JBM expects full strength Waterford to turn up

Munster SHC quarter-final

Cork manager Jimmy Barry-Murphy expects Waterford to be at full strength for Sunday’s Munster SHC clash with the Rebels.

“I wouldn’t read too much into what we’re hearing about their injuries,” said Barry-Murphy.

“I heard they played a challenge against Tipperary last week, won by a point and were very impressive and all of their players who were doubtful have been playing apart from Philip Mahony. I’d be wary of Waterford because of the history between us but if we can bring our A game I’d be confident we can progress.”

Barry-Murphy pointed out that Waterford’s relegation from Division 1A this year is the reverse of Cork’s situation in 2013.

“I don’t see any big deal with that. I wasn’t worried about being relegated last year, I didn’t think it would have any major bearing on us and it didn’t, and the same applies to Waterford this year. We have a lot of players who’ve won nothing at Munster level and that’s something we’d like to put right if we could.

“Waterford had success at underage level and they’ve a very strong panel and games between Cork and Waterford over the last 20 years have been phenomenal anyway so I don’t expect much between the teams. History over the last 15 years would suggest it’ll be a classic game.”

Barry-Murphy acknowledged concerns about the number of goals Cork have leaked, even in challenge games, and the disadvantage of playing Division 1B.

“There’s a world of a difference in the divisions we were playing in. In our league quarter-final, after ten minutes it was a culture shock to us the pace it was played at. Even watching from the sideline, it was a huge shock to me that we were miles off it.

“In fairness we got to grips with it but Waterford were a bit unlucky to be relegated and were a bit like ourselves last year. That’s going to apply to everyone in Division 1A with the current structures because it’s just so competitive. You can play brilliantly but still be relegated.

“In Division 1B, our performances were poor to say the least. Even though we got promoted I wouldn’t be claiming any great credit for it because our displays weren’t of the highest order.”

Still, the Rebel icon said this is “the strongest panel” available.

“The form players are showing in preparation is excellent. We’ve a few selection headaches and there’ll be a number of players disappointed.

“I know the level we’re at but so do the players. We’ve won nothing yet and we’ve a long road to go to try to get back to where we were last year, so from that point of view it’s very tough.”

The Cork manager also appealed for common sense to be used by referees.

“We’re conscious of the way the referees are interpreting the rules,” said Barry-Murphy. “In general our disciplinary record is good. In relation to Patrick [Horgan, in the Munster final] last year I think we proved subsequently it was an accidental contact but referees makes mistakes the same as we do and I wouldn’t be critical of him.

“As long as we’re aware of what referees are being asked to look at and we know any interference with the helmet will be a straight red card and we’ll go by that. I wouldn’t like to see the [TV] reviewing incidents, I think the game of hurling would be spoiled by that, but I’d certainly like time-keeping to be taken out of the referee’s hands.

“Even before last year’s All-Ireland I’d have been a fan of that. The referees have enough to do so get on with it without worrying about the time and interpreting how many minutes to go. We all know that if it’s a point one way or another it can take longer than it should, but such is life.”

O'Sullivan out of Cork clash after withdrawing appeal

By John Fogarty

Waterford hurler Shane O’Sullivan has been ruled out of Sunday’s Munster quarter-final with Cork after deciding to withdraw his appeal of a one match suspension on receipt of legal advice.

The Ballygunner midfielder was set to stand before the Disputes Resolution Authority (DRA) this week in a last gasp attempt to clear himself for the championship opener.

His one match ban was previously upheld in the Central Hearings Committee and the Central Appeals Committee.

O’Sullivan received a straight red card from referee Johnny Ryan after 27 minutes of the relegation play-off against Dublin on March 30 after connecting with the helmet of Michael Carton.

Waterford could have as many as five championship debut starters against Cork.

Barry Coughlan, Tadhg de Burca, Eddie Barrett, Austin Gleeson and Colin Dunford are all in contention to start in Thurles.

Meanwhile, Shane O’Donnell is unlikely to be fit for Clare’s provincial semi-final against the winners of Sunday’s quarter-final. Last year’s All-Ireland final replay hat-trick hero has undergone a scan on the troublesome hamstring.