Banner and Blues hoping to end wait

TOMORROW’S ESB All-Ireland MHC semi-final offers a golden opportunity for Clare and Dublin to end barren spells since their last national decider at the grade.

Clare are bidding to reach their first final since 1997 when they claimed title honours. Dublin have endured a longer wait with no final appearance since 1983 and their last success stretches further back to 1965.

Kilkenny may have been installed as favourites for this competition after their awesome exhibition defeating Galway last weekend but the prize for tomorrow’s victors is still massive. Dublin have been on the receiving end of Kilkenny’s prowess twice this season, losing in the Leinster opener and provincial final to the Cats.