Kilkenny Minors looking for big support ahead of home All-Ireland Final
Kilkenny hurling fans have been urged to show their support this weekend as the county minor hurlers go in search of All-Ireland final glory.
With the Cats all set to take on old rivals Tipperary in the race for the Irish Press Cup, the call has gone out to supporters to pack out UPMC Nowlan Park for Saturday’s big game.
“It’s great to have the final in Nowlan Park,” said minor manager Niall Bergin in the build-up to the big game. “Hopefully we’ll have a very big crowd there to support the lads. They are a great young side and it would be brilliant to have a big Kilkenny contingent in the Park. It would really add to the spectacle.”
Kilkenny are seeking to win their first All-Ireland at this grade in 10 years - Darragh Joyce captained the Cats to their last triumph, a 2-17 to 0-19 win over Limerick. Having that opportunity, and on their home turf, is something Bergin is hoping will inspire the current side.
“The last time Kilkenny won a minor All-Ireland was back in 2014,” Bergin added. “At the start of the season if you had said to our lads that they would have the chance to end a 10-year drought and win an All-Ireland on their home pitch they’d jump at it.”
Having a big home crowd behind the team would be a huge boost to the minors, but it could also provide plenty of inspiration for future generations of county players.
“Having this team playing a final in Nowlan Park will hopefully inspire the next generation of players to go on and pull on the black and amber jersey at development squad level and then progress through the levels,” said Bergin.
“That’s how it works - the wheel keeps turning - so hopefully we’ll get a big crowd out to cheer them on.”
Anticipation for Saturday’s final has been building in the county, with former Kilkenny stars lending their support to the cause.
“To win an All-Ireland medal at minor level is very difficult,” said former senior captain Michael Fennelly. “You might only get one opportunity to do so. We’re hoping these boys will be able to claim their first All-Ireland medal but we need huge supporters from our supporters this weekend. Get your ticket, wear the black and amber and drive these lads on here on our home turf this Saturday.”
Tickets for Saturday’s game are on sale via ticketmaster, with admission €20 for adults, €15 for students/OAPs and €5 for juveniles.