Positive Breffni mood ahead of All-Ireland showdown with Clare

By Michael McMullan

THERE has been a “very positive” mood in the Cavan camp during their two-week training window ahead of their All-Ireland Junior Camogie Championship quarter-final showdown this weekend says Emma Mulvaney.

The Breffni blues take on unbeaten Clare (Clane 3pm) after last weekend’s quarter-final draw.

It’s the Castletara player’s second year on the panel after representing the county since u-14 level.

“Camogie in Cavan is going really well and there are so many young players coming up the ranks that are pushing everyone on,” said Mulvaney, who was also crowned Ulster Poc Fada champion this season.

The Breffni’s league season was a mixed bag in Division 2A with defeats to Derry and Meath who are operating at intermediate championship level, but Mulvaney feels Cavan embraced the challenge.

“Playing against tougher teams like that improved us so much as players and as a whole unit,” she said.

“Playing games like that improved our skill level and our work rate. We knew that we had to get to that standard to compete well in the Junior championship and I have to say we did very well.”

Cavan were winners over Wicklow in their first game before falling 3-14 to 1-9 at home to group winners Tipperary.

“The girls have really pushed on and the intensity and mindset at training the last two weeks has been strong,” Mulvaney said of how Cavan parked their defeat.

“We are ready for the game on Saturday and hopefully come out with a win.”

It’s a busy time with the All-Ireland Poc Fada finals on the horizon next month after taking the Ulster title.

“I am just practising hitting the ball as far as I can and I’m looking forward to going up to the Cooley mountains,” she added

“The facilities in my home club in Ballyhaise are so useful for practising. The Ulster Poc Fada in Glenarm was such a good experience overall and the atmosphere all around was great.

“I met so many excellent camogie girls and hurlers there. It was a great day out and to come out with a win made it sweeter.

“The competition was tight for both the camogie ladies and the hurlers. It’s great seeing people competing in competitions like this and makes it that much better.

“The future is bright for Cavan camogie and I’m looking forward to the rest of the season and playing the sport that we love with the best teammates.”