Shortall’s Tipp ready for the real thing

TIPPERARY senior football manager Andy Shortall will get his first taste of competitive action with the Blue and Gold on Sunday when they line out against Clare in the McGrath Cup semi-final in Clonmel (2pm).

Having taken over this season from Tommy McGlinchey, the former Laois player has already been putting his charges through their paces with challenge matches in recent weeks against Carlow, Meath, University of Limerick and the Connacht club champions Caltra.

"We have put together a big panel so we are giving all players a chance to show," he said. "We can see what each lad is capable of and it is also good preparation for the league. It is important for us to win as many much matches as possible."