Relegation could set the Dubs back years

CLARE-DUBLIN is the big game in terms of stakes. For the losers, relegation to Division 1B and a long break from competitive action.

Dublin have had a lot of things going against them. A list of players cut or who opted out. The Cuala lads missing for the club campaign, but against the odds, they have been very competitive.

Cuala winning the All-Ireland is a huge boost. And new players have stood up. Donal Burke (below) looks to be an outstanding talent. Chris Crummey’s duel with TJ Reid at Parnell Park had a real feel of two warriors going at it. Dublin’s half-back scored three points from play while Reid was nearly man of the match.

Dublin are still teetering on the brink of relegation and it would certainly be a setback in terms of the team attracting the attention of dual players whose heads will be turned by the success of the footballers.

Clare just look a little bit more advanced. There are signs, at least, of a young team coming.

If Wexford have a plan for Kilkenny in a potential Leinster Championship meeting, it’s hard to know what’s to be achieved by going all out in the League quarterfinal.

Kilkenny don’t tend to get beaten at home too often, so you’d have to fancy them.

For Offaly, it’s just about a level of performance playing All-Ireland champions Tipperary.

Galway’s need is probably greater than Waterford’s in their quarter-final. Especially at home.

Cork, too, have responded in fine style since losing tamely to Dublin and Kilkenny. Playing in real swashbuckling fashion as well. Patrick Horgan was dropped because of his form and came in against Tipperary to hit 15 points, proving that class is permanent. Cork should win that one.