Former Wexford manager Liam Griffin, who is being inducted into the Hall of Fame at the Gaelic Writers' Association annual awards, sponsored by Sky Sports on Friday evening.
By Cian O'Connell
It was a year which delivered so much for Wexford, but former manager Liam Griffin still felt an All Ireland final appearance was a distinct possibility.
Leading Tipperary in a gripping encounter at the penultimate stage, Griffin was adamant Wexford were on the verge of achieving the ultimate honour.
“I thought we were going well and we had a great chance of closing it out, but unfortunately it did not happen," says Griffin, who is being inducted into the Hall of Fame at the Gaelic Writers' Association annual awards sponsored by Sky Sports on Friday evening.
“It is a pity because it would have been novel to have ourselves and Kilkenny in an All-Ireland final and if we had won that, we could have all retired and burned our hurls," he laughs.
Does the fact that Davy Fitzgerald, such a key figure in the recent story, is remaining in charge make up for that loss somewhat?
Davy Fitzgerald will remain in charge of Wexford in 2020.
“Yeah, it has,” Griffin replies. “Davy is very highly regarded in Wexford and rightly so.
“He has done a great job and he has a good relationship with the players, the board and the people.
“Davy has learned every step on the way and he has shown that he is willing to learn. He has been very good for Wexford.
“At least now, everyone knows where they stand. It is two years and that is it. The big thing now is the succession stakes as to who will succeed Davy and that discussion needs to start now.
“The players are delighted he is staying on and hopefully it will inspire them to get to the final next year and let’s see what happens then.”
