In last year's final, Cork came back from trailing by 1-10 to 0-8 at half-time to punish Tipp for some poor shooting and claim a 1-17 to 1-13 success at Croke Park.

Having lifted the National League title in May, Cork are deservedly favourites to retain their crown. A triumph this weekend would mark the Leesiders' 22nd title since the championship began back in 1932.

Dublin hold the record for senior championship title wins with 26.

Speaking at today's press launch, O'Callaghan said: "I think it gets harder every year, to be honest.

"The pressure is more intense but I suppose you get that being the holders.

"Tipp are a very good side and it is always a tight game when we play them. I’m sure Sunday will be no different. There will probably be no more than a puck of a ball in it."

Cork and Tipperary have contested every senior final since 1999, apart from the 2001 decider when the Premier County girls overcame Kilkenny. As well as last year, the Rebes defeated Tipp in the 2002 final.

Reflecting on Cork's 2006 form, O'Callaghan admitted: "While we beat Galway in the semi-final by four points I actually don’t think we have reached peak form yet.

"We may be in the final, but I still think there is more in the tank and hopefully we can hit top gear on Sunday."