Cork manager Keith Ricken has named an unchanged starting team for Sunday’s Electric Ireland All-Ireland MFC final against Tyrone at Cedral St Conleth’s Park in Newbridge.
Throw-in is at 2pm, and after their composed, clinical semi-final win over Derry two weeks ago, there was never likely to be much tinkering. Ricken has again backed the same 15 to deliver on the biggest day of their season.
Full-back Aaron O’Sullivan, who was forced off in that victory over Derry, has fully recovered and is fit to start.
Tom Whooley of Cork in action against Dara McKaigue and Conor Sargent of Derry. Picture: Sam Barnes/Sportsfile
On the bench, Gabriel Oronsaye — a key contributor earlier in the campaign — returns among the subs following injury. Promising forward Luke O’Neill, who is minor again next year, is also held in reserve, having been part of the extended panel for the last few games.
The Rebels arrive in Kildare chasing a first All-Ireland minor football crown since 2019. This current group has already banked a Munster title, showing resilience, organisation, and a strong collective identity throughout the campaign.
Their graph has been trending upward, performances improving with each outing. Tyrone, however, present a formidable challenge. The Red Hand are the reigning champions and remain one of the most consistent forces in minor football.
With an unchanged team, renewed depth on the bench, and confidence flowing after their semi-final display, Cork enter the final with genuine optimism. The challenge is significant, but the opportunity is enormous.
Cork players celebrate after defeating Kerry in the Electric Ireland Munster MFC final. Picture: Eddie O’Hare
A first All-Ireland minor title in seven years is within reach. Now it comes down to execution, composure, and seizing the moment.
CORK (v Tyrone):
Rory Twohig (Kilmeen);
Riain McCormack (Midleton), Aaron O’Sullivan (Glanmire), Conor Garvey (St Finbarr’s);
Darragh O’Sullivan (Erin’s Own), Conor Downing (Adrigole), Éanna Lynch (Ballincollig);
Kieran O’Shea (Urhan), Conrad Murphy (Barryroe);
Eoghan Ahern (Carrigaline), Ben Hegarty (Ballinora), Joe Miskella (Ballincollig, c);
Tom Whooley (Clonakilty), Jacob Barry (Aghinagh), Donal Herlihy (Shamrocks).
Subs: Billy Looney (Lyre), Donncha O’Mahony (Newcestown), Peadar Kelly (Naomh Abán), Alex O’Herlihy (St Finbarr’s), Mark Power (Charleville), Gabriel Oronsaye (Liscarroll/Churchtown Gaels), Fionn O’Donovan (Clonakilty), Luke O’Neill (Carbery Rangers), Kevin O’Donovan (O’Donovan Rossa).