Maher injury worry for Tipperary

TIPPERARY have a serious doubt over Philip Maher’s fitness for their opening championship game against Clare on Sunday week in Pairc Uí Chaoimh.

However, nothing will be known for certain until later in the week when Maher will have a scan on his injured right knee, which forced him off after 23 minutes in Monday’s Allianz National Hurling League final in Croke Park.

He suffered the injury when he twisted his knee in a tackle. Predictably, it was swollen yesterday and quite stiff, forcing him to take complete rest. “It’s not looking good at the moment,’’ he commented, adding that he didn’t know if he would be out of action for a week or a few months.

The scan won’t be carried out until Thursday because of the swelling. An appointment has also been made for him to see an orthopaedic specialist.

“He would be a huge loss to the team,’’ commented PRO Liz Howard. “Not only is he a great hurler but he’s a great leader.’’

Midfielder Noel Morris’ hip injury is less serious and he is expected to be fit for the game. Ironically, the player who came in for him - Eoin Brislane - suffered a repeat injury - damaging the same finger which he had recently broken and needing stitches after he went off for treatment.

Additionally, wing-forward Liam Cahill - enjoying a new lease of life after being out of the frame for the last two years - should not be restricted by a hand injury which also needed stitching, while replacement full-back John Devane is expected to recover from a leg injury.

On the Kilkenny side, Martin Comerford suffered a cracked bone on the back of his hand while Michael Kavanagh went over on his ankle.

The champions won’t be in championship action until June 7, but they will play Galway on May 25 when the redeveloped Pearse Stadium is formally opened. Armagh and Galway will also meet in football the same day.