Hayes backs Galway to shock Cats
June 18, 2009

Former Galway manager Conor Hayes
Former Galway manager and captain Conor Hayes has tipped the Tribesmen to beat Kilkenny in Saturday's Leinster SHC semi-final.
Hayes was the last manager to mastermind a championship victory over the all-conquering Cats in the 2005 All-Ireland semi-final, and he believes the current Galway team can repeat the trick.
"I think Galway have to go out with a fully positive attitude," said Hayes, who skippered the Tribesmen to All-Ireland titles in 1987 and '88.
"Moving the ball quickly into the full forward line is the key to it for Galway. That full forward line will cause problems for any team, even Kilkenny. Obviously you have to score goals to beat them, but you have to try to out-hurl them as well.
"The one thing Galway have is plenty of good hurlers and if they can bring out that element of good hurling in them, then Galway are in with a chance."
He continued: "It's a big ask for Galway, they're up against it. Kilkenny are the best team in the country and have been for the last few years.
"It's incredible. Four years and they haven't been beaten. In fairness to them, they are an exceptional side. Kilkenny will be favourites and by all means should be favourites.
"I'd give Galway a chance though. There's bound to be a performance in Galway and hopefully they'll produce it. No better team than Kilkenny to bring out a performance in you."
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