All-Ireland Final 2010: Cork v Down

Another fantastic summer is coming to a close. There were some great matches this summer. The semi-finals were both great but earlier rounds were exciting as well. There was the Leinster Final controversy, Down's destruction of Kerry, and total unpredictability in Connaught.

It was a year for underdogs as all of the giants, most notably Kerry and Tyrone, were cut down by deserving teams. There is still one giant left though and I think Down have what it takes to slay Cork and make this truly the Year of the Underdog.

For Down-
Best Case Scenario:
A hot start would go a long way to help the much less experienced side.  Down came out hot against Kerry and never had to face that gut-check moment with the game on the line.  If they can start strong in the final and not have to play catch-up, I think they can win.

The performance of Marty Clarke is obviously key. He is a tremendous talent and keeps getting better since returning from Australia.  If you remember Tadhg Kennelly on his return from Australia continued to improve with each game for Kerry last year.  If Marty Clarke has yet another gear to show on Sunday, he's going be be a massive force which Eoin Cadogan and the rest of the Cork defence can't handle.

Worst Case Scenario:
The worst thing that can happen for Down is to allow Cork to dominate the midfield. No one doubts that Cork has the best midfield in the country. I've written before about the size, speed, and skill of Alan O'Connor and Nicholas Murphy.  Kalum King and Peter FitzPatrick, who have been sharp all summer, could be worn down by the seemingly endlessly interchangeable Cork midfield.  If Down can't win their share of kickouts and feed the ball comfortably to their forwards, they are in serious trouble. 

Verdict:
The weather forecast is for cool weather and showers.  I think that favours Down.  My reasoning is that Cork will try to control possession and handpass Down to death.  In fact, Cork out-handpass opponents by 2-to-1. A slippery pitch and ball could lead to mistakes or at least slow their progress.  Rain could lead to Cork turnovers and in turn lead to extra time for Down to retreat defensively.

The game will be close but Down's undefeated record in All-Ireland finals will remain intact.  I like Benny Coulter to go wild and secure Player of the Year honours with his effort as well.  That's right, Sam is headed up the M1.

Down 1-15 Cork 1-13