John Conlon targets League title as Limerick clash looms

Veteran Clare defender John Conlon has his eyes firmly set on silverware after his county took a big step towards the Allianz Hurling League Division 1 semi-finals.

Conlon's side turned in an impressive display against Kilkenny at Cusack Park on Sunday, claiming a 0-19 to 0-16 victory over the Cats.

That win saw the Banner maintain their unbeaten start to the campaign and all but secures their place in the semi-finals of the league.

Speaking to RTÉ Sport afterwards, Conlon admitted that he’s pleased with the way his side have eased into the season and that they’re eager to claim the first trophy of the season.

"We’re working towards being the best we can be come Championship and if that means winning the League, so be it," he said.

"It’s a national medal that we’d love to have in Clare. There’s many medals in Clare and to win the National League, the Munster Championship and the All-Ireland, that’s your goal at the start of the year, to win those three things."

With the start of the All-Ireland Championship now just six weeks away, Clare are also using the Allianz League to help prepare for an opening day tilt at the defending champions.

The two sides meet in the opening round of the Munster Championship in Cusack Park on 21 April and Conlon is aware that the Banner will have to be at the peak of their powers if they are to beat Limerick.

"You saw them last night, they were moving very well and we’re trying to get up to that level.

"We’re trying to get up to that level and be at it in six weeks' time.

"Today was probably the first day [this year] that you were excited about a game. The weather was nice, the pitch was very good and there was a good crowd in. We’re looking forward to it in six weeks time."

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