MORE THAN A LEAGUE MATCH

FOUR of the last five Cork-Tipperary meetings have been decided by double-digit margins, yet tonight's All-Ireland final rematch should be a closer-run affair.

- BY STEPHEN BARRY

Either of Munster’s traditional big two will take a large step towards another National League final when they clash in front of a bumper crowd at SuperValu Pairc Ui Chaoimh (7.30pm throw-in).

Both have two wins from two, with Tipp edging top spot on score difference (+23 versus +17).

Yet the greater significance may be psychological. Ben O'Connor has made clear that Cork’s Croke Park nightmare is out of their thoughts. A victory in what he described as “the standout League fixture” would reinforce that sense of moving on.

The Premier endured consecutive Leeside hammerings last April. They will equally wish to scrub those from their memory. Don't expect to see any Tipp sweeper system here.

The greater learning for Liam Cahill exists in matching up 15-on-15.

While neither side will field a carbon copy of their All-Ireland lineups, both will be gunning for victory with an established core surrounded by some of their most promising prospects.