Five truths about the National Hurling League

Five is the safety number

Since the relegation play-off came in for the 2012 season, no team that has finished with five points has been dragged into the bear-pit. In fact, score difference has been required to distinguish the second bottom team in Division 1A in three of the four seasons.

The better Páirc for Cork?

Since 2010, Cork’s winning percentage in Páirc Uí Rinn has been 77.77% compared to 60% in Páirc Uí Chaoimh. They’ve lost just once in nine games in Páirc Uí Rinn, winning seven and drawing one.

Don’t shout to the top

In the existence of the six-team divisional format, only one team – Kilkenny (quelle surprise) – have won the league having topped Division 1A.

Tipperary start slow, Galway begin quick

Tipperary have won just one of their last six opening rounds – against Waterford two years ago. Galway, on the other hand, have won every first round game since 2010.

Dublin’s home comforts

The last time Dublin lost a league tie in Parnell Park was to Galway in March 2011, winning six there since. They face Galway there on February 20, their other home round game coming against Cork in Croke Park on March 5.