Johnstown and Borris renew rivalry

COLÁISTE MHUIRE Johnstown face Borrisokane VS in the All-Ireland Vocational Schools SHC A final at Nowlan Park this afternoon (3.30) bidding to atone for last year’s defeat in the decider by Loughrea.

This will be the third meeting of the schools in four years. In 2005 Borrisokane won the All-Ireland final; last year Johnstown turned the tables in the semi-final, all of which adds more spice to the fixture.

Borrisokane are without Enna Gleeson, who picked up a hamstring injury, but offset his loss with the return of Kevin Ryan.

Ryan lost a finger earlier in the year in an accident and missed out of his school’s progression to the final.

Team official Tom Moriarty admitted: “Kevin’s availability is a boost. He is a superb hurler and will be a huge addition.

“Six of our team are involved with this year’s county minor squad, while Joe Gallagher won an All-Ireland minor medal last year.

“The school is very fortunate that former Tipperary stalwart Len Gaynor is helping with the coaching and we have the county board to thank for that.

“Two years ago we were beaten by Loughrea in the junior final, but unlike them, we have made huge progress since, and I would be confident of victory this afternoon provided we play to our potential.”

Warned the Tralee native: “We have to be disciplined also. We tend to give away easy frees and will be punished for it as this is a very good Johnstown side.

Tipperary native and Johnstown coach Martin Gleeson has been using his home connections to study today’s opponents.

“A county minor selector told me that three of their players are expected to make the cut. That’s a very solid base for a vocational team to have.

“This is make or break. Once this team moves on, it will be at least four years before we have a squad capable of competing for honours, so we must make the most of this chance.

“We have seven of last year’s team which is an advantage in terms of age and experience. The lads are a very honest bunch and will give it all they have.

“There is a doubt about our centre back Niall Stanley who is troubled with a hamstring problem, but we are hopeful he will make it. Along with Owen Shiel, Ray Hickey, David Darmody and Joe Dollard, Niall is one of the mainstays of our team.”