Cork are now second tier, says Seán Óg

CORK have slipped into the “second tier” of hurling counties, according to Seán Óg Ó hAilpín, who warned yesterday it may be the middle of the decade before the Rebels are in a position to challenge for major honours again.

The Na Piarsaigh club man is no longer a member of Denis Walsh’s panel and has accepted that the next few years are going to be about rebuilding rather than rejoicing.

“If you look at last year’s championship, and especially Cork’s exit, you would have to say that Cork are in the second tier. I couldn’t see Cork competing against the likes of Kilkenny and Tipperary the way they played in the All-Ireland and that’s being honest.