Thomastown’s senior hurling team, under the guidance of manager Noel Doherty, is looking forward to competing in the St. Canice’s Credit Union Kilkenny Senior Hurling League Shield Final this weekend. The game is scheduled for Sunday at 12 p.m. in UPMC Nowlan Park, where Thomastown will take on Mullinavat.
Despite a narrow defeat to Dicksboro in their final league game last weekend, Doherty remains optimistic about his team’s position as they prepare for two significant challenges in the coming weeks. While the immediate focus is on the Shield Final, Thomastown is also gearing up for a crucial Kilkenny Senior Hurling Championship quarter-final, which is set for the weekend of September 28th and 29th.
Doherty acknowledged the mixed emotions in the camp following their recent loss but emphasized that the team’s competitive spirit and drive remain undeterred.
“We’re in a great position. We’re in a shield final, and you’re in a quarter-final of the championship,” Doherty said in an interview with KCLR. “But at the same time, these are a very competitive bunch. They’re disappointed at the result, they don’t like to lose matches. It will hurt a bit, but this is all about regrouping and now re-energizing and getting the house in order for the championship.”
Last year’s intermediate champions, Thomastown, have impressed in their transition to senior level, with this weekend’s Shield Final marking another milestone in their season. However, Doherty made it clear that while the Shield is important, their primary goal remains the championship.
For Thomastown, this weekend provides the perfect opportunity to fine-tune their performance ahead of the all-important quarter-final clash, with Sunday’s contest offering a chance to build momentum. A victory in UPMC Nowlan Park would undoubtedly lift spirits and reinforce their confidence as they shift focus to the knockout stages of the championship.
As Thomastown face Mullinavat, all eyes will be on whether they can channel their competitive nature and regroup after last weekend’s setback, as the club continues its journey through the senior ranks.
