The first Sunday in September has arrived and as always two of Hurling's juggernauts will battle it out for, the most coveted prize in Hurling, the Liam McCarthy.
Galway will be hoping to finally get the Monkey off their back as they take a second crack at Kilkenny this year, losing the Leinster final in June.
The expectation in Galway is quiet confidence, knowing that if things go their way and Joe canning produces a masterclass that Liam will be making the trip accross the Shannon. The expectation and pressure on the Portumna man's shoulders is greatly reduced this year. He ial point of their attack but now he is the creator and not the finisher.
Canning has been greatly aided by the youthful trio Conor Whelan, Jason Flynn and Cathal Mannion this season but they face unlike no other when they come up against Cats backline. Paul Murphy has been the epitomy of consistency and has nullified his marker time again, if Galway can use their pacy forward line to their advantage then scores will come.
TJ Reid and Richie Hogan have stepped up to the plate after retirements of many marquee names. Hogan, last year player of the year, has become pivotal in Kilkenny's game plan. When he is on song Kilkenny win. If Galway want to come out on top one or both must be shut out of the game. Expect them to man-mark both Hogan and Reid.
Galway's hunger this year in incredible but their touch and striking has been a joy to watch. Galway have the tools to beat Kilkenny provided they show up. They know they are capable of beating Kilkenny but, would you bet against Kilkenny in an All ireland final?
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