Tipperary v Donegal

John Evans’ Tipperary always had the advantage over Meath in their last encounter and can now look forward to putting Donegal, who are on the back of two defeats, to the sword in Thurles.

The visitors lost out narrowly to Down, but it was a match that only burst into life in the second-half. You can expect Tipperary, in front of their own supporters, to tear into their opponents from the start.

Evans may rightly say that his team are on a ‘learning curve’, but consolidation in the second tier would represent further progress for the blue and gold.

In Barry Grogan and Philip Austin, they have players who know where the posts are, and the resilience shown in withstanding a late Meath surge, also bodes well.

Donegal, as always will rely on Michael Murphy as the focal point for most of their scores. However, there is talent spread throughout the side and John Joe Doherty will be looking for greater consistency as his side bid to stave off the likelihood of relegation.

Tipperary fans afforded their side a standing ovation after beating Meath. It’s quite possible it could happen again.

The visitors won’t want to hear such a rendition and that could be an important motivating factor.

Verdict: Donegal