*Clare manager, Brian Lohan. Photograph: Gerard O’Neill
CLARE’S application and workrate was among the most pleasing aspects for senior hurling manager Brian Lohan as they began their league campaign with a three point win over Cork.
Overall, Clare manager Brian Lohan was happy with the team’s performance in the opening round of the Allianz hurling league on Sunday.
“Yes, I’m happy with the way we started the game. Then we kind of lost our way a little bit, conceded those two goals which were sloppy goals from our perspective especially when we had played so well in the first quarter”, the former All Star full back said shortly after the final whistle.
“To go in at half time only a point up was disappointing given that we had played so well. With the breeze to come it looked as if it was their game but fair play to our lads, they really put in a good shift, worked really hard all over the field and our midfield was really really good”, the manager stated.
Seadna Morey’s goal was an example of how well Clare used the ball, Lohan maintained. “Our use of the ball was excellent. As I said we are disappointed with the concession of the two goals and with not tracking the runners for those scores. The third quarter as vital, our attitude and desire to get forward was great and our midfield was really really good in the second half. We got the scoreboard working and they didn’t”.
He was clearly pleased with the side’s workrate which he noted “was really good particularly off the ball”.
The manager was also happy that they managed to give game time to a number of players who are new to the panel this year. “We wanted to see Sean Rynne and Gearoid Sheedy and both did really really well. We also got to see a couple of guys who have worked really hard for the last year, two years,. They got an opportunity to play and did really well”.
Continuing he said “we are just delighted with the squad we picked today, their application was brilliant”.
Heading to Waterford next week for their round 2 game he commented, “all games are really tough, it’s hard to win any game at this level”.
On the panel that will be available to Clare for their trip to Waterford, Brian said, “we have thirteen guys who will be in Fitzgibbon cup quarter final action this week. We will see how they get on. The schedule has been fine so far as most of our lads didn’t have college matches in mid week last week but it will be more difficult the coming week. We will just have to see how they are getting on. We are carrying a big panel at present”.
