Stradbally injury-free in bid for four-in-row

STRADBALLY’S bid for a fourth consecutive title remains on course - but only just - as they must once more battle with Nire in the Waterford SFC final replay at Dungarvan’s Fraher Field tomorrow (3.15pm).

There is a sense of history repeating itself, as two years ago the two teams also reached deadlock after a thrilling decider, with Stradbally emerging victorious from the second outing.

The champions are injury-free and are expected to name an unaltered line-up from last Monday’s drawn game.

Nire, however, have concerns over influential midfielder Aidan Ryan (leg injury) and centre back Anthony O’Gorman.

Both are to undergo late fitness tests.

The game will be preceded by the IHC final between Portlaw and Shamrocks (1.45pm).

Portlaw surrendered their senior status last year but appear on course for a speedy return after an impressive showing in a hard-fought east division final over Clonea.

Shamrocks, who defeated Ring in the west final with a late surge, are back-boned by county defender Eoin Murphy and Ciaran O’Keeffe at centrefield.