*Conor Cleary. Photograph: Gerard O’Neill
CLARE’S response to the first round loss to Tipperary has been one that fills full-back Conor Cleary with a sense of pride.
When they shipped a five point defeat to the Premier County in Cusack Park in April, many clouds began to form over the Clare senior hurling cause. They have since parted following back to back wins over Limerick and Waterford.
Cleary expected a stiff test from Waterford managed by Sixmilebridge’s Davy Fitzgerald who called the Miltown Malbay native onto the county panel in 2014. “We knew coming down that Waterford would be good and of course Davy would know us so well. Anyone that’s ever been involved with Davy knows it’s a professional set up. They were very organised and we got a lucky break with the sending off but we did push on in the end”.
Speaking to The Clare Echo, Conor outlined that they felt a duty to respond after that defeat to Liam Cahill’s Tipperary in Ennis. “We were very disappointed after the first day. We had to respond and now with those two away wins we have put ourselves in a healthy position. We are one match away from the Munster Final”.
Conor who plays his club hurling with Kilmaley, standing out as one of their key players at centre back over the past decade is relishing the test that awaits them this weekend when Cork come to town.
“Munster matches are always even battles. Thankfully it’s in our own hands. We know that Cork are very good and it’s knockout hurling really now and we love that. Knockout hurling brings out the best in us. We know that it’ll be tough but we will be in Cusack Park and we love Ennis. Our supporters will be in full voice”.
