Gavin Keary content with Galway's start to Leinster U20 Hurling Championship
GAVIN Keary could have picked a far less-hostile day to make his debut as an inter-county team manager than in a wind-and rain-lashed Portlaoise on Saturday.
But the former Loughrea midfielder wasn't unduly perturbed by the weather, focusing on the positives of a big Galway win over Wexford in the trying conditions at O'Moore Park.
The U-20/21 grade had not been a happy hunting ground for the county over the past 15 years which means Keary and his management are not under serious pressure in their first year in charge, even if this Galway team look capable of having a big say in the championship.
“I'm really happy with the result given the conditions. The pitch was in great nick, but the wind was treacherous. Delighted to get away with the win but disappointed with a couple of injuries.”
Keary said they removed Galway senior Jason Rabbitte at half-time as a precaution due to a tight hamstring; while defender Sean Murphy damaged a shoulder in the opening half. “He made a brave block and was having a great game up to that point.”
He praised the attitude of player-of-the-match Aaron Niland after returning from the senior squad. “He arrived in and was just so professional in everything he did.”
The Galway manager admitted Wexford didn’t help their cause with so many wides. “The wind was swirling and it was difficult for both teams. We are happy to be up and running and the focus now is to build on today's result,” added Keary.