Kilkenny Past and Present- The No.6 battle to decide today's IHC Final

It's not long now till the destination of the Hanrahan Cup and this year's Michael Lyng Motors Intermediate Hurling Champions is revealed as James Stephens and Danesfort get ready to lock horns in UPMC Nowlan Park later this afternoon.

The Village will be big favourites after already defeating their near neighbours in the league final but on a day like this is anything is possible so expect a cracking encounter.

Cian Kenny is the sole Kilkenny contributor on either team but with former star Paul Murphy on the opposition side in the exact same position at centre-back, it's a part of the field that will go a long way to deciding the destination of the title.

Kenny's class in being a two tie all-star nominee has shone through at length in the championship campaign thus far and it shows his character that he has taken the new role at no.6 in his stride with the Village management clearly seeing value in placing him at the heart of defence.

The 24-year old has quickly built himself up as one of the best midfielders in the country and while his attacking instincts have been curtailed somewhat, he still registered two points from play the last day out.

Kenny has grown into a leadership role with the Cats and he's brought that on even further with the club and if he's allowed to dictate matters, then Danesfort will be in a lot of bother.

His biggest test in the role comes this afternoon but the Village team management ticket of Eoin Larkin, Jackie Tyrrell and Matthew Ruth have all worn the t-shirt and they clearly see sense in placing their biggest asset at the heart of defence.

If Kenny is in any doubt about how to excel in the role, he's d need look no further than his opposite number today who has arguably had his best season in either club or county colours.

Paul Murphy is now at the ripe age of 36 and is four years away from Kilkenny duty but he's had a huge upturn in form that has played no small part in Danesfort reaching the county final.

The smartness and brain in a hurling sense has helped Murphy throughout his career and that's came to the fore now more than ever as the pace and speed in the legs lessens.

With Richie Hogan unavailable, the Armed forces leader has clearly taken it upon himseldf to drive the standards in the club and his on-field displays are eveidence of this.

Like his James Stephens opponent, today will tell a lot with his battle against Luke Scanlon a crucial match-up but whoever can get on top in that middle sector wil be well on their way to claiming top honours.

A battle and a game to saviour!