Shane McGrath believes Joe Canning can be the difference for Galway against Kilkenny in their Leinster championship final replay in Thurles.
Both teams played out a 0-18 - 0-18 draw in Croke Park yesterday. Cody’s side rescued the game with three late scores.
McGrath says Michael Donohue’s All-Ireland champions have under performed in their seasons campaign. He believes the endeavour has been on point but they side haven't 100% clicked as a unit.
“I do feel Galway didn’t perform. On average coming into yesterday they were scoring 27 points a game. They scored 18 yesterday, the work rate was phenomenal by Kilkenny but it was phenomenal by Galway, too. The two best players on the field were the two full backs,' added McGrath.
The All-Ireland winner believes the Tribsemen haven’t been truly tested in this season defence of their title.
“Galway really haven’t had a test this year. They beat Kilkenny at their ease in Salthill. They beat Wexford at their ease in Wexford Park. They played Dublin in the equivalent of a challenge match.
McGrath went on to add that he believes this has been the champion’s first real test of the campaign. He says Joe Canning's progressing performances and fitness may be the deciding factor in the replay.
“This was their first real big test, and I think it will stand to them, a lot. I know Galway and Kilkenny both love playing in Thurles. Joe Canning was not fully right, and yesterday will stand to him. I just feel that might be the difference for Galway to tip them over the line, the next day.”
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