Brian Lohan: 'We're really satisfied'
Clare manager Brian Lohan pictured ahead of the Allianz Hurling League Division 1B Final. Photo by Piaras Ó Mídheach/Sportsfile
By Cian O'Connell
Clare manager Brian Lohan is encouraged that his blend of emerging and established players captured the Allianz Hurling League Division 1B title.
A dynamic opening period display ensured Clare led 2-15 to 2-5 at the interval before the Banner had to deal with a determined Dublin revival. "It was a quick, tough game, a game of two halves with the strength of the breeze," Lohan reflected.
"We're happy to come out on the right side of it."
In the first half Clare's full forward line of Shane Meehan, Shane O'Donnell, and Mark Rodgers combined to score 2-13 between them. "We got a good foothold inside and we were dangerous - looked really dangerous inside," Lohan remarked.
"Dublin got to grips with that and we found it a lot harder to get scores in the second half."
Shane O'Donnell and Mark Rodgers were both forced off injured ahead of the intriguing April 19 Munster SHC opener against Waterford. "We will just have to see now, we've a big two weeks now in preparation for the Championship," Lohan says.
Ultimately, Lohan is happy with how the league unfolded for Clare. "We're really satisfied, happy with how the league worked out and we're approaching the Championship in the way we wanted to be.
"Maybe 36 or 37 players have played in the league for us. It is unusual that you'd be able to get so many guys game time in the league. So, we're delighted with that."
Waterford are next on the agenda. "We're really looking forward to it, now," Lohan replied. A crucial encounter beckons.
