GAA Preview: Cork v Louth

It’s the return of the qualifiers this weekend with Cork hosting Louth in Pairc Uí Chaoimh (2pm). 

Both sides come into the game on the back of heavy defeats to Kerry and Kildare respectively, but one could argue that Cork would have been the happier of the two teams in the aftermath considering the circumstances. 

With a more condensed championship this year, both managers will happy with the draw by avoiding four division one teams, making the path to the last 8 a bit more forgiving. The reward for the winners will be a passage into the last 12, an offer which both managers would have taken if offered at the beginning of this season. 

Recent History 

The sides last met back in 2020 in a Division Three league game with Cork running out winners at home that day. The last championship game was back in 2007 where once more Cork were two point winners in the 4^th round of the qualifiers in Portlaoise.  

Thoughts From the Dugout 

Despite being narrow favourites going into the game, Cork interim boss John Cleary warns that there is no room for complacency.  

“If we don’t perform, we won’t win, full stop, but if we do, we have a chance, though it will definitely not be easy. 

“Hopefully, we can play up to our potential and show what we’re capable of doing, but we’re under no illusions.” 

Team News 

Cork are expected to keep changes to a minimum for the clash. Goalkeeper Micheál Martin is a doubt due to a groin injury picked up against Kerry while Kevin Flahive is out for the rest of the season due to a cruciate injury. 

Mickey Harte makes two changes to the side that lost to Kildare. Kevin Grimes and Ciaran Byrne start in the full forward line for Louth despite having doubts over their fitness. Midfielder Tommy Durnin is also back in time after receiving a concussion against Kildare. 

Throw in at Pairc Uí Chaoimh is at 2 with live text commentary available on FinalWhistle.ie