Noonan: we have some juggling to do

WE’RE in the dying embers of another long season but there’s still plenty to whet the appetite of hurling followers nationwide.

In Leinster, there’s the meeting of Ballyhale Shamrocks and Oulart-the-Ballagh in Wexford Park tomorrow with a strong representation from both counties on each team, while in Thurles, at the same time, local champions Thurles Sarsfields meet a resurgent Newtownshandrum from Cork. Four superb sides, two outstanding matches in prospect.

For Munster hurling followers, the clash in Thurles is especially attractive. Two storied clubs, but with very contrasting recent fortunes — Sars emerging from the doldrums at the turn of this decade after 30 years in the wilderness, Newtownshandrum emerging for the first time as a real force at the top level in Cork.