Clinton Hennessy
A note for Eoin Kelly: don’t worry, your 21-metre free taking slot will be there for you to re-assume when Davy Fitzgerald hands you a starting jersey.
That was the message delivered by Waterford goalkeeper Clinton Hennessy following his goalscoring contribution during Sunday’s four-point defeat to Tipperary.
The Ardmore goalkeeper produced a tremendous all-round display, with two top class saves denying Tipperary green flaggers during a period in the game when the visitors were firmly in the ascendancy.
Cutting the profile of a man who has worked hard on his fitness during the close season, what did Hennessy make of his own goalscoring contribution: might he make a habit of it?
“Ah, it’s a long run up,” he said, a grin breaking across his face as he spoke to TG4’s Micheál O Domhnaill. “I’d say now when Eoin Kelly and Ken McGrath come back they’ll be taking it back [off me].”
The new men in Deise colours could be happy with their respective contributions, Hennessy felt.
“I thought they did very well. Every one of the lads tried very hard in difficult conditions so we’ve got to be happy with the new lads; I say they’re happy enough themselves, disappointed not to win of course, but happy with their performances.”
He added: “Sure it’s great to be back hurling. We’re only thinking about what’s in front of us now. Looking back isn’t going to do anything for anybody so we’ve just got to knuckle down now…
“Every game is important. All you can do is take things one game at a time. We’ll try to win every game and get some experience in for the new lads in playing big games.
“We’ll keep plugging away, try and win as many games as possible and see how it goes from there.”
