Galway glory sparks optimism

THE last week has given a strange insight into the condition of Galway hurling over the past two decades after two dynamic and hugely talented underage sides produced emphatic victories on All-Ireland final day.

First the minors had nine points to spare in Croke Park and then, on Saturday night, their U21 team had a ten-point cushion as they dismissed the challenge of Dublin in the U21HC final at Semple Stadium.

The level of performance served by their youngsters will generate plenty optimism in hurling circles in the county and this U21 victory demonstrated the potential that exists as these players prepare to move up to the senior grade.