Division 1 Final: Cork have nothing to lose, Dublin have everything to prove

Dublin will meet Cork today in the decider of an exciting League in every division. Dublin are undefeated and carry quite a bit of momentum into the match. We've all heard about their 6am training sessions through the winter and now is the chance for that hard work to pay off.

Dublin put everyone on notice. They pushed to win the league and set the tone for the summer. While most counties play their hand close and use the league to try new players and combinations, Dublin have played for wins. They are still a work in progress but expectations are high. A loss today would bring them down to Earth and make the propaganda press think twice before writing off the traditional powers.

Cork have a few advantages in this Final. First, they have nothing to prove. They've trotted into this Final without any of the focus Dublin have shown. There's no pressure on the reigning All-Ireland Championship to win. A loss would not change their status as a favourite to repeat.

Second, Cork have a better bench. Due to injury they are missing Paul Kerrigan and Aidan Walsh while Eoin Cadogan is suspended. Replacing the three are Paddy Kelly, Nicholas Murphy and Jamie O'Sullivan. The bookies still have odds nearly even.

Finally, experience goes a long way toward winning. Dublin have collapsed in big games. 2009 they were embarrassed by Kerry in an All Ireland Quarterfinal. 2010 saw them fall apart in the closing minutes against Cork. Until they show the composure to close out a tough opponent in a big match I refuse to give them the nod.

Cork 1-17 Dublin 2-13