Three takeaways from Cork's victory over Meath

1 – GOALS: Two years ago, Cork and Meath also clashed in the Division 2 opener down the Páirc on an evening when the Royal County pounced for three goals to win 3-14 to 0-19. On this occasion, it was John Cleary’s charges who struck for crucial green flags with great finishes in the second half from Matty Taylor and Chris Óg Jones.

Raising green flags had been a problem for the Leesiders, but on the evidence of Saturday evening, it’s obviously something the group have been working on in pre-season. Taylor’s green flag was a sweet one to push Cork three points clear after 41 minutes before the second one arrived 16 minutes later. 

A great goal by Jones, who stood out once again wearing the Rebel jersey. That finish put Cleary’s team eight points clear. Meath did rally but the goals were the difference.

Cork created plenty of goal scoring chances last year, but didn't convert enough and it did come back to cost them. Here’s hoping it will be the opposite in 2025. The early signs are good.

2 - DEBUTANTS: There were three debutants in the Rebels team at the weekend. Neil Lordan was under pressure early on, but overall he was solid and didn’t look out of place at corner-back. 

Midfielder Seán Walsh stood out as he worked well with Colm O'Callaghan. The Mitchelstown player does offer a lot with his physical stature, but he can play ball too. He played a part in a couple of key scores.

It might not have been his best ever performance, but Seán McDonnell at corner-forward worked his socks off and always looked for the ball even if things weren’t going his way. It was a big stage for him and he will learn from the experience.

3 – OPENING DAY WIN: It has been a long time coming. Saturday’s victory was Cork’s first win on the opening day since 2020 and that was when they were in Division 3. There was no hiding the fact that this was a massive game for the Rebels and they delivered while also showing character.

The Leesiders can make the long journey up to Newry this weekend for the battle with Down in confident mood.