Brian Cody sets sights on ‘step-up’ against Wexford

Kilkenny 4-18 Westmeath 0-18: A flood of early goals helped Kilkenny cruise to a 12-point Walsh Cup win in Mullingar yesterday, setting up a semi-final clash with Wexford next weekend.

Kilkenny were never in any danger of losing game as they commanded a 3-5 to 0-2 lead within 14 minutes, although Westmeath battled back in the second half and picked off some nice scores in a creditable performance.

Kilkenny manager Brian Cody was satisfied with the win but was eagerly looking forward to the next contest, saying, “We got a lead early on and had a cushion from the start. We didn’t drive on as much as we could have. But it is only the second game of the year and we have another game next Sunday against Wexford. It certainly wasn’t an easy game, but next Sunday will be a step up.”