Cody praises Rebel boss Walsh

KILKENNY hurling manager Brian Cody says the “two best teams” in the league this year, Cork and Galway, made it to tomorrow’s NHL Division One decider.

“The two best teams always make it to the final, and this year is no different,’’ he said.

“Cork and Galway were very consistent all through the league and made the final on merit.

“When he came in (Cork manager) Denis Walsh obviously was dealing with an unsettled situation but he’s had over 12 months in the job.

“He’s had a good run at it and he’s obviously developed a good spirit in his team.

“He’s also looked at developing options in certain positions and he’s done that very well.

“For (Galway boss) John McIntyre it’s probably a bit different, he’sprobably trying to get goodcompetitive games to get his team ready for the (Leinster) championship).”

With his Kilkenny side chasing a historic five-in-a-row, Cody is conscious that the spotlight will be on the men in black and amber soon enough but is keeping his own focus on the training ground.

“I know that it’s something that the media and the public will concentrate on, but I can honestly say that talk of threes and fours and so on isn’t an issue for us.

“What we’re concerned with is getting ourselves right, and in that sense the enthusiasm and the passion are still there – for me, and for the players in particular.

“That’s the most enjoyable thing for me, to have these players to work with, because they’re so dedicated and committed and enthusiastic.

“They’re honest and committed to the game, and that makes it enjoyable for them, and for me, which helps to keep the enthusiasm.

“To put it simply, they love hurling and they love where they are, playing with the best and against the best.”

- Brian Cody was speaking at the UCC Centre for Adult Continuing Education (CACE) Open Information evening.