CHAMPIONSHIP season has arrived and Cork will be keen to carry their league momentum into the summer after securing promotion from Division 2.

The Rebels enjoyed a successful league campaign, but a strong Munster championship run is now the priority.

Cork host Limerick this Sunday (2pm) in Páirc Uí Chaoimh in a provincial quarter-final that, on paper, favours the Leesiders. Limerick were relegated from Division 3, while Cork won six of their eight league games in Division 2, and home advantage only strengthens that position.

It gives John Cleary’s side an opportunity not just to maintain their consistency, but also to address a number of lingering issues.

One concern is their second-half performances. Cork have won just one second period in their last eight games, aided by a strong wind against Tyrone.

With potential semi-final opposition in Tipperary or Waterford, both Division 4 teams next season, this represents an ideal opportunity to improve those latter-half displays. It is also a chance to come through a game with minimal fuss.

Kick-outs remain another area to monitor. In each of their last four games, Cork have lost more restarts than they have won. They conceded five on their own kick-out in the Division 2 final defeat to Meath, including two from inside their own 15-metre line.

Whether Patrick Doyle retains the number one jersey, Micheál Aodh Martin returns, or Darragh Newman is given an opportunity, Cork will need to establish a reliable kick-out strategy ahead of any potential Munster final meeting with Kerry.

Colm O’Callaghan is expected to partner Ian Maguire at midfield, though there are other options pushing for inclusion. Seán Walsh and Conor Cahalane are both capable, while Newcestown’s David Buckley has also put his hand up – his late catch against Tyrone underlining his aerial ability.

Up front, Cork’s attack has been in impressive form. Steven Sherlock and Chris Óg Jones both excelled during the league. They combined for 1-12 against Meath. Sherlock finished as Division 2’s top scorer with 0-51, while Jones led the scoring charts from play with 4-22. Sherlock also contributed 0-31 from play.

If that pair, along with Mark Cronin, find their range again, Cork should have more than enough firepower.

Dara Sheedy, in line for his first senior championship appearance, has added fresh energy to this Cork side and will be eager to maintain his strong form.

Cork are expected to come through Sunday’s tie, but the focus will be on sharpening key areas to ensure they pose a greater threat as the championship progresses.