Cork are the All-Ireland U20 champions after a magnificent display in O'Moore Park, overcoming Dublin 3-16 to 1-14.
It was a performance deserving of the stage and one well-received by a rapturous Cork crowd. The noise was deafening throughout, as the Rebels stayed behind to watch their footballers having witnessed the U20 hurlers defeat Kilkenny in the semi-final beforehand. An impressive feat when taking into consideration the "different cohort's" that separate the Cork hurling and football supporter.
The goals were delivered by Mark Cronin, Blake Murphy and Mark Cronin but this was a team performance of epic proportions.
A third goal for @OfficialCorkGAA in the space of 5 minutes!! Scored by Colm O'Callaghan. Crazy stuff so far in this game. pic.twitter.com/EAC0r516o4
— The GAA (@officialgaa) August 3, 2019
The manner was as impressive as the result. At one point they trailed by nine points in the first half but a volley of three quick-fire goals proved crucial in turning the tide. A second-half red card for Karl Lynch Bissett ensured the Leinster champions couldn't mount a comeback.
Cork showing just how much they want to win this match. Insane work rate and a super pointed free to top it off! pic.twitter.com/y9UkuV4CbI
— The GAA (@officialgaa) August 3, 2019
"We thought it was gone in the first ten minutes there!" declared an emotional Man of the Match Cathal O'Mahony post-match. "Jess the crowd was brilliant you could hear them every turnover and every score. It lifted us."
About 150 kicks a week, three nights a week. An hour before training always kicking frees. There are two or three back-ups as well. It takes huge commitment.
Is é Cathal O'Mahony Laoch na hImeartha inniu sa chraobh
Sár chluiche aige an fear ó @GaaMitchelstownComhgháirdeachas leis agus le @OfficialCorkGAA @EirGrid @GAA_BEO @MunsterGAA #EirGridGAA #U20 pic.twitter.com/WvFV7xkAdL
— Spórt TG4 (@SportTG4) August 3, 2019
In a year when the grade was questioned, this was a showing that demonstrated what it should be about. Young prospects playing an exhilarating game and doing their county proud.
