The clocks have gone back and the countdown to Christmas has begun but the big games keep coming on the Cork club scene.

The Echo Podcast crew reflect in this week's episode on the Premier Intermediate and Intermediate A Football finals and the Senior A Hurling decider, along with the divisional and U21 action.

All the marquee matches ended in a welter of excitment, with Ballinora grabbing a draw against Ilen Rovers when Neil Lordan held his nerve to bomb over a two-point free. While Ballinora were hugely relieved to force a replay, they had some standout performers, including former All-Ireland winning Cork U20 hurler Shane Kingson who was named as Man of the Match after kicking 0-4 from defence.

Ilen, led by Dermot Hegarty at midfield, raised two green flags and appeared to be heading to glory coming down the stretch in their first adult county since 2008. Instead they'll meet again in two weeks.

Agabullogue and Uibh Laoire looked to be heading to a rematch as well in the PIFC final until Matthew Bradley landed the late winner. The Mid Cork side atoned for their loss last season and have a busy few weeks ahead with a Munster campaign and the delayed Intermediate A Hurling clash with Bandon. They're now favourites for a second double in three seasons.

After a dour draw, Bride Rovers and Castlelyons served up a classic in the Senior A Hurling final, only decided in additional time when David Barry's point capped off a run of 1-3 without replay for Bride. There no shortage of excellent individual displays and a fascinating duel between Cork hurlers Brian Roche and Niall O'Leary but Cillian Tobin offered a reminder of his underage pedigree in Rebel red with a magnificent showing from centre-back.

At divisional level, Donoughmore lifted the Mid Cork crown for the first time since 2011 after a late burst of 2-2 to deny Aghinagh, young gun Seán O'Hanlon grabbing both goals.

There was county action at U21 and Junior A, with Douglas' U21 footballers beating Ballincollig and Ibane Gaels surviving a penalty shootout to defeat Kinsale. Nemo's third team and Kilmacbea are into the JAFC semis alongside Donoughmore, while the hurlers of Cobh, Newmarket and Kilshanning are also through to the last four. 

Now in its third season, every week Éamonn Murphy is joined by The Echo team, including Barry O’Mahony, Denis Hurley, Rory Noonan, Jack McKay, John Horgan and more to discuss all the latest Cork GAA news on and off the field.

You can listen to the Echo Sport Podcast every week wherever you get your podcasts or on www.echolive.ie/podcast.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Another bumper weekend of action saw football silverware handed out at Premier Senior, Senior A and Premier Junior level though the Senior A hurling decider will have to be replayed and the Echo Podcast crew reviews the action.

Buttevant ended 99 years of hurt to collect an adult county title with a terrific display that left underdogs St Nicks too much to do in the Premier Junior final. The Avondhu outfit had been favourites for glory before a ball was thrown in but it was still admirable how slick they were in the Páirc.

Their ability to nail two-pointers, clipping four, was a crucial difference while Conor Hanlon and Mark Lenahan nailed the big scores and former All-Ireland winning Cork minor Michael O'Neill grabbed the goal.

Knocknagree completed their remarkable rise from Junior A in 2017 to the top tier as their blistering start left Cill na Martra with too much to do. Defeat in two previous Senior A deciders no doubt had John Fintan Daly's charges tuned in from the off.

In the marquee match on Sunday afternoon, St Finbarr's recovered from the concession of a first-half goal to end their county final hoodoo against Nemo, with Brian Hayes' green flag vital to their cause. Hayes offered another reminder of what a loss he is to Cork football by collecting Man of the Match.

The finish was nail-biting. Conor Horgan landed a boomer to level, sub Cillian Meyers Murray clipped the lead score and only the post denied Horgan, condemning Nemo to a third defeat in a row when it looked like a replay was on the cards.

In the SAHC final, Bride Rovers and Castlelyons will meet again next Saturday night after a tense 0-14 apiece stalemate.

Also on the hurling front, Ben O'Connor and his management team have been reshaping their training panel, with the likes of Luke Meade and Conor Lehane, who is injured anyway, making way for some fresh blood in Jack Leahy, Daire O'Leary, Hugh O'Connor, Brian O'Sullivan and more..

The Echo Podcast crew also look at how the action is progressing at divisional level.

There's a bit to run in terms of county finals as well, with another busy schedule of games coming up as we head into November.

Now in its third season, every week Éamonn Murphy is joined by The Echo team, including Barry O’Mahony, Denis Hurley, Rory Noonan, Jack McKay, John Horgan and more to discuss all the latest Cork GAA news on and off the field.

You can listen to the Echo Sport Podcast every week wherever you get your podcasts or on www.echolive.ie/podcast.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Three trophies were handed out on Leeside over the weekend while torrential rain forced the postponement of the Intermediate A and Senior A deciders.

Kilbrittain got the sliotar rolling with a gritty win over Glen Rovers, whose second team represented the club superbly in the Premier Junior decider.

Just a point separated the sides at full-time, with Kilbrittain lifting the cup on the same day Oisín Gillain would have turned 19. The gifted youngster died tragically and his team-mates honoured him in fitting fashion under Friday night lights.

Mark Hickey was picked as Man of the Match with Ronan Crowley and Philip Wall also nailing big scores.

Saturday's double-header was put back at short notice due to the orange weather warning but Sunday's two games went ahead.

Ballinhassig were outstanding in the Premier Intermediate final against a Ballincollig team that came in with huge momentum after winning four games on the bounce. Hassig took over midway through the second half when the sides were level at 0-16 apiece, ramming in two goals and finishing six points in front, the same margin they defeated Collig by in the opening round.

Patrick Collins' nous in goal, Ger Collins' deadly free-taking, the poise of Darragh O'Sullivan and impact of second-half sub Evan Cullinane were critical factors. Ballincollig were allowed hit full stride though Brian Keating landed some sensational points from play.

John O'Sullivan's side will be strong contenders for Munster success now, especially if they can get their injured hurlers fully firing.

Senior Munster champions Sars lived up to their billing as favourites against Midleton in what was a disappointing Premier Senior final. The loss of Conor Lehane and Eoin Moloney to injury was too much for the Magpies to bear, with James Sweeney raising two white flags and Jack O'Connor selected as Man of the Match.

Incredibly, Sars veterans Craig Leahy, Daniel and William Kearney and Conor O'Sullivan captured the Seán Óg Murphy Cup for the sixth time since their breakthrough in 2008. The aim now for Johnny Crowley and Diarmuid O'Sullivan's charges is to return to the All-Ireland stage in January, having lost last season's final.

The Echo Podcast crew also break down the action at divisional level, with a number of Junior A finals across the weekend.

They preview the five county finals next weekend, a mix of hurling and football, headlined by a classic St Finbarr's v Nemo Rangers showdown on Sunday.

Now in its third season, every week Éamonn Murphy is joined by The Echo team, including Barry O’Mahony, Denis Hurley, Rory Noonan, Jack McKay, John Horgan and more to discuss all the latest Cork GAA news on and off the field.

You can listen to the Echo Sport Podcast every week wherever you get your podcasts or on www.echolive.ie/podcast.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

All five Cork county football finals are set after a largely brilliant weekend of club action on Leeside, as the Echo Sport Podcast reviews the games.

Newcestown came close to pulling out a massive upset against Nemo when they charged into a seven-point lead midway through the second half, only to fall short by the minimum after extra time. David Buckley's ability to raise orange flags and a magnificent showing from Cork hurler Luke Meade lit up Páirc Uí Chaoimh but Mark Cronin continued his excellent form for the Trabeg side, who grabbed two crucial goals.

St Finbarr's overcame a slow start against Ballincollig with Steven Sherlock (who else?) guiding them back to the main event. The Barrs, whose camogie team retained their county over the weekend, are capable of more but know how difficult Nemo are to beat in finals.

Knocknagree and Cill na Martra both excelled in the Senior A semis and the potency of their forward units suggests their showdown in two weeks will be a belter.

At Premier Intermediate level, it'll be Aghabullogue, last year's runners-up, against Uibh Laoire in a Mid Cork derby. New Cork U20 football manager Ray Keane has Aghabullogue, in the hunt for a double, producing some superb stuff.

Uibh Laoire, coached by Niall Allen, are ripping it up as well, with Chris Óg Jones as the spearhead of their exciting attack.

Ballinora, under the guidance of former Cork keeper Ken O'Halloran, are the surprise finalists at Intermediate A, though they are drawing from their U21 crop that lifted divisional silverware last spring. They can call on Cork senior Neil Lordan but have a very balanced team.

Ilen Rovers made their first county final since they lost to Nemo at the top grade 17 years ago when they squeezed out Adrigole after extra time. Dan Mac Eoin boomed over a pair of two-pointers to rescue them when four down in normal time.

At Premier Junior, brilliant Buttevant outgunned Canovee and will now be hot favourites against fearless St Nick's, who rallied to edge out Cobh.

The Echo Podcast crew also preview the five county hurling finals this weekend, which have been overshadowed by injuries to some marquee players including Conor Lehane.

They discuss the success of Éire Óg in ladies football and St Finbarr's in camogie, with three Cahalane sisters winning two counties in 24 hours.

Now in its third season, every week Éamonn Murphy will be joined by The Echo team, including Barry O’Mahony, Denis Hurley, Rory Noonan, Jack McKay, John Horgan and more to discuss all the latest Cork GAA news on and off the field.

You can listen to the Echo Sport Podcast every week wherever you get your podcasts or on www.echolive.ie/podcast.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

We're down to the last 10 clubs hunting the major trophies on Leeside after a cracking weekend of semi-finals and the Echo Sport Podcast crew review all the action.

The Premier Senior games were absolutely riveting, both decided by a puck of a sliotar to leave us with a repeat of the East Cork derby two years ago when Sarsfields beat Midleton.

Both clubs came from behind in the semis, Midleton reeling in Blackrock before Conor Lehane's clutch free from deep in added time of extra time, and Sars using all their experience to shut down the Barrs late on. Lehane grabbed the headlines for the Magpies but Pa White nailed a staggering 0-7 from play. Sars had their usual spread of scorers but Jack O'Connor, top-scorer from play across the whole campaign, clipped 0-4.

The Rockies were left frustrated and came agonisingly close to victory on a day when they were paying tribute to their former goalie Trevor Barry, who tragically died earlier in the week.

It'll be an Eastern affair in the Senior A decider as well, after Castlelyons upset the odds by putting four goals past Blarney, including a David Morrison hat-trick, and Bride Rovers edged out Carrigtwohill. Rovers had been knocked out at the semi-final stage for the previous four years, making it a hugely significant win for the club.

At Premier Intermediate, Ballinhassig take on Ballincollig in a rematch of their opening group game, where the Carrigdhoun side won comfortably. Injuries have been an issue for both teams across the last two months, which makes reaching the final more commendable.

In the IAHC, it'll be Aghabullogue, on a mission to bounce back after relegation, against a Bandon side spearheaded by former Cork senior Michael Cahalane.

In Premier Junior, Kilbrittain will take on Glen Rovers' second team, who defied expectations by eliminating Cloughduv.

On this week's podcast, we also preview the football semi-final weekend, including Nemo v Newcestown, Barrs-Ballincollig, Cill na Martra against Éire Óg and Uibh Laoire and Aghada.

Now in its third season, every week Éamonn Murphy will be joined by The Echo team, including Barry O’Mahony, Denis Hurley, Rory Noonan, Jack McKay, John Horgan and more to discuss all the latest Cork GAA news on and off the field.

You can listen to the Echo Sport Podcast every week wherever you get your podcasts or on www.echolive.ie/podcast

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Castlehaven's reign as champions is over after St Finbarr's blasted a remarkable six goals in their Premier Senior Football Championship quarter-final clash.

Steven Sherlock stitched three of them and the margin of victory now makes the Blues the favourites for Andy Scannell Cup. They're still in the hunt for the double too, with a semi-final against Sars on the horizon.

There was no shortage of drama in the other football quarter-finals, Newcestown surviving a penalty shootout with Carrigaline and Ballincollig grabbing the last three scores against Duhallow to win by a point. Cork hurler Luke Meade and super subkeeper Christopher White were the Newcestown heroes while Dara Dorgan, Seán O'Neill and Tadhg O'Connell raised the white flags the Collig.

There were some upsets in the lower grades, including Ballinora's victory over previously unbeaten Gabriel Rangers while Ilen Rovers, who have dropped down the tiers in recent years, defeated Mitchelstown despite the return of Mark Keane.

Kanturk and Knocknagree produced an absolute belter in the SAFC, John Fintan Daly's side moving on after extra time.

There were some brilliant individual displays. Sherlock hit a hat-trick and Ian Maguire was the Barrs' standout performer. Éire Óg beat Bishopstown and former Cork U20 All-Ireland winner Jack Murphy was immense.

Adam Walsh Murphy got three points from wing-back for Valleys Rovers as they drew with Carbery Rangers in the PSFC relegation playoff.

In the PIFC decider to avoid the drop, Pa Lucey nailed the key penalty as Macroom survived for the third year running after a 10-point comeback against Bandon. Lucey also clipped a remarkable five two-pointers from placed balls.

We also pay tribute to Patrick Horgan after he called time on his Cork hurling career after 18 seasons. What does it mean for the Rebels in 2026, in terms of free-takers, attacking line-up and experience in the squad.

There's a preview of next weekend's hurling semi-finals, toplined by Sars-Barrs and Blackrock-Midleton.

In Senior A, Bride Rovers contest their fifth consecutive semi. Has their time finally come?

Now in its third season, every week Éamonn Murphy will be joined by The Echo team, including Barry O’Mahony, Denis Hurley, Rory Noonan, Jack McKay, John Horgan and more to discuss all the latest Cork GAA news on and off the field.

You can listen to the Echo Sport Podcast every week wherever you get your podcasts or on www.echolive.ie/podcast.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The Cork club hurling quarter-finals and relegation playoffs didn't disappoint with the Barrs taking the headlines by dethroning Imokilly.

Ger Cunningham's side had shown mixed form in the group stages but with Brian Hayes back as their attacking spearhead, they produced their best when it mattered. Ethan Twomey was superb at the heart of the midfield and their defence was collectively brilliant to neuter Imokilly's top guns.

Next up is a clash with favourites Sars who shook off a dogged Charleville, helped by Jack O'Connor's 0-5 from play.

On the other side of the draw Blackrock, the top seeds, will face a Midleton outfit who produced a storming fourth quarter to reel in Glen Rovers. Cormac Beausang's two goals were crucial while Patrick Horgan, with 2-9, shoot the lights out yet again for the northsiders but they'll be disappointed to have missed a great chance to reach the semis.

At Senior A, there were no upsets with Bride Rovers and Blarney powering into the semi-finals. Carrigtwohill and Castlelyons await and all four clubs will feel they've the talent and form to land the title.

In the lower grades, Ballincollig and Cloyne, after a 24-hour delay, secured passage to the Premier Intermediate semis, Aghabullogue and Bandon are through in Intermediate A, and at Premier Junior, Cloughduv and Ballygarvan, are into the last four.

Erin's Own and Newtown will have to do it again in the Premier Senior relegation playoff while Castlelmartyr, Courceys, Youghal and Barryroe all won their deciders to stay up.

There was no shortage of contenders for Hurler of the Week, including Turlough O'Neill, whose scores helped Newtown avoid the drop against Erin's Own, Damien Cahalane for his defensive prowess for the Barrs, and Conor Cahill, who nailed 0-5 for Cloyne.

It’s a huge weekend on the club football front with the knockout stages taking place and we pick out the matches to catch in the various grades, with Castlehaven v St Finbarr's the main attraction, along with Éire Óg against Bishopstown and Kanturk-Knocknagree in Senior A.

Now in its third season, every week Éamonn Murphy will be joined by The Echo team, including Barry O’Mahony, Denis Hurley, Rory Noonan, Jack McKay, John Horgan and more to discuss all the latest Cork GAA news on and off the field.

You can listen to the Echo Sport Podcast every week wherever you get your podcasts or on www.echolive.ie/podcast.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Newcestown shook up the Premier Senior Football Championship in Cork after beating three-in-a-row chasing Castlehaven in the last group game.

Jim O'Sullivan's side secured their first victory over the Haven at senior level with a strong finish as Tadhg Twomey and David Buckley shared 0-10 between them. It means Newcestown now face Carrigaline for a place in the semi-finals while Castlehaven must get past their great rivals St Finbarr's.

Two from Newcestown, Carrigaline, Duhallow and Ballincollig will be in the last four, though Nemo Rangers were the big winners over the weekend as their hammering of St Michael's granted them top seed on scoring difference.

The Barrs shot the lights out themselves on Sunday with the major news afterward that ace marksman Steven Sherlock will rejoin the Cork panel for 2026, having opted out this season. Sherlock only started two of Cork's 13 games in his last year in Rebel red but will surely be a key figure for John Cleary's side now he's back, especially as his kicking ability is well suited to the new rules.

He even landed a two-point sideline at Páirc Uí Rinn against Carrigaline.

Nemo's marquee forward Mark Cronin grabbed 1-7 against Michael's and it'll be interesting to see him link up with Sherlock next season.

Another brilliant forward Cathail O'Mahony grabbed 1-6 for Mitchelstown at Intermediate A level in a winner-takes-all derby with Kildorrery. Kiskeam qualified to the PIFC quarter-final after just their first championship win in two years against Castletownbere.

St Nick's powered straight into the Premier Junior semis after finishing the group stages with eight goals scored and none conceded, though Buttevant are the team to beat in that grade.

There were plenty of contenders for Club Footballer of the Weekend, including Kiskeam's David Scannell, Newcestown's Tadhg Twomey, Éire Óg keeper Chris Kelly made some big saves and kicked 0-5, and Aghabullogue's Luke Casey. He clipped 1-4 from play against Aghada, less than 24 hours after helping Coachford soccer team to a victory over Ringmahon Rangers at Turner's Cross.

It's a huge weekend on the club hurling front and we pick out the matches to catch in the various grades.

Now in its third season, every week Éamonn Murphy will be joined by The Echo team, including Barry O'Mahony, Denis Hurley, Rory Noonan, Jack McKay, John Horgan and more to discuss all the latest Cork GAA news on and off the field.

You can listen to the Echo Sport Podcast every week wherever you get your podcasts or on www.echolive.ie/podcast.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

We're down to the knockout stages of the Cork club hurling championships after a bumper three days of brilliant matches with a mix of superb performances and some shocks.

Glen Rovers and Sarsfields served up a top-class Premier Senior encounter live on TG4 despite both teams being qualified beforehand, with young gun Barry O'Flynn's two goals proving critical. Sars now progress to a showdown with Charleville.

Patrick Horgan offered a reminder of his brilliance with a haul of 2-10 and the Glen take on Midleton in the quarter-finals.

Carrigtwohill continue to be the form team in the Senior A tier after stitching four first-half goals to end Killeagh's campaign. Brothers Sean and Patrick Walsh are lifting for Denis Walsh's side.

There was an upset where high-flying Bride Rovers were grounded by their near-neighbours Watergrasshill, who missed on the knockout stages on scoring difference despite two wins in the group.

At Premier Intermediate, Dungourney are the only unbeaten club after Jack Leahy led their comeback in a cracking derby with Lisgoold. Ger Collins and Darragh O'Sullivan clipped the late points for Ballinhassig to beat Kilworth and snatch the other semi-final berth at that level.

Aghada are on song at Intermediate A with Kilbrittain straight into the semis at Premier Junior. Huge credit must go to Sars and Glen Rovers' second teams, who also secured seeding at Intermediate A and Premier Junior respectively.

It's a huge weekend on the club football front with the last group games taking place and we pick out the matches to catch in the various grades.

Douglas and Ballincollig collide for qualification in the Premier Senior Football grade, Carbery Rangers and Clon will meet to avoid a relegation playoff, and all four teams in the Senior A group with Éire Óg, Kanturk, Kilshannig and Newmarket are tied on a win apiece.

Now in its third season, every week Éamonn Murphy will be joined by The Echo team, including Barry O'Mahony, Denis Hurley, Rory Noonan, Jack McKay, John Horgan and more to discuss all the latest Cork GAA news on and off the field.

You can listen to the Echo Sport Podcast every week wherever you get your podcasts or on www.echolive.ie/podcast.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

On this week's podcast, the Echo crew discuss his appointment.

The former All-Star forward with Newtown and Cork built up an impressive CV in recent years, coaching Charleville and Midleton to county success, as well as overseeing the Cork U20s' All-Ireland victory in 2023.

O'Connor was one of the greatest Cork hurlers of the modern era, winning an All-Ireland as captain in 2004 and Man of the Match in '05.

He was just 20 in 1999 when a young, fearless Rebel side captured Liam MacCarthy and we look at the new faces he will call up for Cork duty next season.

A host of brilliant young hurlers in their early 20s are ready to stake a claim. Will some of the veterans step away to usher in a new era?

O'Connor will have Ronan Curran in his backroom team and they'll be tasked with adding an edge to a Cork team that came agonisingly close to glory in back-to-back All-Irelands.

When tuned in and firing, the Rebels took down the all-conquering Limerick but their collapse against Tipp in July showed the pressure they're under to edge the long wait for ultimate glory.

How will O'Connor and his backroom team handle the mental side of their preparation?

We also look at Ray Keane's prospects as Cork football manager and Kevin Murray's addition to the senior football set-up.

There's a look at Imokilly's victory in the Premier Senior Hurling Divisional final, despite the brave efforts of Muskerry. Can the Seán Óg Murphy Cup winners retain their crown?

It's a huge weekend on the club hurling front with the last group games taking place and we pick out the matches to catch in the various grades.

Now in its third season, every week Éamonn Murphy will be joined by The Echo team, including Barry O'Mahony, Denis Hurley, Rory Noonan, Jack McKay, John Horgan and more to discuss all the latest Cork GAA news on and off the field.

You can listen to the Echo Sport Podcast every week wherever you get your podcasts or on www.echolive.ie/podcast.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Pat Ryan has opted not to take up another term as Cork hurling manager.

We review his three-year stint as Rebel bainisteoir, picking out our favourite moments and reflect on how close he came to guiding Cork to All-Ireland glory. We discuss the list of possible replacements, including options outside the county bounds.

What next for Cork hurling and how well are they placed for 2026?

Plus an in-depth review of the club championships after the second round of football group games and our Club Footballer of the Week choice.

Now in its third season, every week Éamonn Murphy will be joined by The Echo team including Barry O'Mahony, Denis Hurley, Rory Noonan, Jack McKay, John Horgan and more to discuss all the latest Cork GAA news on and off the field.

You can listen to the Echo Sport Podcast every week wherever you get your podcasts or on www.echolive.ie/podcast.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The Cork GAA club championships are picking up steam and on this week's podcast, we review the second round of hurling and preview a critical three days of football action.

At Premier Senior, Blackrock controlled their derby with St Finbarr's, limiting the Barrs' big guns and driving towards an 11-point win while Newcestown dug out a draw. Charleville continue to motor under former Irish soccer international Dominic Foley as they knocked out neighbours Newtownshandrum and Glen Rovers are into the knockout phase with a game to spare on their return to the top tier.

The biggest upset was in Senior A as Fermoy defeated Killeagh, where their status as huge underdogs fuelled a brilliant showing. Carrigtwohill and Bride Rovers backed up their first-round victories but Na Piarsaigh are under pressure having lost twice.

We look at the controversy at Intermediate A with Aghada appealing to the Munster Council after a scoreline controversy saw their opener with Kildorrery deemed a draw when they believed they should have won by two points.

We also pick a Hurler of the Week.

Anthony Spillane was the front-runner as the standout club hurler across the weekend in burying an incredible 4-4 from play as Castlelyons defeated Ballyhea. There were other star turns as well though.

Mark Coleman ran the show for Blarney in their bounce-back victory over Watergrasshill, finishing as top-scorer but also playmaker supreme in an emphatic victory. Micheál Mullins is adapting to life at Glen Rovers smoothly as he clipped 0-4 from play against Fr O'Neill's.

Blackrock's success was based on work-rate, balance and strength in depth but Niall Cashman's power at midfield was critical. Sars hit Erin's Own for 4-30 but Cork panellist Jack O'Connor contributed 1-8 from play of that.

We pick the matches to catch from round two of the football championships.

Now in its third season, every week Éamonn Murphy will be joined by The Echo team including Barry O'Mahony, Denis Hurley, Rory Noonan, Jack McKay, John Horgan and more to discuss all the latest Cork GAA news on and off the field.

You can listen to the Echo Sport Podcast every week wherever you get your podcasts or on www.echolive.ie/podcast.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Just like the hurlers, the Cork camogie team couldn't add the All-Ireland to their haul of Munster and league titles this season.

They also missed a penalty and were reduced to 14 at Croke Park but Ger Manley's side gave a far better performance on the big stage, reflecting the fact they were a puck of a sliotar away from three in a row.

We break down the loss to Galway, from the flat first half to the heroic comeback where they rallied from five points in arrears to level late on. We discuss the controversial refereeing decisions, particularly the push in the back on Amy Lee that wasn't spotted before a first-half point and failure to award a free at the death for a foul on Clodagh Finn.

The dismissal of Hannah Looney was hard to argue with but the Tribe repeatedly pulled down Cork's marquee playmaker Saoirse McCarthy.

The Rebels had some terrific performers, including Laura Treacy, Libby Coppinger, Ashling Thompson and Laura Hayes but they struggled in the opening period to cope with Galway's intensity and swarm tackling.

There was a narrative beforehand that Cork only had to turn up to collect the cup. It was similar to the hype on the hurlers, much of it pushed by those outside the county bounds. What is fuelling the anti-Cork agenda?

There's a discussion of the reappointment of John Cleary as Cork football manager. What can he bring to the management team to make the Rebels contenders again? And how will he shake up the squad for 2026?

Hurling boss Pat Ryan's future is also up in the air.

There's a big preview of the second round of the club championships.

Which clubs are under the most pressure? Who can lay down a marker?

At Premier Senior level, it'll be Imokilly against Muskerry in the final to decide who joins the clubs in the knockout stages. The champions from East Cork looked the part in sweeping past Avondhu but is their path to the quarter-finals too easy?

Now in its third season, every week Éamonn Murphy will be joined by The Echo team including Barry O'Mahony, Denis Hurley, Rory Noonan, Jack McKay, John Horgan and more to discuss all the latest Cork GAA news on and off the field.

You can listen to the Echo Sport Podcast every week wherever you get your podcasts or on www.echolive.ie/podcast.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The top dogs all showed their class in the opening round of the Cork club hurling championship, highlighted by the fact St Finbarr's were always in control against Douglas despite missing Brian Hayes, who picked up an injury on football duty.

Ethan Twomey offered a reminder of his quality, as a playmaking centre-back rather than his customary midfield role, and William Buckley, on the fringes of the Cork team recently, clipped seven points.

The Roche twins were immense for Bride Rovers in gaining a modicum of revenge against Blarney who beat them in the last two Senior A Championship meetings, the 2023 encounter after a controversial replay. Eoin Roche limited the influence of Cork vice-captain Shane Barrett while Brian sniped 0-7 from the half-forward line.

The Glen had Micheál Mullins in championship action for the first time and with Patrick Horgan, Eoin and Rob Downey all eager to push on with the club after Cork's defeat, Erin's Own couldn't match them.

In Senior A, Seán Desmond once again caught they eye as Watergrasshill beat Courcey Rovers in their first game at the grade while Killeagh edge out Na Piarsaigh in a classic where Cork U20s Barry and Ben Walsh and Ross O'Sullivan were the fore and Daire Connery was excellent too.

Cloyne managed a Premier Intermediate upset by taking down favourites Carrigaline and Ballinhassig were clinical to beat Ballincollig, but overall the favourites won the majority of the games.

We pick a Hurler of the Weekend, with Daire Connery, Darragh O'Sullivan and a clutch of Bride Rovers players at the forefront of the conversation.

Looking ahead to next weekend, the podcast crew preview the divisional section finals and discuss if Cork can make it three-in-a-row against Galway in the All-Ireland camogie final.

Now in its third season, every week Éamonn Murphy will be joined by The Echo team including Barry O'Mahony, Denis Hurley, Rory Noonan, Jack McKay, John Horgan and more to discuss all the latest Cork GAA news on and off the field.

You can listen to the Echo Sport Podcast every week wherever you get your podcasts or on www.echolive.ie/podcast.

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The Cork club championships are back, which offers some respite from the fallout since the hurlers' calamitous second-half collapse to Tipperary.

As if the pain of that defeat at Croke Park wasn't enough for Rebels, the aftermath saw a series of WhatsApp messages circulate claiming to explain the performance away through a bust-up between the players.

Everyone seemed to overlook the fact Cork were six points up against Tipp at the break. And that any county team that makes it to consecutive All-Ireland finals has to be united.

On this week's podcast, we talk about the damage done by the rumours and look at how the hurlers who featured in club football action fared, including Brian Hayes and Damien Cahalane.

We review all the weekend football action, from Premier Senior, where Ballincollig, Mallow and Clon missed out on opportunities to upset the big three of Nemo, Castlehaven and the Barrs, all the way down to Premier Junior, where Canovee lived up to their billing of favourites.

Plus a shoutout to Cork All-Ireland winners Donncha O'Connor and Pearse O'Neill, still delivering for Ballydesmond and Aghada in their mid-40s.

There's a preview of all the club hurling action which throws in this Thursday with the Premier Intermediate Hurling clash of Castlemartyr and Kilworth. They're in a ferocious group with Ballinhassig and Ballincollig but there are cracking clashes across all the grades.

The spotlight will be on the Glen Rovers in the top tier as they return to the mix for the Seán Óg Murphy Cup with Mícheál Mullins added to the squad. Sars are the form team on the basis of the league while Imokilly are the holders.

Then you've St Finbarr's, Midleton and more.

At Senior A, Blarney and Bride Rovers renew their modern rivalry in another competition where it's very hard to pick a victor.

Now in its third season, every week Éamonn Murphy will be joined by The Echo team including Barry O'Mahony, Denis Hurley, Rory Noonan, Jack McKay, John Horgan and more to discuss all the latest Cork GAA news on and off the field.

You can listen to the Echo Sport Podcast every week wherever you get your podcasts or on www.echolive.ie/podcast.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

We thought it couldn't get any worse than the 2021 hammering at the hands of Limerick but Cork's second-half meltdown against Tipp will leave lasting scars on the Rebel faithful.

It was Cork's fifth defeat on the biggest day of the season at Croke Park since their last victory and by far the most devastating. Despite a six-point half-time advantage, Cork wilted in the face of serious Tipp heat, the pressure of ending a long wait without Liam MacCarthy no doubt playing a major part in the implosion.

We look at the issues surrounding the All-Ireland that contributed to the team's failure to perform.

Why were they not better prepared to cope with a sweeper when it was well flagged up in advance that Liam Cahill could throw a tactical curveball to cut out the goal threat?

Did Pat Ryan and his selectors make the right calls on the line, especially when Eoin Downey picked up a yellow card coming up to the break and was subsequently sent off?

Is there a mental weakness there that means Cork can't deliver when they're heavy favourites? After all their statement wins over Limerick in the Munster final and in 2024 were when they were underdogs?

The Echo Podcast also discuss Pat Ryan's future, now his three-year term is officially over. They examine any potential changes to the panel and team, including the status of veterans Patrick Horgan, Seamus Harnedy, Conor Lehane and Damien Cahalane.

Which young hurlers are best placed to push into the team for 2026? William Buckley, Darragh O'Sullivan, Micheál Mullins and Jack Leahy are among the rookies with great potential.

Clare and Tipp have both landed two All-Irelands apiece since they last lifted the Munster trophy, which takes the shine off the victory in the Gaelic Grounds back in June. But a bit of perspective is needed.

Now in its third season, every week Éamonn Murphy will be joined by The Echo team including Barry O'Mahony, Denis Hurley, Rory Noonan, Jack McKay, John Horgan and more to discuss all the latest Cork GAA news on and off the field.

You can listen to the Echo Sport Podcast every week wherever you get your podcasts or on www.echolive.ie/podcast

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

All-Ireland hurling final week is here and The Echo Sport Podcast has you covered ahead of the eagerly-awaited showdown between Cork and Tipperary at Croke Park.

The Rebels are favourites, having wrestled the Munster title from Limerick before their shock quarter-final exit at the hands of Dublin and back on the big stage after last summer's agonising one-point extra-time loss to Clare.

The Premier were well beaten by Cork in the Munster series this year and in 2024, along with the league final in April, but they're a very different animal now. We look at how they reshaped the team and went on a five-game run of victories to carry them into their first All-Ireland final since 2019.

The podcast team pick out the hurlers Cork will have to shut down and discuss Liam Cahill's strong record against the Rebels at underage level and if that will have a bearing on July 20.

The marquee match-ups are analysed along with three Rebels who need to hit the heights to end a 20-year wait for All-Ireland glory.

Plus the scramble for tickets, with the Cork hurlers as popular as they were in their last dominant era in the mid-noughties, and all the focus on the 'hype train'.

How can the manic support for Pat Ryan's side be viewed as a negative nationally?

We also round up the league final action across Rebel county, headlined by Sarsfields completing three in a row at Division 1 level with a strong second half against St Finbarr's. It's been a remarkable return to the helm for Johnny Crowley, having also won a county and reached last January's All-Ireland club final in Croker.

They are front-runners for the Seán Óg Murphy cannister, as are Midleton, who beat Killeagh in a fiery Division 2 decider. Elsewhere, Bride Rovers saw off Newcestown after extra time and Aghabullogue's five-goal victory over Ballyhea, two grades above them in championship, also caught the eye.

Now in its third season, every week Éamonn Murphy will be joined by The Echo team including Barry O'Mahony, Denis Hurley, Rory Noonan, Jack McKay, John Horgan and more to discuss all the latest Cork GAA news on and off the field.

You can listen to the Echo Sport Podcast every week wherever you get your podcasts or on www.echolive.ie/podcast

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

How do you improve on a near-perfect performance?

That is the question the Echo Sport Podcast crew tried to answer this week, as they looked back at Cork’s 20-point win over Dublin in the All-Ireland SHC semi-final on Saturday evening.

With regular presenter Eamonn Murphy still away – but expected to be fit for the final-preview episode next Monday – sports editor John McHale took the reins, joined by Denis Hurley, Jack McKay and John Horgan.

Naturally, there was praise for how Cork came out so strongly after a four-week lay-off in the wake of the Munster final win against Limerick – especially given that Dublin had produced such a good performance in themselves seeing off the Shannonsiders – and the guest felt that there was little in living memory to compare with it.

Of course, Cork manager Pat Ryan felt that the display fell short of absolute perfection and highlighted a few areas that can be improved for the final; this was discussed by the panel in studio, as well as any potential changes to the Cork lineup for the final.

There was also a stout debate as to the management’s willingness or reluctance to make big changes during games and the status of Cork’s veteran superstar Patrick Horgan was examined.

John Horgan, who has been covering Cork hurling for the bones of a half-century, was asked if he had ever seen anything like the sea of red that enveloped Croke Park on Saturday evening – conservative estimates put it at at least 60,000 Rebels in place – and his simple answer was, “No.”

The symbiosis between a team on a mission and a fanbase keen to be there every step of the way has been almost unprecedented but the flipside of that is that tickets for the final will be like gold-dust. The decider will be the ninth Cork hurling championship game in a row played before a sellout crowd, something never seen before, while even in this year’s Allianz Hurling League campaign they were drawing more than 20,000 for home games.

That level of demand will mean a lot of disappointed Rebel supporters for the final, not least because so many tickets end up in the hands of those who may not have shown the same dedication but will have benefited from the corporate events that offer admission to the game as part of the not-insignificant financial outlay involved.

The balance in maximising earning potential from reaching the final and also looking after the real fans is something that the two Johns, Jack and Denis try to parse.

In a bumper episode, Sunday’s semi-final between Tipperary and Kilkenny – and the scoreboard issues from late in that match – are also looked at as the All-Ireland fervour moves up a gear.

Catch the podcast every week at https://www.echolive.ie/podcast

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.