Hand happy to
SLIGO hurling manager Daithí Hand said he was pleased with his side’s opening league encounter when they defeated Lancashire at home in Markievicz Park on Saturday.
Sligo are a very young side with a number of starters aged just 18 on Saturday.
The manager said it was great to get the win as it builds them up nicely for their away trip to Fermanagh in 2 weeks time.
“It is really good to get the win, we’re delighted, especially when we have such a young side.
“Eoghan Rua McGowan is only 18 as is Gavin Connolly who is our wingback so that’s very young but it’s great to get them blooded in games like these.
“It was a good start but we have a lot of work yet to do and we will be ready for the next one now in two weeks.”
He did admit Lancashire are a very good side. “In fairness to Lancashire they were missing one of their best players, Ronan Crowley who is maybe a threetime All-Star.
“He was out and he is from Cork and was with them up until U21s so that’s how experienced he is, so they were missing him.
“Lancashire are a good side but I think our fitness levels were that bit better on the day, thanks to Aoife Clancy and Sean, they’ve done a great job.
“Fermanagh now will be very physical, it will be a dogfight and we are expecting very physical games. Fermanagh have some big men, like Leitrim and they will be itching to have a go at us.
“Cavan beat them at the weekend so if they have any chance of getting to the league final, they will have to beat us. It will be a massive game. Another big positive for us was the return of Kevin Banks after illness, it’s huge,” he added.