Defining game for Erne hurlers

By Pauric McGurn

AFTER his side’s victory on Sunday afternoon against Longford in Kinawley, Fermanagh manager Joe Baldwin is turning his attention to “another defining game” as they prepare to take on Monaghan.

Longford were marginally the better side in the opening half and went in leading by one point at the break, 1-6 to 0-10.

The second half saw Fermanagh take the lead and although Longford replied impressively it was the home side who scored the last two points of the game to win by three after eight minutes of additional time.

The victory sees them go into Sunday’s game against Monaghan in buoyant mood but Baldwin knows it will be another massive test.

“It’s a local derby and it’s another two points on offer. It’s also another defining game; a win here can really push us further towards a league final and that certainly is the goal.”

One player that really stood out for Fermanagh on Sunday was Conor McShea and for now Baldwin is happy to have him in the squad.

“Conor is just fantastic, he has a brilliant temperament, his ability is just surreal and he is a fine sportsperson at either hurling or football.

“He is for Perth, Australia down the line, he will be a loss for us surely but for now we love having him in the squad.

“I once classed Sean Corrigan as a Rolls Royce player, Conor McShea is a Ferrari!”

Fermanagh’s squad depth was tested on Sunday but the rule for taking in players certainly helped with Castlewellan’s Dara Rodgers and Ballycastle’s Feargal McKiernan both impressing in the green jersey.

“It has worked well for us,” said the Erne manager. “The two lads are working in construction in Fermanagh, so it was perfect for them as well. They bring so much to the team and they have came in and done brilliantly.”

Baldwin is hopeful more bodies will be back in time for the Farney test though.

“Danny Teague is still injured, Francie McBrien has been just hectic with NIE and missed Sunday’s game due to work, Jimmy Tormey should be back while Tom Keenan sadly missed the Longford game due to his aunt’s funeral and we send condolences to his family.

“JP McGarry and Dannan McKeogh are both long-term injuries – but look all teams are tested with injuries and so too Fermanagh.”