The players who could have breakout All-Ireland camogie final performances

Cork's Izzy O'Regan. Picture: ©INPHO/Laszlo Geczo

Rachael Hanniffy/Orlaith Cahalane 

One of Sunday’s less documented match-ups between two players starting their first senior final. Cork corner-forward Cahalane, a minor as recently as 2022, comes into this final with 3-6 from play beside her name. Galway corner-back Hanniffy comes into this final having won player of the match in the triumph over Tipp.

All eyes in that line will be on Black v Mackey and Higgins v O’Connor, and rightly so, but in Cahalane, there’s the potential for a breakout display similar to Brian Hayes in the All-Ireland hurling semi-final. Going into that game, Hayes, the very same as Cahalane, was the least heralded of the three inside Cork forwards.

As for Hanniffy, she’s a high-octane middle-third operator filling a void at corner-back, and filling it well. A standout showing on Sunday could inspire the defensive colleagues likely to be under pressure in front of her.

Aoife Healy/Olwen Rabbitte 

A minor in 2022, Healy grabbed her chance last season when the Cork injury list had a never-ending look about it. In 2024, and even with all the household names back fit and firing, the Aghada youngster has done much more than hold onto her spot.

Despite her all-action endeavours during the group clash at Páirc Uí Chaoimh, Galway's focus at midfield will be centred on Ashling Thompson, thus creating the opportunity and space for Healy to flourish. The same applies to Rabbitte. She won’t have stood out during Cork’s semi-final analysis as anyone that needs to be prioritised.

Izzy O’Regan 

Another Cork player to shoot to senior prominence, somewhat unexpectedly, during the injury crisis of early last season. Has gone from half-back to full-back this year to cover the No.3 shirt vacated by injured Libby Coppinger.

Galway may be terribly suspect in parts of their defence, but their attack is littered with proven match-winners. O’Regan could find herself having to keep company with anyone from 2021 player of the year Aoife Donohue to five-time All-Star Ailish O’Reilly. Composure, confidence, and curtailment is sought from the Ballygarvan corner. Deliver, and she'll enjoy lead actor status.