Clubs stranded between a rock and a hard place

The changing names of those clubs filling out the fixtures and tables are to be welcomed on the basis that change is not to be feared.

Garryowen. Shannon. A packed Dooradoyle. Same as it ever was except, of course, it won’t be when the two Limerick rivals scrape off any summer rust tonight and go head-to-head like butting rams.

When referee David Wilkinson gives them the nod at 7.30pm it will mark the first time in the near quarter century since the All-Ireland League was spawned that the clubs meet outside the top flight.