Cork's long lay-off gives Wexford chance of upset

VIEWED against the background of their poor form last year and the bold move they took subsequently in a bid to improve conditions, it's quite remarkable to find the Cork hurlers only 70 minutes away from contesting the Guinness All-Ireland SHC final.

It's a tribute to the policies pursued by manager Donal O'Grady and his co-selectors and equally a reward for the commitment of the players which promoted such a positive approach and, in turn, a realisation of their potential. Opponents Wexford have had to work harder to reach tomorrow's semi-final in Croke Park (3.30pm) and are deserving of more respect than they have gained from some quarters.

Cork are popular favourites to win and have been since the semi-final pairings became obvious. Neutral opinion still favours Kilkenny or Tipperary to take the title but this view could alter over the next few weeks depending on how the semi-finals pan out. There is the intriguing possibility of a Cork/Tipperary decider, but nothing has happened so far to cause Kilkenny to lose the respect that they have enjoyed all year.