Midleton boss Michael Keohane on the impact S&C coach Stephen Casey is having in East Cork

MIDLETON were involved in a thrilling Red FM hurling clash against Éire Óg before prevailing 2-16 to 0-19 at the weekend with manager Michael Keohane satisfied with his team's display over the hour.

“It was a tough second half and when you're not awarded a solitary free it made our task a little harder but look the lads managed to get over the line with a gritty display."

The adage that goals wins came to fruition on this occasion.

“Goals are crucial in the majority of games and I am happy with that side of our game but for me, the lads that played Intermediate on the eve of this clash and still maintained their intensity is testament to the commitment in the camp.

Having a good strength conditioning coach is crucial and Keohane paid tribute to the man in his department, former Cork, Blackrock and Blarney S&C expert Stephen Casey.

“We have Steve Casey and the lads are in great condition under him and to play a full game last night and another this evening is testament to his commitment.” Looking at the Midleton squad, they have a huge pick with healthy competition for places.

All the players are great to work with and you are taking about a squad of 60 players and even our players that are involved with various Cork panels attend some our training sessions and that’s testament to the commitment of those lads.

“We have players from junior and intermediate squads and there is not a whole lot between many of them and the competition for places is great.” 

Last year Midleton lost the final to Sarsfields and now they are determined to go one better.

“Look we were naturally disappointed but you soon realise there is no use dwelling on it and now we are planning to make another bold for championship honours.” 

This season Midleton are in the same group as Charleville, Kanturk and Erin’s Own and Keohane believes its going to test the credentials of his team.

“We are pitted against three excellent teams with Erin’s Own having defeated top teams over the years and obviously Kanturk who knocked us out a couple of years ago with some quality players.

“Looking at Charleville they are also a progressive side and I recently took in their league game against Sars and they looked extremely sharp.

“Getting out of this group will not be easy but that’s the beauty of this championship as you know your destiny is in your own hands at the start of the campaign." 

The present format of the championship was complimented by the Midleton chief.

“I think it’s a great system and a great championship and as we see over the years the majority of the games are competitive and one we are keenly looking forward to in the coming months."