Windgap overcame The Emeralds in the Premier Junior Kilkenny Hurling Championship Semi-Final on Saturday. Windgap captain Niall Walsh and Detail Menswear Man of the Match Emmet Landy spoke to KCLR after the game.
Windgap stormed into the Kilkenny Premier Junior Hurling Championship final after a hard-fought 2-25 to 0-22 victory over Emeralds in a gripping semi-final encounter. The game, which saw Windgap outscore Emeralds 1-12 to 0-7 in the second half, was a testament to their resolve and tactical nous, particularly in the closing stages.
Emmet Landy, who played a pivotal role with an outstanding 15-point haul, was named the detailed menswear Man of the Match. Speaking after the game, Landy expressed satisfaction with the result but remained grounded about the team’s achievement. “No, absolutely nothing won yet,” Landy emphasized. “It was great to get that scoreline, but it was about getting the win. That’s what we wanted.”
The match was tightly contested up until halftime, with both teams giving little away. “We knew Emeralds would be tough—they always are,” Landy acknowledged. “They kept it tight, and we missed a few chances, but in the end, we got what we needed. It was never going to be easy.”
Niall Walsh, one of Windgap’s key performers, echoed Landy’s thoughts. “Happy to be back there in the final, but plenty to work on,” he said. Walsh also praised Landy’s contribution, noting, “Emmet always does it for us. He had 15 points, but it took us a while to get going in the first half.”
Windgap’s ability to capitalize on key moments was crucial. Their second goal, which came from a composed finish by Conor Doyle after some brilliant play by James Culleton of Windgap, was a turning point in the match. “That goal came at a crucial time,” Landy said. “Composure in front of goal was important, and we showed that today.”
The victory was built on a team effort, with several changes made towards the end that worked seamlessly. Landy praised the depth of the squad: “It’s so important this year. Every player that comes on makes us better, and that’s been a focus.”
Looking ahead to the final in two weeks, both players were keen to keep their feet on the ground. “Yeah, look, nothing won yet,” Walsh reiterated. “We’ll enjoy this win, but we know the real challenge is ahead.” Landy shared similar sentiments: “I can’t wait for the final, but we know we have to stay focused and keep improving.”
The Windgap supporters, who turned out in large numbers, played their part in lifting the team. “Always a big crowd, always good people,” Walsh commented on the atmosphere, showing appreciation for the fans’ unwavering support.
With the final just two weeks away, Windgap will relish this victory but remain aware that the ultimate prize is still within reach.
