DUBLIN v CLARE:Dublin hurlers have spoken of the need to win this one for themselves and prove the Kilkenny game wasn't a sign of a team stuck in a state of mediocrity. They will be equally keen not to let down their manager Anthony Daly against his native county.

Daly has rejigged his attack with Peadar Carton and Declan O’Dwyer starting. David Treacy is a significant loss to injury.

Hard to know where Clare are at with Nicky O’Connell their major injury concern. Ger “Sparrow” O’Loughlin against Daly should make for interesting chit-chat on the sideline at some stage.

Dublin by a few points.

OFFALY v LIMERICK

Now, Offaly have the difficult task of replicating the form shown in the two Galway games as they must carry the burden of favourites. Most of their best hurling came in response to Galway threatening to pull away. Limerick will not do that to them so they must take the initiative despite the loss of several important defenders due to injury and suspension.

Limerick manager Justin McCarthy finally broke his silence this week on the troubles he has had with exiled players and how this is the start of a rebuilding process but without evidence of genuine progress the calls for his departure can only grow.

Offaly to set up a day out with old friends Tipperary.