Kilkenny hurling manager Brian Cody has asked for patience after watching his side lose out to Galway in the Leinster Senior Hurling Championship.
The Cats saw their eight-game unbeaten run came to an end as the All-Ireland champions brushed aside their opponents in a 1-22 to 2-11 victory at Pearse Stadium.
But Cody believes the level of the current Galway side needs to be taken into account before his side are judged too harshly.
“We knew we were coming over here to face the All-Ireland champions – not just any team – with a lot of inexperience,” Cody said.
“It’s not going to be just automatic as you come along to be ready for this. It’s a learning process and it’s a huge education for a lot of lads there today.
“The reality is that they’re setting the standard right now and it’s a very high standard.
“Physically they’re a powerful team – they’re very strong – and that’s a great advantage for them. But obviously they’re top hurlers as well.
“But that’s their team and we have to concern ourselves with our team and try to get the maximum level out of the panel we have.”
Kilkenny have played three fixtures in the LSHC in the space of two weeks but will enjoy nearly two weeks off before their next game against Wexford.
And Cody feels his men will benefit from a much needed rest.
“There are no excuses but Galway are All-Ireland champions,” Cody said.
“They may have had some bit of an advantage playing here but the reality is they were better than us and that’s why we didn’t win the game.
“We’ll be happy that we don’t have a game next weekend and have that break for the following weekend.
“But that’s going to be a huge challenge as well. Galway play Wexford next week and that’s going to be a serious game. But we know we have a lot of work to do to get ready for it.”
Written by James Hopper
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