Cork take on Kilkenny for All-Ireland U23 camogie crown

The Cork U23 camogie team head to Dungarvan on Sunday as they take on Kilkenny in the All-Ireland final.

The game throws in at 3.30pm at the Fraher Field, and the Rebels will be hoping to go one better than last year.

Cork were in last year’s decider as well, where they fell to Galway, and they will be hoping to go one better this time.

But manager, Jerry Wallace, and his side know there is no guarantee of success, and it’s going to take a massive effort to get the better of Kilkenny.

The Cats beat Galway in their semi-final, and that will be a warning side for Cork, as the Tribeswomen were expected by many to retain their title. Kilkenny are never an easy side to beat, and Wallace will be aware of the threat and task ahead of his Cork side.

In the round robin games, Cork travelled to Kilkenny and came away on the wrong end of a 3-13 to 2-9 scoreline. That will be fresh in all their minds ahead of Sunday’s tie, and all involved will know that nothing but their best will do if they are to have any chance of coming out on top.

TUNED IN

Even at that, it’s going to be difficult, but in Wallace, they have a shrewd manager and one well able to upset the odds.

He has managed Cork to success on several occasions at minor level, and it won’t be for lack of effort on his or his players’ parts if they don’t win.

He has been involved in the game for a long time, and that experience will be needed on Sunday to try and guide Cork to glory.

Wallace will have done his homework and will be well aware of the dangers Kilkenny possess.

Kilkenny's squad has been characterised by sharp clinical finishing and a strong defensive record.

Key scoring contributors on their way to the final include the likes of Ellen Gunner, who hit seven points against Cork.

Another they will have to watch is Amy Brennan, a major goal threat, and she hit 1-3 against Cork. Others that Kilkenny will look to include Keara Ryan, Claire Doheny, and captain Rachel Brennan.

Speaking ahead of the game, Wallace said they are looking forward to the challenge and have prepared well for it.

“I have told the players we have to focus on teamwork and draw confidence from the hard work they have put in across the season,” said Wallace.

“No matter what happens during the game, we have to stay composed and play to our strengths.

“It’s important to enjoy the occasions. These games are a reward for the season’s journey to date. They have to embrace the atmosphere, take pride in representing the county, and enjoy every moment on the pitch.

“Great things happen when you play with passion and energy.”

Cork have plenty of talented players to call on, with the likes of Niamh McNabola and Ava McAuliffe expected to lead their attack.

Anna Kearney has impressed in goal and has earned a call-up to the senior team from her displays with the U23s.

The side will be captained by Ciara Golden, and even though still young, she has plenty of experience at the top level.

With her club, St Finbarr’s, she won Cork and Munster championship titles in 2025, before losing the All-Ireland decider after a replay.

It should be a close game and one that is too close to call.