Mark Collins admits Cork criticism was justified

The constant barrage of criticism the Cork footballers have been subjected to in 2017 has been justified, according to Mark Collins.

Relegation from Division 1 of the Allianz league and a first championship defeat to Tipperary since 1944 saw Peadar Healy’s charges come under intense fire in 2016 and their failure to make any impression in Division 2 this spring consolidated public disapproval of the team within the county.

Cork forward Collins says the team left themselves open to criticism having turned in some “shocking” performances during this year’s league.