All about the performance for Cork

Dublin got their physicality and hurling to the pitch required to see off Galway last weekend, albeit in Parnell Park. Cork, however, did not throw down the gauntlet to Waterford, apart from the last 10 minutes.

Cork have no points on the board and with Kilkenny and Tipperary down the line this game takes on an increased significance. Apart from relegation battles we rarely witness do or die battles in the league, but that is the level Cork must reach this evening.

Dublin will go into this game with some confidence and the motivation to atone for last year’s heavy league defeat by the Rebels at the same venue. Manager Ger Cunningham will have reviewed that game and have noted the missed frees and goal chance in the first-half, if converted, would have put a different complexion on matters.