It’s time for Ballincollig to deliver on final stage, declares coach O’Brien

At the outset of every Cork football championship, Ballincollig are pinpointed as dark horses.

Blessed with talent across the age-spectrum, they appear to have all the ingredients required, but, for one reason or another, have found it difficult to realise their potential.

This year’s semi-final appearance, where they beat Nemo Rangers, was their first since 1999, a loss to UCC. Manager Michael O’Brien was on the team and played until 2008 so he was well-acquainted with the scene at the start of the current campaign.