In what was a fantastic weekend for fans of Galway hurling, one family's impact was heavily felt at both minor and senior level. Jack Canning, nephew of the aforementioned Joe is one of the nominees for this week's Electric Ireland Minor Player of the Week along with his teammates Sean Bleahane and Darren Morrissey.
Much like the senior panel, Galway's minor team secured a place in the All-Ireland final after a tight encounter. While Tipperary bowed out in the senior competition, it was Kilkenny who lost out in the early game at Croke Park.
Jack Canning - Galway
Full-forward Canning led the scoring on both sides with 1-4. His goal came from the penalty spot in the second half but it was his opening score after just 31 seconds that really signalled his class. Striking between the posts from way out on the right sideline, Canning lay down a marker for the afternoon's proceedings.
It was a similar story the last day out too as he led the line with 1-3 versus Clare.
Galway were, however, tested to their limit as they lost the lead in the 2nd minute and did not regain until right at the death when sub Enda Fahy cooly slotted over to secure victory. Now having dispatched of the Leinster champions, Galway will progress on to the final where they will face the winners of Dublin against Cork. That game will be played out next Sunday, with the final then taking place on September 2nd.
Sean Bleahane - Galway
While the Canning name is already familiar to all fans of the Tribesmen, another one which they ought to get accustomed to is that of Sean Bleahane.
The Ahascragh-Fohenagh corner-forward sparked into life when others were beginning to fade as his best moments came late into the second half.
He dispatched two quality strikes over the bar in the second half at a time when both teams were struggling to grab a foothold in what was a tight, scrappy affair.
Darren Morrissey - Galway
Just as he was in their previous match, captain Darren Morrissey is highly deserving of plaudits for his commanding defensive performance.
Morrissey was given the unenviable task of marking Kilkenny's star man Adrian Mullen. And yet he came out on top, restricting Mullen to just one point from play.
The Sarsfields man is an excellent combination of strength and nous as he had Mullen's number all day long in a high quality duel that may well unfold for years to come at senior level too.
You can cast your vote for the Player of the Week nominees every week on Electric Ireland's Facebook page.
