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Kilkenny v Dublin, Croke Park, Sunday at 3:45 pm
Dublin performed well last week, racking up an impressive 2-31 in the process, although contrary to what must be said, an unimpressive Laois.
Kilkenny is like all teams right now that haven’t had their first day, we really have no way to get through, but they have been operating at a higher level than Dublin for the past few years and I hope this continues at Croke. Park.
Verdict: Kilkenny
Galway v Wexford, Croke Park, Saturday 6:15 pm (live on RTÉ2)
Galway was champion of Ireland three seasons ago and a finalist in 2018. Wexford could have been champion last season. This could come down to who has handled the pandemic best and I know Davy Fitzgerald is not prepared.
Given the fact that Wexford is farther away than Shane O’Neill with Galway in his first year in charge, I’d like the Yellowbellies.
Verdict: Wexford
Cork v Waterford, Semple Stadium, Saturday at 3.30pm
Cork has injuries from Darragh Fitzgibbon and Eoin Cadogan, while Robbie O’Flynn is suspended. The Waterford team has their star player Austin Gleeson named as a winger, but I wouldn’t be surprised to see him deployed much higher up the field.
Déise have a new coach in Liam Cahill, who has a good record against Cork at the junior level. This Cork team, while unfair to generalize, is not noted for its high work rate, and figures from the past few years back that claim. Liam Cahill teams are generally known for their work ethic.
If the rebels are not prepared for that, they will be in trouble. The game, however, is in Thurles, which Cork would almost consider a place at home and maybe my heart is ruling my head when I give them a tentative vote.
Verdict: cork
Limerick against Tipperary, O’Keefe Park, Sunday 4pm (live on RTÉ2)
The champions of the last two years and what prospect awaits them in Leeside. I’m covering this game in Páirc Uí Chaoimh and I’m really looking forward to it. We are facing two serious contenders for the title.
How did Tipp cope with the closing? Who knows? We know how Limerick has fared after their win over Clare, shedding the cobwebs during the first half against Banner’s men.
Limerick doesn’t score like Tipp and Liam Sheedy’s men will need goals from their attack to win this. The Treaty men seem more vulnerable in their line of defense, so that aspect of the game makes the visualization intriguing.
Having said all that, I am going to march Limerick towards a Munster based on their overall game.
Verdict: Limerick
Donal Óg Cusack spoke at RTÉ’s Morning Ireland
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