GAA: Galway delay naming final team

It is now widely believed that Galway hurling manager Noel Lane will delay naming the starting line-up for Sunday's Guinness All Ireland Hurling Final until tomorrow lunchtime.

He had been expected to name the starting 15 after training in Athenry tonight, but sources in the county now say he won't make the team public until tomorrow.

It is believed the players will be told who made the team after tonight's training session.

Following their convincing win over favourites Kilkenny in the semi-final, Lane is faced with several tough decisions over who should start against Tipperary on Sunday.

Athenry's Brian Higgins made a strong claim for a starting spot in the half back line, with a powerhouse second half against the All Ireland champions.

His performance on the day, which included an inspirational point from midfield, makes him favourite to pick up the number five jersey.

That leaves Derek Hardiman, who started in that position in the semi-final but switched to right full back after the dismissal of Gregory Kennedy, as the man most likely to lose out.

Meanwhile, selectors will be debating whether Darren Shaughnessy, Ollie Fahy or Fergal Healy should start at right full forward.

It is also widely believed that Joe Rabbitte will be switched to start the game in the full forward position.