League lesson from 98 could propel Cork forward

An end to Cork's drought in the Allianz hurling league could spur the Rebels to All-Ireland glory, according to Dónal Óg Cusack.

It is an oddity that since the Leesiders last got their hands on the league trophy 24 years ago, seven different counties have managed the feat with the Rebels featuring very little at the business end of the season.

Back in 1998, Cork fans were stewing over the absence of Liam MacCarthy in the county, but Jimmy Barry-Murphy led a young side to a 2-14 to 0-13 point win over Waterford.

All-Ireland champions Clare ended their championship ambitions that summer in a provincial semi-final, but Cusack, a sub goalkeeper to Ger Cunningham that season, believes the title was contributing factor to All-Ireland success a year later.

Fast forward to present day and Cork are experiencing their longest ever drought without climbing the steps of the Hogan Stand, but Cusack is encouraged by what he sees from Kieran Kingston's team.

New captain Mark Coleman has shifted to centre-back with ease in front of a full-back line that looks much more solid.

Darragh Fitzgibbon continues provide energy and scores from the middle third while Conor Lehane appears rejuvenated following his inter-county absence. Add in Patrick Horgan’s customary scoring and a greater appetite for turnovers in the forward division and Cusack points to a sunny outlook.

Last Sunday’s comprehensive defeat of Limerick, coming with the sobering All-Ireland final defeat fresh in the memory, was a reminder that when it clicks for Cork, they are a team with many threats.

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