Hurlers going for allireland title

Meath hurlers will step on to the big stage on Saturday when they run out at Semple Stadium, Thurles for the All-Ireland u-21 HC B final against Wicklow at 5.15 with Trim's James Andrews leading the way as captain.

The B final is the curtainraiser for the eagerly-awaited u-21 decider between Limerick and Wexford which will attract a huge crowd to the venue and should add to the atmosphere from early in the second-half as Limerick and Wexford supporters start to assemble for that game.

Expect a solid perofrmance from Meath as they face a Wicklow side that will feel they have a realistic chance of success also.

Meath negotiated Kerry and Mayo on the way to to the final while Wicklow got the better of Kildare and Roscommon.

Meath manager Philip O'Brien took the role some two months ago after the Co Board was uanble to get any expressions of interest when they south nominations in the usual way. His selectors are Ken McKenna and
Pierce Treacy.

'Meath hurling needs a team in an All-Ireland final, it could leave hurling in the county in a good position for the next few years,' stated the manager.

Meath's appearance in the final is timely after recent comments by former Meath footballer Gerry McEntee, that there should be no hurling in Meath, comments made during his presentation of a Strategic Football Plan to club officials.

The Meath team is - Charlie Bird (Boardsmill); David Conneely (Kildalkey), Luke Rickard (Kildalkey), Colm McGrath (Trim); Conor O'Shea Dunderry), Sean McGrath Dunboyne), Eamon Ryan (Kiltale); Luke Martyn (Dunderry), Stefan Kelly (Killyon); Jack Fagan (Rathmolyon), Jack Regan (Kiltale), James Andrews (Trim); Gavin McGowan (Ratoath), Fergal Flattery (Boardsmill), Sean Quigley (Dunboyne).