Kerry dismiss idea that Munster final is a 50-50 call

Leaving Semple Stadium in Thurles last Saturday I was filled with renewed optimism that this Cork team have a great opportunity of winning our first Munster football title since 2012. Leaving Killarney yesterday, that optimism had been severely dampened by an outstanding 32-point haul from six-in-a-row chasing Kerry. A reality check indeed, writes Paddy Kelly.

The hype last week about the seven Championship debutants meant that there was a good buzz in the crowd with the natives hoping young David Clifford and Seanie O’Shea would take their first steps to becoming Kerry greats. As it transpired it was all too easy for them and for Kerry and it is a difficult task to highlight any major tactical changes implemented by management or identify any potential weaknesses which Cork may look to exploit in three weeks’ time.

Clare, like Tipperary last week, will be bitterly disappointed with their performance. Right from the start they couldn’t get to grips with Kerry’s class in attack. To Colm Collins’ credit he resisted the temptation of dropping massive numbers behind the ball and instead tried to apply pressure further out the field. Their efforts were futile as Kerry, with width and accurate foot passing, cut through them at will. The game was as good as over at half-time as Kerry powered 12 points ahead. A chastening experience for the Clare players but they are a group good enough to regroup and go on a run in the qualifiers.