Tipp must keep tight rein on Reid

There’s a few things we know about Kilkenny teams but the most important one is goals provide oxygen to their cause and if they strike early you can be sure they will strike often.

That’s why TJ Reid takes on such a crucial role today.

Facing the inexperienced James Barry, he will be the focal point in Kilkenny’s quest for goals. Richie Power, a class finisher, and his brother John will hover nearby and you can be sure Kilkenny will seek to exploit any weaknesses in Tipp’s full-back line.