Dublin ‘potential banana skin’ for Cork

CORK manager Noel O’Connor is anxious ahead of today’s All-Ireland ladies football quarter-final with Dublin in Birr.

“They looked very good in their qualifying games against Kildare and Galway, and it’s a tough draw.

“The six-week lay-off since the Munster final hasn’t helped us, while they have those two extra games under their belts. The first 10 to 15 minutes will tell a lot and it should be a great game.”

O’Connor and coach Eamonn Ryan were without dual star Briege Corkery, who was recovering from viral meningitis since for the provincial showdown against Kerry, but the St Val’s player is available for selection.

Wing-back Áine Sheehan did brilliantly to step in for Corkery, and it will be a toss-up between the two as to who will start.

Norita Kelly is another former All Star who was absent in recent months. However, a cameo role in the Munster final signalled her return to championship football and she will be keen to enter the fray, as will Cork camogie captain Rena Buckley.

The Rebels however will be without their league final star Ciara O’Sullivan, who underwent knee surgery this week.

Meath and Monaghan line out in their quarter-final clash at the same venue at 2pm, and O’Connor believes the Royals have what it takes to cause an upset.

“Meath are very physical, while Monaghan are fast and move the ball freely. But, I think Meath have what it takes,” he added.

Both games will be broadcast live on TG4, and the draw will follow after the Cork-Dublin game to see who will take on Kerry and Laois in the semi-finals on either August 27 or September 3.