Clare Under 21 Captain Paul Flanagan says the journey to back to back All Ireland Under 21 Titles began back in 2010.
Last night the youngsters in Saffron and Blue overcame Antrim by a comprehensive 2-28 to 0-12 to bring the Cross of Cashel Trophy back to the banner county for the third time in four years.
Ballyea’s Paul Flanagan says hard work has brought their ambition through
Meanwhile, Clare Joint Manager Donal Maloney says it’s important we need to make the most of the success in Clare hurling when it comes.
This victory is the first step in a possible All Ireland double for the county as the Seniors prepare for their All Ireland final replay against Cork in less than 2 weeks time. A squad which now includes 14 All Ireland winning Under 21’s.
Donals co-manager Gerry O’Connor took a moment after the game last night to appreciate the young support that was on show in Semple Stadium.
Officials expected an attendance of about 4,000, but over 11,000 filed through the turnstiles in Semple Stadium, forcing the ground to open up the second stand and the terraces.
O’Connor commended the players for spending over an hour signing autographs on the pitch after the game, but also stressed that it’s important that swell of support is harvested to develop Clare hurling success into the future.
We’ll have post match reaction on Clare FM Sport across the day, and post match interviews in full on The Final Whistle from 5:30 with Lisa Lawlor.