Rating the Rebels: Éamonn Murphy breaks down the Cork performances in Thurles
Match-winning saves in the first half and an excellent variety to his puck-outs. Back to his 2012-13 best form. 9
Four clean catches, three on Tipp puck-outs, summed up his day. Spillane held John McGrath to two scores, and the goal was courtesy of an incredible Callanan assist. A rock-solid presence. 8
DAMIEN CAHALANE: An outstanding job on Callanan. Used his strength to hound the towering Tipp talisman on every dropping ball. Cork’s second, decisive, goal, came from that exact scenario. 9STEPHEN McDONNELL: Grew into the game and offered vital leadership coming out with the ball in the second half. 8
The platform for this victory was the Cork half-back line. They gobbled up Tipp puck-outs in the second half and Joyce was a powerhouse. 8
While Michael Breen, his initial marker, drifted around to pick off points, Ellis was a beast at centre-back. Colossal in the air, but he also used the ball smartly, especially in the last quarter. 9
MARK COLEMAN: What. A. Debut. One of the most impressive championship openers from any Rebel, he was an absolute joy to watch. My Man of the Match. 9
Worked himself into the ground, dropping deep constantly to support the backline. Coughed up a couple of balls early but stood up and was counted when it mattered. 8
Another terrific debut, he was especially brilliant in the opening quarter when he hoovered up possession. Touch of class in everything he did. 9
Immense in the opening period, picking off three lovely scores, he covered the half-forward line with youthful enthusiasm until he tired. 8
Caused Tipp endless problems with his pace, touch and aerial prowess. Hit 0-5 from play, two wonder points when Cork needed them in the last quarter, but could have had another six! 9
SHANE KINGSTON: Very quiet early on, he finished with 1-4 from play but that’s his style. Coped admirably when out on Pádraic Maher. A silent assassin, he’s only going to get better with experience. 9
Cork’s go-to player up top, he was electric for long spells. Fouled for three frees and scored another three from play. Proved his quality on the big stage. 9
SEAMUS HARNEDY: Scored two points but also had four assists and forced a converted 65. His nous and attitude shone through at key stages. 8
Off the frees and took a while to get a decent pass, yet managed 0-4 from play and an assist for another. Answered the critics here. 8
Chipped in with a tasty point as Cadogan’s replacement. 7
MICHAEL CAHALANE: Got one opportunity and buried it. Job done. 7
Decent late cameo. 7
