Today’s NHL FIXTURES
ALL GAMES AT 2PM UNLESS STATED
Division 1A
Kilkenny v Tipperary
Nowlan Park (Live TG 4, 2pm) Ref: C McAllister (Cork) THERE was plenty to admire in how Tipperary set themselves up last week in their win over Dublin. Their direct style and the performance of John McGrath shows that they will be a force to be reckoned with this year. Kilkenny, though, need to win this game or else they will have a relegation battle on their hands after losing to Waterford. Even if his team are only back training a few weeks, Brian Cody will not want that for a second year running. Verdict: Kilkenny
Division 1B
Kerry v Limerick
Fitzgerald Stadium Ref: J Ryan (Tipperary) Kerry’s win in Portlaoise took many by surprise but something has been stirring in the Kingdom for a while. Yet this is a step-up and the Shannonsiders are on a mission to reach 1A. Verdict: Limerick
Offaly v Laois
Tullamore Ref: P O’Dwyer (Carlow) After a few years on an upward trajectory, progress has stalled in Laois with a number of squad members retiring in the winter. They simply don’t have the depth of talent to cope with losing key players. Eamonn Kelly is doing his best to dampen expectations in Offaly as they are building from a low base but they should win here. Verdict: Offaly
Wexford v Clare
Wexford Park (TG 4, deferred) Ref: J McGrath (Westmeath) Wexford’s poor performance in the Gaelic Grounds, added to Jack Guiney’s withdrawal from the panel, has sent alarm bells ringing. The Slaneysiders were depleted against Limerick last week. Liam Dunne is playing from a stronger hand here but even without the likes of Tony Kelly, Clare should be too strong. Verdict: Clare
Division 2A
Carlow v London
Netwatch Cullen Park, 1pm Ref: J O’Brien (Tipperary) Verdict: Carlow
Antrim v Kildare
Ballycastle Ref: D Hughes (Carlow)
Verdict: Antrim
Westmeath v Derry
Cusack Park Ref: J Keenan (Wicklow) Verdict: Westmeath
Division 2B
Donegal v Armagh
Letterkenny Ref: C Cunning (Antrim) Verdict: Donegal
Down v Wicklow
Newry Ref: J Clarke (Cavan) Verdict: Down
Meath v Mayo
Trim Ref: R McGann (Clare) Verdict: Mayo
Division 3A Roscommon v Monaghan
Athleague Ref: K Brady (Louth) Verdict: Roscommon
Tyrone v Fingal
Omagh Ref: A Ferguson (Fermanagh) Verdict: Tyrone