Burke confronts Thurles ghosts

WHEN the Galway U21 hurling team bus approaches Semple Stadium for this evening’s Bord Gáis Energy All-Ireland semi-final against Limerick, it will awaken plenty of memories for David Burke.

Last September, Tipp’s U21 side rounded off a glorious week for hurling in the county when they lifted the All-Ireland crown on their home patch. It was a consummate performance by the Premier youngsters as they racked up a stunning total of 5-22. Yet for opponents Galway, it was a harrowing night.

“We were practically humiliated below in Thurles in front of the whole Tipperary county”, recalled Burke. “We’re still hurting inside after that defeat and want to make amends. If you look at that Tipp team that demolished us, most of them were the main part of the team that won the senior final so it was a difficult task. Playing in their back yard meant it was even harder.”