WEXFORD hurlers will have to prove to themselves and their supporters that winning the Leinster title against Offaly will enhance their prospects of success in the Guinness All-Ireland championship.

MEMORIES of lost leads and late collapses loomed large for Tipp coach Michael Doyle at Croke Park yesterday, even though they ultimately cruised into the semi-final of the Guinness All-Ireland championship.

CROKE PARK chiefs insisted yesterday they are determined to get to the bottom of the off-the-ball incident in which Clare hurler Gerry Quinn sustained an horrific hand injury in the All-Ireland hurling semi-final.