Galway’s All-Ireland Series Preparation
Galway captain Seán Kelly acknowledges the upcoming challenges his team faces as they gear up for their All-Ireland series opener against Derry. Following a thrilling victory over Mayo in the Connacht final, Galway is now set to compete against tough opponents in a group that includes Derry, Armagh, and Westmeath.
Three Consecutive Connacht Titles
Despite not performing at their peak this season, Galway secured their third consecutive provincial title with a comeback win on May 5th. Kelly believes this victory can provide the team with the momentum needed for the remainder of the season.
Focus on the Future
Kelly reflects on the significance of their recent achievements but emphasizes the importance of looking ahead to the bigger challenges that lie ahead. He highlights the importance of maintaining their winning momentum and building on their recent success to face the upcoming hurdles.
Dealing with Pressure
After a challenging league campaign and a hard-fought victory over Sligo in the semi-final, Kelly admits that there was pressure on Galway to perform. The intense match against Mayo tested the team’s resilience, but a late rally and a crucial free kick secured their title defense.
Importance of Consistency
Kelly stresses the significance of consistency in performance, especially considering their past encounters with teams like Armagh and Mayo. The memory of previous exits serves as a motivation for the team to maintain their focus and deliver consistent performances.
Upcoming Challenge Against Derry
Galway is gearing up to face a well-rested Derry side, eager to make a statement in the upcoming match. Kelly acknowledges the strength of their opponents and the importance of securing a top seed to avoid additional challenges in the competition.
Managing Injuries and Building Resilience
Injuries to key players, including Kelly himself, have been a setback for Galway in the past. Kelly discusses the challenges of staying injury-free, highlighting the importance of understanding one’s body and building resilience to overcome such hurdles.