Kilkenny ladies return to inter county action this Sunday in the opening round of the TG4 All-Ireland series. Last year’s junior champions Antrim visit Bennetsbridge and will be determined to make their mark at intermediate level.
Kilkenny and Antrim clashed in the 2007 National league with the Cats claiming a two point win however in the 2009 league the northerners reversed that result at Nowlan Park. Antrim had a good league campaign this year and were unlucky to lose out to Limerick at semi final stage but will have to up the ante for their first year at intermediate level in the championship. The Cats have been preparing well and if firing on all cylinders will make Antrim’s long journey a difficult one.
Aine Sheehy is a tower of strength in goal while Angela Kenneally who was named in the Division 4 Team of the league can be relied upon to pull the strings at midfield. Jenny Reddy and Orla McCormick can be relied upon to grab the all important scores but Antrim have plenty of firepower in Claire Timoney and Mairead Cooper both heroines of their All-Ireland victory last September.
Claire Timoney and Caroline Kelly were named alongside Angela Kenneally on this year’s Division 4 team of the League and will have to be well marshalled if the Cats are to get their third year at intermediate level off to a winning start. Throw in at Bennetsbridge on Sunday is at 3pm.
