Collins boost for Galway

Galway hurlers have received a huge boost in their bid to win a first Leinster SHC title with experienced defender David Collins cleared to play in Sunday’s final against Kilkenny.

Collins missed the 5-19 to 4-12 win over Westmeath and the 5-23 to 3-15 victory against Offaly with an ankle injury but has made a full recovery.

“He played a full part in training on Sunday morning and it’s a boost to have him back and available for selection,” said manager Anthony Cunningham.

And with Joe Canning now fully recovered from a shoulder injury and experienced attacker Cyril Donnellan shaking off an ankle problem, Cunningham will be selecting from a full hand.

“We have trained well and just want to get into Croke Park and give it a shot. We know what we are up against but we will be just concentrating on our game. It would be a great one to win,” added Cunningham.

This will be Galway’s second appearance in a Leinster final since moving to the province four seasons ago. Two years ago they lost 1-19 to 1-12 to Kilkenny.