The Déise men opened their campaign against Cork and recorded a four-point win to set up a Munster final against Limerick. Four points was again the difference between the teams but this time Waterford came out on the losing side. However, Liam Cahill’s side left that game with the knowledge that they could compete with the best. They brought a ferocious intensity and went toe-to-toe with Limerick’s physicality in midfield.

In the 51st minute of that game Waterford were ahead. Then, Limerick’s strength in depth proved to be crucial. Kiely introduced reinforcements and his big guns on the pitch raised their game accordingly. Kieran Bennett was assigned to Cian Lynch for that game and Callum Lyons stuck to Gearóid Hegarty like glue. Still, these two Limerick leaders hit four points between them. It will be interesting to see how Cahill deploys his man-markers this time around. He will likely stick with what proved successful in the Munster final. However, there is no room for error with the stakes so high.

Following their Munster final defeat, Waterford beat Clare to set up a semi-final against Kilkenny. That game against the Cats resulted on one of the most entertaining games of Hurling to grace the Championship in what was already an action-packed year. As a result, Waterford carry the momentum into this final.

Special Limerick Team

In contrast, Limerick’s journey to the final yielded less drama and close-calls. Entering the Championship as favourites, their performances have justified this title. After conquering Munster, John Kiely’s troops beat Galway in the semi-final with three points to spare. The showing was a great example of how Limerick have the necessary tools to overcome whatever challenge is thrown at them.

In that semi-final, Limerick quickly fell five-points behind the Galwegians. Despite managing to come back without any sense of desperation, Kiely will be keen to ensure his side hit the ground running in the final.

Limerick’s physicality and intensity in the middle-third has been the source of much of their praise this year. However, their efficiency in front of goal has been their most valuable attribute.

As much as Liam Cahill will be focusing on the midfield battle, he must set-up his team to try and neutralise an incredibly economical Limerick attack. After failing to live up to expectations last year, Limerick are aiming to claim their second Liam McCarthy in three years.

Meanwhile, Waterford haven’t had an All-Ireland win since 1959. But, the loss of 2017 will be fresh in many minds and they’ll be keen end their drought.

Limerick vs Waterford is on RTÉ and Sky Sports Mix.

Limerick are 2/5 favourites with Paddy Power. On the other hand, Waterford are 5/2 and a draw is 10/1.

Prediction: Limerick.

All-Ireland SHC Final: Limerick vs Waterford, Sunday, December 13th, 15:30 (Croke Park). 

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Last weekend, Galway took to the field in the quarter-final to face last year’s winners Tipperary. It was a game where both teams showed why they’re among the best in the country. In the end, just two points separated them. This difference was largely thanks to Aidan Harte’s 66th minute goal for Galway. The corner-back doesn’t appear on the score sheet too often but he was there when Galway needed something special.

Before that, the westerners were in arrears but after Harte’s strike they held firm to eliminate the holders. Furthermore, the dismissal of Cathal Barrett for Tipperary in the 52nd minute gave Galway an advantage that they put them beyond the Premier men.

Tipperary made the Galwegians earn their semi-final spot. From the throw-in they were intense and clinical. Galway’s ability to win their own puck-out was a huge factor in them gaining a foothold in the game. Likewise, their economical use of possession was crucial. Joe Canning was his usual laser-like best from the dead-ball. However, a lapse in the second-quarter saw Tipperary outscore them by 8. If Limerick are allowed such a chance, it could be game over.

Limerick on a Quest for Liam McCarthy

To date, the 2018 All-Ireland Champions have beaten Clare, Tipperary, and Waterford. But, what was most impressive was the manner in which they won. They have been dominant in every area of the pitch during every performance. Their nine-point win over Tipperary was a real example of them displaying their intention of challenging for the title.

Most recently, Waterford fell victim to Kiely’s team in the Munster final. The Déise men really put up a challenge but in the end, Limerick’s four-point victory was well-deserved. Their superior conditioning continues to prove effective in the middle third. In addition to that, Limerick have developed a good habit of not wasting their chances. This formula has made them the team to beat.

There is no doubt that Galway possess the tools to overcome Limerick. But, they cannot afford to be wasteful in any area of the pitch. Also, the Tipperary game likely took its toll on the Galway team. As a result, Limerick’s superior squad depth could be vital if this game goes down to the wire.

The game is live on RTÉ and Sky Sports Mix.

Limerick are 8/15 favourites with Paddy Power. On the other hand, Galway are 2/1 and a draw is a long 9/1.

Prediction: Limerick. The Munster men just seem to be a different animal this year.

Team News

Limerick Senior Hurling Team to play Galway in the All Ireland Senior Hurling Championship Semi Final on Sunday 29th. November in Croke Park 4pm. is selected as follows

Limerick : Nicky Quaid; Sean Finn, Dan Morrissey, Barry Nash; Diarmaid Byrnes, Declan Hannon, Kyle Hayes; Darragh O’Donovan, William O’Donoghue; Gearoid Hegarty, Cian Lynch, Tom Morrissey; Aaron Gillane, Seamus Flanagan, Graeme Mulcahy.

Subs: Barry Hennessy, Conor Boylan, Adrian Breen, Peter Casey, Ronan Connolly, Aaron Costello, Richie English, Robbie Hanley, Paddy O’Loughlin, David Reidy, Pat Ryan.

Galway : Eanna Murphy; Aidan Harte, Daithi Burke, Shane Cooney; Fintan Burke, Gearoid McInerney, Joseph Cooney; Padraic Mannion, Johnny Coen; Joe Canning, Cathal Mannion, David Burke; Brian Concannon, Conor Cooney, Conor Whelan.

Subs: James Skehill, Darren Morrissey, Jack Fitzpatrick, Sean Loftus, Adrian Tuohy, Evan Niland, Jason Flynn, Sean Linnane, Niall Burke, Jarlath Mannion, Tadhg Haran.

Hurling Championship Semi-Final: Limerick vs Galway, Sunday, 29th November, 16:00 (Croke Park).

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Waterford overcame Clare in last weekend’s quarter-final by a healthy nine points. After an opening half of breathtaking hurling, Waterford were just three points ahead thanks to Jack Fagan’s goal just before the interval. That was their third major after Dessie Hutchinson had already netted two in a scintillating individual performance. Equally as important, Waterford were successful in quenching the flaming hot Tony Kelly who hit two from play despite injuring his ankle before the game.

After the break, Waterford’s squad depth proved instrumental as Cahill put faith in his subs to finish the job. Clare managed to go point-for-point with Waterford during the third quarter but never came within the three-point deficit. Then, when Waterford went seven ahead on 55 minutes, Clare responded with a goal. The Déise ship held firm however. The introduction of the Waterford reserves yielded no fewer than five scores. By full-time, Cahill had steered his team to a well-deserved victory.

Previously, Kilkenny qualified for the semi-final by beating Galway in the Leister Final. Before the game, Galway were widely tipped to advance after their commanding win over Wexford. In fact, for much of the Leinster final it looked as if the tipsters were going to be proved correct. By the 55th minute, the Galwegians were five up and going from strength to strength. Then lightning struck twice in 40 seconds as the Cats goaled twice for a six-point swing. Firstly, Richie Hogan lit up the Dark Dublin sky with one of the most skillful goals scored on a Hurling pitch. Then, from the very next play, the same man set up TJ Reid who buried it into the Galway net. From there, Kilkenny were on top and Galway never recovered.

That was Brian Cody’s 16th Leinster title but he hasn’t won an All-Ireland since 2015. Last year, they finished runners-up to Tipperary but were demolished in the final. After a sluggish start against Dubin this year, Cody’s experience has proved influential in this Kilkenny team’s improvement. There is no doubt he has his eyes firmly set on the final. But, Waterford will make him earn a place in the showdown.

Waterford’s win over Clare was a tremendous way to bounce back from defeat in the Munster final a week earlier. They have gone from strength to strength themselves this year and will be ready to take on the Kilkenny challenge on Saturday evening. The excitement of an All-Ireland semi-final is sure to quench the fatigue of three games in three weeks.

Regardless of how both sides enter this game, it is sure to be a fascinating watch. There has already been a lot of surprises this year and no one will rule out another.

The game is live on RTÉ as well as Sky Sports Mix.

Paddy Power are fancying Kilkenny to go through. The Leinster men are 4/6. In contrast, Waterford as 13/8 and a draw is 9/1.

Prediction: Kilkenny.

Teams

Kilkenny : Eoin Murphy; Conor Delaney, Huw Lawlor, Tommy Walsh; Padraig Walsh, Cillian Buckley, Paddy Deegan; Conor Browne, Conor Fogarty; John Donnelly, TJ Reid, Martin Keoghan; Billy Ryan, Richie Hogan, Eoin Cody.

Subs: Darren Brennan, Paul Murphy, Joey Holden, Ciaran Wallace, Richie Reid, Alan Murphy, Colin Fennelly, Walter Walsh, Liam Blanchfield, Ger Aylward, Niall Brassil.

Waterford : Stephen O’Keeffe; Ian Kenny, Conor Prunty, Shane McNulty; Calum Lyons, Tadhg De Burca, Kevin Moran; Jamie Barron, Jake Dillon; Jack Fagan, Kieran Bennett, Stephen Bennett; Dessie Hutchinson, Austin Gleeson, Jack Prendergast.

Subs: Billy Nolan, Peter Hogan, Mark O’Brien, Mikey Kearney, Patrick Curran, Colin Dunford, Conor Gleeson, Darragh Lyons, Neil Montgomery, Iarlaith Daly, Billy Power.

All-Ireland Hurling Championship Semi-Final: Kilkenny vs Waterford, Saturday, 28th November, 18:00 (Croke Park).

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Firstly, Waterford’s win over Cork was a fantastic one for the county. However, Limerick proved to be too much of a challenge in the Munster Final. In what can be described as the most combative game in the Championship thus far, Waterford were ferocious in their attempt to dethrone Limerick as kings of Munster.

The middle third was the decisive battleground for much of this tie. Waterford opted to go toe-to-toe with Limerick’s physicality. In fact, they achieved that for much of the game and even came out on top on many occasions. At half-time, it was 0-14 to 0-11 to the holders and there was a sense that they would push on in the second-half. But, the opposite unfolded. With 20 minutes left, Waterford had a one-point lead. That’s when Limerick’s squad strength proved to be crucial. They just had more to offer than Waterford in the closing stages and took a four-point win.

In spite of this, Waterford will be encouraged by their performance. Limerick are the strongest team in the country on form and they gave them a massive run. Liam Cahill will be itching for another go at John Kiely’s team.

Meanwhile, Clare emerged from the qualifiers with an impressive win against Wexford. 2013 Player of the Year Tony Kelly again lorded things on his way to a personal 1-15 tally. 10 of those came in the first-half as the Banner men stormed to a 0-13 to 0-3 lead.

The second-half didn’t prove to be as bountiful for them. But, Wexford never came close to threatening the early lead Clare established. When Kelly scored a smashing goal in the 52nd minute, it effectively ended the tie as a contest and Brian Lohan has successfully steered his team to the quarter-finals.

Clare have to prevail in a much tougher contest this weekend if they are to reach the semi-finals.

The quarter-final is live on Sky Sports Mix.

Paddy Power are backing Waterford. They’re 1/2 versus Clare’s 15/8. A draw is 9/1.

Prediction: Waterford. My heart says Clare but my head says Waterford. The Munster runners-up were impressive against Limerick and from numbers 1-15 they may just pack more of a punch.

Team News

Waterford : Stephen O’Keeffe; Ian Kenny, Conor Prunty, Shane McNulty; Calum Lyons, Tadhg De Burca, Kevin Moran; Jamie Barron, Jake Dillon; Stephen Bennett, Kieran Bennett, Jack Fagan; Dessie Hutchinson, Austin Gleeson, Jack Prendergast.

Subs: Billy Nolan, Peter Hogan, Mark O’Brien, Mikey Kearney, Patrick Curran, Colin Dunford, Ciaran Kirwan, Darragh Lyons, Neil Montgomery, Iarlaith Daly, Conor Gleeson.

Clare : Eibhear Quilligan; Rory Hayes, Conor Cleary, Patrick O’Connor; Stephen O’Halloran, Aidan McCarthy, Seadna Morey; Jason McCarthy, Tony Kelly; Cathal Malone, David Reidy, David Fitzgerald; Shane O’Donnell, Colin Guilfoyle, Ryan Taylor.

Subs: Donal Tuohy, Diarmuid Ryan, David McInerney, Aron Shanagher, Jack Browne, Gary Cooney, Cathal McInerney, Aaron Cunningham, Paidi Fitzpatrick, Paul Flanagan, Liam Corry.

All-Ireland Hurling Quarter-Final: Waterford vs Clare, Saturday, 21st November, 15:45 (Páirc Uí Chaoimh). 

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Since Waterford won Munster in 2010, they have returned to the final four times. However, each of these ended in defeat. Now, there is a chance for Waterford to capitalise on the new Championship format and claim Munster after just two games.

Previously, they began their Championship against Cork. Entering the game as underdogs, they soon showed they were there to play. A frantic opening ten minutes had the score at 0-5 to 0-4 for Cork. But, then Waterford enjoyed a good spell. Soon after the first-half water break, they made it double scores at 0-10 to 0-5. Although Cork kept coming back, Waterford took a three-point lead into the break.

Waterford were against a stiff wind in the second period. Yet, they more than held their own. Another frantic restart saw them go point-for-point with the rebels. Then, the ever-impressive Calum Lyons made a characteristic burst up the wing, holding off Cork challenges before firing into the net. That gave the Déise men a six-point lead.

From there, Waterford kept the scoreboard ticking over at a safe pace. At the full-time whistle they celebrated a 1-28 to 1-24 win. Ten different scorers contributed to the Waterford tally. This is something Liam Cahill will be delighted about. However, they still accumulated a worrying amount of wides. Limerick are more efficient than Cork and will punish Waterford for such wastefulness.

Limerick earn the badge of favourites

Last year’s Munster winners came back with a point to prove after losing the All-Ireland semi-final last year. They did just that against Tipperary who they took apart ruthlessly in Páirc Uí Chaoimh. Limerick applied the lessons they learned about winter Championship in their opener against Clare to their semi-final tie. As a result, there was a physical duel in the middle third that Limerick’s middle eight embraced. Their superior conditioning stopped the Tipperary charge at its source and in turn supplied the forwards with all the chances they needed.

When Aaron Gillane scored Limerick’s first goal shortly after the first-half water-break, Limerick were four points ahead. From then until half-time they put their opponents to the sword. As a result, it was 1-17 to 1-8 at the break.

Facing a strong wind in the second-half, Limerick’s work rate off the ball made sure they were never on the back foot. Furthermore, they were incredibly economical in possession, making sure to be patient with the sliotar in midfield and finding the right passes inside. It ended 3-23 to 2-17 and Limerick’s performance saw them jump the queue to be favourites for this year’s Championship.

But, they won Munster convincingly last year and still failed to reach the All-Ireland final. Based on the evidence thus far, John Kiely’s side are out to prove a point to themselves.

Waterford have already proved capable of competing with the big teams. But, they need to be at their best and above to trump this Limerick team. Even if they fail to conquer Munster for the first time in a decade, Waterford could have a big part to play in the rest of the Championship.

Whereas, Limerick should have too much class for their opponents here. They know how to manage games and the competition within the team is only driving them on.

The Munster Hurling Final is on RTÉ on Sunday.

Limerick are 2/9 favourites with Paddy Power versus Waterford’s 4/1. A draw is 11/1.

Prediction: Limerick.

Teams

Waterford : Stephen O’Keeffe; Shane Fives, Conor Prunty, Shane McNulty; Calum Lyons, Tadhg De Burca, Kevin Moran; Jamie Barron, Jake Dillon; Jack Fagan, Kieran Bennett, Stephen Bennett; Dessie Hutchinson, Austin Gleeson, Jack Prendergast.

They meet in the Munster final for the first time in 13 years when Waterford won by nine  points (3-17 to 1-14) in 2007. Limerick later avenged that defeat in the All-Ireland semi-final,  winning by 5-11 to 2-15. 

HOW THEY GOT HERE 

Limerick 0-36 Clare 1-23 

Limerick 3-23 Tipperary 2-17 

*** 

Waterford 1-28 Cork 1-24 

LAST FIVE CHAMPIONSHIP MEETINGS 

2019: Limerick 2-24 Waterford 0-10 (Munster round robin) 

2018: Limerick 2-26 Waterford 1-16 (Munster round robin) 

2011: Waterford 3-15 Limerick 3-14 (Munster semi-final) 

2009: Waterford 0-25 Limerick 0-17 (Munster semi-final) Replay 

2009: Waterford 0-11 Limerick 1-8 (Munster semi-final) Draw 

MUNSTER FINAL MEETINGS 

2007: Waterford 3-17 Limerick 1-14 

1934: Limerick 4-8 Waterford 2-5 

1933: Limerick 3-7 Waterford 1-2 (unfinished – Limerick awarded game) 

Facts and Figures

*Limerick are seeking their 21st Munster title; Waterford are bidding for their 10th. 

*Limerick beat Waterford by 2-24 to 0-10 in last year’s Munster championship ‘round robin.’  The last competitive clash between them was in this year’s Allianz League when Limerick  won by four points in March. 

*Limerick are attempting to win the Munster title in successive years for the first time since  1980-81. Waterford last won the title in 2010 and were last in the final in 2016 when they  lost to Tipperary.

*Aaron Gillane 2-18 (0-14 frees, 1-0 pen, 0-1 ‘65’), Ger Hegarty 0-7, Tom Morrissey 0-6,  Diarmuid Byrnes 0-6 (0-2 frees) are Limerick’s top scorers in their two championship  games to date. 

*Stephen Bennett 0-12 (0-12 frees), Calum Lyons 1-2 were Waterford’s top scorers in the  semi-final win over Cork.

Munster Hurling FInal: Limerick vs Waterford, Sunday, 15th November, 16:00 (Semple Stadium, Thurles). 

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As a result, they are in the qualifiers where a win will see them advance to the quarter-finals. Cork are the ones standing in their way. The rebels have an extra game played so far. Firstly, they lost to Waterford before going on to beat Dublin. The last time a team won consecutive Championships was when Kilkenny won in 2015. Tipperary left themselves much to do to replicate that feat by going down to Limerick a fortnight ago.

Cork bounced back from their opening defeat to Waterford with a 6 point win over Dubin last weekend. Kieran Kingston’s side were very impressive as they dismantled the DUblin challenge with precision.

It was a game where the sweeper system was on full display. Mark Coleman was Cork’s designated extra defender and he excelled. His positional awareness allowed him to snuff out Dublin attacks and his passing accuracy, in turn, put Cork on the front foot. Kingston may well opt to deploy such a system again against Tipperary given its success.

The Cork wing-forwards, Seamus Harnedy and Robert O’Flynn, proved elusive all day. Their success in the middle third resulted in five direct points and a constant supply line to the inside forwards.

Can the Premier Strike Back?

Last year’s Champions Tipperary looked tame in their first outing against Limerick. Jason Forde’s frees proved to be the main source of scores for them. In addition, they never threatened to stretch the Limerick defence, apart from when Jake Morris found the net in the first half.

Tipperary trailed by nine at half-time. When they began to show signs of a comeback in the second half, Limerick made a duel out of the middle third and their superior conditioning made sure they came out on top.

When John McGrath scored Tipperary’s second goal in the 55th minute, there was still never a real sense of them catching Limerick.

In a similar way, Tipperary lost the Munster Final to Limerick before going on to win the Championship in 2019. So, the holders may be down but they’re certainly not out. If the Premier County can return to playing to their strengths they will be at the business end of the Championship again. But, Cork will provide a tough challenge.

The game is live on Sky Sports Mix on Saturday.

Tipperary are 8/15 favourites with Paddy Power versus Cork’s 15/8. A draw is 9/1.

Prediction: Tipperary. But, Cork will be a tough test of their title credentials.

They meet in the championship for the 88th time, with Tipperary leading 40-38 in wins.  There have also been eight draws and one abandoned game. 

HOW THEY GOT HERE 

Waterford 1-28 Cork 1-24 (Munster semi-final) 

Cork 1-25 Dublin 0-22 (All-Ireland qualifier) 

** 

Limerick 3-23 Tipperary 2-17 (Munster semi-final)  

LAST FIVE CHAMPIONSHIP MEETINGS 

2019: Tipperary 2-28 Cork 1-24 (Munster ‘round robin’) 

2018: Tipperary 2-20 Cork 1-23 (Munster ‘round robin’) 

2017: Cork 2-27 Tipperary 1-26 (Munster quarter-final) 

2014: Tipperary 2-18 Cork 1-11 (All-Ireland semi-final) 

2012: Tipperary 1-22 Cork 0-24 (Munster semi-final) 

Stats and Figures

Patrick Horgan scored a total of 1-16 (1-8 frees, 0-1 ‘65’) for Cork against Waterford and  Dublin. Seamus Harnedy and Shane Kingston scored 0-8 each. 

Jason Forde on 0-10 (all frees) was Tipperary’s top scorer against Limerick in the semi final. 

Cork beat Tipperary two points in this year’s Allianz League. 

The winners will play the losers of the Leinster or Munster finals in the All-Ireland quarter -finals.

HURLING ALL-IRELAND SENIOR CHAMPIONSHIPS 2020 

LEINSTER 

Quarter-final 

October 24: Dublin 2-31 Laois 0-23, Croke Park. 

Semi-finals 

October 31: Kilkenny 3-20 Dublin 2-22, Croke Park; Galway 1-27 Wexford 0-17, Croke Park Final 

November 14: Galway v Kilkenny, Croke Park 

Hurling Championship Round 2 Qualifier: Cork vs Tipperary, Saturday, 14th November, 16:00 (LIT Gaelic Grounds).

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Firstly, Clare lost in Munster to a strong Limerick side. Then, they saw of a competitive Laois in their first qualifier.

On the other hand, Wexford had their first outing against Galway on Halloween night. That was a horror show for Davy Fitzgerald’s side who were well beaten by a rejuvenated Galway team. Now, last year’s Leinster Champions are in a fight to stay in the competition.

Tony Kelly was on fire for Clare last weekend. He hit 0-13 as the Banner county progressed past Laois. Clare were very much on top in the first half. Despite losing David McInerney to a red card before half-time, they had a 7 point lead at the interval.

Being a man short didn’t hinder Clare in the third quarter. By the 55th minute, they still had their 7 point lead. However, that’s when Laois got on top. The Leinster team outscored Clare 1-6 to 0-3 in the final minutes. But, Clare held on to advance. If they are to reach the quarter-final, Brian Lohan’s side need to perform for the full 70 minutes on Saturday.

On the other hand, Wexford were disappointing in their only Championship outing so far. Galway were the opposition for last year’s All-Ireland semi-finalists. But, Davy Fitzgerald’s side looked out of practice on a wide-open Croke Park. Their usual slick hand-passing game and direct running was strictly managed by the Connacht side.

As a result, Wexford fell to a 13 point loss. Fitzgerald will be glad for having last weekend off to work on his game plan. A rude awakening could prove to be exactly what his team needed. It is no secret that Wexford can match anyone on their day. But, there is no more room for error. So, if Wexford are to challenge for an All-Ireland they need to quickly find their rhythm.

Wexford are favourites for this despite their previous loss. Paddy Power price them at 8/13. Meanwhile, Clare are 13/8 and a draw is 8/1.

The game is live on GAAGo.

Team news

Prediction: Wexford. Davy Fitzgerald knows how to get the best out of his team and with their backs against the wall now is the time to do so. On the other hand, Clare just got over the line against Laois despite playing well.

Hurling Championship Round 2 Qualifier: Clare vs Wexford, Saturday, 14th November, 14:00 (Portlaoise).

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In their opening Championship game Kilkenny came up against Dublin. The Dubs had come past Laois strongly and were at the advantage of having a competitive game under their belts. However, Kilkenny didn’t need any time to ease themselves into action.

Brian Cody’s team showed no signs of rust. In fact, by half-time they had established a remarkable 15 point lead and looked destined to waltz into the final. However, Dublin were not ready to go down without a fight. They came roaring back in the second half and Kilkenny just couldn’t find a way to extend their lead. By the 71st minute, Dublin had completed a remarkable comeback.

Surprisingly, it was the corner-back Huw Lawlor who emerged as the matchwinner for the Cats. His long-range free in the 74th minute ensured there wasn’t another Championship upset on the cards. It finished 3-20 to 2-22. Billy Ryan, TJ Reid and captain Colin Fennelly were the goalscorers for Cody’s team. Reid ended up with a personal tally of 1-10 and was influential in the first half. All three Kilkenny goals came in the first half. Hence, Brian Cody will be frustrated at his side’s inability to kick-on after the break.

Cody made 5 changes to the team that lost the All-Ireland final last year for this game. So, it will be interesting to see if he keeps faith in this side for the game on Saturday evening.

In contrast, Galway won’t have many complaints about their victory over last year’s Leinster Champions Wexford.

By the full-time whistle there was 17 points between the teams and the performance reflected the comfort of the scoreline.

Shane O’Neill’s men won the battle in the middle third which never allowed Wexford to get to grips with the game. Their domination was capitalised on with efficiency in front of goal.

What was most impressive for Galway was the balance that the team seems to have found between 2017 veterans and newer faces such as Brian Concannon, Fintan Burke, Sean Loftus, and Eanna Murphy. The Galwegians grew in confidence as the game went on. By the end, they had slashed their odds for winning the Championship.

O’Neill’s team seem very much determined to make up for the poor Championship they had last season. A win over last year’s runners-up to progress to a semi-final would be a big statement.

The winner of this tie will earn themselves a two-week break before the All-Ireland semi-final. Whereas, the loser of this one is out again the following week to play one of the winning qualifiers.

RTÉ are showing the GAA game live from Croke Park.

Galway’s performance against Wexford has them 8/11 favourites for this one versus Kilkenny’s 11/8. A draw is 9/1.

Team News

Kilkenny (Leinster SHC v Galway): Eoin Murphy; Conor Delaney, Huw Lawlor, Tommy Walsh; Cillian Buckley, Padraig Walsh, Conor Fogarty; Richie Leahy, Conor Browne; John Donnelly, Martin Keoghan, Walter Walsh; TJ Reid, Eoin Cody, Colin Fennelly.

Subs: Darren Brennan, Paul Murphy, Joey Holden, Ciaran Wallace, Darren Mullen, Alan Murphy, Richie Reid, Richie Hogan, Ger Aylward, Liam Blanchfield, Niall Brassil.

Prediction: Galway. If they can replicate the performance they put in a fortnight ago the Connacht team will be considered real All-Ireland contenders again. Meanwhile, the near-miss against Dublin might have just sewn some doubt into Cody’s team.

Leinster Hurling Final: Kilkenny vs Galway, Saturday, 14th November, 18:15 (Croke Park). 

It's Leinster GAA Hurling Final Week

On Saturday familiar rivals @Galway_GAA and @KilkennyCLG meet in Croke Park at 6.15pm.

Who will put their mark on history and be crowned the 2020 Champions?#WhereBelongingBegins #bestseatinthehouse pic.twitter.com/JMYb7btKkW

— Leinster GAA (@gaaleinster) November 9, 2020

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Highlights of @OfficialCorkGAA‘s qualifier win at Semple Stadium! pic.twitter.com/1CFsxOeVkj

— Sky Sports GAA (@SkySportsGAA) November 7, 2020

• 75′
  

  Chris Crummey shots blasts over the bar

   
• 72′
  

  Another Burke free

   
• 70′

  Five minutes of injury time

   
• 70′
  

  Horgan with another score, thats 8 on the day

   
• 68′
  

  Donal Burke with his 10th score

   
• 67′
  

  Donal Burke from play

   
• 65′
  

  Davy Keogh point but its goals they need

   
• 62′
  

  ]Seamus Harnedy with his 5th point

   
• 61′
  

  Danny Sutcliffe point

   
• 61′
  

  Horgan free

   
• 60′
  

  Conor Burke point

   
• 58′
  

  Free from Patrick Horgan

   
• 55′
  

  Horgan 65′ puts Cork 8pts up

   
• 52′
  

  Point from Donal Burke, they need goals soon

   
• 50′
  

  Another score from Seamus Harnedy

   
• 47′
  

  Horgan from play

   
• 45′
  

  Crummy and Flynn trade scores, it’s just back and forth

   
• 43′
  

  Robbie O’Flynn and Cris Crummy trade scores

   
• 40′
  

  Boland and Harmody trade scores

   
• 38′
  

  Donal Burke for Dublin

   
• 37′
  

  Shane Kingston with another lovely score

   
• 35′

  Dublin 0-10 – 1-13 Cork at half time

   
• 35′
  

  Horgan from play inside his own half. WOW

   
• 34′
  

  Robbie O’Flynn with another good score

   
• 33′
  

  Shane Kingston point from play

   
• 31′
  

  Free from Donal Burke

   
• 27′
  

  Robbie O’Flynn with a lovely run and score with his first score

   
• 25′
  

  Robbie O’Flynn with a lovely score

   
• 25′
  

  Lovely score from 65′ out

   
• 23′
  

  Declan Dalton point

   
• 20′
  

  Donal Burke Free

   
• 19′
  

  Another free for Horgan

   
• 18′
  

  Patrick Horgan free

   
• 17′
  

  Donal Burke from play

   
• 15′
  

  Nice point from Cian Boland for Dublin

   
• 13′
  

  Seamus Harnedy with another very easy score

   
• 12′
  

  Lovely score by Shane Kingston

   
• 10′
  

  Second free for Donal Burke

   
• 9′
  

  Declan Dalton GOAL

   
• 8′
  

  Robbie O’Flynn with a lovely run and score

   
• 6′
  

  Donal Burke levels it up

   
• 5′
  

  Seamus Harnedy with a very easy score

   
• 4′
  

  Shane Kingston from play levels it up

   
• 3′
  

  Danny Sutcliffe hits two lovely scores

   
• 1′
  

  Opening Cork point from play Luke Meade

   
• (1) Dublin lost to Kilkenny (3-20 to 2-22) in the Leinster semi-final last weekend while Cork went down to Wa terford by 1-28 to 1-24 in the Munster semi-final.  (2) Donal Burke scored a total of 1-28 (0-21 frees, 0-2 ‘65s) in Dublin’s games against Laois and Kilkenny.  Eamonn Dillon (1-5) and Chris Crummey (1-4) are Dublin’s next highest scorers.  (3) Patrick Horgan was Cork’s top scorer against Waterford last Saturday, hitting 1-8 (1-3 frees).

   
• Dublin are seeking their first championship win over Cork since the 1927 All-Ireland final when they won by  4-8 to 1-3

   
• Cork : Anthony Nash; Damien Cahalane, Colm Spillane, Sean O’Donoghue; Tim O’Mahony, Robert Downey, Mark Coleman; Bill Cooper, Luke Meade; Seamus Harnedy, Shane Kingston, Robbie O’Flynn; Jack O’Connor, Declan Dalton, Patrick Horgan. SUBS Patrick Collins, Sean O’Leary Hayes, Niall O’Leary, Christopher Joyce, Billy Hennessy, Daire Connery, Stephen McDonnell, Aidan Walsh, Conor Cahalane, Conor Lehane, Shane Barrett.

   
• Dublin : Alan Nolan; Paddy Smyth, Eoghan O’Donnell, James Madden; Conor Burke, Daire Gray, Cian O’Callaghan; Sean Moran, Riain McBride; Cian Boland, Chris Crummey, Danny Sutcliffe; Donal Burke, Ronan Hayes, Eamonn Dillon.

Classy Cork overcome Dublin!

Highlights of @OfficialCorkGAA‘s qualifier win at Semple Stadium! pic.twitter.com/1CFsxOeVkj

— Sky Sports GAA (@SkySportsGAA) November 7, 2020

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PREVIEW

They get a second bite at the cherry this weekend after their defeats to Kilkenny and Waterford respectively. The Dubs were eliminated by Laois in the qualifiers last year in a shock defeat. The pressure is on now to show they can compete with the big guns. Meanwhile, Cork are looking to bounce back from a surprising defeat of their own against Waterford.

Firstly, Dublin saw off Laois in Croke Park to avenge last year’s elimination. Then, they came up against Kilkenny and saw a brave comeback fall just short of the line.

At half-time, Dublin were down by fifteen after scoring just 0-7 in the opening period. But, goals from Ronan Hayes and Chris Cummey helped them rally and they drew level with just minutes to go. Kilkenny managed to fight to victory though and Dublin have no more second chances.

Otherwise, Cork were the victims of an upset in Semple Stadium last weekend.

After a bright start, a twelve minute dry-spell in the first-half left the rebels three off the pace at half-time. The second-half began the same way and Cork found themselves down 1-19 to 0-14 after 40 minutes.

By the final quarter, Waterford’s lead was just five but Cork couldn’t get any closer. Waterford finished strongly and when Patrick Horgan scored a goal in injury time for the rebels it was too late.

Last weekend, tough conditions ensured heavy ground under foot. Hence, the quick turnaround is not ideal for either side. But, Dublin will be grateful for the Croke Park surface last weekend and will hope Cork are feeling the effects of the winter conditions.

Paddy Power suggest Cork are going through. They have the Munster men at 8/15. In contrast, Dublin are 15/8 and a draw is 9/1.

The game is live on Sky.

Prediction: Draw. Dublin showed fight against Kilkenny and will be eager not to lose out so early in the competition for a consecutive year. If it does go to extra time though, Cork will have a bit more in the tank.

Team News

Cork : Anthony Nash; Damien Cahalane, Colm Spillane, Sean O’Donoghue; Tim O’Mahony, Robert Downey, Mark Coleman; Bill Cooper, Luke Meade; Seamus Harnedy, Shane Kingston, Robbie O’Flynn; Jack O’Connor, Declan Dalton, Patrick Horgan. SUBS Patrick Collins, Sean O’Leary Hayes, Niall O’Leary, Christopher Joyce, Billy Hennessy, Daire Connery, Stephen McDonnell, Aidan Walsh, Conor Cahalane, Conor Lehane, Shane Barrett.

Dublin : Alan Nolan; Paddy Smyth, Eoghan O’Donnell, James Madden; Conor Burke, Daire Gray, Cian O’Callaghan; Sean Moran, Riain McBride; Cian Boland, Chris Crummey, Danny Sutcliffe; Donal Burke, Ronan Hayes, Eamonn Dillon.

STATS

LAST FIVE CHAMPIONSHIP CLASHES 

2016: Cork 1-26 Dublin 1-23 (All-Ireland qualifiers) 

2013: Cork 1-24 Dublin 1-19 (All-Ireland semi-final) 

2008: Cork 1-17 Dublin 0-15 (All-Ireland qualifier) 

2007: Cork 3-20 Dublin 0-15 (All-Ireland qualifier) 

1952: Cork 2-14 Dublin 0-7 (All-Ireland final) 

(1) Dublin lost to Kilkenny (3-20 to 2-22) in the Leinster semi-final last weekend while Cork went down to Wa terford by 1-28 to 1-24 in the Munster semi-final. 

(2) Donal Burke scored a total of 1-28 (0-21 frees, 0-2 ‘65s) in Dublin’s games against Laois and Kilkenny.  Eamonn Dillon (1-5) and Chris Crummey (1-4) are Dublin’s next highest scorers. 

(3) Patrick Horgan was Cork’s top scorer against Waterford last Saturday, hitting 1-8 (1-3 frees). 

Hurling All-Ireland Qualifier: Dublin vs Cork, Saturday, November 7th, 15:45 (Semple Stadium, Thurles).

Cork v Dublin in Senior Hurling Championship confirmed pic.twitter.com/BuDfC2kpgy

— Cork GAA (@OfficialCorkGAA) November 2, 2020

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Laois lost out to Dublin in their opener by fourteen points, failing to replicate last year’s upset. But, this was the stage of the competition where they came alive in 2019.

Laois were hit hard with absences for the Dublin game but there were silver linings among the wreckage. For example, Eamonn Dillon hit 1-1 off the bench to put his hand up for selection on Saturday. Likewise, Ronan Broderick, Fiachra Fennell and James Keyes made debuts to make up for the absentees such as Matthew Whelan, Joe Phelan, John Lennon, Eanna Lyons and Cha Dwyer.

The midlands county had a decent second half against Dublin. However, the concession of 1-17 in the first 35 minutes meant the damage was done. Furthermore, there was evidence of tired legs on the open Croke Park field in the final ten minutes. Hopefully this was just a result of a seven-month interval.

On the other hand, Clare fell to Limerick by ten points in the Munster Championship quarter-final. At half-time they were very much deadlocked with 2013 Player of the Year Tony Kelly leading them out.

But, it was Limerick who came out firing in the second half and soon Clare found themselves at a deficit they couldn’t overturn, despite Kelly’s heroics.

Clare are very much favourites to continue in the competition. Paddy Power have priced the Banner men at 1/20 versus Laois’ 8/1. Meanwhile, a draw is 20/1.

The winner will take on Wexford the following week after their loss to Galway last weekend.

The game is live on GAAGo.

TEAM NEWS

Prediction: Clare.

They meet for the sixth time in the championship with Clare having won the previous five as follows: 2016: Clare 5-32 Laois 0-12 (All-Ireland qualifiers) 

2013: Clare 1-32 Laois 0-15 (All-Ireland qualifier) 

2007: Clare 2-14 Laois 0-11 (All-Ireland qualifier) 

2004: Clare 7-19 Laois 2-15 (All-Ireland qualifier) 

1914: Clare 5-1 Laois 1-0 (All-Ireland final)

(1) Clare have beaten Laois by an average of 21 points in four qualifier ties since 2004.

(2)  Clare lost to Limerick by 0-36 to 1-23 in the Munster quarter-final while Laois lost to Dublin by 2-31 to in  the Leinster quarter-final. 

(3) Tony Kelly scored 0-17 (0-9 frees) in Clare’s defeat by Limerick in the Munster quarter-final. *

(4) Ross King was top scorer for Laois (0-10, 0-9 frees, 0-1 ‘65’) in the defeat by Dublin in the Leinster quar ter-final 

HURLING CHAMPIONSHIP SHORTS 

*Limerick and Waterford will meet in the Munster final for the first time since 2007 when the Deise won  by 3-17 to 1-14. 

*Limerick will be bidding to retain the Munster title for the first time since 1980-81. *Waterford last won the Munster title in 2010. 

*Galway and Kilkenny last met in the Leinster final in 2018. 

*Kilkenny last won the Leinster title in 2016; Galway last won in 2018. 

Hurling All-Ireland Qualifier Round 1: Laois vs Claire, Saturday, November 7th, 13:15 (Nowlan Park).

pic.twitter.com/wZ4sa0ltSP

— Clare Gaa (@GaaClare) November 3, 2020

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