Galway look to continue their winning momentum when Kilkenny come to town on Saturday evening.
Micheál Donohue's charges made it two wins from the last two in a commanding victory over Waterford last weekend at Pearse Stadium. The hurlers are now starting to get the results their performances have merited in this league campaign.
Their 2-18 to 0-16 win was a big stride towards safety in Division 1A. Confidence is building at the right time for Donohue's men. Victory over Kilkenny would all but confirm top-flight survival, which is a test this young squad should relish.
Both sides match-up with identical records going into this one with two victories and two defeats from their opening four games. Kilkenny have struggled for consistency so far and fell to a three-point defeat to leaders Cork last Sunday afternoon.
Galway should feel more than capable of securing victory on Saturday. The depth in the squad is encouraging, and the blend of youth and experience makes for hugely exciting potential. Aaron Niland continued to showcase his promise with 0-4 against Na Deise. While the ever-reliable Cathal Mannion fired home 0-9.
The Tribesmen look to be hitting form at the right time. With the Leinster championship fast approaching, Saturday's game takes on added significance. Kilkenny will be favourites to claim the Bob O'Keefe cup, but Galway are quietly emerging as a dark horse.
