Allianz League game at a glance- Kilkenny v Wexford

Main Man

Cian Kenny (Kilkenny)

It was match that Kilkenny could have easily won but Wexford won a lot of the tight matchups on offer and it was only really in midfield that the Cats had the upper hand with Cian Kenny and Kevin Blanchfield putting in big displays. Kevin is the oldest of the Blanchfield brothers and he can be happy with his league debut after previously playing with the Kilkenny footballers. In saying that he was still a bit overshadowed by his midfield partner who was appearing for the first time since going off with a hamstring injury against Carlow in the Walsh Cup. Kenny showed no ill-effects of that knock in a power packed performance. Elsewhere Jordan Molloy can be happy with his first appearance in the Kilkenny jersey while Billy Drennan turned the game when scoring two penalties off the bench.

Talking Point

Whatever it is about Wexford, they have certainly made it uncomfortable for Kilkenny in recent meetings. The Slaneysiders have failed to be defeated in seven of the last nine clashes between the teams. Kilkenny’s only outliers in that regard being the 2021 league and championship wins. Something to think about ahead of the Leinster Championship meeting later in the year.

Turning Point

Billy Drennan’s introduction definitely turned the tide a bit in the second half and the first penalty that he converted which arrived after Mossy Keoghan was fouled in the square helped the Cats retake the lead after Wexford initially looked to have gained control.

Highlight

It may have only been the first game but Sunday’s entertaining affair gives hope for a more competitive league this term.

Attendance

8,224

What’s Next

Cork and Kilkenny will both be looking for a first league win when they meet in Pairc Ui Chaoimh on Saturday night (7.30pm). Wexford will look to maintain their unbeaten start when facing Offaly at home earlier in the evening.