Cracking games in prospect for League openers

CHAMPIONS Kilkenny will open the defence of their Allianz National Hurling League title with a home game against neighbours Waterford, while in football, Dublin will be at home to All-Ireland football champions Tyrone in the opening round on February 1.

The Kilkenny/Waterford game will form part of a number of attractive package of opening games in the competition, which starts three weeks later than the football league, on February 22.

Defeated All-Ireland finalists Cork face an away game to Limerick, which could be the first of two games between the counties at the newly revamped Gaelic Grounds. If Cork defeat Kerry in the Munster championship, they must travel to play Limerick as part of a home and away arrangement.

Boosted by the magnificent success of county champions Kilmoyley at the weekend, Kerry’s form in next year’s league will be watched with more than a passing interest.

Armagh, now competing in Division 1B along with Galway, will open their season with a home clash against Wexford. Leinster champions Laois, who contested this year’s final against Tyrone, will be away to newly-promoted Limerick.

For their first outing under new manager Jack O’Connor, Kerry face an away to Longford, followed by a meeting with Cork (who renew their rivalry with Westmeath in the opening round).

Interestingly, O’Connor will come up against Paidí Ó Sé in the fifth round, when Westmeath will have home venue. And, in the next round, Westmeath will themselves have to travel to play the All-Ireland champions.