Ger Manley on Cork's second camogie league loss: Antrim wanted it more than we did

It was a result that not too many would have predicted as Cork lost out to Antrim in the Centra Camogie League at MTU.

Antrim would have travelled more in hope than expectation after their loss to Tipperary last weekend. With Cork looking to get back to winning ways after their loss to Waterford last weekend few would have given Antrim a chance.

But full credit to the Ulster side they tore into Cork from the start and in the end were deserving winners.

Cork manager Ger Manley was quick to praise them said they were worthy winners on the day.

“They were very committed and look, I think they wanted it more than our players and I think that was the difference,” said Manley.

“We always knew it was going to be a bit of a battle and give them their credit they were the better team for the majority of the game.

“We had a few chances, but in all fairness, I think they deserved to win.”

Manley said they wanted it more, but also said there were no harsh words afterwards about the level they were at.

“You don't have to tell them about that game, they know. 

They can be self-critical most of the time, probably too much at times because their standards are high.

“We know that's not good enough and look we know where we're at as well, we've a lot of new players in and we always said the league would be tough this year because we've so many players missing.

“It's not an excuse for today as it wasn't good enough, we had a few chances they took theirs and that was the difference.”

Cork have a break now for a few weeks before they are away to Kilkenny in a fortnight, as it gives Manley and his management team a chance to work on a few things ahead of what is now a crucial game for his side.

ROOM TO IMPROVE

“I suppose it's an opportunity for the players, but I mean where'd you go from that? It's going to be a lot of hard work in the next month or two to get us right for the championship.

“Like, I think the league isn't there for us now. We probably knew that after the first game that we lost. So I suppose we're trying to give players games, but the realisation is that it's a different level at inter-county, no matter what team you're playing, to club level.

“I think some of the girls will know that after today, and after Waterford one the last day.

“But look, there is a couple of positives, some of the newer girls, did well there. Orlaith Cremin I thought did quite well there and young McAuliffe (Ava) did well and was a bit unlucky there for a goal towards the end, so there's a few positives.”