Three changes for Offaly hurlers

Offaly manager John McIntyre has made three changes for today's All-Ireland SH Relegation semi-final against Antrim at Croke Park.

The Faithfuls, odds-on favourites to win the tie and maintain their Liam McCarthy Cup status for next year, had just a point to spare over Dublin last time out, and McIntyre has reacted by freshening up his side.

Still, the trio of Damien Murray, Barry Whelahan and Neville Coughlan - all replacements two weeks ago against the Dubs - miss out again, although former Hurler of the Year Brian Whelahan is included once more at right half-back.

The changes see Paul Cleary making way for the recalled David Franks at left corner back, Shinrone starlet Daniel Hoctor given a role at midfield, and as a result Michael Cordial has been pushed up to right wing forward in place of Stephen Browne.

With 2005 championship debutant Dylan Hayden currently Stateside, Joe Brady mans the full-forward berth.

Offaly's opponents Antrim have yet to win in this summer's All-Ireland series, having lost all three of their qualifiers to Limerick, Galway and Laois.

OFFALY (SHC v Antrim): B Mullins; K Brady, G Oakley, D Franks; B Whelahan, R Hanniffy, B Teehan; D Hoctor, G Hanniffy; M Cordial, M O'Hara, B Murphy; B Carroll, J Brady, A Hanrahan.