Game 8 2019 Preview: Jo Buchanan Interview

To start off our last week of regular season football, we spoke to a few players and coaches to gather some thoughts on the previous game and the league standings. We started off by cornering Club President Jo Buchanan, who is always willing to give a few words...

Jo Buchanan (#22) getting to the outside of a Wexford Eagles defender. Photo by Eamon McCormick.

An emotion fuelled day two weeks ago with Marcell Seeley being honoured and remembered in his memorial trophy game, as well as the untimely passing of Coach Anderson of the Wexford Eagles. How do you think the game went given these circumstances?

Both teams gave it their all which was justice to Marcell and Billy. For us, we had a great first half but slowed down in the second half and let the Eagles back into it so there were things to improve which we have worked hard on these past 2 weeks.

With the result against the Eagles and the Galway Warriors forfeiting, the ‘Boys were confirmed in the playoffs for the 3rd consecutive year, do you think that this has affected preparation for this Sunday’s game, with guys potentially looking beyond the Minotaurs?

3 years in a row has been great but no I don't think it affects our prep for Sunday - we are very much taking it one game at a time and everyone wants a home semi final so we are focused on bringing that W home on Sunday.

Looking ahead to Sunday then, a win would secure a home semi final and potentially league winners, but you’ve top of the table Westmeath Minotaurs to get through first, expecting a tough game?

The Minotaurs always give us a tough game. They are a well stacked side who have done very well this year but we have done our homework, worked hard in training and are well prepared for the battle ahead.

4. On an individual note, you play a mix of running back and linebacker and have done so for a number of years. What’s been some of the challenges with these two different positions, and which one do you actually prefer?

One is getting hit and the other is doing the hitting so there is quite a contrast between positions. Vision is key for both - for the running back to see the holes develop and for a linebacker to see how a play is developing and make the right choice in terms of direction. Hard to pick a favourite as they are both very fun to play!

Finally, the greatly anticipated rookie initiations are this Sunday, any early favourites to win and any last minute advice?

Hard to tell, we always have a few surprises every year. My advice would be just go with it, that way you have more craic!