Player Power Rankings | Cathal O’Neill one of few to impress in poor outing with Cork

Limerick’s losing streak increased to three at the weekend.

Another defeat was Limerick’s lost after being outplayed by Cork in the third round of the League in the TUS Gaelic Grounds on Sundy afternoon.

The 2-19 to 1-13 scoreline was by no means flattering to Cork who were full value for the win having led by as many as fourteen at the half.

Limerick struggled throughout the field with many of the All-Ireland winning side named from the start. Such was the despair at half time, Kiely introduced All-Stars Aaron Gillane, Diarmaid Byrnes and William O’Donoghue for the second period.

Nickie Quaid, Barry Nash, Gearoid Hegarty and Peter Casey were the only players from last year’s All-Ireland winning team not to start in a day to forget.

Up next is Clare in Ennis this Sunday as they seek to get their season back on track.

After each game we look at the players who are in top form and today we continue that with the fifth installment of the Player Power Rankings.

Player Power Rankings One

Player Power Rankings Two

Player Power Rankings Three

Player Power Rankings Four

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Unlucky to Miss Out

Sean Finn – Had a solid half before leaving the field through injury. Finn will be badly needed come championship.

Nickie Quaid – Didn’t play but Byrnes had to make the cut after three solid outings.

10. Diarmaid Byrnes (Patrickswell) (N/A)

Has to be included after another solid if unspectacular performance. Introduced at half time to try and stem the tide, which he did as his three frees eased the deficit. Still nailed on for a championship starting berth.

9. Declan Hannon (Adare) (=)

Difficult for the centre back with Cork looking past his line, playing it around the back until a ball into the full forwards was on. Did his best but like many of his teammates, sometimes overcomplicated things. Not his best day but no one was at their peak.

8. Will O’Donoghue (Na Piarsaigh (=)

Like Byrnes, O’Donoghue was introduced at half time and certainly made his presence felt in his half hour. Was abrasive around the field, looking to lay down a marker after Cork won the physicality stakes in the first period. Set Cathal O’Neill free for his goal and looked to influence the attacking side more than usual.

7. Gearoid Hegarty (St Patricks) (=)

His absence was sorely missed with Limerick lacking in terms of physicality and lung bursting runs. A player who is probably most appreciated when off the field. His return cannot come soon enough.

6. Brian O’Grady (Kilteely Dromkeen) (-1)

Limerick could have used his strong running style on Sunday with Cork moving the ball quickly through the lines and defending as a unit. Given a rest after helping UL to the Fitzgibbon Cup title, O’Grady will be keen to feature in Ennis on Sunday with Robbie Hanley playing well last week when given the chance. Drops because of the performances of #4.

5. Dan Morrissey (Ahane) (-1)

For the first time since his move to full back, Morrissey looked to come up second best in his battle. Was by no means roasted by Patrick Horgan but the Glen Rovers man was crucial in setting up both scores where he beat Morrissey to the initial ball. Did well elsewhere as Cork deconstructed the Limerick rearguard. Again, only drops because of the man ahead of him.

4. Cathal O’Neill (Crecora Manister) (+2)

Limerick’s best player against Galway, Cathal O’Neill was arguably the Shannonsiders key player against Cork. Managed to fire 1-1 on a day where Limerick didn’t get a sniff. His goal in particular was a brilliant finish from outside the 21′. Another performance that will do him the world of good as he looks to break into the championship team.

3. Colin Coughlan (Ballybrown) (=)

Just a half for the Ballybrown man who had probably his quietest game in the green jersey. Wasn’t able to influence the scoreboard as he so often does. Perhaps would have fared better in the second when Limerick settled somewhat but not afforded the chance to do so.

2. Barry Nash (South Liberties) (=)

Another’s who absence was keenly missed. Nash’s link up play could have been used on Sunday as Limerick struggled to play through the lines. As the championship grows closer, there is growing evidence hinting at a switch up from Kiely with Nash one that could feature with his versatility.

1. Richie English (Doon) (=)

Maintains his place atop the rankings after impressing in his half on the field. Was aided by the fact that Cork only had five forwards but still showed well and is surely one of the best pure defenders in the game. Do not be surprised to see him start in the championship with Nash moving up the field.