Semple Stadium hosts this Sunday's NHL Division One semi-finals, Patrick Kennedy gives his predictions for the outcomes here.
Allianz NHL Division 1 semi-finals
Clare v Limerick, Sunday 1.30, Semple Stadium.
Limerick have been playing more sensible hurling than Clare in recent months.
The influence that Ger Cunningham, of Newtownshandrum fame, has had on their performance is the key to their improvement this year.
Clare and manager Anthony Daly are still struggling to find a style of play they are comfortable with and passion will not be enough to bring them through this encounter on Sunday.
A high-scoring contest should ensue given both side’s scoring record so far this year, but Limerick should be able to exploit the Clare defence to score the goals that will send them on their way to the final.
Verdict: Limerick
Kilkenny v Tipperary, Sunday 3.30, Semple Stadium.
The old rivals square up to each other on the hallowed turf of Thurles in what, on paper at least, looks like a game that the Cats should easily dominate.
If only it were that easy. Tipp will raise their game to a higher level for the clash and should make a game of it at least.
However, Kilkenny have a more professional approach and by making better use of possession should romp to a comfortable win.
Tipperary’s main hope will be in picking off goals and throwing John Carroll and Redser O’Grady on in the second half to shake up the Kilkenny defenders.
Verdict: Kilkenny
