The last meeting of the century between these west of Ireland neighbours pairs two counties with a very similar hurling history.

Both claimed All-Ireland titles early and then endured many decades in the outback. What the 1990s have been to Clare, the 1980s were for Galway.

In a sense, their need for a win today is greater than Clare's in that it would give them something tangible to build on as hurling enters a new millennium.

For Clare, the replay is another step on the road to a third All-Ireland in six summers, a feat which would be recognised as truly magnificent. For both counties, this occasion is pivotal.