We have improved with every game: Fintan Clandillon

Dublin minor hurling manager Fintan Clandillon has praised the character of his side following last Saturday's impressive Electric Ireland Leinster MHC semi-final victory over Wexford.

The Dubs improved on their first round victory over Laois against the Slaneysiders and now face Kilkenny in the provincial decider on Sunday, July 2.

Clandillon's men played some very enterprising hurling at time in Parnell Park last Saturday and had enough scores in their account when Wexford came with a strong finish.

“We are delighted with how the lads played,” says FIntan.

“I thought that they started brilliantly and to be honest, I thought that we were excellent in the first-half.

“We were only four points up at half-time and that really should have been a bit more as we hurled very well during that period but just struck too many wides than we would have liked.

“There have been a couple of tests in some of our matches so far where we had to show character and conceding that goal when we were well on top was another one of those.

“That goal offered Wexford a lifeline of sorts but like in other instances, the lads stood up and did what they had to do.

“We have spoken all year about not going into your shell when setbacks occur and every panel needs strong characters.

“We are buzzing to have the opportunity of working with the lads for at least another couple of months and that was the most important aspect of Saturday’s victory.

"They have improved in every game of hurling that they have played this year and although we’ll have a massive challenge ahead of us in terms of Kilkenny in the Leinster Final, that was the opportunity that we all wanted before Saturday’s game,” adds Fintan.