Leinster SHC- Main Talking Points

MAIN MAN

John Donnelly (Kilkenny)

The Thomastown man produced arguably his best ever display in the Kilkenny jersey as he knocked over seven points from play as well as playing a pivotal role in a number of other scores. Elsewhere Eoin Cody returned from injury to score 1-3 while there were other big performances from Mossy Keoghan, Cian Kenny and David Blanchfield.

TURNING POINT

Eoin Cody’s goal in the 69th minute was the defining moment in Saturday’s game as up to that point it was nip and tuck and the result could have gone either way and Dublin will definitely feel like they left at least a point behind them in the windup.

HIGHLIGHT

Regardless of the way some of their performances have transpired, Kilkenny are now assured of at least third spot in the group and a place in the All-Ireland series with a game to spare. For a good portion of the second half in Parnell Park, that didn’t look like a realistic prospect so the Cats will be content that their season is still very much alive.

LOWLIGHT

Kilkenny’s conversion rate is still a little lower than they’d hope and improvement is still needed in this area.

TALKING POINT

This wasn’t vintage Kilkenny or anything like it, but the way the team dug in and kept battling away will have been very pleasing for Derek Lyng especially the way they performed against Carlow a week earlier.

WHAT NOW?

The last round of games take place simultaneously on Sunday at 2pm. Kilkenny face Wexford at UPMC Nowlan Park while Dublin’s qualification prospects will be on the line when they travel to Pearse Stadium in Salthill to face Galway.

ATTENDANCE

7,000 approx