Cork rely on bench press as O'Duffy Dup defence begins

Continuing to build the depth of the panel is a key element of the Cork strategy, as they get their defence of their Glen Dimplex All-Ireland senior camogie crown under way against Wexford at Páirc Uí Rinn on Saturday afternoon.

The O'Duffy Cup holders did not make the Division 1 final of the Camogie League but registered a 60th Munster title when defeating Waterford in a repeat of last year’s All-Ireland final.

It was a keenly contested affair on this occasion. Just as in last season’s championship, the bench press was crucial, with Clodagh Finn hitting two points after her introduction and fellow subs, Clíona Healy and Orlaith Mullins also on target.

Another sub, Ciara O’Sullivan made an impact after missing last year with a cruciate knee ligament injury.

Cork have had to reshuffle the heart of their defence.

With the experienced full-back, Libby Coppinger and centre-back, Laura Treacy out of action with hamstring injuries.

Dual star Coppinger has had surgery and according to manager Ger Manley, will be on the sidelines for eight to ten weeks.

"For the likes of Clodagh Finn, Ciara Sull, to come back after her cruciate injury and make a difference when she came on, is massive," noted Fiona Keating afterwards.

"It shows the strength of the panel. We’re always on about that. It takes more than 15 players to finish a match." added Keating.

It is very obviously a theme in the dressing room.

Given how often it comes up but the benefits are obvious, in terms of adding energy and quality when a game has opened up, but also raising standards with the battle for places so competitive.

"They’ve been doing that every game," says Amy O’Connor of the finishers.

"It’s brilliant that we’re building again, another bench this year. That’s why we