Marksman Ryan has Rebels in sights

In an age where defenders are getting faster, where hooking, blocking and tackling are again recognised as being among the most important skills in hurling the net result is that scoring in open play is becoming more and more difficult.

So it is that having a cold-blooded sniper in your ranks is becoming critical, a guy who can stand over a dead ball and, with the eyes of the world on him and opposition supporters baying derision, coolly slot the ball between the posts.

Patrick Horgan is the man for Cork in this Sunday’s All-Ireland SHC final, Colin Ryan the marksman for Clare. On their shoulders will rest the responsibility of converting the hard work of their team-mates in winning those frees. In their hands may rest the final fortunes of their respective sides.