Mullane ready for Kilkenny challenge

Deise sharpshooter John Mullane is hoping to take another step this weekend in ending Waterford's record of 50 years without lifting the Liam McCarthy Cup.

He has insisted that the issue of a final drubbing at the hands of the reigning champions Kilkenny last September is not bothering the current squad.

Mullane has arguably been one of the main factors Davy Fitzgerald's side, one of the four remaining counties in the All-Ireland championship this season.

However, the De La Salle forward has already experienced disappointment this season in a final at Headquarters when his teammates came up short against Portumna in the AIB Club final decider.

Attending a promotional drive by championship sponsors Guinness, there was no evidence of any such memories haunting him in the run up to the repeat of the 2004 All-Ireland semi-final in which Kilkenny were victorious.