The wizards of the small ball game swing into action on Sunday next, with the Clare v Waterford Munster encounter the pick of the bunch.
A week after losing the League final, Waterford are back in action and must focus their minds on a completely different objective. Clare await them this time and one wonders what effect if any the defeat to Galway will have on their approach.
Waterford did not perform last Sunday and that is being kind to them, a similar display and they will be wiped out. Clare are back in earnest, Anthony Daly has gone down this way before, Frank and Brian Lohan are at opposite ends and Ollie Baker is hungry for more glory. Verdict Clare
The other tie down south sees defending champions Cork in first round action against Kerry. Lambs to the slaughter, that about sums up the fate awaiting Kerry, that is unless Cork show some sympathy.
Kerry hammered by Westmeath who were in turn annilhilated by Down. Possibly an opportunity for Donal O’Grady to try out some fringe players or even give Brian Corcoran a chance to display his fitness. Verdict Cork
In the Leinster Championship, Westmeath will be hoping to bounce back to form after their hammering by Down in the Division 2 League final last Sunday. Their opponents, Kildare will be ready to cause an upset. It could prove a timely wake up call for the Westmeath lads, nothing comes easy but they should recover in time to advance to the next round. Verdict Westmeath.
When Laois defeated Offaly in Birr a couple of weeks ago, it finally brought it home to them that hey we have a great chance of reaching a Leinster final this year with Wexford and Kilkenny in the other half of the draw.
Meath may not be the force they were a couple of years ago although they will not lack spirit. The Cuddy’s along with the likes of Darren Rooney and James Young should be too strong for the Royals. Verdict Laois.
Up north, Derry were on the crest of a wave a few seasons ago when they frightened the hearts out of every Offaly player and supporter with a fabulous display in an All-Ireland quarter final. Since then their fortunes have dipped alarmingly so much that they will start this game as underdogs.
Not that London are world beaters but they did have a win in Ireland last weekend and confidence is running high. Verdict London.
Filed by James McMahon
