Hurling and getting the job done
terms of physical fitness and tactics, the lads have made it easy, the attitude surperb, an appetite for success driving them on in both codes.”
Perhaps one of the growing strengths of Kanturk is the diversity of its panel, no longer placing a total reliance on the influence of elder statesmen Anthony Nash, Lorcán McLoughlin and Aidan Walsh.
“Aidan plays despite carrying an injury from football, the county players remain pivotal, that said a number of young players have stepped up a notch. Importantly, there is great unity within the camp, everybody going along the same road,” said Duane.
Out on the field, Kanturk have reached their first final thanks to an unbeaten with creditable performances delivered.
“It was important to obtain the 1st round win and avenge a previous loss to Castlelyons. Three months later, we got over a formidable Charleville outfit, playing the same opposition a few weeks later was a bigger task in a quarter final, again digging in to get the job done,” said Duane.
“Ballinhassig proved difficult in the semi final, they brought physicality and their workrate was phenomenal. We struggled for a spell but the true testament to our fitness surfaced, grounding out a win in a never say die performance,” he said.
With Kanturk advancing to two county finals and a significant involvement in both codes, Kanturk had just seven days to focus properly on the hurling final.
“It may be frustrating for some but the club is in a great position to be contesting two county finals. Look at Bandon last season, a winning momentum benefited both codes and within a small group, it keeps the confidence, attitude and hunger right,” said Duane.
The Kanturk manager admits his side faces their biggest challenge in Saturday night’s decider and is well aware of Mallow’s potential.
“We saw part of their semi final against Cloyne, a big physical team, very direct, strong on the ball. Mallow have been knocking on the door for some time, its a big ask for us, but there is a prize at stake and an extra bonus of elevating to senior ranks,” he said.
“Everybody is aware of the battle that lies ahead, its an hour’s hurling and about getting the job done.”