Portumna ready to take that final step

TWO years later than players and supporters would have wished for, or expected, Portumna hurlers have made it to Croke Park for St Patrick’s Day.

Coincidentally they are meeting Newtownshandrum, who, in winning the 2004 AIB All-Ireland club title, defeated Antrim side Dunloy, who had shocked Portumna in the semi-final.

Portumna are now a wiser, more mature squad of players and even more highly motivated this time. At the same time, they are utterly respectful of the reputation built up by the Cork and Munster champions.