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 9 September 2004 Hoganstand.com | |||
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The anticipated duel between Derek Lyng and Jerry O'Connor is intriguing to say the least. Emeralds clubman Lyng has been an All-Star for the past two years with his high-octane performances being central to Kilkenny's success. Strong, mobile and always worth a point or two in every game, he has all the qualities the modern-day midfielder requires.
Since breaking onto the inter-county scene in 2002, Lyng has had several midfield partners, including Andy Comerford, Paddy Mullally and Conor Phelan. When Kilkenny kicked off their championship campaign against Wexford last June, he was partnered by Pat Tennyson. His latest midfield partner is Tullaroan young gun Ken Coogan who, like Lyng, is prepared to work his socks off for the Kilkenny cause.
Newtownshandrum's march to All-Ireland club glory earlier this year made it impossible for Donal O'Grady to ignore the claims of Jerry O'Connor any longer. O'Connor was a fringe player last season, but has grabbed his opportunity with both hands this year, striking up a wonderful midfield partnership with converted half back Tom Kenny.
The duo were at their brilliant best in the All-Ireland semi-final demolition of Wexford, with Jerry scoring a magnificent 0-6 and Kenny weighing in with 1-1. Like his twin brother and team captain Ben, Jerry has been blessed with tremendous skill and pace and, when in full flight, is virtually impossible to stop.
While midfield is often bypassed in the modern game, Cork goalkeeper Donal Og Cusack has a habit of bucking this trend by bringing O'Connor and Kenny into the game with short, intelligent puck-outs. The Cork midfield looks stronger than last year, so Lyng and Coogan will have a major task on their hands if they are to stop another “Tom and Jerry Show” from becoming reality.
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