Paul Schutte expects tough battle against Kilcormac-Killoughey

Thu, 30th November 2017

Cuala defender Paul Schutte is wary of Sunday’s opponents, Offaly’s Kilcormac-Killoughey, as his side prepare for this weekend’s Leinster Club SHC final in O’Moore Park, Portlaoise (2.0).

The Offaly champions have plenty of tradition and experience on their side having won their SHC in 2012-2014 before again claiming the titles this year when defeating St Rynagh’s in the decider.

“They beat Ballyhale (Kilkenny) in their pomp and Thurles Sarsfields (Tipperary),” says Paul, “so they have a few big scalps there”.

Mattie Kenny’s side, though, have obviously done their homework on Sunday’s opposition as they attempt to retain the provincial title they secured 12 months ago.

“I think they have conceded maybe four goals in their last ten games so they won’t concede much and we’ll have to work on ways of penetrating their defence.

“It will be tough. But it’s a Leinster final. You have to expect that,” adds Paul.

Cuala will be hoping to create history for their club on Sunday as victory would make them the first Dublin club to win the Leinster Club SHC on two occasions – Crumlin won in 1979 with Cuala themselves the capital’s only other winners last year.

LEINSTER CLUB SHC: Roll of Honour

Ballyhale Shamrocks, Kilkenny (8) 1978, 1980, 1983, 1989, 2006, 2008, 2009, 2014

Birr, Offaly (7) 1991, 1994, 1997, 1999, 2001, 2002, 2007

Rathnure, Wexford (6) 1971, 1973, 1977, 1986, 1987, 1998

St Rynagh's, Offaly (4) 1970, 1972, 1982, 1993

James Stephens, Kilkenny (4) 1975, 1981, 2004, 2005

Buffer's Alley, Wexford (3) 1985, 1988, 1992

Glenmore, Kilkenny (2) 1990, 1995

Camross, Laois (2) 1976, 1996

O'Loughlin Gaels, Kilkenny (2) 2003, 2010

Fenians, Kilkenny (1) 1974

CRUMLIN, DUBLIN (1) 1979