Cork hurling manager John Meyler believes his team have improved in 2018 despite losing out to Limerick in the All-Ireland semi-finals.
The Rebel County lost out to John Kiely’s men in extra-time after goals from substitutes Shane Dowling and Pat Ryan.
Meyler led Cork to Munster championship glory but counts losing key players as a pivotal reason behind his side’s failure to reach the All-Ireland final.
Speaking on OTB AM, Meyler insisted his side have improved on their 2017 performances with their efforts this campaign.
“Certainly. To come through the Munster championship unbeaten and to come that close in the All-Ireland semi-final – all be it a draw after 70 minutes,” Meyler said.
“If normal circumstances were there we would have had a replay. And I would have loved to have had another go at Limerick. But we’ve moved on from 2017 – there’s no doubt about that.
“I think we’re stronger, we’re better organised, better balanced – I just think we have to find a few more players. That process is already in place for next year.
Cork’s Alan Cadogan underwent knee surgery. Image: ©INPHO/Tommy Dickson
“To play the whole year without Alan Cadogan and Stephen McDonnell – two key players in 2017 – shows that we have strength. They were a massive loss to us in that campaign.”
Recently departed Kerry boss Eamonn Fitzmaurice and former Mayo manager James Horan revealed their experiences of receiving hate mail in exclusive interviews with OTB.
Threats concerning personal safety as well as insults directed at players and coaching staff were some of the concerning details to emerge from mail sent to both Fitzmaurice and Horan.
But Meyler shared his way of dealing with criticism and his experiences of meeting Cork supporters in everyday life.
“They’re very supportive of the way we try to play hurling. I’ve had very little negative reaction from people. But I’m a positive person and I’m not going to go across the street looking for negative reactions,” Meyler said.
“There’s no difference between any of the jobs we take on. You’re going to take criticism. If you win you’re right if you don’t you’re wrong. You know that and you expect that – you know its coming.
Former Kerry boss Eamonn Fitzmaurice. Image: ©INPHO/James Crombie
“If we don’t go a step further in 2019, I’m going to be criticised. There’s no point in waiting for letters in the post. I’m certainly not looking for negative comments.
“You know the letter when it comes – it’s not printed. It says John Meyler, Cork hurling manager, Cork. It’s not an invite to the next All Stars dinner.
“I know its coming. And you say: ‘Do I open it or do I not open it?’ But I’ve a hard back. I’ve been coaching for the best part of 30 years, I’ve been abused all over the place, but I put my best foot forward.”
James Hopper
