Galway champions Loughrea take on Sleacht Néill in the AIB All-Ireland Club Hurling Championship semi-final this Sunday at Parnell Park.
Loughrea have been out of action since their thrilling one-point victory over St Thomas' on November 2 to retain their Galway crown. Derry's Sleacht Néill clinched their second successive provincial crown after a 13-point victory over Antrim champions St John's on November 29.
Loughrea's balance, disciplined defence, and sharp attacking will prove crucial if they are to secure a date with Croker on January 18. Sleacht Néill arrive with a huge reputation and plenty of experience at the business-end of the All-Ireland championships. How well each side contains the opposition’s key men will go a long way toward deciding who books a place in the All-Ireland final.
It is the first of a big Sunday double-header as Waterford giants Ballygunner face first-time Leinster winners St Martin’s from Wexford. That game is at 3.30pm on Sunday at Semple Stadium.
Ballygunner overpowered Clare's Éire Óg Inis in the Munster final, winning by nine points.
Last Saturday's Leinster finale at Croke Park was a thriller as substitute Ben Stafford fired over the winning point at the death to claim St Martin's maiden title at Ballyhale Shamrock's expense.
Throw-in at Parnell Park is 1.30pm and the game will be shown live on TG4.
