Big two test the waters

Kilkenny v Galway in Thurles this Sunday in the second of the two All-Ireland U21 hurling semi-finals (Clare v Antrim 4pm, Kilkenny vGalway 6pm) — a prelude to what might happen on September 9 in Croke Park, the big one?

Perhaps, perhaps not, but one thing is certain — given the circumstances in the lead-up to the game, many will see a win for Kilkenny as a major setback for Galway. Are they correct? Let’s look at the background.

First, there’s the fact that the Galway team comprises the bulk of the senior panel that recently overcame Cork in the All-Ireland semi-final. Johnny Coen starred in that game, (man of the match in these eyes), Niall Burke, James Regan and Conor Cooney also started, while Davy Glennon, Jonny Glynn and Joseph Cooney saw action.