IT

might have little bearing on what happens in Portlaoise this afternoon but there are hopes of a revival of Offaly hurling fortunes after a crop of Faithful youngsters claimed the Celtic Challenge Division 1 title last week. This is a hurling competition for 16 and 17-year-olds not involved in state exams and Offaly beat Klkenny South 4-10 to 3-12 in the Corn Michael Hogan final. Perhaps, the Faithful flame will burn again – even if it doesn’t look like being in O’Moore Park this afternoon.