Team captain Kavanagh in fans tribute

Date Published: {J}

STEPHEN GLENNON

CAPTAIN Shane Kavanagh has paid tribute to the Galway supporters who undertook the arduous journey to Semple Stadium, Thurles for the late Sunday evening throw-in, insisting that the National Hurling League victory over Cork was not only their just reward for making the trip, but also for sticking by the team throughout the leaner times.

In all, 14,200 patrons turned out to see Galway and Wexford win the Division 1 and Division 2 titles respectively, although many still believe that the number of spectators could have been greater had the games been played earlier in the day or on the Saturday or Bank Holiday Monday.

“I am absolutely delighted for the supporters,” said Kavanagh, as he cradled the magnificent National League cup outside the Galway dressing-room afterwards. “They have been starved of silverware for the past number of years and now we have two trophies. I suppose, we are just not used to it.

“It was great though to see the supporters getting behind the team and I would commend everyone from Galway who made the journey down here. I know it wasn’t an attractive time for the game, but the Galway support was huge. When you get a score, and the crowd is willing you on, it gives everyone a great lift out on the pitch. So, I would just like to thank everyone who did come down to support Galway.”

Certainly, the supporters were given plenty to cheer and shout about, as John McIntyre’s charges set to work with surgical precision from the off and by half-time they had built up a comfortable lead of 2-12 to 1-11 playing into the wind.

It was a breathtaking opening half’s display from Galway, full of guile, steel, pace and skill. Goals from Damien Hayes and the inspirational Joe Canning – who finished with 1-5 from play – ensured the Tribesmen were in the ascendancy heading into the second period.

For more, read this week’s Galway City Tribune.