Gaels and Newtownshandrum face fitness fights

All-Ireland club hurling semi-finalists O'Loughlin Gaels and Newtownshandrum are counting the cost of a serious injuries ahead of Sunday's Thurles tussle.

Both outfits have dreams of collecting the March 17 prize next month but Newtownshandrum may have to do so without Cork inter-county star Ben O'Connor, doubtful with a knee injury.

Meanwhile, the Gaels are hoping Jimmy Comerford (back) makes it. Boss Michael Nolan said: "We won't know until later in the week but we will be giving him every chance."