Micheal Donoghue celebrates following the 2017 All Ireland SHC Final win against Waterford.
By Cian O'Connell
Galway manager Mícheál Donoghue is relishing the challenge of playing four Leinster Senior Hurling Championship matches in five action packed weeks.
At Bord Na Mona O'Connor Park Galway commence the defence of their provincial and All Ireland crowns against Offaly, who showed significant signs of improvement in the Allianz Hurling League.
Donoghue acknowledges that it will be interesting to see how teams adapt to the new format. "Yeah, that is what is going to be really intriguing about it," Donoghue admits.
"Talking to the other managers it is uncharted waters for everyone, it is something we are all looking forward to - seeing how it goes. Look it is going to be challenging.
"You get the opportunity to play every team in the provincial Championship, obviously from our own perspective getting two home games is massive.
"We had massive support last year from our supporters and a massive connection with them so it is great this year that they get the opportunity to see two home games. I'm sure they will be two sell outs."
That will help to grow the game in the west as Galway haven't hurled at home in the Championship since a 2011 Qualifier win over Clare.
"Absolutely, that is the biggest thing," Donoghue replies. "We've got huge reaction after winning it last year so having the home games will enhance that even further."
Micheal Donoghue celebrates following the 2017 All Ireland SHC Final win against Waterford.
Galway suffered defeats to Limerick and Wexford in their last two Allianz League encounters, but Donoghue feels they are ready for the summer tests now.
"I mentioned towards the start of the League that we were a bit behind in terms of our preparation - similar to last year we obviously wanted to progress as far as we can, to get as close to the Championship," Donoghue says
"We were a bit disappointed to be out when we did. Obviously it gave us an opportunity to go back to the training ground, to work hard.
"For the last number of weeks we've had two rounds of Club Championship which has been good for the lads as well. We will work hard and we are looking forward to May 12."
Having impressed so much in 2017, Donoghue acknowledges that other outfits will be keen to examine themselves against Galway.
"I think it’s all of that," Donoghue says. "Number one, respect. In terms of teams, when you’re playing the top team of course you’re going to raise your game, and want to knock them off.
"We’re well aware there is a target on our back, but we’re working with a group that’s highly motivated, that’s taken a lot of confidence from last year, and they’re a bunch that really want to push on again this year.
"It kicks on from the 12th against Offaly, so that’s the one we’re focusing on now."
