Mullins’ hunger may prove too much for Coppinger in final
In their semi-finals they both beat a European champion. Mullins defeated David Murphy, who just a month ago won the European Road title, at Shannonvale. Last Sunday at Ballygurteen it was Coppinger’s turn, overcoming David’s brother Aidan, who secured a European record when winning the Moors gold medal in Italy.
After that we have to factor in that Mullins defeated last year’s champion and Coppinger beat the 2009 champion. In short, beating either of the Murphy brothers would have to count as an impressive scalp. But it is not overly useful for divining who will win the final.
Mullins is contesting his second successive final, which is a well-deserved reward for a career in which he has remained at the very top for longer than any other player of his generation. Winning the Munster senior final however, would be his biggest achievement. Last year’s final defeat must have been a huge wrench for Mullins, but reaching this year’s showpiece will have eased that pain.
His task this year is no less daunting than facing David Murphy last year. Coppinger in full flight is a force of nature. His Munster and All-Ireland wins in 2010 showed just what levels he can reach on a bowling road. Were he to perform like that tomorrow he would be virtually unbeatable. However, we have not seen him at that pitch yet in 2012.
Coppinger has the advantage of having previously won the title, but he could hardly match Mullins’ hunger.
There is also the matter of bragging rights in the bowling hotbed of Bantry. Coppinger has undoubtedly the sheer power to dominate this final. However, Mullins showed a lot of resolve against David Murphy. That sort of determination might be a very useful asset from the Darkwood turn to the line.
The action begins at 3pm.
