Evening Echo
by John Horgan
Wednesday, 28th July 2002

Two years ago one solitary point divided Newtownshandrum and Avondhu, the spoils of victory to the club side and new boss Tom Ryan will settle for the same margin when the two collide again in the permanent tsb Cork Co SHC semi-final at Pairc Ui Chaoimh next Sunday.

The former Limerick boss is enjoying life on the Cork, Limerick border and is delighted to be involved for the first time in the cut and thrust of Cork championship hurling.

"Yes, it's gone very well so far. Everybody has made me feel very welcome in Newtown and in Patsy Morrissey and Seanie Clifford, I have two excellent back-up people.

"Sunday will be a bit strange for Patsy as he was once involved with Avondhu but he's a Newtown man now through and through.

"This is going to be tough, very tough. Avondhu have a very strong tradition and they are going to present us with our toughest challenge this year.

"We have a big worry about Gerry O'Connor and Pat Mulcahy. Neither of them have trained since the Erin's Own match but as the week progresses I am hoping things will improve.

Ryan is delighted to have Donal Mulcahy and Ian Kelleher back again after a stint in Australia which gives him a few further options in team selection.

"It's great that they are back and they are in fine shape.

"I am happy enough with our form going into the game but we need to up the ante a bit in midfield. It wasn't too important in a tight pitch like Kilworth but in Pairc Ui Chaoimh it will be crucial.

"This is going to require a huge effort from everyone on Sunday. I thought the game might have been played in Buttevant but we don't mind going to Cork.

"We are doing nothing now but improving our hurling skills, trying to eradicate mistakes and I have a hands on approach at all times.

"The players, a lot of them, have tasted championship glory in 2001 and they want it again and I am only too delighted to be involved in helping them to achieve that goal.