AIDAN WALSH WILL commence life as a Cork dual senior player tonight when he links up to train with Jimmy Barry-Murphy’s hurling squad.
The Cork hurlers returned to training for the 2014 campaign last week after their team holiday. They will have the services of three dual players this season – Walsh, Eoin Cadogan and Damien Cahalane, who is currently recovering from injury.
On Sunday, Walsh and Cadogan were both part of the Cork football team that won the McGrath Cup against Kerry. Cadogan has plenty hurling experience but Walsh is getting set to sample the game at senior level for the first time.
He has showcased his potential at U21 and Fitzgibbon Cup level, and is now relishing the chance to get to work.
“It’s exciting. It’s always a great place to be. It’s something I’ve been thinking about for the last few years and I’m looking forward to the challenge. I know it’s going to be very tough but I said I’d have a cut of it this year and see how I go.”
Walsh admitted the finer details of his schedule over the coming months have yet to be ironed out. The Cork footballers have seven Division 1 league games between February 2nd and April 6th while the Cork hurlers have five Division 1B league matches between February 15th and March 23rd.
Aidan Walsh (right) in action on Sunday
Pic: INPHO/Donall Farmer
There are two weekends where both sides in action. On March 9th the footballers face Derry while the hurlers take on Offaly. On March 16th the footballers meet Mayo and the hurlers are in action against Antrim.
“I’m going to play it by ear really”, says Walsh. “I’ll have to see how it goes. Whatever Cubby (Brian Cuthbert) and Jimmy Barry (Murphy) decide. We haven’t really talked about it yet. We’ll just see.”
And here’s a reminder from the 2011 Bord Gáis Energy Munster U21 hurling final of what Walsh is capable of.
YouTube: iamskittles88
Even as Clare man I look forward to see Walsh play inter county hurling. Regard his performance in u21 Munster final in 2011 as one of best performances I’d seen! With himself and Paudie O Sullivan bAck in the mix wouldn’t surprise me if they’re back in Croker come September.
Agree with you Kevin, his Munster 2011 performance was best overall performance I have seen from anyone. Equaliser to go to extra time was sensational. Think he got 8 points from play if I’m not mistaken.
Great addition to the squad. He was a good U21 player but unproven at senior level. Will be interesting to see how he goes. I don’t rate Cadogan myself. I think Cork would be better off without him. They will try accomodate him now that he has returned but it will be to the detriment of the team if they do.
Saw him in the that u21 munster final in 2011 he was the beat player on the field that night. Will be interesting to see can he manage both codes
Walsh was even better in the u21 munster semi against tipp in 2011. These additions give cork panel great depth, something they maybe lacked last year.
Cadogan may not have the best skill set but he brings physicality and ball winning ability to the half backs where it was lacking last year. Also could slot in to the full back line and bring McDonnell or O’Neill out to half backs.
With a bit of luck Aidan will stick to the hurling.