Clare Coll to arms in qualifiers
CLARE football manager Colm Collins is calling on his players to bounce back strongly in the qualifiers in the wake of the 22 point hammering by Kerry.
“The good thing about the qualifiers is that it gives you a chance to redeem yourself, and that’s what we’ll be hoping to do after our very disappointing display against Kerry last Sunday,” said Collins.
“Obviously a lot depends on what team you are drawn against, but we’ll be adopting a positive approach no matter who we are due to play.”
The draw for the second round of qualifiers is due to be made next Monday with the matches due to be played on June 23.
His options for the opening round of qualifiers look set to be increased with the return of full-back Kevin Hartnett and forward Sean Collins, his son.
Hartnett has been sidelined since last year’s qualifiers defeat to Mayo, having undergone a shoulder operation.
And a hamstring injury sustained in a game for his club, Cratloe, in April ruled Collins out of the Munster first round win over
Limerick and last Sunday’s defeat in Killarney.
“With an additional three weeks until the qualifiers game, both lads should definitely be ready to take some part in it,” said Collins.
Meanwhile, ahead of their first round qualifier clash with Meath this Saturday, Tyrone boss Mickey Harte has moved to strengthen his panel.
Stylish Dromore forward Ruairi Sludden has been called up as the Red Hands look set to be without Mark Bradley and Lee Brennan through injury for the trip to Navan at least.