“Sure even the dogs in the street are Fianna Fáil in Longford,” the delighted owner of a pair of cute pomeranians reassured party leader Micheál Martin in a canvass that was marked by quite a few canine encounters.

UL 3-22 LIT 2-18, LIT Grounds (after extra-time)

With a break in the National Hurling League next weekend, Munster giants Tipperary and Clare have teed up an enticing challenge match for Sunday at Templederry (throw-in 2.30pm).

St Joseph’s, Borrisoleigh 1-8 Thurles CBS 1-6