley, Rory Noonan, Jack McKay, John Horgan and more to discuss all the latest Cork GAA news on and off the field.You can listen to the Echo Sport Podcast every week wherever you get your podcasts or on www.echolive.ie/podcast. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

All five Cork county football finals are set after a largely brilliant weekend of club action on Leeside, as the Echo Sport Podcast reviews the games.  Newcestown came close to pulling out a massive upset against Nemo when they charged into a seven-point lead midway through the second half, only to fall short by the minimum after extra time. David Buckley's ability to raise orange flags and a magnificent showing from Cork hurler Luke Meade lit up Páirc Uí Chaoimh but Mark Cronin continued his excellent form for the Trabeg side, who grabbed two crucial goals.  St Finbarr's overcame a slow start against Ballincollig with Steven Sherlock (who else?) guiding them back to the main event. The Barrs, whose camogie team retained their county over the weekend, are capable of more but know how difficult Nemo are to beat in finals.  Knocknagree and Cill na Martra both excelled in the Senior A semis and the potency of their forward units suggests their showdown in two weeks will be a belter.  At Premier Intermediate level, it'll be Aghabullogue, last year's runners-up, against Uibh Laoire in a Mid Cork derby. New Cork U20 football manager Ray Keane has Aghabullogue, in the hunt for a double, producing some superb stuff.  Uibh Laoire, coached by Niall Allen, are ripping it up as well, with Chris Óg Jones as the spearhead of their exciting attack.  Ballinora, under the guidance of former Cork keeper Ken O'Halloran, are the surprise finalists at Intermediate A, though they are drawing from their U21 crop that lifted divisional silverware last spring. They can call on Cork senior Neil Lordan but have a very balanced team.  Ilen Rovers made their first county final since they lost to Nemo at the top grade 17 years ago when they squeezed out Adrigole after extra time. Dan Mac Eoin boomed over a pair of two-pointers to rescue them when four down in normal time.  At Premier Junior, brilliant Buttevant outgunned Canovee and will now be hot favourites against fearless St Nick's, who rallied to edge out Cobh.  The Echo Podcast crew also preview the five county hurling finals this weekend, which have been overshadowed by injuries to some marquee players including Conor Lehane.  They discuss the success of Éire Óg in ladies football and St Finbarr's in camogie, with three Cahalane sisters winning two counties in 24 hours.  Now in its third season, every week Éamonn Murphy will be joined by The Echo team, including Barry O’Mahony, Denis Hurley, Rory Noonan, Jack McKay, John Horgan and more to discuss all the latest Cork GAA news on and off the field.  You can listen to the Echo Sport Podcast every week wherever you get your podcasts or on www.echolive.ie/podcast. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.