BRÍD Stack has been impressed with how Cork have adapted to the new rules in ladies football.

Joe Carroll’s side have set the pace in Division 1, stringing together four straight wins to storm to the top of the table.

With LGFA 2.0 in full swing, Cork legend Stack feels the new game suits the Rebels.

‘I couldn’t get over how fit Cork were against Waterford for this time of year. They have adapted and taken the new rules on board. They are playing to their strengths, which are their speed and ability to break lines,’ Stack told The Star Sport Podcast.

‘That’s why they are getting a bounce from it. When everyone gets to full grips with it, will we see things get tighter? Who knows. It makes for a more exciting championship.

‘If Cork make a league final, it means going into the championship you would be bursting to get out to games. You want to see these skills on show. You want the girls to be playing the best football they are capable of.’

Bríd Stack in action for Cork.

In general, the new rules have encouraged more attacking play, which is good for the sport.

‘What the new rules have done is re-energised our game. The game had gone a bit stagnant. Managers leaned towards defensive football and this obviously takes that away,’ Stack explained.

‘What I have noticed is the immediate impact of the solo-and-go rule. Players seem to love it. Any young girl who wants to go out playing wants full expression and to enjoy their football. Defensive football is not enjoyable. The new brand of football makes for a brilliant product.’

Having beaten Galway (1-10 to 2-5), Armagh (2-8 to 1-9), Kerry (0-16 to 0-8) and Waterford (1-12 to 3-5), Cork are in flying form and one more victory would see the Rebels into a league final.

A home game against Meath (Saturday, March 21st) and a trip to Dublin (Sunday, March 29th) remain, but the key for Cork is to maintain their performance levels.

‘What’s most important for Cork is that they continue the trajectory they are on. They are finishing out games and showing resolve. That is something they needed to do in the last couple of years,’ Stack added.

‘They have two games left in the league. It’s important to hold the head and finish the league strongly. If a team like Cork can get a league title under their belt, the sky is the limit. The confidence of winning a trophy can lift a team heading into the championship.

‘Granted, they may have a few more targets on their backs given their run and displays, but it’s vital to see what they’re made of – especially for a team that is so young and hasn’t won anything yet.’

One player who has impressed is Áine Terry O’Sullivan. The Allihies native is Cork’s joint top scorer from play in the league with 1-5. While she hasn’t started every game, her impact has been noteworthy.

Eleven-time All-Ireland winner Stack played with O’Sullivan during her latter days with Cork and the former defender explained how the Beara woman developed into the sharpshooter she is today.

‘I have a wonderful time for Áine. She earned her crust marking Angela Walsh at a couple of training sessions. There is no tougher test than having the toughest full-back in the country marking you. Áine got brilliant days out when I was playing with her,’ Stack said.

‘She’s such a natural footballer. She has that ability not only to get into space but to make space for herself to take on a score. She is a fantastic kicker. When she came on against Waterford, she gave Cork a focal point inside in the forwards. We saw when she played against Kildare the impact she has. Áine is a key player for Cork and has done it for many years.’

Bríd Stack is a fan of Cork defender Melissa Duggan.

Cork are going well right now but they will need experienced heads to maintain their rich vein of form. Step forward Dohenys defender Melissa Duggan.

‘You don’t even need to speak about Melissa. You know with Melissa what you are going to get – she’s like a little terrier after you. Not only will you not get much space but you’ll probably end up on the back foot chasing her up the field,’ Stack said.

‘Melissa, Shauna Kelly and Maire O’Callaghan have been there a long time. They would have experienced the end of when we were finishing up. They had that little taste of success and I imagine they want it back. You need girls driving standards and you’d be grateful to have those leaders in the camp,’ Stack added as Cork look to finish the league the way they started – on a high.