Galway in Leinster

GER Loughnane is backing the proposal for Galway hurlers to spread their wings across the Shannon and into Leinster as part of a revamped All-Ireland championship.
The Hurling Development Committee want Galway to join Kilkenny, Wexford, Offaly and Dublin in a round-robin Leinster championship. The Munster championship would be played on a similar basis.
Galway have repeatedly rebuffed proposals to play in Leinster, but Loughnane believes that the latest plan, which would see them stage two 'home' games, has merit.
"I think when most reasonable Galway people examine this year's system they'll see that it has far more dangers than playing in Leinster would. I won't be getting involved in the debate, but if I'm asked for my opinion I'd side with the Leinster proposal," he said.
Survive
Galway are due to play Antrim in a first round qualifier this year and, if they survive that, they will be straight into the knock-out phase which means they might only get two games whereas they would be guaranteed a minimum of four in Leinster.
Meanwhile, he has warned the squad not to rely too heavily on teenage sensation, Joe Canning who made such an impressive senior debut against Cork in the Allianz League semi-final last Sunday.
Loughnane said that when such an exciting talent comes along there may be a tendency for others to look to him to deliver something special every day.
"He'll be a marked man -- in fact he's literally a marked man after last Sunday -- so he needs plenty support. The great thing about him is that he has a terrific temperament."
As for the return to the panel of Joe's older brother Ollie, Loughnane said that it was a chance worth taking by the experienced corner-back.