Action kicks off this weekend in both Leinster and Munster;
Clare v Limerick
Cork v Waterford
Have Limerick woken from their slumber to turn over Clare, the League champions?
I believe theres quite a large injury list emanating from the Limerick camp, so some big gaps to fill whereas Clare are sticking by and large to the league campaign team with a very strong bench including a lot of lads with serious experience if needing to be called upon.
I still have it in my head Limerick will click and Clare minus a flying tony kelly will come up short in this game...
Waterford are an enigma, they don't seem to have bought into Davy's ultra defensive strategy and that's their downfall this weekend.
Cork need to be attacked as their biggest weakness is the FB line, Coleman is now fully fit and back in a strong half back line, Cork will win this well IMO but there'll be a few rude awakenings in the weeks ahead as the more powerful, direct teams expose them.
Leinster
KK v Antrim
Expected stroll in Nowlan park for the cats, but Antrim have parachuted in a lot of lads who didn't commit to the league, quality hurlers alright but this game won't be the making or breaking of Antrims championship campaign.
Wex v Dub.
Dublin always seem to fare well against Wexford and I'd expect the same here, although this game really could decide who gets the third berth in Leinster and could be feisty enough.
Rossiter will be wanting some blood and thunder from his team, This could be one of the better games over the weekend
Gal v Carlow,
Galway to ease into action but it won't be plain sailing although Carlow were well beat by Laois in the league final in a game that didn't really matter, but all the same.
Wexford to beat Dublin but that aside I would mainly agree. I think Davy is a busted flush tbh but we'll see what Waterford can do. Cork have been underwhelming this years and will want to be winning that.
I think Limerick will be laying down a statement.
Antrim not strong enough for KK. The likes of Carlow game more important.
Clare will have Tony Kelly on the bench for the Limerick game. Without Kelly starting and a question mark as to whether he plays at all, Limerick will be favourites. The league means nothing.
Shane O'Donnell is also on the bench for Clare.
Has anyone picked up gaa go this year? Is it worth 79 euro for a handful of Munster and Leinster hurling championship games and the dross on the football side of things?
Quote from: Capt Pat on April 19, 2024, 01:33:14 PMClare will have Tony Kelly on the bench for the Limerick game. Without Kelly starting and a question mark as to whether he plays at all, Limerick will be favourites. The league means nothing.
Shane O'Donnell is also on the bench for Clare.
Clare bench very strong - too strong.
Maybe lot of changes before the parade!
I saw Waterford's team also. Be surprised if that's the starting 15. Leavey on bench and he was one of Waterford's best players in the league.
Davy asking for the Déise support to come out in numbers. Be a bad job if Cork outnumber them in the newly revamped Walsh Park. Maybe he's building the 'everybody is against us' mentality.
It'll be a war in Ennis. I fancy Clare because, for once, I'm not sure what Limerick will turn up. David Fitzerald will be a marked man after his league exploits and they'll need scores from Rogers and Calvin etc. from play.
I wouldn't worry about the numbers on Limerick's jerseys on Sunday. They'll be all over the place. O'Neill will chip in with a few, so too will Hayes. They're so inter-changeable and they do it so fluidly. Will Clare reveal a few more chinks in the armour?
A win for either Waterford or Cork will be a big boost for them. A Waterford win will shake things up a bit. A defeat and you're on the back foot in Munster straightaway.
Just a pity that there's a load of games on at the same time. :'(
Quote from: Capt Pat on April 19, 2024, 06:59:02 PMHas anyone picked up gaa go this year? Is it worth 79 euro for a handful of Munster and Leinster hurling championship games and the dross on the football side of things?
Get the dodgy box, great job
"He's got pace and power and he'll attack ya"
Sheedy on Kyle Hayes.
Limerick great value to win game at 5/2. Clare not ruthless in front of posts.
Limerick 14/1 now. Worth a bet.
Looking very good for Clare, have brought their league form into the championship.
Limerick have this. Clare are gassed.
Some response from Limerick.
Magical spell from hegarty to win it for them.
Clare will never win an all Ireland without a half decent goal keeper. Quilligan letting in the second Limerick goal was a disaster for Clare.
Quote from: Capt Pat on April 21, 2024, 03:37:15 PMClare will never win an all Ireland without a half decent goal keeper. Quilligan letting in the second Limerick goal was a disater for Clare.
Yep have always had my doubts about him, he wasn't great for the first one either
Quote from: Capt Pat on April 21, 2024, 03:37:15 PMClare will never win an all Ireland without a half decent goal keeper. Quilligan letting in the second Limerick goal was a disater for Clare.
They tried a couple other lads over the years who unfortunately were no better. Eamon Foudy let a couple howlers against Tipp in opening championship game last year.
Some interesting results in the Joe mcdonagh. Wouldn't have expected Kerry to beat Westmeath or Laois to beat Offaly.
Quote from: imtommygunn on April 21, 2024, 09:38:04 PMSome interesting results in the Joe mcdonagh. Wouldn't have expected Kerry to beat Westmeath or Laois to beat Offaly.
The former was certainly a surprise, but the latter was very much a 50/50 game. I think the bookies couldn't even decide - I don't follow those prices much, but someone said both teams were even money?
Clare's level dropped slightly but not by much and Limerick powered through that quarter. Clare did have a couple of bad wides in this period which might just have kept them in the game.
Keeper has been an issue for them for a few years now, but he is obviously the best they have. Great game and the only major problem for those outside of Limerick is that this will bring them on again. Ominous for the others.
Quote from: NAG1 on April 22, 2024, 03:13:22 PMClare's level dropped slightly but not by much and Limerick powered through that quarter. Clare did have a couple of bad wides in this period which might just have kept them in the game.
Keeper has been an issue for them for a few years now, but he is obviously the best they have. Great game and the only major problem for those outside of Limerick is that this will bring them on again. Ominous for the others.
The best time to lose to Limerick is now.
What an amazing Sunday
Quote from: seafoid on April 22, 2024, 03:45:08 PMQuote from: NAG1 on April 22, 2024, 03:13:22 PMClare's level dropped slightly but not by much and Limerick powered through that quarter. Clare did have a couple of bad wides in this period which might just have kept them in the game.
Keeper has been an issue for them for a few years now, but he is obviously the best they have. Great game and the only major problem for those outside of Limerick is that this will bring them on again. Ominous for the others.
The best time to lose to Limerick is now.
It is, but for now Clare are facing into going down to Franks pairc to meet a Cork team who are also bouncing off the back of a defeat to the supposed whipping boys in Munster.
Cork will go for goals as that's now perceived to be Clare's achilles heel, but they'll need to get the average age of that forward line down considerably if they are to cause Clare issues in that regard.
I also think Clare will look to put Peter Duggan close to the Cork square and lob the ball from distance into him to create goal chances of their own.
Corks need is greater but whoever loses this will do well to get the third berth in Munster.
We'll also find out what state Tipp are in this weekend and it would need to be a very large improvement from their league campaign.
Quote from: johnnycool on April 23, 2024, 07:57:07 AMQuote from: seafoid on April 22, 2024, 03:45:08 PMQuote from: NAG1 on April 22, 2024, 03:13:22 PMClare's level dropped slightly but not by much and Limerick powered through that quarter. Clare did have a couple of bad wides in this period which might just have kept them in the game.
Keeper has been an issue for them for a few years now, but he is obviously the best they have. Great game and the only major problem for those outside of Limerick is that this will bring them on again. Ominous for the others.
The best time to lose to Limerick is now.
It is, but for now Clare are facing into going down to Franks pairc to meet a Cork team who are also bouncing off the back of a defeat to the supposed whipping boys in Munster.
Cork will go for goals as that's now perceived to be Clare's achilles heel, but they'll need to get the average age of that forward line down considerably if they are to cause Clare issues in that regard.
I also think Clare will look to put Peter Duggan close to the Cork square and lob the ball from distance into him to create goal chances of their own.
Corks need is greater but whoever loses this will do well to get the third berth in Munster.
We'll also find out what state Tipp are in this weekend and it would need to be a very large improvement from their league campaign.
Clare be better to put Shanagher ahead of Duggan at FF. Ball never sticks to Duggan.
The level of completion is exciting.
Some in Cork now questioning the value Horgan and Lehane bring to the team.
Pat Ryan under a bit of pressure this weekend
Quote from: johnnycool on April 24, 2024, 01:57:37 PMSome in Cork now questioning the value Horgan and Lehane bring to the team.
Pat Ryan under a bit of pressure this weekend
Can understand the level of criticism of the Manager but to call out two players who are just there because they are picked is a bit much.
Obviously no younger talent bursting down the door to take their place.
I am no fan of Cork either.
Lot of changes for Cork
Quote from: Gael85 on April 23, 2024, 10:05:40 AMQuote from: johnnycool on April 23, 2024, 07:57:07 AMQuote from: seafoid on April 22, 2024, 03:45:08 PMQuote from: NAG1 on April 22, 2024, 03:13:22 PMClare's level dropped slightly but not by much and Limerick powered through that quarter. Clare did have a couple of bad wides in this period which might just have kept them in the game.
Keeper has been an issue for them for a few years now, but he is obviously the best they have. Great game and the only major problem for those outside of Limerick is that this will bring them on again. Ominous for the others.
The best time to lose to Limerick is now.
It is, but for now Clare are facing into going down to Franks pairc to meet a Cork team who are also bouncing off the back of a defeat to the supposed whipping boys in Munster.
Cork will go for goals as that's now perceived to be Clare's achilles heel, but they'll need to get the average age of that forward line down considerably if they are to cause Clare issues in that regard.
I also think Clare will look to put Peter Duggan close to the Cork square and lob the ball from distance into him to create goal chances of their own.
Corks need is greater but whoever loses this will do well to get the third berth in Munster.
We'll also find out what state Tipp are in this weekend and it would need to be a very large improvement from their league campaign.
Clare be better to put Shanagher ahead of Duggan at FF. Ball never sticks to Duggan.
I agree. Always seem to throw him in with 3 mins to go when they ned a goal. It's happened on countless times.
Why not start him at ff and keep Duggan on the wing. Duggan is great at changing hands. Throw a few scuds in on top of Shanagher and Duggan will win a good few puck outs. Be a bit more direct. With O'Donnell and Kelly floating about on the breaking ball.
Quote from: imtommygunn on April 21, 2024, 09:38:04 PMSome interesting results in the Joe mcdonagh. Wouldn't have expected Kerry to beat Westmeath or Laois to beat Offaly.
Very open now.
Offaly V Westmeath should be a belter. Loser could have a short season.
Down have the win and could do well depending if the other teams have anything to play for when they meet them later on.
The Joe Mc Donagh is a super competition. All teams capable of beating each ther on a given day.
Was their any promo for this competetion this year? The GAA should be timetabling these games a lot better also.
Quote from: NAG1 on April 24, 2024, 02:22:07 PMQuote from: johnnycool on April 24, 2024, 01:57:37 PMSome in Cork now questioning the value Horgan and Lehane bring to the team.
Pat Ryan under a bit of pressure this weekend
Can understand the level of criticism of the Manager but to call out two players who are just there because they are picked is a bit much.
Obviously no younger talent bursting down the door to take their place.
I am no fan of Cork either.
Is Harnedy in there also this year?
Cork are so inconsistent. What Cork will turn up?
Quote from: marty34 on April 25, 2024, 11:33:36 PMQuote from: NAG1 on April 24, 2024, 02:22:07 PMQuote from: johnnycool on April 24, 2024, 01:57:37 PMSome in Cork now questioning the value Horgan and Lehane bring to the team.
Pat Ryan under a bit of pressure this weekend
Can understand the level of criticism of the Manager but to call out two players who are just there because they are picked is a bit much.
Obviously no younger talent bursting down the door to take their place.
I am no fan of Cork either.
Is Harnedy in there also this year?
Cork are so inconsistent. What Cork will turn up?
I think Cork are very consistent, they can't handle teams that bring lots of physicality to the game, do that and they wilt. Fail to do that and they'll run through you like a hot knife through butter.
On a good day they'll score a few goals, but concede a good few too.
Clare will need to score a few goals which they're more than capable off and prevent Coleman launching the running game from half back.
Quote from: marty34 on April 25, 2024, 11:33:36 PMQuote from: NAG1 on April 24, 2024, 02:22:07 PMQuote from: johnnycool on April 24, 2024, 01:57:37 PMSome in Cork now questioning the value Horgan and Lehane bring to the team.
Pat Ryan under a bit of pressure this weekend
Can understand the level of criticism of the Manager but to call out two players who are just there because they are picked is a bit much.
Obviously no younger talent bursting down the door to take their place.
I am no fan of Cork either.
Is Harnedy in there also this year?
Cork are so inconsistent. What Cork will turn up?
No, no, no. You're only allowed say that about Galway. Other teams just face challenges of various severity.
Quote from: mouview on April 26, 2024, 10:30:42 AMQuote from: marty34 on April 25, 2024, 11:33:36 PMQuote from: NAG1 on April 24, 2024, 02:22:07 PMQuote from: johnnycool on April 24, 2024, 01:57:37 PMSome in Cork now questioning the value Horgan and Lehane bring to the team.
Pat Ryan under a bit of pressure this weekend
Can understand the level of criticism of the Manager but to call out two players who are just there because they are picked is a bit much.
Obviously no younger talent bursting down the door to take their place.
I am no fan of Cork either.
Is Harnedy in there also this year?
Cork are so inconsistent. What Cork will turn up?
No, no, no. You're only allowed say that about Galway. Other teams just face challenges of various severity.
Everyone bar Limerick is Galway now
Puthrid - Waterford
A gutless shower -Cork
Pure fuckin usheless - Tipperary
They threw it away -kilkenny
Watcb them f**k this up again -Clare
In the name of Jaysus - Galway
Some comeback from Antrim. Wexford don't and have never deserved Lee Chin.
Was a superb game in fairness
Antrim were dead and buried a couple of times and the 'square ball' I thought was going to scupper things
We lost our composure when we gave away the soft penalty, but managed to clear that from our thoughts.
Fair play to them, that is some turnaround in 6 days bearing in mind the tanking they got last week.
Quote from: gallsman on April 27, 2024, 04:33:55 PMSome comeback from Antrim. Wexford don't and have never deserved Lee Chin.
Yeah they didn't have much outside him, he was head and shoulders above anyone else on that pitch today
Well done Antrim. That is a signature win.
Incredible from us
Hope we push on and follow it up
Gleeson is class
https://twitter.com/TheSundayGame/status/1784573737590837533
Scores level but Cork down to 14. Cork have a good bench though with the likes of Coleman coming on.
Awful injury for Peter Casey for Limerick. You know it's bad when the camera cuts away straight away and no replay of the goal scored
Limerick 15 point winners in a match they had 46 scoring chances to Tipps 33.
That Sean O'Donoughue foul gets crazier and crazier every time I see it. Absolute madness to do that when already on a yellow. Ball was clear and safe too.
Was it a second yellow or straight red I couldn't pick it up.
Quote from: NAG1 on April 29, 2024, 11:18:29 AMWas it a second yellow or straight red I couldn't pick it up.
Second yellow, can have no complaints (unless you are Buff Egan)
Quote from: Saffrongael on April 29, 2024, 11:37:15 AMQuote from: NAG1 on April 29, 2024, 11:18:29 AMWas it a second yellow or straight red I couldn't pick it up.
Second yellow, can have no complaints (unless you are Buff Egan)
Seen Buff's post? Mans not wise
Quote from: Milltown Row2 on April 29, 2024, 11:38:25 AMQuote from: Saffrongael on April 29, 2024, 11:37:15 AMQuote from: NAG1 on April 29, 2024, 11:18:29 AMWas it a second yellow or straight red I couldn't pick it up.
Second yellow, can have no complaints (unless you are Buff Egan)
Seen Buff's post? Mans not wise
Few years ago he was moaning that he wasn't getting commentary/analysis gigs on tv, can you imagine it ffs ?
Makes more sense now, definite second yellow a moment of madness unfortunately.
Serious questions to be answered by Tipp now after that performance, no point picking big men to compete physically with Limerick as they have the physicality and the hurling to go with it.
Have always found Buff to be an eejit of the highest order. I'm not his target market but felt as if he'd disappeared for a while. His take on the foul restart was the first time I'd come across him in a couple of years.
Feels like he was going out of the way to be contrary.
Quote from: gallsman on April 29, 2024, 01:21:58 PMHave always found Buff to be an eejit of the highest order. I'm not his target market but felt as if he'd disappeared for a while. His take on the foul restart was the first time I'd come across him in a couple of years.
Feels like he was going out of the way to be contrary.
I don't think Buff would have the wit to try and be contrary.
Quote from: NAG1 on April 29, 2024, 11:47:49 AMMakes more sense now, definite second yellow a moment of madness unfortunately.
Serious questions to be answered by Tipp now after that performance, no point picking big men to compete physically with Limerick as they have the physicality and the hurling to go with it.
They did go with the physicality and it lasted about 30 minutes before Limerick wore them down.
You need the hurling to keep that going, which is strange as Tipp always pride themselves on their hurling.
Liam Cahill may have to get back to a Tipp identity rather than trying to match Limerick at what they are good at.
Easier said than done though.
Cork are Cork, Clare when they got into their stride opened them up at will, but Clare being Clare also conceded a few soft scores to keep it interesting right to the end.
Cork have a fierce uphill battle to get third spot now and IMO that spot depends on Tipp and Waterford this weekend.
Waterford may well be favourites after yesterday, but surely Tipp will offer a lot more in Semple stadium in what is a knock out fixture for them.
Antrim have put the cat among the pigeons in Leinster, Wexford are in dire straits with Kilkenny and Galway yet to come.
Antrim get a result against the Dubs and they could claim that third spot, but the lollipops aren't a pushover either for these teams fighting for the third spot.
Teams need to stop taking the ball into contact with Limerick
They need to get past that half backline, they also need their attackers to defend like dogs and stop allowing Limerick out with the ball
Referee's need to come down on the throw ball, Limerick are flat out doing it, with Cain Lynch the worst culprit.
Lastly teams need to match Limericks fitness levels, the games last 70 plus minutes and the good teams are fading away around 60/65 minutes.
Easier said than done I know, or they will just have to wait till this teams is finished
The 2 provinces are unbalanced. There is too much competition in Munster and not enough in Leinster. Antrim beating Wexford is huge but it won't fix the problem.
Quote from: seafoid on April 29, 2024, 02:56:21 PMThe 2 provinces are unbalanced. There is too much competition in Munster and not enough in Leinster. Antrim beating Wexford is huge but it won't fix the problem.
To an extent.
Before both campaigns kicked off you'd have put good money on a KK v Galway final in Leinster and Limerick and Clare contesting the Munster final.
After two rounds in both I think the bet would still be very safe.
The battle for third is really the only thing on offer in both provinces with Waterford and Antrim throwing a bit of a spanner in the works.
Quote from: johnnycool on April 29, 2024, 03:22:54 PMQuote from: seafoid on April 29, 2024, 02:56:21 PMThe 2 provinces are unbalanced. There is too much competition in Munster and not enough in Leinster. Antrim beating Wexford is huge but it won't fix the problem.
To an extent.
Before both campaigns kicked off you'd have put good money on a KK v Galway final in Leinster and Limerick and Clare contesting the Munster final.
After two rounds in both I think the bet would still be very safe.
The battle for third is really the only thing on offer in both provinces with Waterford and Antrim throwing a bit of a spanner in the works.
Limerick did to Tipp what they did to Galway and Kilkenny in the endgames last year. Turned on the afterburners before and after half time. https://youtu.be/sSR4MgieVb0&t=720s.
If McGuinness could find a way to beat Derry there should be a way to beat Limerick. It will probably feature intensity.
The comparison would be Dublin not Derry...
Cork will need to beat limerick now which if limerick have qualified is I suppose a possibility.
Quote from: imtommygunn on April 29, 2024, 06:51:13 PMThe comparison would be Dublin not Derry...
Cork will need to beat limerick now which if limerick have qualified is I suppose a possibility.
Agree re Dublin. What McGuinness did was completely nullify Derry's tactics. Beating Limerick will require something special that is similar.
Quote from: seafoid on April 29, 2024, 08:24:23 PMQuote from: imtommygunn on April 29, 2024, 06:51:13 PMThe comparison would be Dublin not Derry...
Cork will need to beat limerick now which if limerick have qualified is I suppose a possibility.
Agree re Dublin. What McGuinness did was completely nullify Derry's tactics. Beating Limerick will require something special that is similar.
McGuinness didn't beat Derry by trying to be better at what Derry excel at, he looked at their strengths and used that against them, the high press on the Donegal kick out, their keeper just booted it beyond the press and they'd runners hitting that space beyond the press once the big men flicked the ball into it.
Smart enough, but for Derry to persist in the "process" which had been worked out spoke of a team overcoached.
To beat Limerick you avoid the intensity and congested areas, have the scorers 70 metres from goals working the ball in pods to get the long range shots off and you'll need a very high percentage of scores going over for it to work.
If that doesn't pull out their deep lying half forwards then nothing will.
Then once they come out chasing the game you need to hit the spaces they leave behind
Limerick rode their luck against Clare. The goal that gave them momentum was from a mishit free aside from the square ball shouts and a bit of poor goal keeping, but Clare couldn't respond like they did against Cork.
Clare do have the physique to compete against Limerick, but they've questions to answer about their mental fortitude in Munster finals and AI semi-finals where they've probably been the better teams but lapses in concentration have been their undoing.
Galway didn't show much in Salthill to suggest they've improved this year, but Leinster doesn't heat up for another few weeks.
Tipp, Cork and Waterford need to be smarter if they want to challenge Limerick or the bottom line is they just aren't good enough no matter how you cut it.
I'm not convinced Shefflin is cutting it with Galway.
Cork are really up against it now and will have to beat Limerick or I would say they're out. Waterford need to beat Tipp or they're likely out too and same if Tipp don't beat Waterford. Tipp beating Waterford would help Cork a bi though.
Quote from: imtommygunn on April 30, 2024, 08:31:28 AMI'm not convinced Shefflin is cutting it with Galway.
Cork are really up against it now and will have to beat Limerick or I would say they're out. Waterford need to beat Tipp or they're likely out too and same if Tipp don't beat Waterford. Tipp beating Waterford would help Cork a bi though.
I think Galway and Dublin should switch managers, O'D looks completely lost with Dublin doesn't seem to know how to progress them. Shefflin doesn't seem to be getting a tune out of Galway and IMO hasn't improved them either.
O'D back to Galway where he at least was passionate about it and knows the players, Shefflin to Dublin to bring that big name bounce and attract more players to the Dublin set up.
Both currently treading water and going no where fast.
Quote from: NAG1 on April 30, 2024, 09:39:47 AMQuote from: imtommygunn on April 30, 2024, 08:31:28 AMI'm not convinced Shefflin is cutting it with Galway.
Cork are really up against it now and will have to beat Limerick or I would say they're out. Waterford need to beat Tipp or they're likely out too and same if Tipp don't beat Waterford. Tipp beating Waterford would help Cork a bi though.
I think Galway and Dublin should switch managers, O'D looks completely lost with Dublin doesn't seem to know how to progress them. Shefflin doesn't seem to be getting a tune out of Galway and IMO hasn't improved them either.
O'D back to Galway where he at least was passionate about it and knows the players, Shefflin to Dublin to bring that big name bounce and attract more players to the Dublin set up.
Both currently treading water and going no where fast.
Would Henry look to come up to Antrim after Darren steps back?
Quote from: Milltown Row2 on April 30, 2024, 09:48:42 AMQuote from: NAG1 on April 30, 2024, 09:39:47 AMQuote from: imtommygunn on April 30, 2024, 08:31:28 AMI'm not convinced Shefflin is cutting it with Galway.
Cork are really up against it now and will have to beat Limerick or I would say they're out. Waterford need to beat Tipp or they're likely out too and same if Tipp don't beat Waterford. Tipp beating Waterford would help Cork a bi though.
I think Galway and Dublin should switch managers, O'D looks completely lost with Dublin doesn't seem to know how to progress them. Shefflin doesn't seem to be getting a tune out of Galway and IMO hasn't improved them either.
O'D back to Galway where he at least was passionate about it and knows the players, Shefflin to Dublin to bring that big name bounce and attract more players to the Dublin set up.
Both currently treading water and going no where fast.
Would Henry look to come up to Antrim after Darren steps back?
Cork job beckons for Henry
Darren may get total redemption in Tipp if Cahill doesn't get them out of Munster
I would doubt Shefflin would come anywhere near antrim. Gleeson has done a fantastic job in antrim. I hope we hold onto him for much longer.
If DG gets a positive outcome for the season he will be gone.
As to where he goes or who would take him that's an entirely different conversation.
Quote from: NAG1 on April 30, 2024, 10:46:03 AMIf DG gets a positive outcome for the season he will be gone.
As to where he goes or who would take him that's an entirely different conversation.
Yep if he gets anything decent in the south he will be away, otherwise he may hang about as €70k a year or whatever it is would be hard enough to walk away from.
Money aside, as its standard across the country. Spoke to Darren a few times and his passion is very real and commitment to the task (from what I see) is what you are looking for in a manager.
3 to 4 years is generally enough for both players and management, I've seen some good kids come through recently at club level to suggest that the future at senior hurling in Antrim could get better.
Dealing with the younger generation is tough though, was at a under 14 I think development games at the weekend and while we were on top over Derry, I still think we are miles away from other hurling strongholds
Basics need addressed I feel across the clubs, catching, striking left/right dipping the ball, speed of delivery, spatial awareness, these are the basics that the club should be on top of before coming into development squads.
Club is still king and some clubs don't (maybe understandably in cases across both codes) have faith in them and would rather develop their own kids to succeed with them.
What's the answer? We really do have a lack of togetherness that other counties have for whatever reason, I think in most counties County is king and club comes a very close second, but the carrot of getting to Croke with your club is easier here than with the county might be one reason
Quote from: Saffrongael on April 30, 2024, 11:01:23 AMQuote from: NAG1 on April 30, 2024, 10:46:03 AMIf DG gets a positive outcome for the season he will be gone.
As to where he goes or who would take him that's an entirely different conversation.
Yep if he gets anything decent in the south he will be away, otherwise he may hang about as €70k a year or whatever it is would be hard enough to walk away from.
Antrim need to build on this. Laois never built on the buzz they had with Eddie Brennan. The GAA should have a fund for this sort of situation.
Quote from: Milltown Row2 on April 30, 2024, 11:18:30 AMMoney aside, as its standard across the country. Spoke to Darren a few times and his passion is very real and commitment to the task (from what I see) is what you are looking for in a manager.
3 to 4 years is generally enough for both players and management, I've seen some good kids come through recently at club level to suggest that the future at senior hurling in Antrim could get better.
Dealing with the younger generation is tough though, was at a under 14 I think development games at the weekend and while we were on top over Derry, I still think we are miles away from other hurling strongholds
Basics need addressed I feel across the clubs, catching, striking left/right dipping the ball, speed of delivery, spatial awareness, these are the basics that the club should be on top of before coming into development squads.
Club is still king and some clubs don't (maybe understandably in cases across both codes) have faith in them and would rather develop their own kids to succeed with them.
What's the answer? We really do have a lack of togetherness that other counties have for whatever reason, I think in most counties County is king and club comes a very close second, but the carrot of getting to Croke with your club is easier here than with the county might be one reason
In the football and hurling we've invested a lot at senior level and tbh while we are not going to win all irelands I think both setups are considerably better and something that younger ones can hopefully aspire to. The hurling setup is considerably more professional than we have ever had before irrespective of the outcome of the upcoming games and the football would be the same. However the underage results aren't inspiring in either code - I kind of hope maybe there's a plan to start with senior but we will see.
Kids are inspired by sporting breakthroughs on the field. This is well understood in the Glens. If you want something to be important, make it important.
Quote from: seafoid on April 30, 2024, 12:13:00 PMKids are inspired by sporting breakthroughs on the field. This is well understood in the Glens. If you want something to be important, make it important.
Whilst Antrim have produced a big result in the Leinster championship, the players and those same kids know their best route to an AI Final is with their clubs.
Club hurling is still king in Antrim.
So Wexford lose to Antrim then beat Galway? Mad Ted.
Really poor from Owens there giving that free against Tipp for lying on the ball, you could clearly see the ball out of the ruck
Some finish by Tipp there
Was that not a dodgy penalty for Waterford against Tipp?
Should it not have been re-taken?
What was the referee at?
Quote from: johnnycool on April 30, 2024, 08:14:05 AMQuote from: seafoid on April 29, 2024, 08:24:23 PMQuote from: imtommygunn on April 29, 2024, 06:51:13 PMThe comparison would be Dublin not Derry...
Cork will need to beat limerick now which if limerick have qualified is I suppose a possibility.
Agree re Dublin. What McGuinness did was completely nullify Derry's tactics. Beating Limerick will require something special that is similar.
McGuinness didn't beat Derry by trying to be better at what Derry excel at, he looked at their strengths and used that against them, the high press on the Donegal kick out, their keeper just booted it beyond the press and they'd runners hitting that space beyond the press once the big men flicked the ball into it.
Smart enough, but for Derry to persist in the "process" which had been worked out spoke of a team overcoached.
To beat Limerick you avoid the intensity and congested areas, have the scorers 70 metres from goals working the ball in pods to get the long range shots off and you'll need a very high percentage of scores going over for it to work.
If that doesn't pull out their deep lying half forwards then nothing will.
Then once they come out chasing the game you need to hit the spaces they leave behind
Limerick rode their luck against Clare. The goal that gave them momentum was from a mishit free aside from the square ball shouts and a bit of poor goal keeping, but Clare couldn't respond like they did against Cork.
Clare do have the physique to compete against Limerick, but they've questions to answer about their mental fortitude in Munster finals and AI semi-finals where they've probably been the better teams but lapses in concentration have been their undoing.
Galway didn't show much in Salthill to suggest they've improved this year, but Leinster doesn't heat up for another few weeks.
Tipp, Cork and Waterford need to be smarter if they want to challenge Limerick or the bottom line is they just aren't good enough no matter how you cut it.
Quote from: johnnycool on April 30, 2024, 08:14:05 AMQuote from: seafoid on April 29, 2024, 08:24:23 PMQuote from: imtommygunn on April 29, 2024, 06:51:13 PMThe comparison would be Dublin not Derry...
Cork will need to beat limerick now which if limerick have qualified is I suppose a possibility.
Agree re Dublin. What McGuinness did was completely nullify Derry's tactics. Beating Limerick will require something special that is similar.
McGuinness didn't beat Derry by trying to be better at what Derry excel at, he looked at their strengths and used that against them, the high press on the Donegal kick out, their keeper just booted it beyond the press and they'd runners hitting that space beyond the press once the big men flicked the ball into it.
Smart enough, but for Derry to persist in the "process" which had been worked out spoke of a team overcoached.
To beat Limerick you avoid the intensity and congested areas, have the scorers 70 metres from goals working the ball in pods to get the long range shots off and you'll need a very high percentage of scores going over for it to work.
If that doesn't pull out their deep lying half forwards then nothing will.
Then once they come out chasing the game you need to hit the spaces they leave behind
Limerick rode their luck against Clare. The goal that gave them momentum was from a mishit free aside from the square ball shouts and a bit of poor goal keeping, but Clare couldn't respond like they did against Cork.
Clare do have the physique to compete against Limerick, but they've questions to answer about their mental fortitude in Munster finals and AI semi-finals where they've probably been the better teams but lapses in concentration have been their undoing.
Galway didn't show much in Salthill to suggest they've improved this year, but Leinster doesn't heat up for another few weeks.
Tipp, Cork and Waterford need to be smarter if they want to challenge Limerick or the bottom line is they just aren't good enough no matter how you cut it.
Quote from: johnnycool on April 30, 2024, 08:14:05 AMQuote from: seafoid on April 29, 2024, 08:24:23 PMQuote from: imtommygunn on April 29, 2024, 06:51:13 PMThe comparison would be Dublin not Derry...
Cork will need to beat limerick now which if limerick have qualified is I suppose a possibility.
Agree re Dublin. What McGuinness did was completely nullify Derry's tactics. Beating Limerick will require something special that is similar.
McGuinness didn't beat Derry by trying to be better at what Derry excel at, he looked at their strengths and used that against them, the high press on the Donegal kick out, their keeper just booted it beyond the press and they'd runners hitting that space beyond the press once the big men flicked the ball into it.
Smart enough, but for Derry to persist in the "process" which had been worked out spoke of a team overcoached.
To beat Limerick you avoid the intensity and congested areas, have the scorers 70 metres from goals working the ball in pods to get the long range shots off and you'll need a very high percentage of scores going over for it to work.
If that doesn't pull out their deep lying half forwards then nothing will.
Then once they come out chasing the game you need to hit the spaces they leave behind
Limerick rode their luck against Clare. The goal that gave them momentum was from a mishit free aside from the square ball shouts and a bit of poor goal keeping, but Clare couldn't respond like they did against Cork.
Clare do have the physique to compete against Limerick, but they've questions to answer about their mental fortitude in Munster finals and AI semi-finals where they've probably been the better teams but lapses in concentration have been their undoing.
Galway didn't show much in Salthill to suggest they've improved this year, but Leinster doesn't heat up for another few weeks.
Tipp, Cork and Waterford need to be smarter if they want to challenge Limerick or the bottom line is they just aren't good enough no matter how you cut it.
Great stuff. The psychology has to be spot on as well.
Not what I would tend to associate with Tipperary hurling
https://m.independent.ie/sport/gaelic-games/hurling/we-tend-to-love-a-good-failure-in-tipp-that-is-what-disappoints-me-the-most-liam-cahill-hits-back-at-critics/a966970394.html
Taking a swipe at his critics in the county he declared: "We tend to love a good failure in Tipp. That is what disappoints me the most. We tend to love a good failure."
Quote from: seafoid on May 05, 2024, 07:46:58 PMNot what I would tend to associate with Tipperary hurling
https://m.independent.ie/sport/gaelic-games/hurling/we-tend-to-love-a-good-failure-in-tipp-that-is-what-disappoints-me-the-most-liam-cahill-hits-back-at-critics/a966970394.html
Taking a swipe at his critics in the county he declared: "We tend to love a good failure in Tipp. That is what disappoints me the most. We tend to love a good failure."
Cahill would be better shutting up and concentrating on his team.
They were out-hurled for the most part by Waterford but they hung on in there and salvaged a draw.
I thought Bonnar Maher was lucky to avoid a red card for his mistimed shoulder/raised elbow which connected with Lyons. He was probably saved by the fact he was only on the field a few minutes before.
Not sure what the ref was doing running across the goals before the penalty was struck, I've never saw anything like that before and really should have been retaken, not that I think it would have changed the end result, but who knows!
Waterford somehow allowed a Tipp man in acres of space twice in injury time to take a puckout unopposed well inside their own half, I find that staggering also at this level, but the Tipp lads have given themselves a fighting chance for third place.
The fact that Bonnar Maher is even still around the squad shows the problems are much deeper for Tipp.
Was a quality player in his day but that was a few seasons ago.
Big game for Antrim this weekend, down in Parnell Park.
Get a win there and third is very much in reach, but Dublin have urgent demands as well as they need to secure the points now as they've still Galway and Kilkenny to contend with and points in those two games may be harder come by.
Galway getting beat by Wexford has opened this championship up a bit and Galway can't afford another slip up in Corrigan or against Dublin to secure the second spot, but Wexford have given themselves a decent shout at this and for some reason always do well against Kilkenny when their backs are against the wall.
It's a four horse race for the 2nd and 3rd spots in Leinster for me at this stage but all may become a bit clearer by Sunday evening.
Cork have a must win game against Limerick down in the SuperValu park. It's hard to see that happening, but Cork with all their weaknesses, most notably their defence have never really been beaten by a huge amount by anyone in recent years, so maybe they might get a big rub of the green on Saturday evening, hard to see anything other than a Limerick win and Pat Ryan out of a job the next day.
They're a frustrating outfit are Cork. They'll probably give this a good rattle and ultimately lose by a couple - then beat Tipp when the pressure is off - leaving another 6 months of chatter of being not that far away.
The best of the U20 All Ireland winning teams need ushered in ASAP - it needs done even if it meant a dip for a year or two. The current players in that team that are 30+ have had more than enough chances. In fairness I think Ben Cunningham would have easily started this year but for injury. Other than Joyce and Connolly not many have made an impact.
They've never been that terrible over the years but clearly never close to winning the big prizes either. The appetite is still there from the public down there as seen by attendance expected on Saturday night. I think they are good for the game when they're motoring well.
Quote from: ClubScene13 on May 09, 2024, 03:19:54 PMThey're a frustrating outfit are Cork. They'll probably give this a good rattle and ultimately lose by a couple - then beat Tipp when the pressure is off - leaving another 6 months of chatter of being not that far away.
The best of the U20 All Ireland winning teams need ushered in ASAP - it needs done even if it meant a dip for a year or two. The current players in that team that are 30+ have had more than enough chances. In fairness I think Ben Cunningham would have easily started this year but for injury. Other than Joyce and Connolly not many have made an impact.
They've never been that terrible over the years but clearly never close to winning the big prizes either. The appetite is still there from the public down there as seen by attendance expected on Saturday night. I think they are good for the game when they're motoring well.
Is he playing rugby?
You are thinking of Ben O'Connor
Quote from: marty34 on May 09, 2024, 09:27:41 PMQuote from: ClubScene13 on May 09, 2024, 03:19:54 PMThey're a frustrating outfit are Cork. They'll probably give this a good rattle and ultimately lose by a couple - then beat Tipp when the pressure is off - leaving another 6 months of chatter of being not that far away.
The best of the U20 All Ireland winning teams need ushered in ASAP - it needs done even if it meant a dip for a year or two. The current players in that team that are 30+ have had more than enough chances. In fairness I think Ben Cunningham would have easily started this year but for injury. Other than Joyce and Connolly not many have made an impact.
They've never been that terrible over the years but clearly never close to winning the big prizes either. The appetite is still there from the public down there as seen by attendance expected on Saturday night. I think they are good for the game when they're motoring well.
Is he playing rugby?
Yes sadly.
He was one of the few U20's who seemed to thrive on physicality, a rare trait in Cork at the minute.
KK absolutely dreadful since the red card but what on earth was that free for?!
A draw. Well done Carlow
Quote from: gallsman on May 11, 2024, 06:08:02 PMKK absolutely dreadful since the red card but what on earth was that free for?!
Looked like the KK player threw the ball away, not sure you can turn a sideline into a free for that ?
Fair play securing a draw Carlow..
They will be looking forward to the Antrim game with plenty of confidence
Quote from: Saffrongael on May 11, 2024, 06:12:07 PMQuote from: gallsman on May 11, 2024, 06:08:02 PMKK absolutely dreadful since the red card but what on earth was that free for?!
Looked like the KK player threw the ball away, not sure you can turn a sideline into a free for that ?
If ( I haven't seen this game btw) you interfere at a sideline ball decision against the other team it's a free, has been a free for a good few years now
Quote from: Milltown Row2 on May 11, 2024, 06:22:28 PMQuote from: Saffrongael on May 11, 2024, 06:12:07 PMQuote from: gallsman on May 11, 2024, 06:08:02 PMKK absolutely dreadful since the red card but what on earth was that free for?!
Looked like the KK player threw the ball away, not sure you can turn a sideline into a free for that ?
If ( I haven't seen this game btw) you interfere at a sideline ball decision against the other team it's a free, has been a free for a good few years now
It looked like the KK player over ran the ball over the sideline, and then tossed the ball away - hard to tell
Savage result for Carlow.
Pity it wasn't televised!
KK were absolutely brutal, even for being down a man. Hit 16 wides and if it wasn't for two monster scores from TJ (who'd been poor all day) they'd have been beaten.
Quote from: Saffrongael on May 11, 2024, 06:25:08 PMIt looked like the KK player over ran the ball over the sideline, and then tossed the ball away - hard to tell
Must have been as couldn't see anything else. Ref made a "pulling back" that I couldn't understand at all.
Ok, so how much will Limerick win by? I'm gonna say 8.
Quote from: gallsman on May 11, 2024, 07:44:00 PMOk, so how much will Limerick win by? I'm gonna say 8.
That'll be a good bet now
Quote from: Saffrongael on May 11, 2024, 06:25:08 PMQuote from: Milltown Row2 on May 11, 2024, 06:22:28 PMQuote from: Saffrongael on May 11, 2024, 06:12:07 PMQuote from: gallsman on May 11, 2024, 06:08:02 PMKK absolutely dreadful since the red card but what on earth was that free for?!
Looked like the KK player threw the ball away, not sure you can turn a sideline into a free for that ?
If ( I haven't seen this game btw) you interfere at a sideline ball decision against the other team it's a free, has been a free for a good few years now
It looked like the KK player over ran the ball over the sideline, and then tossed the ball away - hard to tell
If he did that then it's a free. And players must know that is a free! Mad how intercounty players do that
Cork are winning
49 mins: Cork 2-20 Limerick 1-16
Quote from: seafoid on May 11, 2024, 08:13:41 PMCork are winning
49 mins: Cork 2-20 Limerick 1-16
Probably not for much longer, some absolutely brainless stuff for the Limerick goals
2-23 to 3-21 Limerick on top
Cork have shit the bed.
Quote from: Gael85 on May 11, 2024, 08:26:42 PMCork have shit the bed.
Every team that plays Limerick shit the bed.
You can match them possibly for 60 minutes, Kilkenny had that also.
Go toe to toe for a period and the shear athleticism, skill, drive brings them through.
1 point in it
Penalty scored
Cork 3-27 Limerick 3-26
Quote from: Gael85 on May 11, 2024, 08:26:42 PMCork have shit the bed.
Limerick beat them to it!
Jaysus
What a game!
Well done Cork.
3-28 to 3-26
Quote from: gallsman on May 11, 2024, 07:44:00 PMOk, so how much will Limerick win by? I'm gonna say 8.
Was feeling good about this when Flanagan's second went in.
First time a team has responded to limerick's 3rd quarter push. Incredible run from Kingston to win the penalty.
Football shits the bed with regards to entertainment
What a game
Quote from: Milltown Row2 on May 11, 2024, 08:42:17 PMFootball shits the bed with regards to entertainment
Unfortunatley very true, when you think of the comparison of that and the
Armagh V Down game tow weeks ago.
btw Mike Finnerty is such a better commentator that Marty or (its a huge one) Ger
Quote from: joemamas on May 11, 2024, 08:46:48 PMQuote from: Milltown Row2 on May 11, 2024, 08:42:17 PMFootball shits the bed with regards to entertainment
Unfortunatley very true, when you think of the comparison of that and the
Armagh V Down game tow weeks ago.
btw Mike Finnerty is such a better commentator that Marty or (its a huge one) Ger
Clare v Limerick was game of year then this one turns up!
Mental effort for both, Limerick hate losing
Babs Keating Says Hurling Should Break Away From Croke Park and "Run Their Own Organisation"
"I'm saying it loud and clear, the first thing hurling counties should do is break from Croke Park and run their own association".
(Babs Keating)
"but more than anything he finds himself growing increasingly concerned about the state of the GAA; where it's going, what it stands for, who it represents".
"I'm saying it loud and clear, the first thing hurling counties should do is break from Croke Park and run their own association".
No intercounty activity in August or September, the tinkering with the age grades and what he sees as the ostracisation of older people by the GAA, none of it sits well with him. And then there's hurling.
"Hurling is treated as a second-class citizen and it's never going to get enough support in the current arrangement, because football dominates in terms of votes. Hurling counties should go out on their own and do so immediately."
source: irishtimes.com/sport/gaelic-games
When Limerick took the lead and got to 4 points ahead I thought Cork were goners. However Cork clung on and got to within striking distance and Kingston and Horgan did the rest.
Some game in Cork. Well done The Rebels for hanging in there then getting over the line.
Great game altogether. Why wasn't this on tv? Madness. Instead of this dross tomorrow.
Cork only have 2pts so another knock-out game V Tipp next week-end. Should be a great occasion in Thurles.
Cork will need to get down to earth again asap and get the bodies right.
Re: Carlow V KK. Never seen a few like that awarded before and I've seen loads of lads beating the ball away after going over the sideline.
Well played Carlow. Big heart kept them in it and KK couldn't put them away. They hit a lot of wides and let Carlow hang in the game. Both Munster and Leinster groups are hanging in the balance.
Great entertainment.
Quote from: marty34 on May 11, 2024, 09:26:04 PMSome game in Cork. Well done The Rebels for hanging in there then getting over the line.
Great game altogether. Why wasn't this on tv? Madness. Instead of this dross tomorrow.
Cork only have 2pts so another knock-out game V Tipp next week-end. Should be a great occasion in Thurles.
Cork will need to get down to earth again asap and get the bodies right.
Re: Carlow V KK. Never seen a few like that awarded before and I've seen loads of lads beating the ball away after going over the sideline.
Well played Carlow. Big heart kept them in it and KK couldn't put them away. They hit a lot of wides and let Carlow hang in the game. Both Munster and Leinster groups are hanging in the balance.
Great entertainment.
You know it's a rule though? Done it plenty
Soem beating for Antrim today in a game that some had as a 50/50 game, Antrim just can't do it outside Corrigan
How many go out of the group stages?
Quote from: square_ball on May 11, 2024, 10:46:10 PMHow many go out of the group stages?
Bottom team in Leinster relegated, top 2 in each province in final, third plays a prelim QF V Joe McDonagh finalists
Quote from: Saffrongael on May 11, 2024, 11:28:12 PMQuote from: square_ball on May 11, 2024, 10:46:10 PMHow many go out of the group stages?
Bottom team in Leinster relegated, top 2 in each province in final, third plays a prelim QF V Joe McDonagh finalists
Neil McManus was asked what needs to change on TSG yesterday and he said stop relegating teams. Make the hurling pool bigger.
Quote from: seafoid on May 12, 2024, 01:07:35 PMQuote from: Saffrongael on May 11, 2024, 11:28:12 PMQuote from: square_ball on May 11, 2024, 10:46:10 PMHow many go out of the group stages?
Bottom team in Leinster relegated, top 2 in each province in final, third plays a prelim QF V Joe McDonagh finalists
Neil McManus was asked what needs to change on TSG yesterday and he said stop relegating teams. Make the hurling pool bigger.
We know that won't work.
Some game in the pairc last night..
Fair play to Cork, they went straight down the throat of the Limerick defence with long ball and broke it off for the runners coming in late from deep. They created some great goals and left some behind them as well which you thought might cost them in the end.
The Limerick onslaught arrived at the start of the second half with Cork struggling to get scores and once Limerick took the lead the general feeling was that was Cork gone for the year, but fair play to them, they showed a good bit of fight and were hanging on with a few scores of their own to keep it a one score game and got their reward with the penalty which you knew Horgan was going to finish off in style.
Limerick have let teams get leads on them once too often and got caught out last night.
Their full back line now looks a bit light, Lynch was very quiet throughout. Flanagan turned up as did Guillane, but some of the others didn't and that will be a concern for Kiely and Co.
A special mention to both referees in Carlow and Cork, they had the bottle to make the right decisions no matter what, Stack was entirely right to award the penalty right at the death when Hayes rugby tackled the Cork lad bearing down on goal. In hindsight he'd have been better off letting him get his shot off under pressure and at an angle rather than the penalty.
He also took no shit from the Cork keeper and his bollocking about.
Credit where its due.
Even if Cork beat Tipp, they could still go out on head to head as both Clare and Waterford have beaten them.
Still a lot to be decided yet in both provinces.
Lynch has generally been quiet since the injury. Understandable given the severity of it, but surprised he's kept his place this long while being so far off his exceptional standards.
Kyle Hayes finally on the receiving end of a bit of discipline. If the judiciary can't do it, the refs will have to step up!
Quote from: gallsman on May 12, 2024, 02:07:26 PMLynch has generally been quiet since the injury. Understandable given the severity of it, but surprised he's kept his place this long while being so far off his exceptional standards.
Kyle Hayes finally on the receiving end of a bit of discipline. If the judiciary can't do it, the refs will have to step up!
Lynch getting caught on the ball more and more, maybe it has been lack of game time or whether the injuries have caught up with him a bit.
He is a huge cog in the machine and if teams can get to him then they can get a foothold in the games.
Stopping the Limerick powerhorses through the tackle is bring results, reducing the throws handpasses have brought results too, thought Cork for most parts brought that to the game..
Easier said than done considering the size of these lads, and they have a fair bit of skill too.
Not sure if Aaron Gillane scored from play, and that is a huge ask also, so a few things went well for Cork on the day..
The only time though to beat Limerick is in Knockout
Quote from: Milltown Row2 on May 13, 2024, 10:53:37 AMStopping the Limerick powerhorses through the tackle is bring results, reducing the throws handpasses have brought results too, thought Cork for most parts brought that to the game..
Easier said than done considering the size of these lads, and they have a fair bit of skill too.
Not sure if Aaron Gillane scored from play, and that is a huge ask also, so a few things went well for Cork on the day..
The only time though to beat Limerick is in Knockout
It is, but Cork had no choice as their own championship life depended on getting the win, they were full blooded in that regard, but the question is, were Limerick?
Even with this defeat they're still favourites for the Munster final with Waterford left in their sights in two weeks time.
Clare beat Waterford and there's the Munster final pairings sorted.
Tipp need to beat Cork or they're out also.
Both are on RTE so that'll please everyone including Donal Óg and any OAP's who've no internet up a mountain somewhere who'd never been able to see the game anyway before GAAGO.
Cork to bate Tipp and the hay won't be saved either.
Clare to scrape past Waterford, purely on the fact they're at home which is a tough place to go, but if Davy can't get Waterford primed for this then there's no hope for Waterford who finish the campaign at Limerick!
The more I think of it, that draw between Waterford and Tipp has bolloxed both of them, although I think Tipp are out of contention after this Sunday anyway, but I can see Waterford ending the round robin on three and even if Tipp did manage to beat Clare on the last day they'd have three points to Clare and Corks four.
Clare would progress to the Munster final on the head to head and Cork get the third spot out of Munster.
Galway and Kilkenny to resume normal service this weekend as Lyng would have booted some serious Kilkenny hole over this week and Dublin will need to really fired up for this one. I might get feisty in Parnell as both wanting to lay down a marker...
Wexford visit the neighbours and as much as the jerseys will be very colourful I don't expect Wexford to slip up in this one.
Carlow may struggle to get two top class performances back to back.