Galway equipped to bring Wexford's success story to an end

Leinster hurling final: Galway v Wexford
Premier Sports, 4pm Sunday

Wexford have been the success story of 2017 but there might not be room for another chapter at Croke Park, where Galway are strongly fancied to defy a five-point handicap in the Leinster final.

Davy Fitzgerald has done a tremendous job since taking over at the helm of the Model County, and gaining promotion from Division 1B of the league was no mean feat, especially with Galway and Limerick in competition. However, this is their sternest test to date and the Tribesmen look primed for some more silverware.

Michael Donoghue seems to have found the perfect blend and has been getting the best out of Joe Canning in his new playmaking role in the half-forward line.

He is now the link between defence and attack and is superb at bringing dangerous attackers Conor Whelan and Conor Cooney into the game. He has lost his selfish streak for the good of the team.

Sean Murphy has excelled in his new sweeper role for Wexford and Galway have struggled to break down sweeper systems. But this is a different Galway team from those of seasons past so we can expect to see a more polished performance.

They know Wexford inside out too, so there will be no surprise factor. And they will need no motivation either as Fitzgerald's men cost them valuable promotion from Division 1B.

Donoghue will surely put a man-marker on Lee Chin after he did Kilkenny so much damage last time out.

Galway have better forwards, a system that works, and will want to issue a statement of intent that they are ready to lift the Liam McCarthy.

The favourites should oblige with something to spare and backing them to keep a clean sheet at 3-1 also appeals.

Recommendations
Galway -5
2pts 11-10 BoyleSports
No Wexford goal
1pt 3-1 Betway, Paddy Power