U21 hurlers in determined mood for Leinster duel

Wed, 6th July 2016

Dublin's under-21 hurlers are hoping to be crowned Leinster champions for the sixth time in Dublin's history when they face Offaly in Wednesday night's Bord Gáis Energy Leinster U21HC final in O'Connor Park, Tullamore on Wednesday night (7.30).

The Dubs come up against a high-scoring Offaly side who will be looking to turn home advantage in their favour. The Faithful County have enjoyed victories over Kildare (5-22 to 1-12) and Carlow (5-16 to 1-13) and Dubs boss Joe Fortune knows his men will have to pull out a big performance.

"They (Offaly) have put up some huge tallies in their two games so far and they play a nice brand of direct hurling which suits them.

“They are a physically strong team as well and the fact the match is being played on their home ground will certainly motivate them further.

“They always come out in large numbers to support their team and O’Connor Park should be rocking, which will only add to the occasion.

“Having said that, I know that venues can make a difference but the most important thing is what happens out on the pitch and we need to just focus on producing a good performance on the night and controlling what we can in terms of our own game,” says Joe.

“The lads have all put in a massive effort since we got together and this represents an opportunity to gain reward for all the hours that they have put in.

“There is a huge bond between the players and the feel-good factor in training has certainly helped drive us forward.

“They are a hugely motivated group who are proud of representing their county and they appreciate the significance of the game in terms of winning Leinster and moving forward to an All-Ireland semi-final.

“Reaching a provincial final and winning it was one of our goals at the start of the year and now that we have arrived at the final, we are determined to make sure that we achieve our aim and the lads can be recognised as Leinster champions,” adds Joe.