Walsh Cup Success A "Great Confidence Booster"- Dotsy O'Callaghan
The Dublin hurlers kick off their Allianz League campaign this Saturday evening with a Trip to Tipp.
The Boys in Blue have started the year in fine fashion, with some commanding wins as they breezed to Walsh Cup success last month.
Ger Cunningham’s side racked up a whopping 11-110 in facile wins over UCD, Antrim, Laois, Galway and Wexford.
However, a different kind of test awaits the Dubs in Thurles this weekend.
Tipperary, under a new management team led by Michael Ryan, have also impressed in pre-season.
They will also set up differently this year, following the retirements of Lar Corbett, Shane McGrath, James Woodlock and Conor O'Mahony over the winter.
Dublin also have a new look about them this year, as Ger Cunningham imposes his style on the side.
Several players, who were on the outskirts of the panel last year, have also impressed so far this year and will be pushing for selection.
Dublin had early impressive wins over Tipperary and Kilkenny in last year’s Allianz League campaign, as they ended up reaching the semi final.
Speaking to 98FM Sport’s Derek Ryan, forward Dotsy O’Callaghan says they will be looking for a good start again this year.
And he admits the early season success for the side will help build their confidence for the year ahead:
8 February 2016; In attendance at the launch of the 2016 Allianz Hurling League are David O'Callaghan, Dublin, Kevin Moran, Waterford, Walter Walsh, Kilkenny, and Noel McGrath, Tipperary. Tipperary host Dublin under lights in Semple Stadium, Thurles in the Allianz Hurling League opener this Saturday while Division 1A champions Waterford face All-Ireland champions Kilkenny at Walsh Park on Sunday. Marino Casino, Dublin. Picture credit: Brendan Moran / SPORTSFILE ***