*Diarmuid Stritch is congratulated by Tommy Galvin. Photograph: Ruth Griffin
AS FAR as starting championship debuts go, Diarmuid Stritch had as close to a dream showing for Clare’s senior hurlers.
Coverage in association with McKeoghs Hardware, Ballina-Killaloe
Positioned at midfield alongside Ryan Taylor from the off in Saturday’s eleven point win over Tipperary, Diarmuid hit an impressive six point return from the centre of Semple Stadium.
Having impressed in Division 1B of the Allianz National Hurling League, Stritch had certainly proven his ability to make the starting team but when the opportunity presented itself in the heat of championship he grabbed the chance with both hands.
His star quality has been evident both at senior level for his club and at underage level for the county. Already he is proving to be very popular among supporters who flocked to the man with the golden locks following Saturday’s game.
Securing the win and getting back in contention was the most important outcome, regardless of personal displays, he pointed out. “I’m just delighted to get the win, that is the most important thing, we came here to get the win and that is what we did”.
Speaking to The Clare Echo, he admitted he was taken aback to be starting in Thurles. “I was absolutely delighted, I didn’t expect it but I got the chance and I’m happy out”.
Surrounds Semple Stadium certainly suited his pace and led to him clocking six points, half of this tally coming in a remarkable 105 second scoring blitz. “Thurles is a fantastic venue, it is a joy to play here”.
It was essential for Clare to bounce back following their 2-30 1-18 loss to Limerick, the Clonlara clubman noted. “We wanted to deliver a response down here after the Limerick game, we weren’t going to come down here and let them brush past us especially after the Limerick game so we got the result and job done”.
Having represented Clare in last year’s U20 Munster final to see the side get over the line on Wednesday against Tipperary served as a massive lift for the senior side. “It was a huge boost, everyone was watching it and when we came into training the next day that is all anyone was talking about. Brian mentioned the fight they produced throughout the game and especially in penalties so they definitely drove us on”.
Offering further comfort was the return to the first fifteen of his clubmate, John Conlon. “He would be guiding me from playing with the club and everything, I’m well used to the words he does be saying to me, he is always a huge help and everyone else like David McInerney, Tony (Kelly), Shane O’Donnell and Ian (Galvin), it is great to have people like that alongside you”.
Focus has immediately switched to Cork where an away win by a margin of four points married with Limerick beating Tipperary would tee up a Munster final pairing of Clare vs Limerick. “All roads lead to Cork,” the UL student grinned.
