Clare’s firepower.

THERE is one issue that neither Clare nor Waterford can escape ahead of Sunday’s must-win Munster hurling clash — they are both short of natural goalscorers.

Irish Examiner columnist, Donal O'Grady, lists three things we have learned from this year's National Hurling League campaign.

You don’t have to look back far to find out what you can expect from today’s National Hurling League final.

It’s common practice to make your team feel relaxed ahead of big games, especially in Semple Stadium, but there’s a difference between that and being tuned out.

At this stage of the league semi-finals the remaining team managers have different needs.

1. The format has worked

The last time Cork hurlers appeared in Páirc Uí Rinn they served up champagne style hurling when defeating Tipperary.

The main questions exercising the minds of Cork fans before their opening game of the league surrounded the defence.

Skill and discipline are the main ingredients in any successful side but top class work-rate and effort are also vital components.