Improve or lose, says Bernie

WHILE the bulk of his players are going for their second All-Ireland title in three years today, the same can’t be said for Newtownshandrum manager Bernie O’Connor.

Undoubtedly, given that O'Connor had coached most of the 2004 All Ireland title winning team from the time they were U-12, and led them to their first Cork county senior title, in 2000, it was still 'his' team that, two years ago today, lifted the most coveted club prize in the country.

That year's coach, Ger Cunningham, gave Bernie full credit for the victory. However, the fact remains. O'Connor wasn't involved. He had taken a sabbatical. Does this put him under a bit of pressure, today?