Like father like son, the tradition lives on as strong as ever in the great Ballyhale Shamrocks team. It’s a real family affair on the senior hurling team. Especially with Michael Fennelly senior managing the troops and sons Michael and Colin leading them on the field. Another strong tradition for the Shamrocks is their winning tradition.
They have already achieved their four in a row dream and have beaten their Leinster rivals Oulart The Ballagh in a close contest. They now face Ballyboden St Enda’s in the provincial semi-final this Sunday, at Nowlan Park.
Speaking to the Kilkenny Advertiser Michael Fennelly senior has put the battle wth Oulart behind him and recognises it as good experience “We knew it was going to be a tough battle especially as our lads hadn’t got the break Oulart had. Our champioship games were too close together and the lads were tired.” He added “we were certainly glad of the late point sending us to added time. It was too close a contest with only three points in it at the end and this has taught us a lot ahead of this Sunday.”
Speaking of this weekend Michael rates Dublin side Ballyboden St Enda’s tough contenders. “We are expecting a great battle, they are after winning their third county final and have plenty of young but experienced players on their side. In saying that we know full well what we’re up against.” he said.
With the four in a row behind them and victories galore the hunger is as strong as ever. “The lads are very hungry, initially it took some coaxing back onto the field after the club championships but their dedication is unbeatable. Those lads were back training on the Tuesday after winning their four in a row.”
With a clean bill of health for all his players Michael is very hopeful for this Sunday. “There was a few niggly injuries during the week, but they are all sorted now ahead of Sunday. We will battle to the very end and will throw everything at Ballyboden.” Throw in for this Sunday’s game is at 2.30pm in Nowlan Park.
