Sport

Allianz Hurling League previews

Division 1A

Saturday March 14

Clare v Dublin

Sunday March 15

Tipperary v Kilkenny

Galway v Cork

TWO rounds remain so the margin for error is decreasing rapidly.

Clare's spring has been a severe disappointment so far, but things can change quickly – 2013 being an obvious reference point for the Banner boys. Dublin had motored well before Patrick Hogan steered Cork to a fine Croke Park win last Saturday. How will Ger Cunningham's team respond to that setback? A trip to Ennis to face a Clare outfit loaded with intent is exactly the type of place where Cunningham will want to see how his panel fares.

The bluebloods collide at Thurles on Sunday; it should be intriguing for a variety of reasons. Kilkenny wanted to use the League to unearth a few players for the Championship - the findings so far have been mixed. Tipperary will want to take the most prized scalp of them all, Kilkenny are completely aware that another defeat would leave them in choppy waters.

Contented by last weekend's triumphs Galway and Cork are anxious to stay in the hunt for silverware. Galway posted a decent point haul against Kilkenny, but there is a small worry about their current goalscoring rate. Two were bagged against Clare, but Galway haven't rattled a net since. The maroons might need a couple of majors if Cork are to be quietened in Salthill.

Division 1B

Saturday March 14

Limerick v Offaly

Sunday March 15

Waterford v Antrim

Laois v Wexford

This group has been as highly competitive as it has been uncertain. Waterford have acted as pace setters and Derek McGrath's charges should maintain their place at the summit by beating Antrim.

Saturday night's joust at the Gaelic Grounds is significant for Limerick, who registered a crucial triumph over Wexford. That was a statement victory, but Offaly at home represents a different type of challenge. Wexford were hurt losing a thriller to Limerick and Seamus 'Cheddar' Plunkett will have Laois organised to be solid defensively in Portloaise.

Division 2A

Sunday March 15

Carlow v Kerry

Westmeath v Wicklow

Division 2B

Saturday March 14

Kildare v Mayo

Sunday March 15

Down v Donegal

Meath v Armagh

Division 3A

Sunday March 15