Home victory and prominence of younger players pleases Liam Cahill

Following Tipperary's hard-fought victory over Wexford in the National Hurling League at FBD Semple Stadium, manager Liam Cahill expressed his satisfaction with the win.

In a post-match interview, Cahill stressed the significance of starting the year with a win on home turf.

“I’m seething with delight with the win,” Cahill said, acknowledging the importance of the first home game of the season.

“It was great to see young kids out on the field getting autographs from their heroes. We were very conscious all week of Wexford coming up with a big performance, and they certainly brought that.”

The match proved to be a tightly contested affair, with Tipperary managing to secure a narrow victory. Cahill noted the resilience of his squad, particularly in defense, where players like Eoghan Connolly and Breen stood out.

“Our defense was really good today. There are lots of positives, even though some parts of our play were a bit sloppy,” he added. “That contributed to handing the initiative to Wexford at certain stages, but the effort from everybody was commendable.”

Cahill also highlighted the potential of the younger players stepping up as he referenced the Harty cup triumph by Thurles CBS on Saturday afternoon.

“Things are really starting to come to the fore here in Tipperary,” he said highlighting the great work going on in schools across Tipperary.

Recent winners have stepped up to his team already. Darragh McCarthy was part of a Harty winning team last year while Oisin O'Donoghue had been part of the successful Cashel Community School team that won the Harty Cup two years ago.

“It’s great to see young fellows like Oisin performing at this level. We’re looking to the future and giving these guys the exposure they need,” he explained.

Despite the match not reaching its highest level of intensity, Cahill was pleased that his team managed to maintain a lead at halftime.

“We weren’t in our full flow, which speaks to Wexford’s competitiveness,” he noted. “But being four points up at halftime was a big plus for me. It’s about building small building blocks as we go.”

Looking ahead, Cahill acknowledged the challenge of facing Limerick in the upcoming league fixture, a match that would provide insight into where his team stands as they prepare for the Munster Championship.

“Limerick will be a massive challenge, and we’re aware of their intensity. But it’s a great opportunity for our young players to learn and develop,” he said.

With the squad facing a couple of soft tissue injuries from the previous weekend, Cahill is optimistic about having a fit team ready for the clash in the Gaelic Grounds.

“Whoever can train well during the week will be in contention. We’re excited about the opportunity ahead,” he concluded.

As Tipperary continues to build momentum in the league, Cahill’s focus on youth development and maintaining a strong defensive unitis his approach for the upcoming battles of the season.

The first is next Sunday against Limerick where a sterner test awaits.