'We'll be up for it': Bonnar
Wednesday March 10 2010
WEXFORD MANAGER Colm Bonnar is relishing the challenge of Clare when the sides meet in the Allianz Hurling League Division 2 game at Cusack Park, Ennis, on Sunday next.
'Yes, it will be a huge challenge for us but we'll be up for the game. We want to go down there and perform well, but we know it's a big game for us,' he said.
He must wait to ascertain the fitness of Darren Stamp and Willie Doran, both of whom retired in the Down game with groin injuries.
'We will assess their progress at training this week before arriving at a decision. Both are doubtful at the moment but it's a case of wait and see,' he added.
Also on the injured list are Eoin Doyle, who was forced to miss the Down game, having made his debut against Westmeath, and defender Brendan Hobbs.
Still, Bonnar is confident that he will have a full squad to pick from as he faces a daunting task against an ever-improving Clare outfit now under the management of Ger 'Sparrow' O'Loughlin.
Wexford will be seeking their third consecutive victory, having seen off both Westmeath and Down. While many will say they were anything but impressive, they did enough to record comfortable victories, while Clare had to rally late to see off Laois in Portlaoise in their last outing.
While it can get better for Wexford, Bonnar is in no doubt as to the severity of the challenge facing his side.
'We have been concentrating on the gym and strength conditioning and not got in as much hurling as we would have liked, but then again Clare are in the same position.
'Clare came down from Division 1 last year and will be anxious to go straight back up. We were in the same position last year but it did not work out that way.
'This is a game which will really show where we're at. We also have upcoming away games to both Carlow and Laois, so we can ill-afford to lose a game. Laois put it up to Clare so that's also a huge test away. We will be trying to show commitment and put in a performance. If we lose it will not be the be all and end all, but at the same time we do not want to damage our prospects of reaching the final.'
Clare have a very good record against Wexford over recent years of which Bonnar is aware.
'I've seen Clare this season. They are a very strong, physical side, with plenty of good hurlers. They are also coming off the back of All-Ireland Under-21 success last year. They have a point to prove after the Mike McNamara controversy last year, so they will be up for the game in front of home supporters.
'We will be looking for commitment and a solid performance. If we get that the lads are capable of achieving a victory,' Bonnar added.
- BRENDAN FURLONG
