Kilkenny intermediates have been back in training for a number of weeks in preparation for the upcoming Suzuki National League. Kilkenny stand a great chance of reaching the final stages with games against Derry, Wicklow, and Antrim ahead, all of whom Kilkenny have accounted for in recent meetings.
Kilkenny’s toughest game could be the clash with current All-Ireland junior champions London. Kilkenny defeated London in the 2007 All-Ireland final but the emigrants had a second crack at the title in 2008 and took the West County Cup back to London. The sides were due to meet on February 1 as the opening national league game, in Dublin, as it was agreed two years ago that if London entered the league that their games would be played in Dublin so as not to put added expense on the home counties. However that decision was overturned in December and the four other counties in London’s group were to go into a draw to pick two teams which would have to travel. For some reason that draw was not made until last week and Kilkenny were one of the two counties who are now forced to travel to play in Ruislip. While this trip will be an invaluable experience for the team it will prove to be very costly on an already overburdened county board. Kilkenny immediately contacted the Ladies Gaelic Football Association and requested that the match be switched to March 7 which was a free weekend due to National Congress being held in Newry.
At this point the game is re-fixed for that Saturday at Ruislip, and the teams will be busy seeking funding to help with the expense of travel and accommodation as a one day trip has not proved possible. Paul Whelan will be hoping his charges can get down to the business of preparing for the match without the added headache of costs. A win in London will be hard earned but could secure a semi final spot if Kilkenny can overcome Derry in what will now be their opening game on February 15 in Derry, and Wicklow who will travel to Kilkenny on February 22. Kilkenny’s final game is against Antrim whom Kilkenny accounted for at the same stage last year in Belfast.
Should the Cats secure a late April semi final or final spot in the league there will be very few breaks in action with the Leinster championship taking place in April and May and the TG4 All-Ireland series starting in June. However a dedicated panel of 35 have been going through their paces in all weather conditions and are looking forward to what will be a very busy spring and summer.
