DUBLIN's final game before their Leinster championship clash with Meath on Sunday week gave: them little comfort as they went down by seven points to Cork at the official opening of Ballymun Kickhams's new ground yesterday.

However, their starting line up is unlikely to be their championship starting fifteen. And in truth this fixture was no more than a gentle workout before Mickey Whelan and his men take on their neighbours. Goals from Joe Kavanagh and Terry Dillon provided the substance of Cork's success.

Dublin were without goalkeeper John O'Leary, defenders Paddy Moran, Paul Curran and Mick Deegan and forwards Paul Clarke, Charlie Redmond and Mick Galvin.

What will be of some encouragement for Dublin was the second half performance of Paul Bealin who contributed three points from play. Brian Stynes, with two from placed balls, also contributed three points.