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21st May 2017

“We really called each other out” – Conor Lehane on home truths that Cork so badly needed

The meeting worked

Conan Doherty

“There’s a semi-final to be played now…”

Cork have been getting it from all corners for too long now that they’re not about to get ahead of themselves after a Munster quarter-final win.

Conor Lehane inspired a special performance and a truly stunning result on Sunday in Thurles as the Rebels ambushed the All-Ireland champions and dragged the county’s reputation back from the brink. 10 points from the centre forward shone brightly even in this crazy 56-score game but he was the first one to call for calm and focus ahead of the next challenge.

You see, there’s been a complete attitude adjustment within the county’s hurling camp. Their mantra is just one step at a time now. Their challenge is to stop wasting their own time.

The work has obviously paid off as Tipperary can testify to first hand and Conor Lehane revealed what has changed down by the Lee.

“We’re not used to this type of feeling. I know it’s a sad thing to say but it’s true,” the Cork star revealed to the GAA Hour’s Colm Parkinson after the game.

“We all just said to ourselves, ‘are we going to waste our time every year, going out and not performing?’ We really called each other out.

“We decided to put our heads down and take it game by game, training by training, and keep it as simple as possible. It’s all made a difference but, really, it’s been the attitude more than anything.”

Listen to the full, raw interview on Monday’s GAA Hour hurling podcast. Subscribe on Soundcloud or iTunes so you don’t miss a show.

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