John McIntyre is under no illusions about the task his Galway side faces against Kilkenny, insisting that "no one gives us a chance". "We know we face a massive challenge, but this is where we want to be, in the hurling big time facing the best. We want to find out have we something to work on," he said ahead of Saturday's glamour Leinster SHC semi-final at O'Connor Park. "No one gives us a chance. A lot of people in Galway don't give us a chance. The genuine fan is hoping for a big performance. Galway hasn't won a championship match of significance in three years, so we have to try and change that." The former Tipperary player accepts that there has been much opposition to Galway's participation in the Leinster SHC both from inside and outside the county, but insists that this isn't an issue with the players. "All that aside, there is no negativity in the Galway hurling camp. "The players, management and backroom team are embracing what is a considerable challenge. We already got a taste of the workings and atmosphere of the Leinster championship against Laois in O'Moore Park. We are not expecting any favours. "As we see it, we are heading into enemy territory. It may be different for Kilkenny, but a lot of people in the province don't want us. I understand their sense of grievance. In theory, Galway's arrival makes it harder for the likes of Wexford, Dublin and Offaly to win the Leinster championship. "How we got there, why we are there is of no relevance now. This is a hurling test, a massive game for this Galway team. "I believe the clash has massive appeal to hurling neutrals. There is a sense of history about the fixture. It is going to be a cauldron in Tullamore. I hope our players will deal with all aspects of the challenge." Tweet

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