Another Clare day likely as Banner make last push for glory

THE championship clash of Clare and Tipperary in the Gaelic Grounds (2.15pm), the first in 11 years, promises to be an intriguing contest which is likely to reveal much about the future direction of both counties.

Tipp are team-building and, on the evidence of what we have seen so far, are making slow progress. Clare are perceived as making one more big push for another All-Ireland title before the break-up of the team largely created by Ger Loughnane.

Tipperary have the benefit of two demanding championship games under their belts since Clare contested the league final against Kilkenny five weeks ago, but they have lost their outstanding full-back Philip Maher.