5.
Cillian Kiely - Cillian Kiely was one one of Offaly's heroes in the Joe McDonagh Cup campaign. He was certainly in the three best, most influential players, a true giant and leader at the heart of the defence. He tipped over into empty here with Shane Barrett cutting loose in the first half, as he scored 1-3 while he looked to be carrying a leg and he got involved in a small bit of argy-bargy stuff. He was moved off him and then into attack before half time where he really dug in for a while at full forward in the second half, trying to bring Offaly back into it. He was replaced in the 63rd minute but can hold his head very high. He is one of Offaly's older players at this stage and the heavy schedule of games eventually took its toll but he has had a fantastic year. Rating – 6.
6.
Donal Shirley - Donal Shirley started brilliantly as Offaly quickly settled into the game. His interceptions and pinpoint deliveries were crucial at this stage as Cork have had Offaly beaten after a few minutes in the recent past. He continued to work hard throughout, though the Offaly half back line was occasionally breached by speeding players, and he is another U-20 who has already shown he has what it takes to make the grade. Rating – 7
7.
Jason Sampson - Jason Sampson is a great example of a player doing what is required to make the most of his ability and fulfilling his potential. Cork had very pacy midfielders with Ciaran Joyce back in action and Darragh Fitzibbon having a very good game. Sampson was so honest in the way he performed. He ran himself into the ground, worked hard and mopped up ball. He did the simple thing well. Rating – 7
8.
Ross Ravenhill - It is great to see Ross Ravenhill back in action after a long injury lay off. It was asking a lot of him here to play at midfield against such a quality Cork pairing but he worked very hard before being called ashore 11 minutes into the second half. A full winter's training programme and hopefully an injury free run will have him fully back next year. Rating – 6