Ballyduff and Stradbally set for close encounter

The eyes of the hurling world will be focussed on the All-Ireland final in Croke Park on Sunday, but it’s also a weekend of hectic domestic championship action in both codes in Waterford.

With titleholders Mount Sion, their arch rivals Ballygunner and Fourmilewater (for an historic first time) all in the senior hurling semi-finals the battle is well and truly on in the losers’ group for the remaining place in the penultimate round.

No fewer than three games in the group will be played, starting with tonight’s meeting of Ballyduff Upper and Stradbally in Ardmore (6.15pm) and, barring draws, a clouded position regarding that remaining semi-final spot should become clearer.