Cork-Kerry semi-final ‘will beat weather’

Cork County Board officials are confident there will be no difficulties with the Páirc Uí Chaoimh surface for Sunday’s Munster SFC semi-final between Cork and Kerry despite the heavy rain the last couple of days.

Wednesday night’s Bord Gáis Energy Munster U21HC quarter-final between Cork and Tipperary was in danger of being postponed due to the torrential showers that necessitated a pitch inspection before throw-in.

The match took place but the sodden surface did cause some problems, particularly underneath the covered stand. Cork County Board vice-chairman Ger Lane insists, however, there is no doubt about the Sunday’s game and the normal procedures concerning pitch maintenance work will be followed.

“We’re in no doubt about the game going ahead on Sunday. Obviously there is heavy rain forecast and there has been heavy rain over the last couple of days. We can’t dictate the weather but the situation seems likely to improve on Saturday and Sunday. Our maintenance people are looking after the pitch and after the U21 game they’ll have been working hard to get it in good condition for Sunday. There was a bit of a monsoon on Wednesday night but, ultimately, I felt the pitch was playable enough by the time the game started. It’s important to note Páirc Uí Chaoimh is a pitch that dries off very quickly. We’re not in anydanger at this stage.”

Meanwhile, Munster Council chiefs will implement severe parking restrictions around Páirc Uí Chaoimh for the game. The new arrangements are being undertaken by the Cork County Board in conjunction with the provincial organisation to improvecomfort and safety for supporters.

There will be increased use of barriers in residential areas and a presence in these areas of gardaí and GAA stewards. Increased policing and tow-away services will be in position. Supporters from both counties are encouraged to avail of new additional parking facilities within the city centre and nearer the stadium. Limited parking will be available at Kennedy Quay, Marina Green Areas and theapproach roads to the venue and on-street parking is available in the city centre. In addition, discounted match day parking — €5 for all-day parking — will be available at the QParkmulti-storey car parking facilities at City Hall and Carroll’s Quay in the city centre. These are within easy walking distance of Bus Eireann’s Bus Arás in Parnell Place, from where a continuous pre-match shuttle service will be in operation to Páirc Uí Chaoimh.

Signposted, commercial ‘park and walk’ facilities will be available in the Mahon area, adjacent to the Old Railway line walk which will take supporters to within a few minutes’ walk of the stadium.