Leinster SHC semi-final: Galway v Offaly, 2pm ... The emergence of Offaly and Galway as hurling powers in the late 70s had a considerable element of interdependence.

Former Offaly All-Ireland winning captain Martin Hanamy believes it would be a "great bonus" if the county’s hurlers stay within 10 points of Tipperary in Saturday’s qualifier.

WHAT is it about Kilkenny teams, be they club or county, that once in the national arena and no matter what the circumstances, they just don’t panic?

Legendary defender Brian Whelahan has been named in the Offaly attack for Saturday's All-Ireland SHC qualifier against Dublin (Parnell Park, throw-in 7pm).

Offaly will be without their 2005 captain Barry Mooney for Sunday's NFL Division 1A tussle with All-Ireland champions Tyrone (Tullamore, throw-in 2.30pm).