Dublin manager Sean Lane and captain Johnny McCaffrey came face to face with Galway boss Vincent Mullins and captain Kevin Hynes in Croke Park today ahead of the eagerly anticipated clash between the sides this Sunday. The U-21 All-Ireland Hurling Final takes place in Croke Park at 2pm before the Gala Camogie All-Ireland Senior Final between Wexford and Cork.

Dublin have never won an All-Ireland title at this grade and last competed in the final in 1972, when they were beaten by their opponents this Sunday. Galway on the other hand have a superb record at U-21 level and the Tribesmen have won eight titles, their last in 2005.

Speaking today, GAA President Nickey Brennan said; “This year’s All-Ireland Under 21 Hurling Final brings together an unusual but nevertheless welcome pairing. Neither Dublin nor Galway have seen much success at senior level in recent years, but reaching this year’s Under 21 Final gives great hope to both counties for the future. Indeed, I hope these talented young men get the support on the day that their efforts deserve from their respective sets of supporters.”

Tickets are available from usual GAA sources, www.gaa.ie, Ticketmaster outlets nationwide, call 0818-719300 or 0870-2434455 (six counties) and Ticket outlets around the ground on match day.

The rival captains ... Johnny McCaffrey (Dublin) and Vincent Hynes (Galway)


On the sideline on Sunday ... Vincent Mullins (Galway) and Seán Lane (Dublin)