Scotland U21 Head Coach Donnie Martin is ready to meet the Irish challenge in the U21 international at Ratoath on Saturday 30 October 2010.
Martin is a veteran of these internationals and this is his fourth year in charge of the young Scots having previously served as assistant to Glenurquhart’s George Stewart.
“It’s a much changed Irish squad,” said Martin. “They have retained keeper Eoin Reilly and he captains the side. Defenders Ryan Bogue and Andrew Collier are the only other players who remain from last year.”
“The Irish always turn out a good U21 side,” said the Scot’s youth boss. “That is borne out by the fact that Antrim trio Barry McFall, Aaron Graffin and Neil McManus have stepped up from the 2009 U21 ranks to this year’s senior side. They have also included Noel Connors from Waterford and he is a nomination for the Opal GPA Hurling Team of the Year.”
The Irish had a single point victory at the Bught Park in 2009 when many observers thought the Scots did enough to deserve a win. “We are strong against this year, said Martin, “Rory Kennedy, Owen Fraser and Steven MacDonald were part of the title winning Newtonmore squad and our captain Michael Rodger is particularly experienced in these games.”
The U21 international between Ireland and Scotland starts at 1pm at Ratoath GAA Club.