Woodlock optimistic that Tipp can rally against Clare

Former Tipperary midfielder James Woodlock says it’s time for the county’s hurling supporters to fully unite behind the senior team as they attempt to qualify for the business end of the Munster Championship.

In their last four competitive games Tipperary have lost the League final, lost to Limerick in the first round of the Munster Championship, and drawn with Cork - after trailing by nine points at the interval, then tying with Waterford after being 11 points down with 15 minutes left.

But a win over Clare this weekend could steer their ship in the right direction.

In that stormy period – before their heroic comeback against Waterford the Rebels – the team was slated by the public and analysts for their apparent demise.

Woodlock was not surprised at what he heard. Now he feels that strength of unity might see the county through to the All-Ireland series.

“I’ve been there myself so it’s no shock to me,” he says.

“Whatever it is about the hurling people in Tipp we tend to be very hard on our players.

“I have been in dressing-rooms where players have been affected by what was said about them. But I can honestly say that most hurlers ignore what is being said about them.

“I know the current lads will get their motivation from within. They are the ones putting in all the hard work and they know what they have to do to progress in the championship.

“For the past few weeks I’ve had to listen to people saying that half the team is finished. Their legs are gone. Too old. On the road too long. All of that can affect players but I would hope it is going over the lads’ heads. I think they have shown what the jersey means to them.”

 

For more, pick up a copy of this weeks Nenagh Guardian or subscribe to our e-paper