New format offers Galway fresh hope

MORE than a decade after watching twin brother Michael establish himself on the Galway hurling team, Liam Donoghue is all the more conscious of making the most of his time at the top level.

He is captain of the side which faces into the first of three games in the All-Ireland SHC qualifier against Laois this evening. And, he admits that the new format offers the westerners a much more realistic chance of being able to challenge for honours.

While Michael was competing for a wing-back position after having established his reputation with the Galway U21s, Liam had to be content with stints on the bench.