A great result for Clare hurling

SATURDAY’S win was a great result for Clare hurling and one that will boost confidence considerably, according to selector Louis Mulqueen. “We were down a man for most of the second half and for the young lads to perform and win was crucial for Clare hurling,” he said.
“We started well this evening but they came at us. We didn’t get the ball in quickly enough in the first half. There was a wind there. In the second half we got the ball in quickly to the inside line. Confidence picked up. Nicky’s sending off inspired the lads to win. They lifted themselves.”
Mulqueen’ praised the commitment of the players. “These young lads have given everything, up at 5.30am to train. They have given everything they have been asked to. Fitness levels are high and the commitment level is high. They have a great passion for Clare, which is crucial. We had an 18-year-old tonight and we had three or four U-21s. The future of Clare was out there.
“Look at Kelly’s free, the confidence to go for it. It’s not just skill, they have got heart and we have to have that. Kelly’s goal lifted us. It’s a group and a team spirit. Eight or nine people didn’t tog this evening but they were in the dressing room driving people on. That’s what we are trying to bring back to Clare hurling,” Mulqueen added.
“Clare hadn’t won a game in nine championship matches and that’s what we had to break down. The win will bring the confidence on. The ifs and buts that we should have won against Waterford were put to bed tonight. The confidence from the win will help the team to go forward more. To be still playing in the championship is great for Clare hurling.
“We didn’t get the breaks against Waterford, we did tonight. These lads will do anything for the Clare jersey. The crest on the jersey is first into battle and last out and that’s what this new crop of players are trying to do. The youth is there and the blend is there. We did well in the league but we needed a break in the championship. Hopefully, the confidence of this win, our first in 10 championship games, will lift them,” concluded Mulqueen.