The reasons why Cork and Clare will both fancy their chances this weekend

For a county that suffered five straight SHC losses to Cork after the 2013 All-Ireland final, Clare’s return has been distinctly better in the Lohan era with three wins from four.

David Fitzgerald of Clare is tackled by Ciaran Joyce and Brian Roche of Cork during the 2023 Munster SHC. Picture: Ray McManus/Sportsfile

“You have to win your home games. That’s the key. We all know it’s very tight. Winning your home games is key.” The words of Pat Ryan at last month’s Munster SHC launch resonate that bit louder this week as Cork look to wash the Waterford loss out of their hair.

It’s no time for recriminations and accusations because there isn’t enough time. Ditto for Clare. Sunday was the fourth round-robin running that they failed to win their first game in Cusack Park but in those previous three championships they finished in the top two twice.