Eight-time All-Ireland winner Eoin Larkin talks about Kilkenny v Waterford, the inexperience of some Cats, the coming Deise side, Richie Hogan’s role, not being overly impressed by Galway against Tipperary, and people putting too much pressure on TJ Reid.
BY SHANE STAPLETON
Eight-time All-Ireland winner Eoin Larkin believes it is wrong for people to put pressure on TJ Reid to deliver in every game.
The Ballyhale Shamrocks star recently turned 33, and he continues to be the star man for his county.
He had a subdued performance in the Leinster SHC final against Galway, yet his goal late on in the game was crucial to the victory.
The four-time All Star will be the fulcrum of the attack once more in Saturday’s All-Ireland semi-final, with many believing that Waterford will station Calum Lyons on Reid.
“I think he’ll expect to be able to deliver but I think it’s wrong for people to put that pressure on his shoulders,” says Larkin.
“He’s going to be targeted; he’s probably the most talked-about hurler in the country this year barring Tony Kelly.
“Everybody is going to set up a plan to stop TJ Reid so it’s up to the other forwards to step up if he is held, and say ‘we need to do the business here’.”
Larkin almost talks about Richie Hogan’s role, why there may not be 70 minutes in the Danesfort man, and why this is Kilkenny’s best chance to win an All-Ireland.
He also discusses the inexperience in the Kilkenny team, the threats of Waterford, Limerick’s clash with Galway, and why Tipperary are an ageing team.
Fixtures (Saturday, unless stated)
All-Ireland SHC Semi-finals
Kilkenny vs Waterford, Croke Park, 18.00
Limerick vs Galway, Croke Park Sunday 16.00
Joe McDonagh Cup round 5
Meath vs Antrim, Pรกirc Tailteann, 13.00
Westmeath vs Carlow, TEG Cusack Park, Mullingar, 13.00
Lory Meagher Cup final
Fermanagh vs Louth, Croke Park, 15.30
