New Offaly hurling boss Ollie Baker is hoping the feel-good factor created by Coolderry's Leinster club success will rub off on his players.

"They are after giving the whole county a boost and every club in Offaly," he told the Tullamore Tribune ahead of his first game in charge of the Faithful against neighbours Westmeath in the Walsh Cup on Sunday.

"Supporters were beginning to talk about Offaly hurling over the Christmas and that's great as it gives everyone a lift. There is an optimistic outlook for the future and there is an interest among people. Having expectancy coming up to matches is vital and the players can feed from that and it makes the game more important."

Offaly will be short at least 10 players due to college and club commitments for Sunday's game in Kinnegad, but the former Clare midfielder isn't perturbed.

"We are down about 10 players for one reason or another but that's a good complaint to have as you want to see what your panel is like.

"They are an honest and committed bunch of players and they have given everything. We have kept our heads down and we are looking forward to the game on Sunday. Training is all well and good but it's all about getting out and in to a match situation and that is starting this Sunday." Tweet

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