Mark Collins: Vital that Cork start well in the league 

Former Cork footballer Mark Collins is hopeful that the Rebels can make a favourable impression this year.

The Leesiders open their Allianz Division 2 League campaign on Sunday with the visit of Cavan to SuperValu Páirc Uí Chaoimh (1.30pm).

John Cleary’s charges have made strides in recent years, but the hope now is that they can take that next step in their trajectory. 

“The continuity in the management and even in the strength and conditioning is very positive,” Collins says, who won a Munster medal with the Cork senior footballers in 2012.

“You can see that the team are making progress every year. They are getting that little bit closer to the top teams every year.

“John [Cleary] has said that had the team more belief they could have beaten Dublin last season. But playing those kind of games will only be good for them.

“Cork have a very steady panel and you have Steven Sherlock back in now. Hopefully a couple of the younger players can make an impact. I think there could be a good year ahead for Cork.” 

As has been the case prior to the start of the last few campaigns, a promotion push will be a priority for the Rebels as they strive to return to Division 1 for the first time since 2016.

“Looking at Division 2, it’s very tough,” Collins says.

“It’s vital that Cork start well and try and pick up a few early wins and you could be looking at promotion then rather than worrying about relegation. It’s all about finding consistency. Unfortunately over the last few years, Cork have had a mixed start.

“Hopefully they can start well this time around. Cavan starting off won’t be easy.

“Cork have Derry and Tyrone away in March and it’s important that they do get off to a good start. I know from my own experience that the trips up north are great bonding sessions and it does bring the group closer.

“If you are going up there on the back of a few wins, it could make all the difference. I think promotion is a realistic target. There is definitely enough firepower and enough quality to look at promotion.

“It’s a tough task with all of the teams in Division 2 looking at promotion. I do know though that every player on the panel will have the belief that they can help get Cork promoted.

“Cork have the bones of a very good team. They have been together for a long time. Their conditioning and all that is at a top level and you would be hoping that they can kick on this year.”