Despite suggestions in some quarters that Kilkenny’s powers may be on the wane, Nicky English says the Leinster final second-half performance demonstrated why they are the still the best in the business.
The Cats’ bid for a provincial three-in-a-row looked to be in danger at half-time against Galway as Micheál Donoghue’s side led by three points after a strong opening 35 minutes at Croke Park.
Kilkenny however rallied after the break with Richie Hogan inspiring his team to yet another provincial title, Brian Cody’s 15th since taking charge, in a game that followed a similar pattern to last year’s All-Ireland final.
The reigning champions outscored the Tribesmen 1-16 to 0-09 after the interval and former Tipperary player and manager Nicky English believes that on that second-half showing, no team is capable of halting the Cats as they seek a 37th Liam MacCarthy Cup
“It’s ominous for all the teams really,” he told RTÉ Sport. “Kilkenny’s form in the second half was excellent.
“Up to this, you would say Waterford and Tipperary have a chance and the perception was that Clare had dropped off a bit. But on yesterday’s form, I’m not sure there is anybody - (based on) the second half particularly – out there who can beat them.”
Casting an eye on the second round of the qualifiers, English says he is eagerly awaiting the Munster derby between Clare and Limerick, and believes the history of the fixture will ensure a close contest.
“It’s always a 50/50 game regardless of how badly Limerick seem to be going.
“They got over Westmeath, they were poor against Tipperary. It’s a local derby and a huge history between the pair.
“It will be a real test for Clare if they are to get back to winning ways.”
The other game will see Cork, fresh from their narrow win over 14-man Dublin, and Wexford lock horns and English says both sides will have plenty to work on from their respective victories at the weekend.
“Wexford they got over Offaly, but I don’t think they were that impressive. Cork really struggled against Dublin.
“It’s a good chance for either of them to get through and reach a quarter-final, but there’s huge improvement needed from both teams.”
The round 2 clashes will be played on Saturday 9 July, with venues and times to be confirmed.
The winners of those will progress to face the provincial losers in Munster (either Waterford or Tipperary) and Leinster (Galway).
